Whispering Stones

Hidden beneath ivy and brambles near Newmarket-on-Fergus, the ruins of Urlanmore Castle tell a haunting tale of power, rebellion, and folklore. Built in the 15th century by the MacClancy clan, this once-imposing tower house is believed to be the birthplace of the legendary Máire Rua — one of Ireland’s most infamous historical women. In this season finale of Whispering Stones, we explore collapsing walls, faded frescoes, and the quiet mystery of a castle reclaimed by nature, as our journey through County Clare comes to an end.

Journey to Tuamgraney, a quiet East Clare village where myth, memory, and stone intertwine. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the haunting legend of Grian, Ireland’s oldest church still in use, Viking raids, Brian Boru’s lasting footprint, and the sacred landscape of Lough Derg. A short, atmospheric history rich in folklore, medieval architecture, and ancient whispers.

Step into the haunting beauty of Quin Abbey, one of County Clare’s most captivating medieval sites. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke uncovers the dramatic story of this Franciscan friary—built on the bones of a Norman castle, shaped by battles for Thomond, shattered by Henry VIII and Cromwell, and wrapped in myths of hidden gold, ghostly guardians, and mysterious tunnels. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, ancient ruins, and County Clare travel inspiration.

Step into the wind-swept limestone desert of the Burren as Bernice Cooke uncovers the story of Poulnabrone Dolmen, Ireland’s oldest dated megalithic monument. In this short and immersive history episode, discover Neolithic life, ancient burial rituals, archaeological revelations, and the secrets held within one of Ireland’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes. Perfect for fans of Irish history, folklore, archaeology, and hidden-gem travel spots.

Join me Bernice Cooke, Artist and Writer, on this episode of Whispering Stones as we wander into the remote parish of Oughtmama in County Clare, a landscape rich with early medieval churches, prehistoric cairns, holy wells, Burren geology, and the lingering presence of Lady Augusta Gregory.Discover hidden monastic sites, mysterious hut circles on Turlough Hill, ruined castles of the O’Loghlen clan, and the windswept inlets of Aughinish and Finavarra. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, archaeology, folklore, and off-track adventures.

Step into the stony heart of the Burren in County Clare and uncover the remarkable story of Newtown Castle—one of Ireland’s few cylindrical tower houses. In this short, atmospheric episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the castle’s unusual architecture, its powerful O’Loghlen chiefs known as the “Kings” and “Princes of the Burren,” and its transformation into the Burren College of Art. Perfect for history lovers, Irish travel dreamers, and anyone enchanted by Ireland’s hidden heritage.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the layered history of Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare. — from its ancient origins as Cora Chaitlín, “The Weir of Cathleen,” to the legendary horseman Sir Edward O’Brien and the sacred stories of Fenloe Monastery and its mysterious plague stone. Journey through seven ancient parishes, mythic chieftains, and forgotten holy wells in this brief but captivating wander through Clare’s heritage. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, and travel storytelling.

Step back in time with Whispering Stones as Bernice Cooke uncovers the layered history of Newhall House, a Georgian gem near Ennis, County Clare. Once tied to the O’Briens, MacDonnells, and Armstrongs, this grand estate holds centuries of Irish gentry intrigue, rebellion, and romance. Alongside real history, Bernice teases the legends of Newhall — from a hidden cave said to grant eternal youth to the haunting mermaid of Killone.Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, and heritage houses, this bite-sized episode brings the stones of Clare to life once more.