Whispering Stones

Journey to the hidden ruins of Ballynakill Castle in County Tipperary, one of Ireland's most unusual fortified houses. In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores the history of this remarkable Butler stronghold near Roscrea, its impressive 17th-century architecture, vast defensive bawn walls, and the families who once called it home. Discover the stories behind one of Ireland's finest surviving bawns and a castle now slowly reclaimed by nature.

Join Bernice Cooke on Whispering Stones as we journey to Ballynahow Castle, a remarkably preserved 16th-century tower house in County Tipperary, located just outside Thurles on the banks of the Farneybridge River. Unlike most Irish tower houses, Ballynahow Castle's rare circular design makes it a fascinating example of medieval Irish architecture.In this brief but engaging episode, discover the story of the Purcell family, the origins of Ireland's tower houses following the 1429 statute of King Henry VI, and how these fortified homes shaped life in medieval Ireland. Explore the castle's defensive features, spiral staircase, vaulted chambers, and learn why this unique structure remains one of Tipperary's hidden historical treasures.Perfect for lovers of Irish history, castles, medieval architecture, and the hidden heritage of Ireland.

Hidden deep in the countryside near Cashel, Athassel Abbey is one of Ireland’s most remarkable medieval ruins — and few people have ever heard of it.In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores the haunting remains of Ireland’s largest Augustinian priory, founded in the 12th century by William de Burgh. Once home to thousands of people, Athassel Abbey survived fire, destruction, political upheaval, and centuries of decay before being reclaimed by nature.Join us as we wander through crumbling cloisters, towering Gothic windows, ancient carvings, and the forgotten echoes of a vanished medieval town in County Tipperary.Perfect for listeners who love Irish history, medieval monasteries, abandoned ruins, and hidden places in Ireland.

Discover the haunting ruins, Norman history, abandoned mills and hidden heritage of Ardmayle, a quiet village beside the River Suir in County Tipperary.In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the hidden history of Ardmayle, County Tipperary. From the crumbling remains of a 19th-century woollen mill to the ruined Ardmayle Manor destroyed during the Williamite wars, this quiet village beside the River Suir is steeped in fascinating Irish history. Bernice also visits St. John the Baptist Church, medieval tower houses, and uncovers the stories of the Butler family, Richard Long, and the forgotten past woven into this beautiful Tipperary landscape.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke journeys to Ahenny in County Tipperary, home to some of Ireland’s oldest and most remarkable High Crosses. Discover the rich history of the Kingdom of Ossory, explore nearby megalithic tombs like Knockroe and Baunfree, and uncover the symbolism carved into these early medieval masterpieces. A short, engaging dive into Irish heritage, folklore, and ancient landscapes.

Step into the rich history of Westport, County Mayo—one of Ireland’s most beautifully planned Georgian towns. From the legacy of Gráinne Mhaol and the powerful Browne family to the architectural splendour of Westport House, this episode explores centuries of heritage along the shores of Clew Bay.Discover the influence of the 1916 Rising, the Irish War of Independence, and Civil War events that shaped the town, all beneath the watchful presence of Croagh Patrick. A compact, engaging journey through Irish history, architecture, and culture.

Step into the rich history of Turlough, County Mayo, home to one of Ireland’s best-preserved round towers and the National Museum of Country Life. In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores early Christian Ireland, the ruins of St. Patrick’s Church, ancient burial traditions, and the dramatic life of George “Fighting Fitzgerald.” Discover Irish heritage, folklore, archaeology, and hidden stories woven into this remarkable Mayo landscape.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores the fascinating history of Strade Abbey in County Mayo, a medieval Dominican friary with a dramatic origin story. Founded in the 13th century and famously transferred from the Franciscans after a bold act of persuasion, the abbey holds stunning stone carvings, a rare Pietà sculpture, and centuries of hidden stories. Discover Ireland’s medieval past, religious rivalries, and the legacy of patrons, friars, and local history in this short, engaging historical podcast.

Nestled along the banks of the River Moy near Killala Bay in County Mayo, Rosserk Abbey is one of Ireland’s best-preserved Franciscan friaries. Founded in the 15th century by the Joyce family, this remarkable medieval site holds centuries of history—from its unique Third Order Franciscan community to its destruction during the Elizabethan era.In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore the architecture, legends, and quiet beauty of Rosserk Friary, uncovering the story of Saint Searc, the nearby Moyne Abbey, and the enduring spirit of Ireland’s sacred past.