One of the really nice things about well hunting has been the meeting of so many different people, often in unexpected circumstances, They have unfailingly been kind, interested and helpful. My favourite phrases have to be : I’ll take you – or Hang on, I’ll just get my wellies. Which brings me to three gentleman recently encountered […]
Irish Tourist Association Survey 1944
A trip across the Kerry Border 1: Kenmare
Himself is walking the Kerry Way and required a lift to Kenmare – a great opportunity to nip across to County Kerry, enjoy the sights and possibly seek out a few holy wells. The drive is a fabulous one – everything just gets bigger and more spectacular and more rugged almost the minute you are […]
The Three Marys: a trio of Marian Wells in North Cork
Since I began this project, a year and a half ago, I have come across dedications to 51 various saints at nearly 200 wells. The most popular patron is the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM), who currently has 29 wells dedicated to her. Not surprising really considering her elevated place in the Catholic pantheon as Mary, […]
A bit of a Sow’s Ear
Today we headed off towards Kinsale with our friends Robert and Finola from Roaringwater Journal fame, stained glass and holy wells on the agenda. Finola is giving a talk on stained glass shorlty and wanted to take photos of the windows in St Multose, Kinsale. The church is closed in the winter, apart from services, […]
On the R631 towards Carrigaline
Delivering the last son to the airport after the Christmas holidays, the return journey afforded an excellent opportunity for a spot of well hunting. Four wells were on the agenda all loosely located off the R631 towards Carrigaline. First stop Sunday’s Well, Raffeen. Sunday’s Well, Raffeen This well lies off a steep lane – a […]
An Arboreal Theme
Fuelled with coffee at Budds in Ballydehob we headed off on the R586 towards Bandon, five wells in the GPS. Holy Well, Killowen First stop, a sharp left after Murragh and up an unexpected glen, full of dense foliage and the sound of dripping water. We parked in a layby and Ger just happened to […]