Northern Ireland: More than Westeros

For those of us in the know (i.e. those of us who grew up there!) Northern Ireland (or the North of Ireland) is more than just a location scout’s dream. We’ve known about the wow factor of our beautiful countryside for years and now it appears the rest of the world is beginning to catchContinue reading “Northern Ireland: More than Westeros”

A Journey round Suffolk – Sebald’s Rings of Saturn reviewed

It’s with some shame that I admit I’ve had this book on my shelf for years but only just got round to reading it. Described as an influence by many of the psychogeographers that fill my bookshelves, I was expecting great things. Based in August 1992, this piece of writing weaves history and landscape togetherContinue reading “A Journey round Suffolk – Sebald’s Rings of Saturn reviewed”

A Book of Migrations

From the opening anecdotes comparing the veins on a stranger’s hands to earthworms, it’s clear that Solnit intends to dig under the topsoil and put the notion of ‘Irishness’ under the microscope. That it is so enjoyable to read is due to the beauty of her descriptive prose and her knack for breathing life intoContinue reading “A Book of Migrations”

Parks in Madrid

One of the most surprising things about living in Madrid was the sheer choice of parks available. There were so many I don’t think I managed them all (even though we allocated a week one July to exploring them). So, apologies if your favourite isn’t listed – it may be I never made it…or, moreContinue reading “Parks in Madrid”

Mercados of Madrid

Spain is famous for its markets – but they’re not all about fresh food. Many of the city’s best eating experiences are to be found tucked away in stalls in the food markets. Here are my top four: Mercado San Miguel Just beside Plaza Mayor, this used to be a whole sale market, but itContinue reading “Mercados of Madrid”

Atlantic Donegal

One of my favourite things about returning home for a visit is the opportunity to revisit the awe-inspiring beaches of Donegal. Tucked away in the North-West of Ireland, this part of the land has some of the most spectacular beaches I’ve ever seen. In some ways, although the weather is ‘changeable’ (read ‘ can beContinue reading “Atlantic Donegal”

Wood Bee Poet

Poems, thoughts...etc.

The Pledge

Fired! Irish Women Poets and the Canon

Nicola Heaney

Writer & Poet

Freefall

'She would say to discover / the true depth of a well, / drop a stone, / start counting.' - Andrew Greig