The primary objective of this website is to raise awareness about West Wicklow and the area known as ‘The Hillfort Capital of Ireland’. I have been studying this area for some years and am struck with awe and wonder at the density of National Monuments spanning from the Neolithic Ages to Early Medieval in the West Wicklow landscape. In an effort to make more people aware of these historical monuments and to get out and actually see them, I have a number of different ways for you to learn about Irelands Hillfort Capital, and the surrounding West Wicklow landscape.
My Book
My self-published book called ‘Ancient West Wicklow’, a colouring storybook was launched in February 2023, by West Wicklow Historical Society. The book explores the monuments, artifacts, ancient deities, folklore and culture, using illustrations and small amounts of text. The book highlights the story of the landscape, with specific regard to ‘The Hillfort Capital’ as well as the many other interesting features in West Wicklow. The book is published in both Irish and English, and uses both illustrations and text to communicate the ancient narrative. The illustrations invite children to engage with the landscape, getting to know the locality. It is a fun, colourful and engaging book suitable for children and adults alike. I collaborated with a local archaeologist; Robert Hanbridge and a local gaeilgeoir; Caoimhe Ní Shúilleabháin, to ensure the accuracy of this book, making it an excellent learning resource for schools and anyone interested in getting to know the area. You can purchase a copy of my book here
Walking Tours
As part of my efforts to raise awareness, I am aiming to offer guided walking tours of some of the areas in question. If you are a land owner to any of the ancient monument sites, and would like to participate, please contact me so that we can discuss a suitable access agreement. If you are a community member or tourist, please contact me to express your interest, and I will keep you updated.
The Audio Tour
In 2023 I was delighted to receive funding from Creative Places Baltinglass and Wicklow County Council to develop an audio tour of the significant locations across West Wicklow that make up ‘The Hillfort Capital of Ireland’. The Audio Tour is designed to be something that can be enjoyed independently. As the hillfort locations are on private land, we have recommended viewing locations of the hilltops. We have a step-by-step process outlined for each Location on the tour, (how to get there, what it should look like when you are there etc) as well as a detailed audio description of what you are looking at. It is designed to be an audio tour that describes what you are looking at and invites you to imagine what the landscape before you would have looked like at the time it was occupied. For more information on The Audio Tour, you can go to The Audio Tour page
School Talks
Raising awareness of these fantastic historical monuments starts at school. I offer talks for schools. All talks include learning material for each student as well as some fun games. Talks are suitable for both Primary and Secondary school students, with activities tailored to the students’ learning level.
Community Exhibitions
Increasing public participation in respect to preservation, is vital to the legacy of these monuments. We host exhibitions for community groups, showcasing the research of West Wicklow, and the monuments included in the book. The aim of these exhibitions is to spark community discussions, highlight the importance of the historical narrative to community members and promote community participation in conservation and preservation.
To book any of the above or for more information you can contact me.
Portfolio of My Work
For a full portfolio of my work, click here
Ireland's Hillfort Capital 