Dublin

Author Research - Two City Photographs that Freeze Time

In the vast archives of the National Library in Dublin lie photographic treasures that transport us to bygone eras, offering a glimpse into our social history. I found these two captivating images, that not only freeze moments in time, but also tell compelling stories of Ireland's past. It’s one of my favourite areas of research for my late-Victorian dual timeline mystery novels and I could spend hours searching through this period. As they say, a picture tells a thousand words.

Bray to Greystones cliff walk is a scenic and historic delight

Sometimes over the years I’ve missed out on trying something that is right on my doorstep. I used to work in Bray a few decades ago and I never thought back then of walking the famous 5.5 km cliff trail from Bray Head to Greystones. Better late than never though, so I gave it a go last week.

I stumbled upon Dublin's 'Secret Garden'

I love old secret gardens, hidden away behind walls where ivy trails the paths and the bustle of a city slips away. I stumbled upon Dublin’s ‘Secret Garden’ yesterday.

On a warm April morning when dog walkers and tourists stopped to chat, I was talking to a complete stranger about her two Bichons when I noticed an old gateway at the end of Clonmel Street, off Harcourt Street. If you don’t know our capital city, this is a stone’s throw from the centre and St Stephen’s Green.