Dotted with deserted monasteries, ruined castles, holy wells and plenty of pubs, St Declan’s Way stretches 100 kilometers (approx. 60 miles) from the iconic Rock of Cashel in South Tipperary, over the beautiful Knockmealdown Mountains, to the Co. Waterford fishing village of Ardmore, the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland, founded 416 AD by St. Declan, who introduced Christianity to the south of Ireland before the coming of St. Patrick. This ancient highway and age-old pilgrim route follows quiet country roads, farm tracks, riverbanks and mountain paths through a part of Ireland that is steeped in history. St. Declan’s Way passes through the heritage town of Lismore with its magnificent castle, in the east wing of which Rosamund’s family used to live.

In her illustrated talk, Rosamund Burton, author of Castles, Follies and Four-Leaf Clovers: Adventures Along Ireland’s St Declan’s Way (Allen & Unwin, 2012) will speak about walking the ancient highway, St Declan’s Way, and read from her book. She will describe Norman castles, Celtic churches and colorful characters, miraculous wells and talking statues, stories of goddesses, ghosts and fairies, as well as staying in a convent and a day at a horse fair. Copies of her book will be available for signature and sale after the talk ($20).

ROSAMUND BURTON was born in Ireland and grew up in England. When her father got a job with the Duke of Devonshire the family moved back to Ireland into the east wing of Lismore Castle, which is on St. Declan’s Way. Rosamund went on to become an actress, performing at Dublin’s Gate and Gaiety Theatres, and in the film, Educating Rita with Julie Walters and Michael Caine. She then worked in London before moving to Australia 18 years ago. Rosamund now writes for a range of newspapers and magazines. She is married to an Australian and lives in Sydney. We welcome Ms. Burton for her first speaking engagement with the Museum and her inaugural visit to Newport and the United States.