Dear Friends,
Welcome to Wicklow County Tourism’s autumn newsletter, keeping you updated on the latest tourist news in the Garden County this September and October. Look no further for all the activities, events, music and tours taking place across Wicklow this autumn.
In this newsletter we focus on Weddings and Conferences in the county, with a brand new section on our website www.visitwicklow.ie
And don’t forget that it’s less than a month now to the Wicklow Tourism Golf Classic. We have unveiled our stunning new perpetual trophy, so sign your team up and be in with a chance of being the first to have your name engraved on the beautiful cup.
AUTUMN ACTIVITIES
Start planning your trip to Wicklow by logging onto the website to view or download the best activities, events, festivals, tours and live music taking place in the Garden County this autumn, from full moon walks to the Wicklow Walking Festival in October and more!
WEDDINGS AND CONFERENCES
Browse through our brand new Weddings and Conferences section to find out more about booking your big day or company event. We also have photographers, venues and conferencing resources!
WICKLOW TOURISM GOLF CLASSIC
Attention golfing enthusiasts! Wicklow County Tourism will be holding its annual Golf Classic on Thursday, 24th September at the renowned Powerscourt Golf Club. Enter your team in this year’s Golf Classic and enjoy a wonderful day of golf with an evening meal.
SPECIAL OFFERS
Log onto our special offers section and grab an autumn bargain in accommodation, food and drink, tours, activities, golf and shopping, to name but a few!
LATEST WICKLOW TOURIST NEWS
For all the latest tourist news log onto www.visitwicklow.ie/news/index.htm
Don’t forget to keep logging onto www.visitwicklow.ie to make sure that you don’t miss out on the latest activities, events and special offers available around the Garden County!
Paranormal investigation
Be a part of a paranormal investigation at Wicklow's Historic Gaol
"Paranormal" literal meaning "beyond the normal"
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there is a natural fascination that attracts us to the stories of weird inexplicable happenings at locations rumoured to be haunted. Wicklow's Historic Gaol is one such location where many stories have originated from staff and visitors alike. Such stories range from sightings, ghostly mists to people experiencing somebody or something touching them.
Our fascination with such stories have led to the popularity of television programmes such as Most Haunted and Ghosthunters International which conduct televised "paranormal investigations" normally at night when such paranormal activity is at it's peak. You may have seen the Ghosthunters International programme based at Wickow's Historic Gaol confirming the fact that the gaol is on of the most haunted locations in Ireland.
Now decide for yourself............Wicklow's Historic Gaol challenges you to find out for yourself whether the stories are true. Are you brave enough?
I am Angie Freeland, an experienced psychic medium and, together with my psychic husband Keith, we are delighted and excited to invite you to take part in a real live paranormal investigation at Wicklow's Historic Gaol. You may have visited the Gaol on a day or evening tour. During the tour you may have experienced a feeling that you might identify with being scared, apprehensive, sad or even excited. With the right preparation and guidance within the unique experience of a paranormal investigation you will be able to follow and go beyond your feelings to begin to understand the often sad stories held within the gaol of those who have existed and worked within those walls through the centuries. You do not need to have previously visited the gaol and no experience is needed to take part in a paranormal investigation, just your own curiousity and an open mind! We will be conducting live investigations monthly, on a Friday or Saturday evening starting at 9pm and going on into the small hours of the morning finishing around 3am. Refreshments are provided through the night. You need to bring some warm clothing and ideally a torch as you will be working in the dark.
If you have a digital camera, bring that with you as well, just in case you manage to capture a ghostly manifestation!
During the investigation you will:
- learn the importance of your senses (all six of them) and how to open them up, to heighten your sensitivity to what is going on around you.
- be able to experience energy within people and environments, in particular the residual energy that lies within the walls of the gaol and the different stories it has to tell through the centuries.
You will work as part of a small team during the investigation and be involved in a number of exercises and techniques during the night such as:
- table tipping......yes the table may actually move of its own accord!
- planchette.....a modern day version of the moving, upturned glass on a table.
- automatic writing uses the planchette to produce written messages.
- psychic pendulum.......uses a pendulum to receive messages.
- sceance
All these techniques are designed to be able to receive information, if available and if you are prepared to be open, from those unfortunate inmates and their guards who have walked the corridors of the gaol.
Of course no investigation would be complete without concrete evidence. For this reason your investigation team will be taught to use and take readings using up to date technical equipment such as:
- gauss meter.....used for measuring electromagnetic fields.
- IR thermometer......to record temperature variations.
- Digital recorder....to record unexplained sounds (often not detected during an exercise)
- IR movement detector....detects movement in targeted areas.
The information your team collects will be compiled month by month, into a catalogue of evidence documenting occurrences at Wicklow's Historic Gaol that will be published on our website for you to keep track of.
I have been privileged to have worked at the gaol and experienced the sad tales held within the walls. I have the utmost respect for those who have unfortunately been a part of the gaol's history. I am really excited to be a part of, and invite you to join my husband and I, in building a greater understanding and connection with such an important part of Irish history.
If you have any queries concerning the investigations please contact me angie.freeland@youarewho.com
Angie Freeland
"Paranormal" literal meaning "beyond the normal"
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there is a natural fascination that attracts us to the stories of weird inexplicable happenings at locations rumoured to be haunted. Wicklow's Historic Gaol is one such location where many stories have originated from staff and visitors alike. Such stories range from sightings, ghostly mists to people experiencing somebody or something touching them.
Our fascination with such stories have led to the popularity of television programmes such as Most Haunted and Ghosthunters International which conduct televised "paranormal investigations" normally at night when such paranormal activity is at it's peak. You may have seen the Ghosthunters International programme based at Wickow's Historic Gaol confirming the fact that the gaol is on of the most haunted locations in Ireland.
Now decide for yourself............Wicklow's Historic Gaol challenges you to find out for yourself whether the stories are true. Are you brave enough?
I am Angie Freeland, an experienced psychic medium and, together with my psychic husband Keith, we are delighted and excited to invite you to take part in a real live paranormal investigation at Wicklow's Historic Gaol. You may have visited the Gaol on a day or evening tour. During the tour you may have experienced a feeling that you might identify with being scared, apprehensive, sad or even excited. With the right preparation and guidance within the unique experience of a paranormal investigation you will be able to follow and go beyond your feelings to begin to understand the often sad stories held within the gaol of those who have existed and worked within those walls through the centuries. You do not need to have previously visited the gaol and no experience is needed to take part in a paranormal investigation, just your own curiousity and an open mind! We will be conducting live investigations monthly, on a Friday or Saturday evening starting at 9pm and going on into the small hours of the morning finishing around 3am. Refreshments are provided through the night. You need to bring some warm clothing and ideally a torch as you will be working in the dark.
If you have a digital camera, bring that with you as well, just in case you manage to capture a ghostly manifestation!
During the investigation you will:
- learn the importance of your senses (all six of them) and how to open them up, to heighten your sensitivity to what is going on around you.
- be able to experience energy within people and environments, in particular the residual energy that lies within the walls of the gaol and the different stories it has to tell through the centuries.
You will work as part of a small team during the investigation and be involved in a number of exercises and techniques during the night such as:
- table tipping......yes the table may actually move of its own accord!
- planchette.....a modern day version of the moving, upturned glass on a table.
- automatic writing uses the planchette to produce written messages.
- psychic pendulum.......uses a pendulum to receive messages.
- sceance
All these techniques are designed to be able to receive information, if available and if you are prepared to be open, from those unfortunate inmates and their guards who have walked the corridors of the gaol.
Of course no investigation would be complete without concrete evidence. For this reason your investigation team will be taught to use and take readings using up to date technical equipment such as:
- gauss meter.....used for measuring electromagnetic fields.
- IR thermometer......to record temperature variations.
- Digital recorder....to record unexplained sounds (often not detected during an exercise)
- IR movement detector....detects movement in targeted areas.
The information your team collects will be compiled month by month, into a catalogue of evidence documenting occurrences at Wicklow's Historic Gaol that will be published on our website for you to keep track of.
I have been privileged to have worked at the gaol and experienced the sad tales held within the walls. I have the utmost respect for those who have unfortunately been a part of the gaol's history. I am really excited to be a part of, and invite you to join my husband and I, in building a greater understanding and connection with such an important part of Irish history.
If you have any queries concerning the investigations please contact me angie.freeland@youarewho.com
Angie Freeland
FESTINA LENTE CELEBRATES HERITAGE WEEK '09
Issued 04 August 2009
Festina Lente will be celebrating Heritage Week this month with two great events in their walled garden on the 22nd and 29th August.
On Saturday, 22nd August there will be an antiques valuation fair between midday and 4pm. Listen to the Stedfast Band and to Victorian music between 1pm and 3pm. There will also be a guided walk with Mary Davies at 2.30pm of the walled gardens. Sample a range of traditional alternative therapies and enjoy the acting of twenty young people and adults as they demonstrate how people lived, spent their time, played and worked in Victorian Times. You will also be able to enjoy the plant and craft sales and buy some home grown vegetables from the walled garden.
On Saturday, 29th August enjoy a guided walking tour of the area of Old Connaught with Robin Goodbody at 2.30pm and more of the same great activities will take place.
Bring along your friends and family and enjoy stepping back into Victorian Times whilst enjoying a working Victorian Walled Garden. Entrance fee €1 per person towards the upkeep of the garden. More information on www.festinalente.ie. Picnic area and parking available.
FUNDING BOOST FOR WICKLOW COUNTY TOURISM GUIDE
Issued 6th August 2009
Wicklow County Tourism is delighted to announce that it has been awarded funding from County Wicklow Community Partnership under the Leader Rural Development Programme for its 2009 Tourist Guide.
A total of €6439 has been provided under the programme to extend the print run and facilitate an extensive delivery campaign throughout the county. The booklets will be delivered to key businesses around the county, including shops, restaurants etc.
Since its publication earlier this year, the A5 pocket-sized guide has proven invaluable resource for visitors to the Garden County. The booklet contains essential information on tourist facilities in the county, including accommodation, food and drink, attractions, activities, tours, transport, shopping and much more. It also contains county maps with handy grid references for easy location.
Copies of the new guide are now available from tourist offices and key attractions around the county, or you can request a copy online (click here) or by ringing 0404 20070.
“This project was part funded by County Wicklow Partnership through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in Rural Areas.”
AUTUMN EVENTS IN WICKLOW MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
Issued 7th August 2009
A whole host of activities will be taking place in Wicklow Mountains National Park this Autumn.
BUG WALK
11 am Sunday 9th August 2009
Take a safari through the amazing world of bugs. Bring a jar with a lid to help examine the mini-beasts. Much loved by children and adults alike.
Family friendly, although not suitable for buggies. Booking is essential. Bookings taken from Saturday 25th July only.
FAMILY BAT LECTURE & WALK
Thursday 13th August 2009
This bat evening starts at 7.45pm with a interactive talk about bats at our Education Centre entertaining for both children and adults.
At 8.30pm we shall head over to the Information Office for a bat walk. (Bring insect repellent and a torch.)
Participants are welcome to come to either or both event. Booking is not required - all are welcome.
FAMILY HERITAGE TREASURE HUNT (for www.heritageweek.ie)
Between 10 am & 4 pm Sunday 23rd August 2009
This Family Treasure Hunt takes place around the lawns of Glendalough. Each team shall consist of no more than two adults and four children. There is a €5 donation (or higher) per team to Glen of Imaal Mountain Rescue www.wicklowmountainrescue.ie.
Each team, on signing in at the National Park Information Office shall receive a complete set of Wicklow Mountains National Park leaflets and a set of clues.
The treasure hunt should only take about an hour, and teams can start at any time, provided their answers are handed back into the Information Office by 4 p.m. The winning team shall receive a €50 book token. Participants can sign in between 10am & 3pm.
Booking would be appreciated, but is not essential
HERITAGE WALK (for www.heritageweek.ie)
11 am Sunday 30th August 2009
A gentle walk around the valley of Glendalough with a National Park Guide looking at the natural heritage there. Participants should wear suitable footwear for venturing off track.
Aimed at adults but also suitable for secondary aged children with an interest in natural history. Booking is essential. Bookings taken from Saturday 15th August only.
TREE IDENTIFICATION WALK
11 am Saturday 5th September 2009
Learn how to identify trees and discover their history, folklore, ecology and uses.
Participants should wear suitable footwear for venturing off track.
Aimed at adults but also suitable for secondary aged children with an interest in natural history. Not suitable for buggies. Booking is essential. Bookings taken from
Saturday 22nd August only.
DEER WATCH
Between 11 am & 4 pm Saturday 10th October 2009
Take a walk in Glendalough, and stop en route to see the deer. The National Parks & Wildlife Service
Guides shall have telescopes set up between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. with Guides on hand to discuss the deer and their ecology.
Directions to the telescopes can be got at the Information Office. Getting to the scopes will involve a hike, but shall be along one of the way-marked routes. Please note, that participants will not be escorted on the walk.
Suitable for all ages. Booking is not required. Hiking boots and rain gear are recommended.
To book, please phone: The Information Office on 0404 45425.
BIRDS OF PREY DISPLAY AT RATHWOOD
Birds Of Prey Display And Train Rides Through The Woods
23 August : 14:00 - 17:00
Admission: Birds of Prey display free, Train rides 3 euro each
Event Description: Birds of Prey on display - eagles, hawks, owls. Come and learn about their habits, lives and conservation. Take a Train ride or a walk through the woods next door. Spot the wildlife - ducks, rabbits, foxes and the dragonflies on the pond. Pick up a map at Rathwood's Reception.
Suitable for children, fully wheelchair accessible. Parking available.
HERITAGE OPEN DAY AT AVONDALE HOUSE THIS MONTH!
Issued 07th August 2009
Wicklow County Tourism will have a stand at the Heritage Open Day, which will be held at Avondale House and Gardens in Rathdrum on Sunday, 23rd August.
The open day will fun from 12.30pm to 4pm and will focus on traditional skills and crafts. The day will feature demonstrations, displays, talks and plenty of other activities to enjoy. The open day is suitable for all ages.
Activities will include Walk on the Wild Side nature fun for children with Carraig Dúlra and there will also be a Birdwatch Ireland workshop. Don’t forget to stop by Wicklow Tourism’s stand and pick up some of our great maps and brochures on the day.
THE GREYSTONES EXPERIENCE
Issued 10th August 2009
Showcasing the range of cuisine and designer brands that the town can offer, Greystones eateries and fashion outlets will throw open their doors to the discerning public on Sunday 23rd August.
The day will feature cooking demonstrations with celebrity chefs, food and wine tasting, a hog roast, special offers in the boutiques and shops, a fashion show, bouncey castles, stilt-walkers, balloons and face painting for the kids.
Celebrity Chefs including Wicklow County Tourism member Catherine Fulvio from Ballyknocken House will perform live cooking demos during the day on main street.
Fabulous fashionistas will be in their element browsing the range of brands available on the day as all the shops will have special offers for everyone in each store. Models will strut their stuff on the cat-walk in the fashion show at 5.30pm in the Meridian Centre. Tickets will be available for advance booking and also on the day and part of the proceeds will go to charity.
Children will be welcomed everywhere with bouncy castles and face painters in the park as well as stilt-walkers and balloons throughout the town. They can also be kept amused with the Treasure Hunt around the town with great prizes to be won.
And why not arrive in style - take the steam train from Dublin Connolly leaving at 11am that morning and arriving in Greystones at 12.35pm and stay the day!!
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