A Day at Gloster House

Courtesy of Mary and Tom Alexander

Saturday 2nd November 2024

All Proceeds to the RHSI Bellefield Library Development Fund

10.00-10.30: Registration
10.30: Welcome to Gloster – Mary and Tom Alexander
10.40: Developing the Gardens at Bellefield – Paul Smyth, Head Gardener at Bellefield
11.10: Some Significant Highlights from a 50-year scholarly sojourn in Ely O’Carroll and the South-West Midlands – George Cunningham, author and historian
11.40: Three Greenings of Ireland: woodland history through a longer lens – John Feehan, author and environmentalist
12.10: Wonders of the Bog; a seasonal journey through macrophotography – Tina Claffey, nature photographer
12.40- 1.40 Lunch (Bring your own; tea and coffee courtesy of Gloster)
1.45: Alternating groups exploring Gloster House, gardens and folly: display of incunabula (printing pre 1500) and and early printed material; small boutique book sale); Explore the gardens and folly with Dorothy Smith and GC.early printed material
4.00 end of session.

Numbers limited; booking essential – €37.00pp.    Get your ticket here 

Gloster House, Brosna, Birr, Co. Offaly. R42CH02

Meet the speakers

Paul Smyth 

We’re excited to introduce Paul Smyth, a renowned Irish gardener and horticultural expert!  With roots in the gardens of Bellefield House in County Offaly, Paul’s journey has taken him across the globe, from the top UK specialist nurseries to plant-hunting expeditions in Vietnam.  Now back in Ireland, Paul is making waves as Head Gardener at Bellefield House, co-author of Gardening Together, and co-host of the DIRT podcast

Dr. George Cunningham 

Introducing Dr. George Cunningham — author, historian, and passionate bibliophile.  With over twenty books and countless articles to his name, George has dedicated his life to heritage and environmental matters. His latest work? A reflective bibliography of John Feehan’s contributions. Currently, George is deep into years of research on Monaincha, set for publication in 2025, while serving as the honorary librarian for the RHSI at Bellefield House.

 Dr. John Feehan 

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. John Feehan — botanist, geologist, and one of Ireland’s most renowned environmental scholars!  From creation spirituality to African mistletoes, John’s vast knowledge spans an incredible range of topics. The author of more than 30 books, his latest work focuses on The Brosna River, a true testament to his deep connection with Ireland’s landscapes.

Tina Claffey 

We’re excited to introduce Tina Claffey, an award-winning nature photographer and author whose breathtaking work reveals Ireland’s bogs and wetlands like never before.  Her stunning books, Tapestry of Light and Portal, showcase the otherworldly wonders of these landscapes through her unique macro lens.

Tina’s work has been featured on global platforms, from the Wildlife Habitat Council Online Conference in the US to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 26), highlighting the critical importance of preserving Ireland’s bog wilderness.

Dorothy Smith 

We’re delighted to introduce Dorothy Smith, a dedicated gardener at Gloster House and a volunteer at Bellefield.  With a passion for cultivating beautiful spaces and working closely with nature, Dorothy is committed to nurturing both plants and community.  Her experience in gardening and love for the craft make her a valued part of the Bellefield team.