On the Pilgrim Paths

The Ormond Historical Society is delighted to welcome the well-known hiker, rock-climber, and writer on Irish hillwalking, John G O’Dwyer, as its January speaker. His illustrated talk – ‘Discovering History through Old Routeways’ – takes place on Monday, January 12, next at the Abbey Court Hotel at the usual time of 8pm.

John G O’Dwyer will recount his experiences – some funny, some profound – when journeying along the ancient trails of Ireland during the research for his best-selling guidebook, ‘Pilgrim Paths of Ireland’. He will also discuss what motivates modern-day pilgrims and stress the important differences between pilgrim and walking and hiking. He will allude to the economic opportunities presented to rural communities by the re-awakening of interest in Ireland’s pilgrim paths. He will give special mention to St Declan’s Way, the ancient path from Cashel in Co Tipperary to Ardmore in Co Waterford, which has proved highly successful since its re-opening in 2021.

John G O’Dwyer is an accomplished speaker and writer, particularly well-known for his hillwalking columns in the Irish Times newspaper. His ‘Pilgrim Paths of Ireland’ was the first comprehensive guide to pilgrim walking in this country and has done much to return footfall to the mystical trails of Ireland. Such is the popularity of the book that it is now in its fourth reprint. His latest book, ‘50 Best Irish Walks’ was published last year and is already a bestseller. It contains a day-by-day guide to walking St Declan’s Way. Mr O’Dwyer is current chairman of Pilgrim Paths of Ireland.

This talk will have wide appeal, not only to those interested in history but also to hillwalkers, hikers, and lovers of the outdoors. The OHS extends a special invitation to walking groups and to those interested in exploring our ancient pathways to join us in the Abbey Court Hotel on Monday, January 12, next for this stimulating talk. Members of the society are free as usual; €10 admission for non-members.