Month: Oct 2024

Join Ghost Catcher Isles Live for a Paranormal Deep Dive on GhostÉire!

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(Live Vlog. Image Credit: GhostÉire)

Are you fascinated by the paranormal? Intrigued by folklore and eerie legends? Then you won’t want to miss my exclusive live vlog interview on the GhostÉire Channel, where we explore the unknown and the mysterious. It’s time to sit back, relax, and join me and my host Anthony Kerrigan as we delve into the world of the paranormal.

On this episode, Anthony will be speaking to me about my passion for all things paranormal. This includes ghostly tales, mystical sites, and everything in between. We’ll discuss my blog, Ghost Catcher Isles, where I explore strange and eerie stories from across the UK and also the Republic of Ireland.

Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll cover:

Uncanny Podcast and the ‘Uncanny’ Community

We’ll kick things off by talking about the hit paranormal podcast and documentary series, Uncanny. It first aired on BBC Radio 4 in 2021, it’s now a cult favourite. The podcast was created by Danny Robins and it dives deep into real-life supernatural encounters. It features key witness interviews and expert analysis from experts in the field such as Dr. Ciaran O’Keeffe, Professor Chris French, and Dr. Evelyn Hollow. Uncanny recently had a TV adaptation and also experienced a successful live tour across the UK and Ireland. Consequently, the Uncanny phenomenon continues to grow. But where do I stand—Team Believer or Team Sceptic? Or somewhere in between? Tune in to find out!

The Mystery of the Uffington White Horse

Next, we’ll journey to Oxfordshire, England, to explore the ancient chalk hill figure known as the Uffington White Horse. Dating back to the late Bronze Age, this enigmatic figure has sparked centuries of fascination. Is it a tribute to Epona, the Celtic goddess of horses, or linked to Rhiannon of Welsh myth? I’ll share my experience of visiting this iconic site and reveal whether the surrounding landscape holds any paranormal secrets.

The Whispering Mummies of St Michan’s

Our final topic takes us to the eerie vaults beneath St Michan’s Church in Dublin, home to mummified remains preserved for centuries. From the mysterious ‘nun’ to the six-foot-five ‘crusader,’ these mummies have their own strange stories to tell. We’ll dive into the chilling reports of ghostly whispers and invisible hands that haunt this crypt. And yes, we’ll also discuss the tragic fire of June 2024 that destroyed several of these ancient remains.

Want to ask a question? Feel free to send in your questions live about any of the topics we’ll cover—or anything related to the paranormal!

How to Watch Live: Catch the interview LIVE through the GhostÉire website at www.ghosteire.net—just press the RED button on the homepage. You can also watch via the GhostÉire Channel Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/503154179156001

The live interview will last approximately 90 mins. Feel free to join for the full interview. You can join and leave as you wish. You have the flexibility to dip in and out at any time during the live broadcast.

Don’t miss out on this spine-tingling discussion! This show is open to over 18’s only

My First Podcast Experience: Ghosts & Stories

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(Time Between Times. Image Credit: O.Staton and Spotify)

I’m thrilled to share that I recently had the incredible opportunity to join the captivating storyteller Owen Staton on his podcast, The Time Between Times. It was my first podcast interview, and we had a wonderful conversation about my writing, my obsession with the paranormal, and, of course, my all-time favourite Norfolk ghost story; the eerie tale of the Phantom Drummer Boy of Hickling Broad. Owen asked me why I chose this particular tale to be retold by the firepit. It’s more than just a ghost story to me; listen to the episode to find out why this eerie legend resonates so deeply.

Owen Staton is a master storyteller, so I couldn’t have asked for a better host to guide me through this fascinating chat. We covered everything from the origins of my interest in all things spooky and Fortean to my adventures around the UK and the Republic of Ireland in search of haunted places. I even had the chance to discuss my blog, Ghost Catcher Isles, which has been steadily growing in 2024, and my exciting plans for its future. I even shared a personal story about an unforgettable encounter that still gives me chills. You won’t want to miss this!

It was such a fun and thought-provoking conversation, and if you’re into ghost stories, the paranormal, or just love a good tale, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

You can catch the full interview on Spotify or wherever you prefer to get your podcasts. Come listen, and let me know what you think—maybe we’ll share our own ghostly experiences together next time!

Links

Magic and Mystery at the Grand Opening of Bristol’s Haunted Bookshop

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(The Haunted Bookshop, Bristol. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

On a mild autumn afternoon, I found myself standing in front of a brand-new gem in Bristol’s literary scene: the Haunted Bookshop. From the moment I saw its name gleaming on the sign above the shop, I knew I was in for something special.

“Step into a world of spine-chilling tales, mystical splendours, and ancient folklore as you explore our carefully curated collection of horror, fantasy, and witchcraft books,” the shop website says; “Whether you’re seeking spine-tingling thrills, fantastical adventures, or a deeper understanding of the occult, our shelves are brimming with stories sure to enchant you.”

(The Haunted Bookshop, Bristol. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

As soon as I stepped inside, it was as if I’d been transported to another realm. Dim lighting and wooden bookshelves lined with volumes of witchcraft, folklore, fantasy, and horror greeted me warmly.

I started with the books, of course. Being an unashamed lover of the weird and the wonderful, I couldn’t resist diving into their collection of witchcraft tomes, folklore books, and horror novels. Each shelf seemed to whisper promises of untold stories and ancient wisdom. After some delightful browsing, I settled on two books: one on folklore and another on modern witchcraft. Both felt like treasures in my hands, and I couldn’t wait to dig in and lose myself in their pages.

(Inside the bookshop. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

But the Haunted Bookshop wasn’t just about books. It was a haven for all things witchy and mystical. Scattered throughout the shop were displays of witchcraft supplies: delicate candles in deep purples and blacks, bundles of sage tied with twine, and shelves gleaming with crystals of every color. I was immediately drawn to a striking crow-shaped crystal, charcoal grey and glossy, which seemed to call out to me from across the room. It felt right in my hand, and before I knew it, it was mine. Along with a tote bag (because who can resist a good bookish tote?), and some adorable ghost-themed metal pin badges—perfect little nods to the spooky vibes.

One of the highlights of the visit was chatting with the shop’s owner. Monika had a warm, earthy energy, the kind you’d expect from someone who truly believes in the magic of what they’re doing. We talked about the inspiration behind the shop, her love for esoteric books, and how important it is to create a space where people can explore these topics freely.

In her recent interview with Bristol24/7 Monika said: “I’ve always read horror and fantasy books and liked spooky things, Halloween is my favourite time of the year, so I just wanted to stand out.”

Monika credits her grandmother as being the one to have instilled a passion for books in her, having grown up spending a lot of time in her grandmother’s bookshop. Downstairs, Monika said she plans on opening a comfy seating area ready to start hosting events such as horror book clubs, tarot card readings and more.

(Drinks and mushroom shaped biscuits. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

As we chatted, she handed me a glass of prosecco to toast the opening. I sipped and soaked it all in; this cozy, mystical bookshop, where like-minded souls could gather and find a little magic of their own.

And just when I thought the experience couldn’t get any better, I was towards a plate of mushroom-shaped biscuits, which felt like a whimsical finishing touch to the whole evening. Slightly sweet, slightly earthy, and deliciously unique; just like the shop itself.

Leaving the Haunted Bookshop felt like stepping back into the real world after a brief, enchanted escape. But as I walked out into the bustle of Stokes Croft, my bag filled with books, a crow crystal, and other witchy goodies, I couldn’t help but feel that I had taken a piece of that magic with me. There’s something comforting about knowing that spaces like this exist, where the curious and the mystical meet in such a beautiful, welcoming way.

(My haul of goodies. Image Credit: ©E.Holohan)

The Haunted Bookshop is sure to become one of my favorite haunts (pun intended), and I can’t wait to go back, especially as the colder months draw in. There’s just something about autumn, witchcraft, and folklore that feels so perfectly intertwined. If you’re ever in Bristol and want to indulge in a little magic, mystery, and literary wonder, this is the place to be. And who knows—maybe you’ll even leave with your own bit of enchanted treasure.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, from 12-6pm, you’ll find The Haunted Bookshop at 43 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PY.

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