Blarney, County Cork

David travelled south to Blarney on May 12th to photograph the famous castle and it's surrounding grounds and features.

Situated six miles from the city, this was once a thriving manufacturing village, but now survives mainly on the tourist trade. Blarney castle was built in the middle of the 15th Century by Cormac McCarthy. He was so esteemed as a powerful chieftain, that the English settlers paid him an annual tribute of 40 pounds to protect them from Irish attacks.

In the Grounds of the castle the Rock Close and it's surroundings is a curios place of ancient trees and far more ancient stones, by legend a garden of druidic origin and a centre of worship in pre-Christain days. The place has an aura of magic and mystique with Wishing Steps, Witche's Kitchen, Druid's Cave and many other delights such as Lake Walk, Waterfall, Fern Garden, Ice House and Lime Kiln; all telling a story of centuries past.

The entire shoot can be viewed here

Mallow, County Cork

On April 14th, David Knight travelled to Mallow, the "Crossroads of Munster" to photograph the town and its surrounds.

Throughout the centuries the town has prospered as a market town, helped by its rich agricultural hinterland, its central location and its importance on the railway network.

It has survived the 1920s burning and the frequent overflow of the Blackwater. Today, Mallow is a highly attractive town that has retained much of its character.

Ballymaloe House, County Cork

David visited Ballymaloe House, Shanagarry, Co. Cork to photograph the house, it's grounds and of course the fine food.

Nestled in a 400 acre estate in rural East Cork, Ballymaloe House is only 20 miles from the historic city of Cork, and minutes from the breathtaking south coast.
At Ballymaloe, they pride themselves on offering a warm welcome, tastefully decorated bedrooms and award-winning cuisine which celebrates the best of local, seasonal produce.

Cork City

David spent time in the city of Cork on the 14th April.

The city, situated on the banks of the river Lee, is home to 123,000 people.
It is located on the South West coast of Ireland and is the 2nd largest city in the Republic of Ireland. The area of the city is 3,731 hectares.