Conservation
Workshops
The ongoing conservation work at Knockelly presents a invaluable opportunity for sharing knowledge. The work concerns both the built infrastructure and the surrounding lands and draws upon a diverse range of experts, from stone masons to ecologists. We are passionate about promoting wider conservation and wish to share what we learn, as we face and overcome challenges, make mistakes, discover, restore and create.
Upcoming Workshops
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Summer Solstice Poetry Salon
Sat 20th June - Places Available
On Midsummer’s Eve, writer and host Clare Mulvany brings her celebrated Poetry Salon to the grounds of Knockelly Castle.
Gather for an intimate evening of poetry, storytelling, gentle creative ritual and quiet reflection. A rare chance to slow down, be present, and meet the turning of the Celtic season. Set in the ancient grounds of a 15th-century castle, it promises to be a truly special evening. Includes a shared seasonal supper around the fire.
Tickets cost €65.
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Lime mortars for beginners
A one-day, hands-on introduction to lime mortars for older buildings. Learn when and why lime should be used, how to mix it correctly, and how to repoint stonework with care, all on a real conservation site at Knockelly.
Led by conservation consultant Tom Pollard, the day combines clear guidance with practical experience. Includes a generous homemade organic vegetarian lunch, with sourdough, seasonal salads, cakes and good coffee.
Tickets cost €180
All relevant materials are provided.
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Painting with nature : Exploring native Irish grasslands
Date to be announced
Join ecologist and botanical artist, Mieke Muyllaert for a guided meadow walk and painting workshop. This one-day course is aimed at those who would like to gain a better understanding of Irish native grassland habitats. Using a ‘learning to look’ approach combining ecology and art, participants can learn or improve basic plant identification skills in the old limestone meadows surrounding the castle and take a deep dive into a chosen plant in an introduction to botanical art.
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An introduction to restoring an older building
From identifying problems and appropriate solutions, to retrofitting and the Vacant & Derelict Property Refurbishment Grant. This one day-workshop is being led by conservation expert, Tom Pollard and aims to equip anyone thinking of taking on a restoration project, but is not sure where to start.
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Using hot-mix lime mortars in winter
This workshop will equip you to confidently apply traditional hot-mix mortars in winter. Learn about age-old and largely forgotten techniques that assist setting, while putting theory into practice with several taught practicals. The course is delivered by Tom Pollard, an experienced stone mason and conservation consultant.
If you are interested in attending, please register below.
As we become established and the Knockelly project evolves, we will offer an increasing range conservation workshops, covering topics from traditional building skills for both beginners and advanced practitioners, to wildflower meadow management and woodland establishment. Proceeds from the workshops help support the ongoing work at Knockelly.