L to R: Tessa Fleming and Cormac Ó hÁdhmaill present new series Gíorraíonn Beirt Bóthar (Image: Credit Macha Media)
A new series explores the mythical and cultural heritage of our eastern landscapes as presenters Tessa Fleming and Cormac Ó hÁdhmaill retrace the legendary footsteps of Cú Chulainn.
Walking the ancient route from Dundalk to Navan Fort, throughout their journey, Tessa and Cormac dive into the life and stories of Cú Chulainn while connecting with the vibrant communities and characters that shape this remarkable region.
Starting on BBC Two Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer on Monday 3 February at 10pm, this three part series was made for BBC Gaeilge by Macha Media with support from Northern Ireland Screen’s Irish Language Broadcast Fund.
The series celebrates the island of Ireland's stunning natural beauty, from the Ring of Gullion to the historic hills of Armagh, bringing to life the history and culture of Ulster.
In episode one, the journey begins in Dundalk at Cú Chulainn’s Castle before exploring St Brigid’s heritage at Faughart.
Tessa and Cormac then take a bike ride into county Armagh, where they meet Ursula Savage and Clodagh Robb from the Sunrise Social early risers, and Ciarán Mac Murchaidh helps them to uncover the rich history of Killeavy Old Church and Holy Well.
Episode two sees the pair climb Slieve Gullion, marvel at ancient monuments, and learn the art of foraging from local mountain guide, Brian Hoey.
They unwind with music from the Traditional Arts Partnership in Mullaghbawn and meet Bridie, Eamonn and Elaine from the musical O’Sullivan family, before delving into the legacy of the ancient Ulster kingdom with Pádraig Ó Tiarnaigh at Dorsey. Their trip is capped off with a spirited game of handball near Cullyhanna.
Setting off from Cullyhanna, in the final episode they head to Aughnagurgan and Darkley to explore tales of the Tuatha Dé Danann and Clann Lir with Liam Ó Manacháin, and hear stories of St Patrick with local musician Aoife Nic Gabhann.
They learn about beekeeping with Ronan Quinn and fairy lore in the company of Sarah-Louise Gildernew and her daughter, Ríona. After a trip round St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Armagh City, the journey concludes at Navan Fort where they meet Rosleen Litter with pupils and their teacher, Eileen Ní Shiadhail, from the Christian Brothers’ School in Armagh.
Gíorraíonn Beirt Bóthar starts Monday 3 February on BBC Two Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer.
Monday, 3 February, 2025
Time 10:00pm - 10:30pm