By David Halpin | Published on October 19, 2025 Samhain and Its Ancient Traditions As we begin...
David Halpin (Circle Stories)
David Halpin, known for his popular Circle Stories project, is an Irish folklorist, writer, and researcher specializing in fairy-lore, Celtic mythology, and the hidden side of Irish heritage. Based on the Carlow/Wicklow border, he explores ancient monument alignments, compiles local folklore, and delves into the otherworld — uncovering stories of fairies, cillíns, and forgotten traditions that most visitors never encounter.
A regular contributor to SecretIreland.ie, David brings firsthand insights and rigorous research to guides on Irish folklore and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. His work helps readers experience the real Ireland — rich with genuine craic, mystical landscapes, and the living mythology that connects past and present.
When not documenting the next hidden tale or updating 2026 findings, David enjoys connecting with fellow enthusiasts through his writing and explorations of Ireland’s enchanted countryside.
By David Halpin | Published on October 19, 2025 One thing I find fascinating about Irish folkloric...
By David Halpin | Circle Stories– Published on October 19, 2025 An exploration of how ancient indigenous...
As a child on a school trip to a stately home, I stood among manicured gardens and...
This captivating tale, drawn from the Irish folklore archives, echoes the symbolism and archetypes found in well-known...
The Ancient Art of Keening: Ireland’s Mourning Tradition “Bríg came and keened for her son. At first...
For this piece I wanted to open the door on the social pressures and, indeed, stigma, regarding...
I once read a novel in which the wisest character in the story was approaching the end...
In his essay, Reconnecting To Everything, Professor Ronald Hutton argues that “…fairy narratives serve to re-enchant the...
(C.) David Halpin. Summer feels very far away now, and looking back on my photos of warm...