BANTRY Historical and Archaeological Society was blessed with beautiful weather for their recent visit to Whiddy Island. 

The group was met at the pier by local historian Tim O’Leary and was first brought along the shore line where the group was able to view some of the historic locations from the sea such as the site of the American airbase, the gun batteries and the remains of the16th century O’Sullivan’s Reenavanig Castle.

Next up the group enjoyed a visit to the Bank House for lunch.

Suitably refreshed, the group then moved on to the old school house, which is now beautifully renovated for use as a hostel, where Tim went into greater detail on the social history of Whiddy interspersed with anecdotes of growing up on the island.

The group then moved on to the site of the middle gun battery where, as well as further exploring the military history, there was also an opportunity to take in the great views of the surrounding countryside. 

Everyone expressed their gratitude to Tim and Kathleen for a most enjoyable day.