Samhain: Myth, Landscape and the Otherworld
Explore Samhain’s mythology, astronomy and Otherworld traditions with Anthony Murphy at Glebe House, Dowth, on Saturday 7 November 2026.About this experience
Join Anthony Murphy of Mythical Ireland for a special one-day course exploring Samhain – its seasonal significance, sacred landscapes, extraordinary stories and enduring connection with the Otherworld.
We will gather at Glebe House, Dowth, on Saturday 7 November 2026, the astronomical cross-quarter day associated with Samhain this year. In the landscape of Brú na Bóinne, we will explore why this turning point in the year holds such a prominent place in Irish mythology and tradition.
Why do so many mythological events take place at Samhain? What do the written sources tell us about its assemblies and celebrations? What lies behind the familiar idea of the “thinning of the veil”? And how do Samhain’s traditions connect with modern-day Hallowe’en?
Through illustrated talks, storytelling, readings and discussion, we will explore these questions across four sessions.
WHAT WE WILL EXPLORE
• Samhain and the turning of the year: early written references, including Cormac’s Glossary, the traditional Irish calendar and the astronomical cross-quarter.
• Gatherings, sacred places and kingship: traditions associated with Brú na Bóinne, Tara and Tlachtga, the Hill of Ward.
• Samhain and the Otherworld: supernatural encounters, transformation and journeys beyond ordinary human experience in Irish mythology.
• From Samhain to Hallowe’en: folklore, seasonal customs and the influences that have shaped the festival over time.
The day will include selected readings from Anthony’s new book, Ireland: Land of Legend, alongside opportunities to ask questions and share reflections. We will consider both the richness of the traditions and the evidence behind them.
No previous knowledge of Irish mythology is required.
What participants say about our one-day courses
From five-star Google reviews of Anthony’s Tuatha Dé Danann course at Glebe House, Dowth, on 26 September 2026:
★★★★★
“This was such a gorgeous day spent in Dowth with Anthony. He is simply incredibly knowledgeable and makes the past accessible and fascinating.”
– Ann Ryan
★★★★★
“The one day course on the Tuatha Dé Danann at Glebe House was both enlightening and engaging. I found the integration of historical, mythological, and contemporary perspectives to be particularly enjoyable.”
– Colm McClean
THE DAY’S PROGRAMME
10–11.30am: Samhain and the turning of the year
11.30–11.50am: Morning break
11.50am–1pm: Gatherings, sacred places and kingship
1–2pm: Lunch and a short guided walk around Dowth
2–3.30pm: Samhain and the Otherworld
3.30–3.50pm: Afternoon break
3.50–5pm: From Samhain to Hallowe’en, with closing discussion and Q&A
YOUR PLACE INCLUDES
• Four teaching sessions with Anthony Murphy.
• Pastries, tea and coffee.
• A short guided lunchtime walk around Dowth, weather permitting.
• Opportunities for questions and discussion throughout the day.
Please bring a packed lunch and suitable footwear and outdoor clothing for the walk.
BOOKING DETAILS
Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
Time: 10am–5pm
Venue: Glebe House, Dowth, County Meath
Fee: €195 per person
Capacity: Limited to 19 participants
Join us for a day of learning, storytelling and conversation as we explore Samhain in the heart of the Boyne Valley.
Your Host
Anthony Murphy is an author, photographer and founder of Mythical Ireland, which he established in 2000 to explore and share Ireland’s ancient monuments, mythology and astronomy.
Based in the Boyne Valley, Anthony brings a deep familiarity with the landscape of Brú na Bóinne to his teaching. Through his books, guided tours, courses and Live Irish Myths broadcasts, he explores the relationships between ancient stories, sacred places and the sky.
His approach combines careful attention to the sources with engaging storytelling, photography and insights drawn from years of exploring the Irish landscape. His latest book, Ireland: Land of Legend, includes material relevant to the day’s exploration of Samhain.
Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for questions, conversation and shared discovery.