Charleville Forest Castle

Near the midlands town of Tullamore stands the semi-ruined Charleville Forest Castle.

It is considered to be the finest Neo-Gothic, British-style 19th century castle in Ireland.

Charleville Forest Castle

These days open-air festivals are held on the grounds to raise restoration funds.

Charleville Forest Castle

Here are three plants species growing nearby.

Fireweed is often one of the first plants to appear after a forest fire. It grows north of Toronto as well.

Fireweed

In Ireland, it is known as Rosebay Willowherb.

Fireweed

Knapweed is common in Ireland and in the Toronto area.

Knapweed

The most British of all plants to me is Heather.

Heather

Heather

You are never far from a Rook in Ireland.

Rook

Miles Hearn