If you scour the internet for Things to do in Scotland you’ll find a plethora of articles titled “Top 10 Places in Scotland” and “Best beaches to Visit in Scotland”; most of them identical itineraries for inland castles and white-sand beaches. This isn’t a bad thing, but if you are an avid beachcomber then these places (although beautiful) are typically not the best when it comes to interesting beach finds. This is why we thought we’d step in and create a guide specifically made for the curious mermaids and flotsam scavengers. Below we’ve collated six areas in Scotland known to provide sea glass success, and they just so happen to be some of the most beautiful coastal areas to be found here. With over 6,100 miles of rugged coastline and rich maritime heritage, Scotland is a treasure trove for both local and visiting sea glass enthusiasts. Ready to start planning your next sea glass hunting trip? With so many tempting spots, you might struggle to choose where to start… Edinburgh & East Lothian Primarily renowned for its stunning architecture and historic attractions, Edinburgh’s status as a coastal city is often overlooked despite various beaches and harbours being located just miles from the city’s metropolitan heart. At the nearby shoreline you’ll find long stretches of sandy shore, pebbled inlets, smooth promenades, quaint fishing villages and, best of all, sea glass. From Edinburgh’s seat at the Firth of the Forth, to East Lothian’s 40 miles of headlands, bays, and coastal islands, the area is rich in beachcombing options. With the moniker ‘Auld Reekie’ (Scots for ‘Old Smoky’), it’s perhaps no surprise that it used to be a site heavy with waterfront business and maritime traffic. The urban coastline featured many glass and pottery works, and even now there still stands two old brick pottery Kilns; possibly the best examples to be found in Scotland. Take a stroll along the shoreline, and you're almost guaranteed to come across beautifully weathered sea glass and pottery fragments, each with its own unique story. The best places for sea glass near Edinburgh are Portobello, South Queensferry, Prestonpans and Cramond, whose award-winning ice cream parlours and cafes will help fuel you on your way. Dunbar, Coldingham bay, Longniddry and Gullane beach are the most promising spots in East Lothian. All provide stunning backdrops for a spot of beachcombing, and many have been awarded the prestigious Scotland’s Beach Award (as of June 2023) by the Environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful. Aberdeen The place where our sea glass addiction began. With rugged cliffs, sweeping sand dunes and golden beaches, it’s no surprise we could spend hours at a time exploring the Aberdeenshire coast. Situated in the northeast of Scotland, the relentless and storming waves of the North Sea polish glass and pottery to perfection and is the perfect backdrop to sea glass hunt or seal watch. From the city centre Aberdeen beach lined with seaside cafés, esplanade and arcades, to the quiet nature reserve of St Cyrus, there is a beach to suit everyone’s beachcombing preferences. We would recommend the above to beaches in addition to Cruden bay, St Combs, Stonehaven and Balmedie for the best sea glass finds. Fife A natural peninsula fringed by the Firth of Tay in the North, and Firth of the Forth in the South, Fife possesses many harbours and beaches. Those of the north are most well-known, with their golden sands, picturesque vistas and quaint fishing villages. However, when it comes to sea glass the industrial wharves of the south should not be overlooked! With a spectacular coastal path of 187km featuring 15 major award-winning beaches, if you have no specific beachcombing treasure in mind then the entire Fife shore is worth exploring. Alongside the sandy beaches, you’ll be able to enjoy estuaries, wildlife reserves and the Elie Chainwalk, Scotland’s coastal via ferrata. On sections of path that traverse the East Neuk (“neuk” being the Scots word for “nook” or “corner”) you’ll find beaches particularly good for finding sea glass, and all vastly different from each other. One may have massive chunks of sea glass, another might have pottery, but all ensure a beachcombing experience with an incredible backdrop. Other good areas in Fife to look for sea glass include Burntisland, Pathhead sands and Aberdour. Ayrshire Located on the shores of the Firth of Clyde, treasures that wash up on the beaches of Ayrshire emerge from the deepest coastal waters in the British Isles. These beaches are best found by following the Ayrshire Coastal Path running from Glenapp in the South to Skelmorlie in the North. The route includes incredible vistas, diverse wildlife, and some of Western Scotland’s best sand dunes. Sea glass found in Ayrshire can primarily be traced to Irvine, who’s northern harbour was one of the most important ports in 16th century Scotland before being overtaken in the 19th century by those in Glasgow and Greenock. In addition to this commercial maritime history, glass manufacturing became a key industry of Northern Ayrshire from the 1920s after Portland Glass Co. was established there. On the beaches of Stevenston, Ballantrae and Girvan it is the remnants of this industry that will mostly be found, now transformed into colourful nuggets of sea glass. The Ayrshire coast is also home to some unusual and noteworthy geology. Rocks found there are some of the oldest in Scotland, and in addition to sea glass there are incredible finds such as gemstones (scenic and onyx agate) and fossils to be discovered on the beaches. Moray One of the ancient Pictish kingdoms, Moray was first known as moreb, meaning "low lying land near to the sea" in Celtic- Brittonic translation. An apt name considering its great plains of fertile soil and a coastline that follows the Moray Firth, Scotland’s largest firth. With dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, pebbled bays and rare coastal plants it is a beautiful part of the world, complete with colourful coastal villages and historic harbours. Places known to have sea glass wash up include ancient fishing ports such as Nairn and Lossiemouth. With a harbour flanked by two spectacular beaches, Lossiemouth in particular is worth visiting- even if it is just for the views! There is a reason it has earned a reputation as ‘Jewel of the Moray Firth’ and the ‘Riviera of the North’. The small village of Cummingston is also worth checking. Situated between the fishing villages of Burghead and Hopeman, its beach is not well known but is one of Moray’s best kept secrets. Popular with climbers it features a short stretch of sand surrounded by beautiful rock formations and caves, with nearby paths leading to Burghead and Hopeman beach respectively. In addition to sea glass, the Moray Firth is one of the most important places on the British coast for observing bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and occasionally common dolphins or minke whale. The wildlife viewing area at Chanonry Point is particularly renowned for hosting some spectacular cetacean displays, and just so happens to also be fantastic for discovering sea glass. With such a diverse coastline, Scotland offers a plethora of enjoyable and interesting beachcombing opportunities. From the more urban shores of Portobello Beach to the remote beauty of Moray, each location presents an incredible blend of sea-swept shores and historical remnants. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your beachcombing journey, Scotland makes for an unforgettable sea glass hunting experience. Let us know of your Scottish beachcombing finds, and any other beaches we have missed, through our socials @bohosilver on Facebook or @bohosilverstudio on Instagram!

Boho style is all about embracing your individuality and daring to be different. Layering jewellery allows you to mix and match pieces, creating a unique and eye-catching look that truly represents your wild side. By combining our sustainable, handmade, and artisan sea glass jewellery with recycled silver and ocean-inspired pieces, you can support empowered women and a sustainable brand while rocking a bohemian style.

Where to find Sea Glass Beaches in England

Sea glass is a beautiful and unique material that can be used in a variety of crafts. Whether you've been collecting sea glass for years or you're just starting out, there are plenty of creative and beautiful ways to use this material in your crafting. Below we've shared some of our favourite sea glass craft ideas- we hope they get you inspired! 1. Sea Glass Suncatcher Holding up a freshly discovered piece of sea glass and having it backlit by sunlight is one of the purest pleasures in sea glass hunting. Why not bring this feeling inside by using sea glass to create a suncatcher? Semi-translucent, sea glass is perfect for refracting positive energy and light around the house in a medley of beautiful rainbows and flecked light. There’s no right way to make one either, so enjoy playing with materials that feel right to you. Some people hang the glass from driftwood or a large shell, others use old light fittings or embroidery hoops. We would suggest using microfilament or fishline to string the sea glass, but there is nothing stopping you from using things like ribbon, twine or fish netting. Simply drill the glass, string them on your chosen material and tie it to the decorative top. Hang it somewhere it is sure to be in sunlight and enjoy its rainbow hues. 2. Sea Glass Mosaics The best thing about making sea glass mosaics is that they can be used to decorate almost anything; picture frames, mirrors, coasters, bathroom counters, tabletops or stepping-stones. All you need is a surface (a white or mirrored background works best to show off the glass colours), appropriate adhesive for your specific project and a sealant. Simply arrange the sea glass in a pattern or design of your choice, attach it to the surface and seal the mosaic to protect it and make it shine. 3. Sea Glass Candle Holder One of the simpler projects, sea glass candles are a beautiful and easy way to add a touch of the beach to your home decor. Simply glue sea glass onto the outside of a glass candle holder and place a candle inside. When the candle is lit, the sea glass will glow and create a beautiful and peaceful ambiance. Alternatively, use your sea glass to make a candle display. Fill a clear jar approximately a third full with sea glass (mixed or similar in hue- it’s your choice!), and nestle your candles on top. Quick and easy, the only thing you need to watch out for is glass cracking if the heat gets too strong or the flame too close. 4. Sea Glass Terrariums Combine the healing power of plants with the beauty of sea glass to create a unique and pretty terrarium display. If your plant requires drainage, sea glass can be used to add a quirky and colourful layer to the pot, and if you have an air plant it can simply be added along with sand and shells to make a terrarium ideal for a beach lover. Beautiful and low maintenance, it is the perfect addition to any home or office. 5. Sea Glass Pictures Embrace a multimedia approach and combine your sea glass with paint, pen and pencil to create beautiful pictures. Just glue pieces to card or canvas and see what they become with a little imagination. The different shapes sea glass is tumbled into is great for inspiration, and we have seen amazing art made in the likeness of flowers, birds, jellyfish, trees, drinks and figures by the addition of some simple lines. This can be a great and unique way to do handmade cards or tags, and when framed makes wonderful wall displays. 6. Sea Glass Christmas Trees This craft is a little more seasonal, but the result is beautiful! All you need is a Styrofoam cone, strong glue, sea glass and a starfish for the top. There are two ways to do it. The quicker and easier way is to glue the sea glass directly onto the cone until all the foam is covered. However, if you want (in our opinion at least) a more impressive tree we suggest doing the slightly harder layered technique. To do this, you need to insert the glass into the Styrofoam at an angle between 45-90 degrees deep enough that it holds there. Then remove the glass, put glue on the edge which goes into the foam, then place it back in position. Insert a toothpick underneath to hold it in place and support until the glue is fully dried. Repeat around the entire cone so that the sea glass sits like a layered skirt. This may mean having to leave and come back to the project, but a patient approach will create the best results. When fully dry, and all the glass stays securely, remove the supporting toothpicks. Finally, take one last toothpick and attach your starfish. Wait for it to dry then insert it into the top of the cone as your topper. 7. Sea Glass and Resin Pictures, coasters, ‘stained glass’ windows, mosaics, trinket trays; there are loads of options when it comes to combining sea glass and resin. Intrigued? You will need a mold, nitrile gloves, safety glasses, mixing cups, stir sticks and a form of clear cast epoxy resin. In your mold, place sea glass in the desired layout then pour over the resin (with some resin types you may need to level it, however others are self-levelling). Depending on your project, you may need to glue the sea glass down, or push them down through the curing process. Alternatively, you could just leave them as is. With resin crafts, there is always a risk of air bubbles. Lighters, a small butane torch, or a heat gun can help remove them before the project cures- just make sure to do this with extreme caution! Allow your epoxy resin art to cure for 24 to 48 hours (you will know when it is done when it forms a solid clear surface and is untacky to touch), and enjoy your resin craft! 8. Sea Glass Bowl Cover a small to medium sized bowl (large may not hold its shape) with three to four layers of clingfilm. Using glue, start at the bottom/rim and attach sea glass to make a smooth edge. Gradually work upwards and around until your reach the top. For this section try to pick pieces which are similar in depth so you have a flat base when it dries. Allow it to dry for longer than you’d think!- even up to a week if needed. When you are sure it is dry carefully remove the bowl. Sometimes the clingfilm remains attached so you may need to do some delicate removal or, if it is not very noticeable, just trim the excess clingfilm around the edge. This sea glass creation looks particularly magical when illuminated by battery operated candles, or filled with fairy lights. 9. Display Board Another simple project with impressive results is organising your sea glass and other beachcombing trinkets on a backboard to create a display. You can do shapes and spirals, ombre effect or even create a seascape by combining different shades and colours of glass, shells and driftwood- just make sure they are securely glued down before you hang it up!. Circles or shaped boards can also work well if you want to make it a little different. Alternatively, buy a second-hand letterpress drawer and hang it on the wall. All the tiny compartments can be a great way to both store and display your sea glass collection. Simply fill it with your favourite and most unusual beach combing finds, then place it somewhere everyone can admire. 10. Sea Glass Curtain If you have patience and a lot of sea glass to spare, you could even try making a window or doorway curtain. After stringing up drilled sea glass, all you need is a rail or driftwood it can hang from. You could try doing each string a different colour, create an ombre effect, or just have it as a multicoloured. 11. Sea Glass Ornament Perfect for decorating or giving as small gifts, sea glass ornaments are a beautiful and quirky way to provide a sense of occasion. All you need to do is buy clear plastic or glass ornament jars, baubles or spheres and fill them with sea glass. If you want more of a beachscape, feel free to add sand, small shells and other beachcombing finds. Finish it off with some twine or ribbon and it’s ready to go. This is just a small list of ideas, but we hope they’ve at least got your creative juices flowing! Remember, this is simply inspiration, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust to suit your own style and interests. Let us know how you get on, and tag us in your sea glass creations at @bohosilver on Facebook or @bohosilverstudio on Instagram!

What can we expect as we head towards the latter part of 20323, and launch into the unknown in 2024? We have definitely noticed changes in how people are buying. While customers may be buying less overall, there is a shift to saving and buying that one piece of jewellery that captures the soul. Perhaps it's a reflection of austere times, or a more eco friendly approach, but there is a return to the philosophy of 'buy well, buy once'. Eschewing mass produced cheap trinkets, customers are looking to buy a piece of jewellery that speaks to them in some way, or makes them feel good about their purchase. Something with providence and longevity. This is good news, not just for us as a business, but for the planet. Jewellery trends are heading towards handmade designs that are symbolic or have connection or meaning to the wearer. They often feature unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the wearer's individual style and personality. Jewellery trends also focus on sustainability and ethical practices. This is so that customers can wear their jewellery knowing that it was created with respect for the environment and with fair working conditions. So, what are jewellery trends for 2023-2024 looking like? As well as unique statement pieces, expect minimalist designs that are wearable every day. Simple hoops and circles; small pendants that can be worn with most things. Bangles and rings that can be stacked. Colourful and bold designs are also popular, as well as precious stones and pearls being used as accents. Expect to see more sustainable materials used in jewellery designs. Overall, jewellery trends for 2023-2024 will include both statement pieces and pared down everyday designs. There is also a strong move towards free-flowing, organic shapes. Raw gemstones and pearls are likewise making a comeback, as well as organic materials such as wood, stone, and shells. Sea glass is definitely in the mix. This is because of the appreciation of nature and the desire to own pieces that are a reflection of the natural world. People are drawn to the unique imperfections of natural materials and the way they blend together to create something beautiful and unique. The appreciation of nature and an increasing awareness of the environment has led to a desire for pieces that are more sustainable and eco-friendly. By using natural materials, it is possible to create designs that are unique yet still inharmony with the natural world. Additionally, the imperfections of natural materials add to the beauty and individuality of each piece. Boho Silver creates with all of this in mind. Our pieces are crafted from recycled silver and ethically sourced materials, with love and respect for our planet. We believe in conscious consumption and sustainable fashion. Our mission is to bring people closer to nature and spread awareness about protecting the world and its oceans. Does Boho Silver fit in with the latest trends? Well, we don't really follow trends, but we hope the right people will find that 'connection' with our work. Inspiration for our designs come from our wild Scottish seascape, the ocean and the elemental forces of nature. This intertwines with Celtic folklore and sea witch vibes. These influences play a major role in our creative process, resulting in designs inspired by Scotland's wild and beautiful natural environment. We strive to capture the beauty of Scotland's untamed ocean seascapes in our designs, and create pieces that evoke a deep connection with nature. Customers feel a connection to our pieces in many ways. The designs speak to wild women, sea lovers and free-spirited adventurers. Our pieces are timeless, unique and designed to last, so that customers can continue to enjoy this connection to nature for years to come. We hope to inspire people to feel connected to nature, no matter where they are. In essence, we hope our designs offer a sense of connection to the sea, and a time when we were closer to nature. The unique and organic pieces evoke individuality, wildness and freedom through their unusual designs. Trends are trends, and they are interesting to see. They come, and they go. As creatives we are not influenced by trends, but instead encourage individuality and a sense of the ethereal. We want our customers to feel a connection to the elements and to feel inspired to explore and appreciate both themselves, and the beauty of the natural world. jewellery trends Uk jewellery trends 2024 what is the latest jewellery trend fashionable jewellery trends 2014 is sea glass fashionable? sustainable jewellery trends 2024 sustainable jewellery 2024 sustainable Christmas gifts 2024 Christmas jewellery for her 2024 {{content_library.global.email.2102134332}}

As custodian of the sea, it is fitting that mermaid figures have been chosen by The 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project to help create new artificial reefs on the Floridian coast. An EcoArt project in collaboration with Ocean Rescue Alliance, their goal is to create 1000 crafted sculptures that will help restore existing coral reefs and create new ones.

How to Drill Sea Glass; A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are brave, and the day is long. If you can walk away from the warm village light and are not scared of shadows that creep and grow amongst the heather of north-west Scotland; take yourself at dusk to the banks of the Meoble River. Follow its turns below the rocky gaze of Meith Bheinn . This ‘Rough Bounds’ wilderness is not so deserted as it might seem. Before the river’s water empties into Loch Morar, stones start to sprout from the earth. Take care. This is the tumbled remnants of the village of Meoble, its decaying crofts and overgrown graveyard do not take kindly to strangers. Watch where you put your feet, as some memories are best left undisturbed. If your courage has still not failed you, walk a little further- not so far you cannot see the roofless crofts, but far enough you will have a head start if there is need to run. Now wait as the islands fade into darkness; ghosts are easier to see at night. Watch and listen. A dark shadow may flicker across the stones, a small whine catch in the breeze- these rough bounds are not so deserted as they might seem. I suggest you wait cautiously and remember the story I am about to tell you. The story of Cù Glas Mheobail, the Grey Dog of Meoble. ************************************** Some centuries ago, when this glen and village was still inhabited, there was a highlander by the name of Dugald McDonald. Dugald was a young man known for his love of deerhounds, and owned a large pack with which he trekked across the heathland. However, his favourite was a young female and she in return was his most faithful companion. Raising her from a pup, the hound (said to be called ‘ Elasaid ’ or Elizabeth in English) was of a size unheard of, with the most magnificent grey coat in all of Lochaber. A day soon came however, where Dugald and many other young men went to join the Peninsular wars, leaving behind their family, homes and, in Dugald’s case, his beloved grey dog. Several years past before he could return, but although he eagerly called amongst the crofts, no shaggy-coated hound ran to greet him. Seeing his despair the villagers told him how, distraught at being left behind, Elasaid would not tolerate the company of any other human but took herself away to the hills. Nothing more was seen or heard of her until a hunter, passing by the small, isolated lochan of Tain Mhic Dhughaill spotted movement on the island in its centre. Shaking loch-water from her coat was a gigantic deerhound, and running out of the undergrowth to meet her came four, young pups. Dugald was delighted at the news, but the villagers gave caution. Although once his most loyal companion, no human had been near Elasaid in years, and her litter of pups were completely wild; no human should go near them. Deaf in his joy, Dugald took no heed but immediately went to find Elasaid’s pack at the peaty banks of Tain Mhic Dhughaill . That he found them was certain, but no one could ever quite say what happened when he did. It was in answer to the young man’s screams that the villagers set out into the night, but it was in silence that they found Dugald’s torn and tattered body; no explanation ever able to leave his bloodied lips. As they buried him in the graveyard, the crofters spoke quietly of what befell Dugald. Some said Elasaid was so joyful to see her master that they wrestled and played, the pups mistaking it for an attack on their mother and killing Dugald. Others said Elasaid had been away hunting, and without her the feral pups set upon him. Whether either account is true can never be known, but Elasaid never left her master’s side again. Disconsolate by his death, she held a lonely and cold vigil over Dugald’s grave, occasionally rousing the villagers with mournful howls until her own death. Time passed. The young highlander and his deerhound began to fade from memory. Until, that is, her terrible howling was heard once more in the glens of Lochaber. This time it came from Rifern, the small crofting town on the opposite riverbank to the Meoble graveyard. It was here that one of Dugald’s brothers lived, and for him Elasaid returned. As he lay terminally ill in bed, her ghostly presence appeared by his side. She sat in vigil for several minutes before giving a sorrowful cry, her grey body dissipating like mist. A few hours later the brother died. Ever since that first (re)appearance, whenever a member of the MacDonald’s of Morar clan is close to death, a spectral deerhound is seen; an omen of what is to come, and to protect their passage to the afterlife. In between her ominous vigils Elasaid’s spirit haunts the hills and glens near Loch Morar, often being seen at Arisaig and Mallaig, particularly the Rhu peninsula. Many locals believe this roaming is to find the soul of her master, forever hoping they may finally be reunited. Others view it as penance for Dugald’s death at the mercy of her pack. However, none seek to find and comfort Elasaid in her restless loneliness. That she protects the MacDonald’s is certain, what she may do to any other stray traveller is not known; it was many years she spent alone on that island, and grief can do terrible things… scottish ghosts scottish ghost stories scottish folklore celtic folklore fairy dog arisaig folklore mallaig folklore lochaber legends death folklore highland folklore folklore of the scottish highlands grey dog rum scottish rum Scottish myths and legends lesser known Scottish folklore celtic mythology scottish mythology scottish legends ghost stories bloody Scotland haunted Scotland forgotten Scotland References MacDonald, Donald Archie. “Migratory Legends of the Supernatural in Scotland: A General Survey.” Béaloideas 62/63 (1994): 29–78. https://doi.org/10.2307/20522441. The Grey Dog of Meoble (tom-odgen-keenan.com) The Grey Dog of Meoble | A Blast From The Past (mikedashhistory.com)

Mermaid's Gate, Dunluce Castle, Ireland. Ireland, 1500s. The Northern sky is darkening. The wild Atlantic gathering into peaked ridges and foamy explosions of spume. From its vantage on the sheer basalt cliffs, Dunluce Castle watches the storm front approach, settling deeper into its rocky foundations as the clouds crackle and smoulder with distant lightning. Amongst the thick stone bricks of the North Easterly tower, Maeve Roe McQuillan gives a shiver as rising from the cliffs below comes the black wind of the Sidhe, the keening wail of a banshee. Tonight someone will die. The only daughter of Lord McQuillan, she is the lady of the castle, this tower her lady’s bower; yet the young face is pale and drawn. Her choice to love the wrong man keeps her a prisoner, and until she marries her father’s kinsman, Rory Óg, she will be imprisoned here. Everyday her father visits her to ask if she has changed her mind, and everyday she gives him the same answer, “I’d prefer prison or death”, and turns back to her sewing. By the end of the second week, he’d finally recognised she was sewing a white dress, and made to return her the keys. “Your bridal gown?” He asked satisfied, but Maeve stared steadily at the wall and replied, “No, it is my shroud.” In a fury he threw a broom at her, “enjoy sweeping your own rooms then. If you do not wish to become a lady, you can make do without servants!” and left, slamming the door behind him. He had not visited since. Remembering her bitter words on this stormy night, Maeve raises the gown from her lap. It is finally finished. Simply cut, white, it does look like a bridal gown, and yet.... She thinks of the banshee’s warning cry. The dress before her that is white as a shroud, white as a corpse. She puts it on and stands in the centre of the chamber, a haunting and haunted figure, while outside the wind howls and rain begins to fall. With another huge blast of wind the oak door bursts open and the candles surrounding pale Maeve flicker, the fire flaring up the small chimney. In the doorway stands a dishevelled stranger; wind blown, dripping. Then they draw back their hood, and Maeve starts with a cry. Reginald O’Cahan. Young, handsome, a clansman of the McQuillan’s bitterest rivals, and not a stranger, but a lover. The very one for whom Maeve had turned down Rory Óg. A prisoner until a few short months ago, Reginald’s days behind his enemy’s walls were spent plotting his escape, and yet, unwittingly falling in love with the maiden who furtively passed stolen kitchen leftovers through the bars without her father's knowledge. Love blossomed. The one person he could not have, nor she him. Now, after months apart he stands in the doorway to the tower as the storm rages around them, a powerful figure with smiling eyes. He holds up a large iron key and grins. “Seems your guards are less loyal when there is coin about.” Aye, it is a romance for the storybooks. A young couple so in love they would risk and leave everything. Hidden by the storm they flee deep below the castle, through the dark and winding passageways that lead to Dunluce’s best kept secret; the Mermaid’s Gate. A great cavern, wave-hewn from the dark rock, it has been used by smugglers and armies, kings and prisoners. Tonight it is Maeve and Reginald who struggle across the seaweed slick rocks, boarding the small row boat that is their passage to Portrush. Yet even in this sheltered inlet the water is swirling, the darkness beyond surging against the surrounding cliffs, and Maeve’s hands upon the stern grow white knuckled as Reginald wades them deeper into the seething water. The small boat is quickly caught and dragged out into the stormy night, the thin oars and Reginald’s straining arms powerless against the raging tide. Above, the castle’s inhabitants watch from high in the battlements, Lord McQuillan‘s face changing from anger, to fear to desperation as he recognises the glimpses of white amongst the storming waves. Maeve’s words sounding in his mind; my shroud, my shroud, as helplessly he watches the boat overturn, the futile attempts of the young couple to cling to one another amongst the black water, and then...nothing. The next morning, as dawn breaks wind-scoured and grey, searching castle soldiers find Reginald’s body washed upon the shore. However Maeve‘s body does not return from the sea. Her father pleads and weeps, but the Sea refuses to give back the body, her white dress the only shroud Maeve is destined to ever wear. Yet the sea could not hold her wild spirit, and it is said that a woman in white now haunts the tower in which Maeve was imprisoned, the ‘Dread tower’, sweeping the floor and weeping over her dead lover. Sometimes she is seen on the cliffs beside the castle at sunset. She is always gazing out to sea, bare feet grazing the slender sea-pinks as she searches for her lover’s soul and watches for western clouds carrying another storm to her beloved Dunluce. To that lone crumbling tower, Once a fair lady's bower, Comes in the midnight hour, That hapless spirit. Mourn for the Lady Maeve, Mourn for her wind and wave, Naught but a sea cold grave, Did she inherit.' Sir John Ross, 1836 Why the ‘Mermaid’ cave? Despite the widespread agreement that the large cavern below Dunluce is known as the Mermaid cave or gate, no one seems able to give a reason or origin for this name. Unsatisfied, I decided to do some digging and discovered from an old periodical that a mermaid was believed by locals to live in the cave. Every night she was said to frequent the waters surrounding Dunluce castle, and during the day could sometimes be seen lounging on the rocks, combing her long black hair. In the way of Folk-Lore, all the locals seemed to know someone, or know someone who knew someone else, who had seen the mermaid sitting on the rocks under the castle- sometimes for as long as three minutes! In Scotland certainly, sea caves on the north west coast where viewed to be inhabited by mermaids, so it seems likely the same belief was held about the one at Dunluce. Whether the mermaid is a guardian of the castle or merely a neighbour is unclear, but considering the sightings it is definitely worth keeping an eye out for glimpses of a scaly tail in the waters below if you visit... Copyright of the above written story of Mermaid's Gate belongs to Scarlett McQuillan (Boho Silver). and all or part may not be reproduced without permission and attribution. References: Blind, Karl. "SCOTTISH, SHETLANDIC, AND GERMANIC WATER TALES." The Contemporary Review, 1866-1900 40, (09, 1881): 401. https://emeraldisle.ie/the-haunting-of-dunluce Dunluce Castle - History and Facts | History Hit What is Mermaid's Gate? Where is Mermaid's Gate? Dunluce Castle and the white Lady Is Dunluce Castle Haunted? Mermaid stories Irish mermaids Mermaid folkore