Author Ciaran De Buitlear
A once-neglected Victorian walled garden in Stamullen has become the heart of a new book that is already inspiring children, families and wildlife efforts across the area.
In Nature’s Acre, the author tells the story of how their family was unexpectedly given access to the garden during lockdown. What started as a simple plan to grow organic food quickly developed into something much deeper.
Over time, the space became a refuge for wildlife, an outdoor classroom, and a place that reshaped not just the garden itself but the people involved. The project also connected with wider biodiversity work in Stamullen, including efforts around woodland planting, hedgerows and the creation of a wildlife pond.
The impact of the story is already being felt beyond the book. During a recent visit to a local school, the author ended up speaking to five classes instead of four as word spread among students.
The response from children was particularly striking. One pupil said the visit had inspired her to start gardening, while others asked if their teacher could read a chapter of the book before school each day.
The book is also influencing how people think about their own spaces. One local reader has already begun transforming her garden, replacing large areas of grass with native trees and shrubs to support biodiversity.
The story has also received recognition from BirdWatch Ireland, which gave the book a positive review in the spring edition of Wings.
At its core, Nature’s Acre is a North East story about place, nature and community. It highlights how even a small, overlooked space can become something meaningful, not just for one family but for a wider community
