There are bants and bonding galore as they go in search of the legends, landscapes, mystery and history that have shaped the people and culture of the island.
Actor Martin lived in Ireland for a while during his Spandau Ballet pop star days and fell in love with the storytelling traditions of the island. Now, he wants to share that passion with his TV presenter son. Given that Martin’s mom always used to tell him she was half Irish, those storytelling genes might just be in their blood.
On their journey through spectacular scenery, they meet extraordinary people, visit mind-blowing historic sites, and hear unforgettable tales. From ancient tombs and faerie forts to craggy coasts and reputedly haunted castles, they meet people committed to keeping the old ways alive through traditional rituals, practices, music and performance.
While Martin loves nothing more than to believe in a good myth, however unlikely, Roman’s logical mind makes it harder for him to embrace the unproven. So, can Martin encourage his son to experience the joy of embracing the unknown?
There are laughs galore and irresistible father and son banter, but at its heart this profound road trip inspires them both to examine their own history, lives and relationship.
EPISODE 1
Celebrity father and son duo Martin and Roman Kemp begin their adventure on Ireland’s south coast in County Cork - an area shaped by powerful tides, dramatic history and the kind of stirring myths that Martin loves. They take to the water in kayaks to learn the story of Cliona, Queen of the Banshees, and the legend of her ominous ocean wave. They travel to the former prison known as ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’, Spike Island, where they get up close and personal with its haunting history.
EPISODE 2
Martin and Roman's adventure continues on Ireland’s west coast in the counties of Meath and Dublin. They begin in the historic hotspot of the Boyne valley at an ancient tomb described as the region’s best keep secret. At a structure that’s older than Stone Henge and Egypt’s pyramids, they encounter what some claim to be the earliest depiction of a human face. At the Hill of Tara they meet an Arch Druid and experience a sound bath that has a profound effect on both of them.
EPISODE 3
The final leg of their adventure takes them to a snowy Northern Ireland where they begin with a challenging dip in the freezing sea of the causeway coast as they empathise with legendary Selkies – mythical creatures that shape shift from seals to human form. At what’s reputed to be Northern Island’s most haunted hotel, Martin and Roman spend a fretful night, before exploring the Irish origins of Halloween and experiencing the spectacular Derry Halloween Festival – Europe’s largest.