During this period, John Ford, whose parents hailed from the West of Ireland, became one of Hollywood’s most influential filmmakers. Despite John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara having committed to The Quiet Man, the major studios turned down Ford’s funding pitch. Soon after, the cast and crew were in the Emerald Isle and based in Ashford Castle where weather conditions were surprisingly favourable for the shoot. Afterwards, the trail galloped on past a ruin known as the priest’s house and by a woodland path skirting the edge of the Ashford Castle Estate. Walking towards Ashford Castle Picture: John G O'DwyerHere, the right-hand option leads along the riverbank to the grounds of the castle.

Source: Irish Examiner February 08, 2026 06:16 UTC