The Bulfin Heritage Cycle Rally is an annual heritage cycle organised by vintage cycling enthusiasts from the village of Durrow in Co. Laois. The cycle, organised as part of The Irish Heritage Week is inspired by William Bulfin. Why not join them on August 29th and 30th, when they will hit the road, in period costume, on their High Nellie bicycles for 2 days of heritage, cycling, food and fun.
Who was William Bulfin?
William Bulfin was a journalist, travel writer and proud Irish Nationalist, who was born in Derkrinlough, Co. Offaly in 1864. Having returned from Argentina in 1902, (after working there on the pampas amongst the native gaucho tribe), he set off on a journey that took him through the highways and byways of Ireland, on a steel framed bicycle made by Pierce of Wexford. ‘Rambles In Eirinn’ is the insightful book written by William Bulfin, about that cycling experience, and each captivating page tells a story of Ireland’s ancient past. The travelogue was published in 1907 and proved to be a resounding success, extending to a fourth edition, published in 1915.
Following in the Wheel Rims of William Bulfin
Taking inspiration from William’s achievements; The Bulfin Heritage Cycle Rally 2020 is the sixth in a series of Heritage adventures promoted by local not-for-profit group “Irish Country Roads & Culture Trails”. The event is a valuable introduction to the heritage that inspired much of the history, culture, music and storytelling of Ancient Ireland. William Bulfin was by no means the usual tourist and his greatest enthusiasms were for places that the usual tourist had not yet penetrated.
The event will include community and visitor engagement through promenade theatre style sketches, re-enactments, storytelling and traditional music.
The Durrow Cycling group would like as many people as possible to get into the spirit of the cycle and join then on this truly unique cycle through Laois. The cost of this 2 day event is €140 which covers all your food, entertainment, pageants and camping on the Friday night. (Hotel accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost). A limited number of day tickets are available. The Bulfin team can help with bike hire if needed.
From past cycles the immersive experience that the Bulfin group offer cannot be underestimated in terms of entertainment, comradely, heritage, good food and sheer craic.
So if history and heritage is your thing, perhaps it’s time to dig out, that old vintage bike, and hit the road with the Bulfin Heritage Cycle Rally.