New book on A Year in the Woods in Montalto

New book on A Year in the Woods in Montalto

7 May 2025

A NEW book by well-known nature writer and Irish Times contributor Paul Clements has been formally launched.

The restorative power of nature is at the heart of his latest publication — A Year In The Woods, Montalto Through The Seasons.

The book was launched last week at the stunning Montalto estate with the guest speaker Mr Ken Dawson.

Paul’s new book describes in lyrical detail the year he spent living in a cottage on the grounds of the magnificent 400 acre Montalto estate in Ballynahinch in this stunning new illustrated hardback. 

Fusing history, nature writing and memoir Paul’s captivating writing celebrates the changing seasons and the small moments of wonder that come from being surrounded by the natural world.

Recovering from surgery, Paul and his wife Felicity spent a year in a remote cottage in the woodlands of the sprawling estate.

Through the lens of a curious observer and a budding bird watcher, Paul, who is a former BBC assistant editor, describes in exquisite detail his discovery of the restorative power of nature. 

Beautifully written, his new book is a fusion of social and cultural history, nature writing and memoir. 

Reflecting on this magical year spent in the woods through the journal he kept, Paul describes his awakening to the wonder of the woodland and developing his deep connection to nature. 

Peppered with fascinating folklore and history, this is a lyrical and captivating testament to the joy of a life spent outdoors. 

Paul is the author of five travel books about Ireland, with his writing reflecting the cultural landscape, heritage and natural world. 

He has also written two biographies: one on the Irish writer, actor and singer Richard Hayward (2014), and the other on the Welsh travel writer and historian Jan Morris, published in 2022. 

Paul’s new book is published by Merrion Press and costs £17.99 ISBN: 9781785375484