One of the better chance decisions we've made as a group. The unexpected and spontaneous ventures are always the most rewarding, with this huge, district lunatic asylum in Ireland being proof of that. We had other plans in the region, but when they didn't come to fruition and I needed to recharge my gear at a Tesco, we figured we might as well look at the nearby lead of mine featuring a huge asylum with sections apparently closed. There wasn't really much else to it than a slight aspect of overgrowth on the land around the back that had led me to pin it, as well as the factor that most Irish asylums contain disused parts.
Arriving at the site with @jtza , @DustySensorPhotography and @huyt.urb , we initially thought we would be looking at a miniscule segment of the colossal structure from it's imposing, tidy front. However, moving around the back to where it seemed a lot more active, it was clear that much more of the building was out of use than we had thought. Our opening attempts of entry were very simple and nonchalant, but gazing through the windows at classic asylum details, we then began to try more unusual methods. A worker halted us only to discover what we were doing and express his approval, which also provoked us to really work to getting in, because it felt like the opportunity was too golden. Eventually, after testing one of the dirtiest squeezes I had ever done, even requiring a clothes swap with Theo, I ended up inside a bathroom, only to find that all the doors were locked. Extreme sadness... as it was an attempt where I was convinced if I got through, I wouldn't be leaving the same way. Getting back out was immensely difficult and needed a guide on the opposing side of the wall, but eventually it was deemed possible. Thankfully, the next window along worked fine and I was in.
Having left my equipment in Tesco, the others scooted off to collect it. They went on the way accompanied with a video from me, 'Hi, I'm currently stuck, but these here are my friends and I give permission for them to get my stuff. Thanks,' something like that. Meanwhile, myself and @DustySensorPhotography found a door to open and started to meander around the site, uncovering more stunning asylum iconography as we did so. We couldn't believe the state of the asylum, with minimal decay and practically everything left behind. It was truly fascinating walking through, unknowing what exceptional gems would be in each room, such as a perfectly intact dentist chair in an upstairs canteen. The others soon returned and we spent a solid five hours within the complex.
Starting on the ground floor of three. There is a basement there, but unfortunately, we ran out of time pressured by a security guard. Some real interest could be stashed down there.
The far west side of the main block's corridor was blatantly abandoned, with some beautifully coloured corridors.
Common room. The fire alarm was going off here.
The first of many hydrotherapy baths.
On the way to the kitchens, which directly connects to active areas. We didn't stay here for too long, but had a lovely conversation with a worker through a window.
Main hall/canteen. Probably modernised in the last 30 years or so, but still boasted some ornate features. The women we spoke to informed us that the beds were to be sent back to hospitals around the country after the pandemic. It reminded me of that one in Kent.
Main entrance.
Some form of classroom.
On the second floor, it started to appear like it had been disused for a lot longer. There weren't any signs that the occasional worker may enter these sections. The corridors were conventionally hospital coloured, with outdated equipment left behind and there was a lot more natural deterioration.
Beds.
In between different corridors, these open areas were always prominent, with a nice fireplace and a bay window.
From here, we found what we'd consider the jackpot. It seemed that anything rare had been stashed in what was actually a small canteen. The room had a bit of everything, forcing us to spend a long, long time in here, looking through books, old medicine bottles and archive photographs, whilst also appreciating the many dated artefacts gathering dust.
Dentist's chair.
A small Penny Farthing.
Old iron.
Model of the labyrinth of the ear.
Human skeleton on the opposing side.
Some trophies.
Eventually, after a few days, we were able to leave that room and continue looking around.
Back into the admin section of the building. There were some ornate rooms here, but a lot were locked and being used for storage.
Second floor canteen.
Wards.
Up to the third and highest floor. Besides the admin areas, there wasn't too much to see at this level, besides some more ace corridors. Most belongings had been removed and some sections were fairly modern. The power worked in every room, though.
A nice hall.
More hydrotherapy baths with the first drop down ceiling of the building.
Archive room.
Here is the link to our documentary styled video filmed at the asylum. We cover the property's past, present and future through cinematics and narration:
