Leaving the Island: Man Who Lived Alone on Inishfree for 20 Years is Finally Returning to the Mainland

We’re not exactly sure how he managed a full 20 years in practical solitude, but Ireland’s loneliest man is officially moving back to the mainland.

Irish Central reports that Barry Edgar Pilcher has decided to move back to England later this year, after spending 20 years on the Donegal island of Inishfree.

Now for most of the time that he was on the island, Barry (who is turning 70 this year, mind you), has lived completely by himself. The poor chap didn’t even get to see his wife and daughter on New Year’s Day because his Skype wasn’t working due to a dodgy internet connection. Sad face.

Barry’s wife and daughter originally moved with him to Inishfree from Essex, but they could only stick the island for a couple of years before they made the decision to return back to the UK. Barry stayed behind and kept in contact with his family through phone calls and the internet. Although lately, the solitude has been getting to him.

“Skype is no substitute for giving her [his wife] a hug,” said Barry.

Barry admits that he will miss the "magical" island when he leaves

Barry moved to the island back in 1993 because he loved the scenery and its isolation, which allowed him to work on his music and poetry without being disturbed.

While a handful of people do have holiday homes on Inishfree, most of the time Barry is on the island completely by himself. However, once a week he takes a trip to the mainland so he can buy supplies.

For the past 20 years he has been living on a diet of brown rice and other essentials.

“I can’t really phone up for a take-away curry,” said Barry.

Aside from his loneliness, there is another reason why Barry has decided to up sticks back to the UK. His wife hasn’t been well lately and he wants to meet his older brother, who he hasn’t seen for a very long time.

“I’ll be going as soon as I can organize it. But it is very magical out here,” said Barry.

“There is no street lighting so you can see the stars at night and things like that,” he added.

Do you think you could spend a year in total solitude like Barry?