THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN
A HOMECOMING
GREAT GETAWAYS
IRISH CRAFT
08. DESTINATION DUBLIN
Being one of the most youthful cities in Europe, Dubin has a vibrant music scene with great places to play and stay in Ireland’s thrilling capital.
25. GARDEN OF IRELAND
Known as The Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow is a region of beautiful isolation, a spectacular coastline and some of Ireland's best-preserved monastic ruins right on Dublin's doorstep.
35. CINEMATIC SENSATION
A dream location for talent scouts and movie makers, Martin McDonagh’s Banshees of Inisherin shines the light on Ireland, provoking a boom in Irish tourism and sales of Aran sweaters.
45. A DESOLATE BEAUTY
The weather-worn islands of Achill and Inis Mór have a storied past worthy of Hollywood. They take center stage in the multi-award winning Banshees of Inisherin, and it's not hard to see why.
63. GLORIOUS GALWAY
Out on the western edge of Ireland, Galway is surrounded by the alluring beauty of a national park and the coastal splendor of the Wild Atlantic Way.
70. CONNEMARA
A playground for the senses set deep in the heart of nature, lose yourself in the biodiversity blitz of Connemara and Clare, where you may just find the Salmon of Knowledge.
77. THE GREAT HUNGER
So great has been the influx of Irish people to the US, especially since The Great Hunger, that 40 million Americans claim Irish heritage, almost nine times the population of Ireland itself.
82. ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN
The descendant of Irish famine-era emigrants from Mayo and Louth, President Joseph Robinette Biden jnr, came home to Ireland to the delight of family and friends on both sides of the Atlantic.
95. LAND OF LEGENDS
The ‘wee county’ known as the land of legends, ancient stories, kings and heroes gave a hero’s welcome to the 46th President of the United States, who like many Irish Americans, came to trace his ancestors.
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110. SOUTHERN STAR
Foaming seas, staggering cliffs, ancient sights and star-filled nights, the awe-inspiring views of Ireland's southern star have mesmerized visitors for centuries.
137. YEATS COUNTY
Known as Yeats County, Sligo played an important role in the life and work of Nobel laureate, poet and dramatist William Butler Yeats, who found inspiration here for much of his work.
155. DONEGAL
With spectacular ocean and mountain vistas and adventure on land and sea, Donegal’s raw, untamed beauty is jaw-droppingly beautiful.
176. GREAT OUTDOORS
Discover the highways and byways of Ireland on foot or wheel by taking to the off-roads of Ireland's Greenways.
182. CRAFT
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Nature's beauty and diversity are a rich source of inspiration for craftworkers across Ireland, and it is in plentiful supply.
191. MEET THE MAKERS
Irish design and craft offer an essential link for almost 70 million people with Irish connections worldwide. Meet the movers and shakers in the world of craft, from organizations like the Design and Craft Council of Ireland to small-scale artisan producers.
207 STORE STORIES
Irish stores throughout the USA and Canada open their doors and hearts to visitors daily. Here are some of their stories.
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While every effort has been made to make the information contained herein as comprehensive and accurate as possible, the publishers accept no responsibility for additions, omissions or errors. No part of this publication may be copied or used without the editor’s consent.
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EDITOR: Trish Phelan trish@devlinmedia.org
PRODUCTION MANAGER: Joanne Punch joanne@devlinmedia.org
SALES: Linda Hickey linda@devlinmedia.org
COPY & EDITORIAL: Adele Land adele@devlinmedia.org Sarah Phelan sarah@devlinmedia.org
CONTRIBUTORS:
Tourism Ireland www.irelandinpictures.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN: Dean Baker info@disenoinspirado.es
JP DEVLIN USA
76 Ellsworth Rd, Hyannis 02601, USA
DISTRIBUTION:
North American Celtic Trade Association
Tourism Ireland
Celtic Stores USA & Canada
Showcase
COVER IMAGE: Benbulben and Classiebawn Castle, Mullaghmore, County Sligo. ireland.com
DUBLIN IS KNOWN FOR ITS LIVE GIGS, AND MANY MUSICIANS WHO'VE MADE THEIR START HERE GO ON TO PLAY ON THE WORLD STAGE. MANY BIG-NAME ARTISTS HAVE COME AND GONE FROM IRELAND, BUT THE TOP SPOT FOR LOCAL ACT MADE GOOD IS THE ONE AND ONLY U2.
U2 frontman Bono has released his memoir recalling growing up in Dublin and the path to musical success. As one of the music world's most iconic artists, Bono's career has been written about extensively; however, in Surrender, Bono picks up the pen, writing for the first time about his remarkable life and those he has shared it with.
In his unique voice, Bono takes us from his early days growing up in Dublin, particularly Dublin's northside, where Bono hails from, including U2's unlikely
journey to become one of the world's most influential rock bands. Bono also has more than 20 years of activism dedicated to the fight against AIDS and extreme poverty. Writing with honesty, self-reflection, and humor, Bono opens the aperture on his life – and the family, friends and faith that sustained, challenged, and shaped him.
Surrender’s subtitle, "40 Songs, One Story," is a nod to the book's 40 chapters, each named after a U2 song. Bono has also created 40 original drawings for Surrender. An animated video narrated by
Bono and based on some of his drawings illustrates an extract from the “Out of Control” chapter, where Bono tells the story of writing U2’s first single on his eighteenth birthday.
"When I started to write this book, I hoped to draw in detail what I'd previously only sketched in songs - the people, places, and possibilities in my life," he says. "Surrender is a word freighted with meaning for me. Growing up in Ireland in the seventies with my fists up (musically speaking), it was not a natural concept -
at the iconic Windmill Lane Studios.
a word I only circled until I gathered my thoughts for the book. I am still grappling with this most humbling of commands in the band, my marriage, my faith, and my life as an activist. Surrender is the story of one pilgrim's lack of progress with a fair amount of fun along the way."
The places that influenced Bono include many across Dublin, from Mount Temple Comprehensive School in Clontarf, where the four members of U2 first came together, to the Bonavox hearing aid store on North Earl Street, which inspired Paul Hewson to adopt the name ‘Bono’. The former Moran's Hotel (now O'Shea's) on adjoining Talbot Street was a venue of choice for the band in the 1970s. Talbot Street was also on Bono's mind when he wrote the powerful Raised by Wolves, a song about the bomb that went off here in 1974 during the Troubles.
U2 fans can visit the band’s old Dublin haunts by following the U2 walking trail. The trail takes in Croke Park, the country’s largest stadium, which the band has sold out many times since The Unforgettable Fire tour in 1985. While there, don’t miss the Skyline Tour that takes you along a 17-storey-high walkway with spectacular views over Dublin City.
A stop at Hanover Quay Studios, where U2 recorded for over 20 years, is a must. It’s closed down now, but the building is decorated with graffiti praising the band. Not far away are Windmill Lane Recording Studios, where you can tour the hallowed space where top artists from U2 to the Rolling Stones have recorded. Though that original building is gone, Windmill Lane Recording Studios lives on in Ringsend (around the corner from Hanover Quay), and you can stop by for a tour.
Windmill Lane Studio One, Windmill Lane Recording Studios, DublinFrom U2 to the Rolling Stones, from rock to rap, AC/DC to 50 Cent, global superstars and local heroes have come to record
Baggot Street near Dublin’s famous St Stephen’s Green is the site of the Baggot Inn (now a Mexican restaurant), which played an important part in the U2 story as it was there in 1978 that the fledgling group got their first residency, putting them on the road to recognition and success.
Just a short walk from Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green marks the spot of U2’s video for The Sweetest Thing. Fine Georgian townhouses line either side of the square, and this backdrop is instantly recognizable as the place where Bono
and his wife Ali take a carriage along Fitzwilliam Place and Upper Fitzwilliam Street. The rest of the guys in the band appear too, along with special guests from Boyzone to the Chippendales. You can follow their path by picking up a carriage ride at the top of Grafton Street outside the main gate to St Stephen's Green and take in the square and the surrounding area on a horse and cart.
No tour of U2's Dublin would be complete without a visit to The Clarence on Wellington Quay, which is now owned by Bono and the Edge. This four-star
A short walk from Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green marks the spot of U2’s video for The Sweetest Thing. Bono and his wife Ali take a carriage along Fitzwilliam Place and Fitzwilliam Street. Follow in their path by picking up a carriage at the main gate to St Stephen's Green.
Sandycove Coast, Co Dublin
boutique hotel was built in 1852 and became the night spot of choice for the band in the 1990s. In 2000, the BBC TV programme Top of The Pops filmed U2 performing their hit Beautiful Day on the hotel roof, with crowds of people gathered along the Liffey to catch a glimpse of the lads in action.
In the same neighbourhood as The Clarence you'll find Dublin's cultural quarter Temple Bar, with bohemian shops, trendy cafés and buzzing bars. From here, pop through Merchant's Arch to see the iconic Ha'penny Bridge for the obligatory selfie as you cross the Liffey. The bridge gets its name from back in the days when a toll of a half penny had to be paid to cross from one side of the Liffey to the other.
For more insight into the band’s career visit The Little Museum of Dublin where there is a permanent exhibition to honor them. U2: Made in Dublin is a fancurated exhibition featuring memorabilia including signed albums, photos and a Trabant car painted by Dublin artist Maser
inspired by the Achtung Baby album. Across the road in St Stephens Green, Bono and The Edge grazed lambs after being awarded the Freedom of Dublin in 2000 (freemen of the city have the right to pasture sheep on common ground!). It harked back to 1224 when 'The Green' was common grazing land bordered with houses. Follow in the footsteps of U2, and you too can discover fascinating facts about the city that shaped one of the world's greatest rock bands.
Bono, The Edge & Letterman
Made for streaming service Disney+, A Sort of Homecoming is a portrait of Dublin but, even more so, it is a portrait of friendship. Edge and Bono have been pals for almost fifty years and the movie captures the laughs, the slagging and the affection that has held that relationship together for so long. We also get to hear Edge sing, a reminder that Bono isn't the only U2 member that can belt out a tune.
It also documents Dublin through Dave Letterman's eyes as he experienced Bono and The Edge's home city. "Recently, I won a radio contest," he said. "Winner gets to visit Dublin with Bono and The Edge (radio contest part is not true, but I feel like a winner). They showed me around,
introduced me to their musician friends, and performed some of their greatest songs in a small theatre. I'm the luckiest man on the planet."
Letterman accepted an invitation from the two bandmates to join them in Dublin for his first-ever visit to Ireland. He has a 25-year relationship with U2, but had previously only spent time with Bono and The Edge in the U.S. As well as being their honored guest at an intimate concert performance at the Ambassador Cinema building on Dublin’s Northside, David got a crash course in must-see spots. He walked around Temple Bar with Edge and Bono, he took a trip on the DART commuter train around Dublin’s stunning coastline, and he followed in the footsteps of Harry Styles by visiting the Forty Foot, a bathing spot immortalized in James Joyce Ulysses, where jumping in no matter what the weather is a Dublin institution.
Letterman inspired a new U2 song written by The Edge and Bono and he narrowly escaped having to perform at a sing-song at McDaid's pub off Grafton Street, where there was quite a gathering. A legendary bunch of artists and musicians, including Bono, The Edge, Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová, Imelda May, Loah, Saint Sister,
Grian Chatten of Fontaines DC, and Dermot Kennedy were ‘giving it socks’ with Dermot Kennedy’s voice described as a “sonic boom” by Bono.
At the end of 'Homecoming,' David tells Bono and The Edge how pleased he was to be doing the special. 'Many nice things have happened to me in my life; this is right at the top of that list,' he says.
www.ireland.com
Take in Dublin Bay on the DART. Running along a scenic coastal track, this public transport train runs from the seaside village of Howth north of the city to the mountain town of Greystones on the south.
DublinArea Rapid Transport, DART
Maura is an Irish painter based in North County Dublin. She is inspired by the history, wealth of heritage and tradi�ons that are Ireland.
The images represent rural life, the heart of many communi�es and the friendly nature of our people.
Her style of connec�ng with the landscape and capturing rugged beauty is unique. When people view my pain�ngs I want them to feel as if they are there with me, feeling the wind or seeing the sea and landscape in all its glory.
The pride she has in being Irish shows in all of her work. A�en�on to detail gives a rare beauty and warmth to her illustra�ons.
Maura also paints large commissioned pieces which reside in many hotels, private homes and public places.
The Co�age Gallery welcomes visitors. Home made scones, tea and coffee free. Come and visit if you can, an Irish welcome awaits you.
Maura O’Rourke
Co�age Gallery & Gi� Shop Dublin Rd. Oldtown. Co. Dublin. A45RP08
Phone: 00 353 1 8433331
Mobile: 00 353 1872368634
Email: ar�stmorourke@gmail.com
Maura is supported by the Design & Cra�s Council of Ireland. The Made Local tags that can be added to her products give recogni�on to her work. Recent new collec�on en�tled The Splendours of Fingal. Visit my website: www.iconicireland.ie to view other collec�ons and large pain�ngs. All work can be purchased and Trade prices supplied on request.
Splendours of Fingal Collec�on/ Newbridge House
CONTEMPORARY ART DECO-INSPIRED, THE GRAFTON IS ONE OF DUBLIN 2’S COOL FOUR-STAR HOTELS, DESIGNED FOR CITY STAYS FOR BUSINESS, COUPLES, FRIENDS AND FAMILIES.
This newly refurbished hotel is primely positioned adjacent to Grafton Street beside St Stephens Green and within walking distance of landmark visitor attractions, including Trinity College, the National Gallery of Ireland and the Guinness Storehouse. It offers a perfect location to start or finish your vacation to Dublin and Ireland.
The Grafton exudes luxury and glamour with modern styling fused with sleek 1920s details to create a distinctive personality. Guests are welcomed to the light-filled lobby, framed with geometric mirrored tiles, polished wood and brass that balance with bold and soft toned plush velvet sofas, chairs and tables. The coffee dock and
terrace lounge with a separate seating area, serves refreshments throughout the day to guests and visitors who drop in to take a relaxing break.
Built on the site of the original iconic Bartley Dunne pub, Bartley’s Bar embraces the nostalgia of Dublin from a gone by era with a modern twist, capturing the character of this famous landmark that attracted an eclectic mix of people. Traditional blends with contemporary themes, deep moody colors, and rich velour textures, Bartleys serves a full range from old school classics to something more modern or a simple pint of the ‘plain’. Its cocktail menu features quintessential classics, including La Dolce Vita (mango infused vodka, strawberry
syrup, lime juice passion fruit and Prosecco), its signature The Bartley Spritz (Martini Fiero, strawberry, rhubarb topped with Prosecco) and The Auld Fashioned (Slane Irish Whiskey, spiced Irish tea syrup and Bartley’s house bitters), carefully crafted/ expertly prepared by the skilled team of mixologists and bartenders
The iconic art deco mood extends to Bartley's Restaurant, bordered with leather banquette seating and rows of stylish leather quilted chairs and tables that accommodate up to 70 people. The casual dining menu offers an individual take on classic local and international dishes, and its specialty menus have been designed to offer an exciting introduction to alternative food choices.
Upstairs all 127 rooms are modern 1920s inspired and include terrace suites with balconies that allow guests to savor the cityscape and take in the cultural atmosphere. A range of rooms from deluxe single to super king and family multisharing rooms are available, with prices from €270. There is excellent attention to detail in all the rooms to ensure guests have the perfect stay.
The Grafton is possibly the only hotel in Dublin 2 to have sizeable spacious family rooms designed for up to six people to stay together. Complete with two sets of bunk beds and a super king bed; these rooms have a separate bathroom and shower room to accommodate the group, along with superfast Wi-Fi and Smart TV giving guests access to their favorite TV apps for movies. Not every family is 2+2, so these family rooms sleep six without the expense of interconnecting rooms or an uncomfortable camp bed.
In terms of sustainability, the hotel is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. It is dedicated to continuously improving green initiatives throughout the hotel, whether through energy conservation or recycling and waste management. The hotel is participating in the BREEAM certification process, a certification of the assessment
of environmental, social and economic sustainability performance, using standards developed by BRE.
A chic, buzzing home from home in the heart of Dublin, The Grafton is an ideal base for discovering all that the capital has to offer in easy walking distance.
THERE ARE PLACES YOU STAY AND THEN THERE’S THE CASTLE HOTEL, DUBLIN.
It’s an ordinary night in the center of Dublin, but no ordinary experience. Downstairs in the vaulted basement of the unassuming exterior of the Castle Hotel, soloist Ray Cox sings and plays to an enraptured crowd. Over pints of Guinness and sirloin steak dinners, they clap and laugh as the Irish music fills the bar. Charming and personal stories accompany each song. The spell is unbroken, even by the taps of Irish dancer Jeanne Kennedy on the stone floor.
The appeal of this traditional independent hotel is not simply its nightly live music or its wholesome Irish cuisine, but it’s outstanding Irish hospitality and stand-out personal service created by the team, since 1987. From the moment you arrive, you can be in no doubt, you’re in Ireland!
“For some, this is a return home to their roots. For others, an exciting and fresh city break in the old world as part of their European adventure. Everyone is looking for connection. Our guests return time and again to find that sense of comfort and familiarity,” explains General Manager Yvonne O’Keeffe. The Castle Hotel embodies Dublin’s welcoming spirit, that is remembered long after you’ve left Ireland. Stepping through the famous red Georgian
door you’ll be immediately welcomed by antiques-filled lounges, large windows, grand staircases and chandeliers that hark back to a bygone age. Irish eyes are smiling throughout - from check-in to check-out. Happily offering recommendations, advice and even a story or two throughout your stay, the personable and warm Castle team will genuinely want to know what you got up to in the city. And you’ll have plenty to tell.
Set in a prime location, walkable to iconic attractions such as Trinity College and Book of Kells, Hugh Lane Gallery and O’Connell Street’s GPO you’re in the heart of the city. Hop on-off bus tours are on the doorstep bringing you to hidden gems and famous sites like Guinness Storehouse, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin Zoo. The Castle Hotel is also in easy reach of leafy neighborhoods and fishing villages where you can explore spectacular gardens, castles, coastal cliff paths and beaches.
That Irish welcome is year-round with festivals and events, including January’s Trad Fest in nearby Temple Bar, St Patrick’s Festival, which starts its journey right outside the hotel on Parnell Square North
in March, and The Dublin Horse Show in August. The entire hotel is also decked out for memorable winter holidays, and special menus mark Thanksgiving and the run up to Christmas.
The Castle Hotel itself is steeped in history and character. The 10-row Georgian townhouses that make up the hotel date back to the mid-1700s and were designed by Richard Castle and his pupil John Ensor. Two of the row became a hotel in 1809, making it Dublin’s oldest. Quietly expanding ever since, the Castle has two restaurants, a garden terrace, bar, car parking and 130 ensuite rooms, including much sought-after family rooms. Newly refreshed and renovated heritage guest rooms are available from Summer 2023.
Guests can expect great value and modern amenities such as WIFI, elevators, barista coffee and luggage storage service. Look out too for those traditional touches like afternoon tea in the elegant dining rooms of the Old Music Shop Restaurant and Irish Coffee after dinner in the Castle Vaults Bar and Restaurant. For best rates book direct at www.castlehotel.com
THE IDEA FOR PADDYWAGON TOURS WAS WRITTEN ON THE BACK OF A NAPKIN IN A DUBLIN PUB. A QUARTER OF A CENTURY LATER, THE ICONIC GREEN TOURING COACHES ARE A FAMILIAR SIGHT ON IRELAND'S CITY STREETS AND COUNTRY LANES.
Visitors to Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Killarney and Belfast have an excellent range of possibilities to choose from, with something for almost every duration, style and budget.
Now Ireland's leading outfitter, Paddywagon's range of tours includes popular day trips, multi-day tours from two to eight days, and a portfolio of shore excursions meeting cruise ships at the country’s ports. Meanwhile the recent addition of Elegant Irish Tours, Paddywagon’s five-star sister brand, adds
small luxury day trips and private bespoke arrangements to the mix with its fleet of cobalt black Mercedes-Benz sedans, vans and MPVs.
Cathal O'Connell, Founder & CEO, says, "we've come a long way from the early days when touring Ireland was just for the privileged few paying a king's ransom for a couple of nights in the country. These days you can get out of town for an afternoon for the price of a good pub lunch and experience a world-class destination such as the Cliffs of Moher,
the Giant’s Causeway or the Wicklow Mountains. The freeway infrastructure into and out of Ireland’s rural national parks is better than ever, and the comfort levels of touring coaches are the highest they have ever been, including high-speed internet access and USB connections. This means that we can provide guests with all the structure they need alongside ample time for leisure - a walk by a lake, shooting Instagram stories atop ancient ruins, or sampling great local food and drink in a local hostelry."
When asked about the difference between group touring and private touring, O'Connell maintains that the guest experience is broadly similar no matter which option one chooses. "Whether you choose a scheduled group or small group tour or a private chauffeur-driven tour to the Cliffs of Moher - you will still enjoy skip-the-line access to this wonder of the world, still enjoy the same road trip and a great local lunch. The main difference with private clients is that they have the convenience of having a black MercedesBenz waiting for them to finish their Irish breakfast and being dropped off at their door at the end of the day.
Depending on the route, there is also flexibility in how guests can approach the day, thereby taking advantage of the weather and a wider range of lunch options. Many private clients are couples and families who work long hours, hold positions of significant responsibility at home and have limited time in the country. We're talking medics, lawyers, business people, amongst many others. We also look after a significant number of the leading travel agents in the US, UK and Asia - not to mention the cast of Dallas and the Imperial Princess of Japan."
Whether you find yourself in Dublin, DC or Dubai, we hope you'll toast Ireland with a glass of your favorite beverage and promise to visit the 'auld sod’ sooner rather than later. Paddywagon Tours and Elegant Irish Tours will be waiting to show you first-class Irish hospitality - the céad míle fáilte - whatever your requirements.
A memorable day out can take many forms but to pack as much as possible into a short itinerary or just one day, Paddywagon has it covered.
Only 10 mins from Dublin Airport
As a family day out you canʼt get much better than Newbridge House and Farm. Step into an 18th century rambling Georgian mansion that has been impeccably restored. Experience the opulence and grandeur of the rooms, then through ambient audio and interpretative graphics learn about life in the Servants Quarters. Explore the 35 acre working farm, engage with the animals, traverse the woodland parklands, check out the playground and café and grab an ice cream, sit back and take it all in... so many memories waiting to be made! Visit
Only 10 mins from Dublin Airport
Come to the picturesque village of Malahide for your next family day out and visit one of Irelandʼs oldest castles, its beautiful botanical gardens and let the kids explore 250 acres of lush parkland. Malahide is bursting with things to do for the whole family
Fairy Trail and lose yourself in the West Lawn. Pac k a picnic from the Avoca Foodhall. Let ʼs start making memories again.
Only 10 mins from Dublin Airport
If you fancy a short detour from the castle take a stroll to Irelandʼs only model railway Step back in time and explore one of the worldʼs most unique model railway collections. Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the village you will be blown away by the workmanship and exquisite collection. If you have time indulge in one of the many award winning bars and restaurants in Malahide. Dart and bus routes to Dublin city centre.
IF YOU VISIT DUBLIN AND WANT TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN LOCAL HISTORY, CHECK OUT FANTASTIC CASTLES, STATELY HOMES AND QUIRKY MUSEUMS RIGHT ON THE CITY'S DOORSTEP.
Malahide Castle dates to the 12th Century when Richard Talbot built a castle on lands gifted by King Henry II. The castle is unique in that it was home to the Talbot family for nearly 800 years, and with a history dating back to 1185, there are plenty of stories to be told.
Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin's most loved medieval castle just ten minutes from Dublin Airport and 13km from Dublin City center. See the splendor of Lord Milo Talbot's walled botanical garden, The Butterfly House, and West Lawn. Stretch your legs by talking a walk on the 260 acres of parkland; take a break on the
Avoca’s café terrace overlooking the walled garden or engage in some retail therapy in the museum shop in the visitor center.
Discover the beautiful collection of period furniture, artworks on loan from the National Gallery of Ireland, perfect picnic stops, lush grassland and lose yourself down the winding pathways of the walled garden. Stop by the Casino Model Railway Museum, a picture-perfect thatched cottage opposite the village gates to Malahide Castle.
The picturesque seaside village is easily accessible from Dublin city center on the DART rail network. Malahide station is located right at the heart of the pretty town and a short walk to Malahide Castle. Malahide Village is renowned for its award-winning bars, restaurants, and boutiques. With a stunning marina, an expanse of sandy beach and a charming castle, a slight detour outside the city is well worth the trip. Visitors should also note that Malahide Castle features on the Dublin hop-on/hop-off bus, depending on the route chosen.
An 18th Century gem located in North County Dublin and just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport, Newbridge House was built in 1736 by the Archbishop of Dublin, Charles Cobbe, as his country residence.
Visitors to the house can learn about its illustrious past on a guided tour through three centuries of history in this Georgian mansion and estate. Don't miss the 'Cabinet of Curiosities', created in the 1760s. It is one of the few remaining family museums in Ireland and the UK, filled to the brim with antiquities and oddities. This is where the family kept memorabilia from their travels around the world, including artifacts from one of Captain Cook's voyages!
Step back in time at Ireland’s best intact Georgian mansion and experience a whole ‘upstairs-downstairs’ tour with knowledgeable and passionate guides that bring the story of the Cobbe family and the house to life. There are fine examples of Georgian architecture throughout, including one of the country's most spectacular Georgian drawing rooms.
Downstairs in the servant’s quarters, experience life in the servant’s hall, the housekeeper’s room and the Georgian kitchen with ambient sound, projected visuals and real-life artifacts.
A 30-acre working farm at Newbridge is a fine example of a working heritage farm helping to protect many traditional and rare breeds. The animals here move about freely and can therefore express normal behavior patterns. Compassionate farming methods are employed with respect for all animals, and farming methods embrace sustainable biodiversity.
Visitors young and old love the interactive discovery trail where various rare breeds of animals might be seen such as deer or alpacas. Close up encounters with pigs, goats, ducks, horses and chicks delight guests young and old.
Another key attraction of the house is the 250 years old walled garden, a perfect
spot for picnics and strolls among the blooms. Meander through the gardens and orchard and then back to the cobbled stone courtyard for some retail therapy. For more information visit their website www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com
The Cyril Fry collection at Casino Model Railway Museum is a joy to behold; a labor of love for a young boy who had a lifelong passion for the railway.
Step back in time and explore one of the world’s most unique model railway collections housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage in the idyllic seaside village of Malahide within easy walking distance of Malahide Castle.
As a young man, Cyril Fry was fascinated with the trains that ran past the rear of his house in Dundrum. He helped start a model railway club at his school, then at just 17, he became an apprentice, qualifying as engineer with the Inchicore Railway Works in Dublin.
Throughout his career, Fry spent his spare time building over 350 precision-made models and creating an elaborate attic layout to display them. This complex layout included signal lights and level crossing barriers, which all worked automatically. He often worked from original plans and drawings from the railway companies to get the exact details and scale for his models.
Fry’s daughter Patricia remembers the attic layout in the family home as ‘an absolute
fairyland’. His assembly displayed Dublin, Cork, and Belfast stations, and the model trains that ran between them ranged from the 'Hibernia,' the country's first steam locomotive, to the trams, diesel and electric engines of the 1950s. They ran on broad and narrow-gauge tracks and tramways.
The scale and complexity of the Railway and Tramway System, built Fry in his attic, has inspired transport and modeling enthusiasts. After his death, Dublin Regional Tourism purchased the Cyril Fry collection and stored it in the CIE works at Inchicore. Then in 1988, a working layout and model exhibition opened at Malahide Castle, providing a comprehensive history of mechanized transport in Ireland until its closure in 2011.
A modern working railway inspired by the original Cyril Fry layout has now been created at the Casino in Malahide.
This cottage, sensitively renovated, was built around the beginning of the 19th century by Richard Wogan Talbot and is thought to have served as a shooting lodge. It was designed as a Cottage Orné (“decorated cottage”), a rustic style that first developed in England out of the picturesque Italian painting style of the 17th century. This style used shaped thatched roofs, elaborate woodwork, and the surrounding landscape for decorative effect.
The Cyril Fry Collection is now housed in the Casino, forming the nucleus of the museum’s display and offering a closeup look at the exquisite artistry of these hand-crafted models. All hand painted, and considered the most elaborate in Ireland, visit the museum to marvel at the models and gasp at the wonder of the Irish International Railway & Tramway System and the interactive education room.
Fry's original models are now over 7080 years old and quite fragile. This hidden gem is just a leisurely stroll from Malahide Castle and is well worth a visit. The Casino Model Railway Museum is proud to showcase and preserve this iconic collection for future generations. Visit www.modelrailwaymuseum.ie for more information.
The animals move about freely and farming methods embrace sustainable biodiversity.
TIMELESS BEAUTY, DRAMATIC VALLEYS AND A TREASURE TROVE OF HISTORY, WICKLOW HAS EVERY BIT AS MUCH TO OFFER AS THE BETTER-KNOWN TOURIST DESTINATIONS BUT IT IS LESS CROWDED, RELATIVELY UNTOUCHED BY TIME AND EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT FROM THE CAPITAL.
Just south of Dublin, Wicklow has a vast expanse of coastline, deep valleys, dense woodland and mesmerizing ruins. A coastal beauty on Ireland’s Ancient East, it also holds the special privilege of being one of the three counties that make up Ireland’s "Viking Triangle", so called because of the significant Viking influence to be found here, in Waterford and Wexford from the invading Norsemen.
Known as the Garden of Ireland, Wicklow has the most extensive upland area in Ireland, with domed granite mountains dating back 500 million years.
The stunning Wicklow Mountains National Park combines scenic drives with 20,000 hectares of wild bogland and heath. This
treasure trove of nature includes native oak woodland, conifer forests, serene lakes and herds of sika deer scattered throughout.
The gem in the crown of this natural haven is Glendalough. Gleann Dá Loch (glen of the two lakes) is a dramatic glacial valley and the epitome of Ireland's romantic landscapes. A deeply tranquil and spiritual place, two dark, mysterious lakes are tucked into a long, silent valley fringed on either side by dense forest. As Irish poet Thomas Moore once penned, “There is not in the wide world a valley so sweet.”
Peace and tranquility dominate here, which likely explains why Saint Kevin
established an early Christian settlement at the shore of the lake in the 6th century. Ancient ruins include several churches and an impressive 30-meter-high round tower. Glendalough's Upper Lake was the original site of the monastic settlement and features Reefert Church, Temple-naSkellig, Saint Kevin's Cell, Saint Kevin's Bed, the Caher and several high crosses. The churches and graveyard are crowned by the awesome natural backdrop of soaring mountains and glassy lakes.
While the glacial lake at Glendalough easily rivals the famous lake at Killarney the nearby man-made lake at Blessington is a marvel of engineering. Serenely set in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, Blessington Lakes (so called, but there
is only one lake!) cover 5,000 acres of tranquil clean water and provides an area of outstanding natural beauty. Formed over 50 years ago by the building of the Poulaphouca Dam and hydroelectric station, the Poulaphouca reservoir is the largest man-made lake in Ireland. The road around the lake offers amazing views over the Wicklow Mountains.
Not to be overlooked, Wicklow has many other historical sites, including the monastic settlement of Baltinglass, the megalithic tombs and cairns on the mountaintops and Wicklow Jail, an imposing building to this day, where history comes to life in an interactive experience telling the stories of the men, women and children imprisoned here under
British rule over two centuries of turbulent history. Suitable for all the family, the fully engaging audio-visual experience features holographic appearances of the Gaoler and characters from the prison who share their grizzly stories.
At the height of the famine in 1848, as many as 780 people were cramped into the jail’s 77 cells, the highest number of prisoners ever recorded. Conditions were so bad at the time that many resorted to petty crimes so that they could be sent to jail, where regular meals were provided.
If you dare, take an eerie night tour or try the Gates of Hell virtual reality experience for a spine-chilling evening of tales and wails!
Two of Ireland’s most beautiful gardens can be found at Powerscourt and Mount Usher. Mount Usher Gardens, with its Avoca Garden Café and courtyard is situated in the village of Ashford, just 35 minutes south of Dublin city. Created by four generations of the Walpole family beginning in 1868, the gardens contain over 5,000 species of plants and trees.
Equally attractive and complete with a grand Palladian mansion and Ireland’s tallest waterfall, Powerscourt House and Gardens is one of Ireland’s leading attractions and should not be missed.
Killruddery House has been home to the Brabazon family (earls of Meath) since 1618 and has one of the oldest gardens
in Ireland. The house is impressive, but the prizewinner here is the magnificent orangery, built in 1852, filled with sculpture and plant life.
Nearby, Russborough House and parklands offer outstanding views of Blessington Lakes and the Wicklow Mountains. The house is one of Ireland's finest stately homes, a Palladian palace built for Joseph Leeson (1705–83) and later owned by Lord Russborough. Since 1952 the house passed to the Beit family, who founded the DeBeers diamondmining company and stocked the mansion with a remarkable art collection, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Vermeer, Goya, Rubens and others.
A wild expanse of coastline, woodland and daunting mountains through which runs the country's most popular walking trail. Stretching 127km from Dublin's suburbs to the rolling fields of County Carlow, the Wicklow Way leads walkers along disused military lines, old bog roads and forest trails. En route you can explore monastic ruins, lush gardens and some magnificent 18th-century mansions. - Lonely Planet
Russborough isn’t the only Wicklow spot with star quality. For many years it has been a movie location of choice in Ireland, with Powerscourt House and Gardens, Kilruddery House and the mountains themselves forming the backdrop for productions including Braveheart, The Count of Monte Cristo, and P.S. I Love You, starring Hillary Swank and Gerard Butler.
Wicklow’s black abyss, Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), is the primary film location for the drama series Vikings while neighboring Lough Dan also features in the hit television show. Commenting on how they chose the venue, Production Designer Tom Conroy said it was because of the “stunning, empty, harsh beauty of the lakeside landscape and because the lake was deep and navigable. When one is at water level, the mountain rises dramatically & vertically - the shape of the lake and the bottom of the mountain lent itself to being extended by VFX to give a believable shape of a Norwegian Fjord.”
More recently, the market town of Enniskerry was the location for Disney's Disenchanted, the sequel to the smash hit Enchanted. As only Disney can do, a team of carpenters, painters, florists and builders transformed the village into a Disney wonderland. Every building was draped in stunning floristry. The Powerscourt Arms became the 'Pigeon Post,' dripping with huge bunches of mauve Wisteria. Nasturtiums entwined lampposts, climbing roses covered buildings with purple bougainvillea decorating shopfronts and streets. During construction and filming, it was quite the draw for locals from surrounding towns and villages!
Located just thirty minutes south of Dublin City Centre, it’s no wonder Hollywood’s finest have fallen in love with Wicklow. A place with endless natural beauty, glorious walking trails, captivating history and easy accessibility from the capital, what’s not to love?
Tay (Guinness) Lake
Wicklow has the largest national park in Ireland, the biggest forest land, the largest mountain area, the highest waterfall, and the biggest man-made lake and it is the source of Dublin's River Liffey.
FILLED WITH MASTERPIECES FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE TWENTIETH CENTURY AND ONLY 30 MINS FROM DUBLIN, RUSSBOROUGH IS KNOWN AS IRELAND’S MOST BEAUTIFUL GEORGIAN
lives lived here, from unique personalities, strange moments and great romances. Learn first-hand how our collection is a rare survivor of exquisite taste and grandeur and became a gesture towards the Irish people that is a source of great pride today.
We don’t just offer a tour to get to know Russborough. Visitors are encouraged to take in the grounds themselves on the fabulous park and woodland walks, explore the tranquillity and botanical features of the 18th-century walled garden or lose themselves in the 2km beech hedge maze.
Families with younger children may also be interested in an exceptionally large
Described as Ireland's most beautiful Georgian house, Russborough's immaculate Palladian design is matched by its magnificent interiors, world class art and fine furnishings.
playground and fairy trail and for animal lovers there is a Bird of Prey Centre to safely feed, groom and fly magnificent birds such as hawks and eagles.
Also on offer is a display of artistry in action in the artisan’s workshop where resident blacksmiths create pieces not just for this house but for galas and events across the country.
Enjoy refreshments in the award-winning café, boasting not only food and beverages you can’t help overindulging in but tables that house trinkets of historical significance and add to the unique atmosphere.
Visiting the lower floor, why not take in a little shopping in the basement shop voted top in last year's Shopkeepers of Ireland awards, offering a range of items unique to Russborough, including the work of local artisans and chocolatiers.
For those interested in more historical context, rare photos, records and home movies taken in the early 20th century are all on view as part of a 3D interactive selfguided experience.
A visit to Russborough is an event worth remembering. The Alfred Beit Charitable Trust has worked tirelessly to create the best experience possible for those interested in discovering the history of not only Ireland, but of European art and architecture.
Truly, few places in the whole of the emerald isle can boast of being not only an experience in history, but also the unique and nameless magic of Ireland itself.
A new exhibition of costumes from Ireland’s film and television industry has opened in the opulent surroundings of Russborough House in County Wicklow. The Art of Costume explores the relationship between actors and costumes and the growth of the Irish film industry.
Running until October 16, it features 17 costumes from 12 film and television productions, including Liam Neeson’s army uniform and big coat from the 1996 film Michael Collins, vintage pieces worn by Marianne and Connell in Normal People and pieces from the Oscar-winning film The Favourite. Also on display is the blue dressing gown from The Guard worn by actor Brendan Gleeson who opened the exhibition.
Emmy-nominated costume designer Eimer Ní Mhaoldomhnaigh, and costume practitioner Veerle Dehaene have provided the costumes for the exhibition. Eimer is one of Ireland’s most established costume designers, having worked with directors such as Neil Jordan, Jim Sheridan, Ken Loach and Reed Morano and with actors such as Emma Thompson, Amy Adams, Brendan Gleeson, Mel Gibson and Jude Law. Veerle is a highly accomplished costume practitioner who has worked on projects including The Tudors and Riverdance.
The women set up the Irish Costume Archive Project (ICAP) to collect, preserve and exhibit Ireland’s film and television
design heritage. Eimer and Veerle currently work voluntarily to safeguard over 300 costumes that they consider an important part of Ireland's cultural heritage. The collection currently consists of costumes from iconic Irish films dating back to the late 1980s.
The opulent interior of Russborough House is the perfect setting for an exhibition such as this and it forms part of the guided tour on offer there.
www.ireland.com
IRELAND'S REPUTATION AS A WORLD-CLASS FILMING LOCATION IS UNDISPUTED. THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE COASTLINE AND COUNTRYSIDE AND THE OTHERWORLDLY FEEL OF MUCH OF ITS SCENERY MAKES IRELAND A DREAM LOCATION.
Maybe it’s the drama of the landscapes that attracts location scouts. When soaring sea cliffs lashed by wind and rain were required for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, there was no more fitting location than the Cliffs of Moher, a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way. County Wicklow’s Lough Tay is overrun by Viking longboats during the filming of Netflix hit, Vikings: Valhalla and anyone who’s seen those jagged fingers of rock erupting from the ocean will understand why Lucasfilm decided Skellig Michael was the place for a Jedi knight to take refuge.
It’s not just Ireland’s natural beauty that steals the show. Many of our historic landmarks have become stars of the screen. 13th century Trim Castle in
County Meath starred in Mel Gibson’s Braveheart, while elegant mansions such as Castle Coole in County Fermanagh (Miss Julie with Colin Farrell and Jessica Chastain) and Killruddery House in County Wicklow (Far and Away with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman) became living film sets, showcasing an age of privilege and luxury.
Irish actors too have been quietly dominating the film scene for decades. Notable talent includes ex-James Bond Pearse Brosnan, Michael Fassbender, Daniel Day-Lewis, Caitriona Balfe, Ruth Negga, Cillian Murphy, rising star Paul Mescal, Liam Neeson, Saoirse Ronan and Colin Farrell, to name but a few.
According to Variety magazine, Ireland has become a capital of filmmaking in recent years, establishing itself as one of the world’s most attractive production environments thanks to attractive tax incentives and a plethora of talented writers, directors, producers, casts and crew.
Figures released by Screen Ireland show that industry investment surged 40% in 2021, beating the previous record levels of 2019 despite Covid restrictions. Some put Ireland’s success down to overspill from the UK, where the industry is so busy it faces an acute skills shortage. Others say it is the coming of age of the Irish film industry.
Ireland is now host to dozens of international feature films in production or post-production and a multitude of TV series. Game of Thrones has taken the world by storm and more recently, Ireland's rugged west caught world attention with the multi-award-winning Banshees of Inisheerin.
In Irish mythology, a Banshee was a wailing spirit that warned of doom or impending death. In reality, the scream is likely to be that of a red fox, one of the most horrifying things to hear on a dark evening. According to Collie Ennis, zoology research associate at Trinity College Dublin’s School of Natural Sciences, the screams are a mating call by female foxes and a territorial call by the male. Male foxes are the ones that make the 'banshee scream,' like a woman shrieking.
The mention of the word “banshee” in the movie signifies impending disaster, death and the insular nature of an
island community. Banshee is a quirky tragicomedy with a dark underlying message that may not appeal to all, but whatever you feel about the story, the setting is simply breathtaking.
The Banshees of Inisherin
Martin McDonagh’s Banshees of Inisherin broke the record for most nominations for an Irish film, with Colin Farrell winning a Golden Globe for his role. His character, Pádraic, is a sweet-souled farmer who's spent his entire life on Inisherin, a small, fictional island off the coast of Ireland. It's 1923, and life here is simple and repetitive, which is why it sends shockwaves around the island when one day Colm, Pádraic's older best friend, refuses to join him for their usual afternoon pint at the pub. Their daily routine of meeting at 2pm in the only pub on the island ends abruptly when Colm won't open the door to Pádraic. He soon learns that Colm, played by Brendan Gleeson, has decided to end their decadeslong friendship.
In time, the truth comes out: Colm finds Pádraic dull and is tired of listening to the younger man's endless yammering - especially since it keeps Colm from pursuing his passion: playing and composing violin music.
What's heartbreaking is that Colm does still like Pádraic, but he feels that their friendship is draining him. But Pádraic can't accept Colm's decision. He tries cajoling his former friend, pleading with him, then badgering him. At one point, Colm becomes so irritated that he threatens to physically harm himself if Pádraic doesn't leave him alone. And since Oscar Winner Martin McDonagh wrote and directed this movie, you know it isn't an idle threat.
Speaking about the film, filmmaker McDonagh said: "I wanted to capture the sadness of a breakup, but a break-up between two men, which is not usually a
story that is told, just to capture the sadness of it but how funny that can be too."
McDonagh opens the story with gorgeous, postcard-worthy images of Inisherin, all lush green landscapes and even a rainbow in the sky. But by the end, he has quashed any sweet or sentimental thoughts we might harbor toward this isolated community, where people can be small-minded and mock those who strive for something better.
Lifting the curtain on the destinations behind this movie reveals the epic scope of Ireland's unspoiled coastline. Location Manager Eoin Holohan’s brief from Martin McDonagh was to find the most beautiful scenery in Ireland, and it’s hard to disagree with so many scene-stealing vistas.
Take wild coastal stretches, magnificent mountains, ancient ruins, hedgerows and fields then add a tragicomic story about the meaning of life, friendship and despair by top-notch director Martin McDonagh.
The movie takes place on the remote and fictional Irish island from which it derives its title. In reality, filming took place across a smattering of islands off the west coast of Ireland, each as beautiful as the next. With a backdrop of verdant, jagged and isolated terrain, the landscapes offer a perfect setting for Pádraic and Colm's fights.
"Inisherin is a fictional island, so I didn’t want it to be specifically one place. I wanted it to be more mythical," explains Director Martin McDonagh.
The crew mainly filmed on two islands: Achill Island, the largest Irish island with a population of around 2,500, and
Inishmore (also spelled Inis Mór, meaning large island), which has a population of about 760.
Inis Mor, the biggest island of the Aran Islands archipelago is known for its monuments, religious sites and beautiful coastal views, often in stark contrast to the confrontation between Pádraic and Colm.
For the ending, the beauty of Keem Bay on Achill Island is the setting for Pádraic and Colm’s climactic meeting. The idea was that they would be on this beautiful beach overlooking a vast and misty body of water.
Production designer Mark Tildesley said: "There's lots of unspoiled coast; it was just a matter of finding it," and find it they did.
"These looming mountains have a lot of tragedy behind them," Gleeson said of the landscape. Achill has massive mountains; Inishmore has no trees. Yet they have an intimacy about them that’s very real. It was a dream to be able to come to these places."
Farrell recalls filming in Inishmore. "It was so exciting," he said. "The people there were so glorious and generous. Dún Aonghasa, the prehistoric hill fort, was up there on the horizon, reaching for the sky all these millennia. It was so strange and anomalous to have weather that was consistently beautiful and almost Greek."
Talking about filming in Ireland, McDonagh said: "It was joyful. We shot
close to where my mum and dad live in Galway for half of the movie. I started my plays in Galway 25 years ago, so it felt like a homecoming."
Home for the production team on Inishmore were B&Bs, cottages and Aran Island Glamping, a collection of cabins and pods overlooking Frenchman's Beach. Blessed with good weather for the entire shoot, the cast and crew rented bicycles to get around the island, describing their time there as "being just like heaven".
Despite the movie's star power, two fourlegged friends play a big part in the main characters' lives. Colm's pet collie is his constant companion, while Jenny the Donkey is Pádraic’s prized possession. He cares for the donkey so much that he allows it into his house, even though his sister doesn’t like it.
'Jenny' is now retired, but on set she had a friend with her because she was so young. The older donkey Rosie was more confident, so she sat in the wings while Jenny did her thing. If Jenny could see Rosie, she was fine. Scenes with Pádraic’s and Jenny are poignant and beautiful, but for all her cuteness, Jenny gave Colin a sharp kick in the knee one of the days, so she wasn’t that nice to him in reality!
Another Aran staple on Inisherin and on real-life Inishmore is the Aran sweater. It has been through many revivals over the years and now the movie has brought a renewed focus on the Irish woolly jumper, with sales spiking on both sides of the Atlantic for Aran sweaters.
So, with so much to offer fans of TV and film, the island of Ireland is the perfect location to set out on your own cinematic experience – and bring home a nice woolly pully as a souvenir.
MEET THE MAKERS OF ARAN AND SEE HOW ARAN WOOLLEN MILLS HAVE BEEN WEAVING A STORY INTO EVERY STITCH SINCE 1965.
Aran Woollen Mills was founded in Westport, Co Mayo, in 1965 by local couple Máire and Padraig Hughes, and has grown to become Ireland’s largest home-based Aran knitwear manufacturer. Máire and Padraig established the business to follow Máire’s passion for Irish craft and heritage and to provide employment locally in the West of Ireland, a legacy which carries on today as Aran Woollen Mills continues to design and manufacture knitwear in Co Mayo.
The team at Aran Woollen Mills take enormous pride in the brand’s authentic Irish knitwear and accessory ranges that are manufactured in Ireland to the highest standard. Featuring the best natural wool in the hands of a skilled workforce, the premium quality Irish products pass
through rigorous quality control checks throughout the manufacturing process from design to production, before making their way to customers across the globe.
Today Aran Woollen Mills remains a family business with family values. Many employees have been with the company for over 30 or 40 years, and have, alongside Hughes family members, worked tirelessly to grow the business. Their legacy lives on in Aran Woollen Mills and the family, led by Máire and Padraig’s sons and current owners, Vincent, and Patrick Hughes, are committed to the future success of the business, maintaining and growing skilled jobs in the west of Ireland while keeping the heritage of Aran knitting well and truly alive for the world to experience.
Aran Woollen Mills knitwear is available at many knitwear stockists internationally and, in addition the brand has recently launched a new website (www.aranwoollenmills.com) where customers can shop a wide selection of both traditional and contemporary Aran knitwear products, learn more about the heritage of Aran knitwear and discover the story behind the stitches used across the collections.
From Westport to the world, discover Aran knits crafted in Ireland, inspired by tradition, made for the future.
Despite winning a Bafta for Best British Film and snagging nine Oscar nominations, for many people, two of the most remarkable aspects of the Banshees movie were the scenery and the knitwear.
Colin Farrell donned a dark red fisherman's jumper with stockinette panels, moss stitch diamond and purl with criss-cross line motifs. Brendan Gleeson's thicker garter stitch blue knit with crossrope cables, and Barry Keoghan’s purply collared pullover was fisherman's rib stitch.
The accolades came thick and fast. Esquire declared The Banshees the next great knitwear film; Anthony Lane of The New Yorker remarks on the 'suspiciously lovely' jumpers and social media spun itself into a woolly frenzy with calls to include a knitwear category at the Ocars, with demand for the Aran sweater going off the Richter scale.
Many will be surprised to know that the sweaters were hand knitted by Delia Barry, an 83-year-old widow from Greystones, County Wicklow. And these are not any old sweaters whipped up from a pattern.
Set against the backdrop of the Irish Civil War in 1923, costume designer Emer Ní Mhaoldomhnaigh researched what she called “the West of Ireland look” at that time, keeping in mind that the sweaters of the 1920s were much simpler than today and quite plain. She landed on a photograph of fishermen in traditional sweaters and this was what Delia used to weave her magic.
“If I set my mind to something, it has to be done,” Delia says. “I don't like anything beating me.”
Long an avid knitter, Delia knocked up the Banshees jumpers in double quick timea sweater a week. As any knitter will tell you, that’s an astonishing feat, and it was all done from Delia’s sofa as she watched TV and sipped her favorite Jameson with ice and water.
Delia was delighted but surprised at the 'hullabaloo' about her sweaters when the movie came out. “There's been such a lot of fuss, but they're just jumpers, aren't they?” she says. “I even got a little mention on the red carpet from Colin at the Baftas. That was very nice, wasn't it?”
Farrell said he'd 'been wrapped around her work' for so long. Colin didn't, however, ask to keep his jumper, which didn't surprise Delia because it was made with traditional untreated wool, which is pretty scratchy. But Brendan Gleeson loved his moss-green sweater made from softer yarn so much that he asked Delia to knit him two more in different colors. “What a nice man,” she says. “And he sent me such a lovely thank you card.”
For Delia, Banshees was not her first celebrity knitting rodeo. Colin and Brendan are the last in a long line of stars to wear her woollies. The first was Meryl Streep, in 1998, who sported a soft grey cardie and a pair of gloves in Dancing At Lughnasa. Then Christian Bale caused quite a stir in a dark knitted jumper in Reign of Fire. “He did look lovely in it,” says Delia.
Next came a jumper for Jude Law in Rhythm Section, filmed in 2018. Then, a few years ago, Delia was called upon to teach Emily Watson how to knit for her part in Little Women. “I was quite nervous as I had to go on set,” she says, “but we were in her caravan and had lunch together and she was lovely and turned out to be very good at knitting.”
Delia is far from star stuck, but there's one Irish actor she would dearly love to knit for. 'Pierce Brosnan!' she says with a glint in her eye. “Ooh, I'd be very happy to measure him up,” she says.
Does she still enjoy knitting? “It's very nice at my age,” Delia says. As she knits, her fingers move fast, smoothly, steadily defying her 83 years and any sign of stiff joints. “I had arthritis a few years ago in my thumbs, but the pain's gone away,” she says. Then she underwent a triple heart bypass operation when she asked her cardiologist if knitting might be too stressful. “He said Delia, do not give up the knitting. It helps against dementia, and it keeps your brain going."
There's more to knitting than some might think, Delia adds. “I count in my head all the time while I'm watching my TV programmes, so my brain is working overtime all the time,” she says. When she's finally ready to put down her needles, Delia winds down with Sudoku puzzles in bed.
Other than Emily Watson, she's never met any of the stars wearing her jumpers but would love them to pop in if they were in the area.
The Banshees is the first film where she's had her name in the credits. “I missed it because I'd left the cinema by then, but they sent me a very nice photo," says Delia.
Now everyone wants a Delia Barry. She's gone viral on TikTok and endless social media posts ask how to contact her.
Despite being in hot demand, Delia says she doesn't have time to take on more projects. "I'm too busy. I've got community bingo on Wednesdays and Active Retirement bingo on Thursdays, where I'm one of the callers."
Even if Delia had the time, they'd be pricey. The wool alone for Colin Farrell's pully costs about €130, not counting the 70-odd hours she spent figuring out the pattern and knitting.
So, no commissions at all? Only for friends and family, Delia says. But she might make an exception for Pierce Brosnan.
Ferries for Sherkin Island leave from the small fishing village of Baltimore. The trip across the harbour from Baltimore takes approximately 10 minutes on fully licensed boats and operates year-round. On Google Maps use P81 WD92 for directions and nearby free parking. All sailings are subject to weather and other conditions.
Adults €12 return|Child (5-18) €4 return|Family €30 return
Group Rates Call 087 263 8470
Baltimore, West Cork 087 263 8470
Ferry Boat 087 911 7377
Vincent O’Driscoll 087 244 7828
www.sherkinferry.com | sherkinferry@gmail.com
Kilronan, Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Co.Galway
Seacrest is a family run operation and this comfortable and welcoming feeling can be felt during the entirity of your stay at the bed & breakfast, or on your horse and carriage tour around the island.
M: +353 (0) 871616507
E: seacrestaran@gmail.com
www.aranaccommodations.com
Take a trip with Thomas Faherty around the island in a horse & carriage and see the beautiful sights of Inis Mór at a picture perfect pace. Pony & Trap tours are a family tradition and date back to the 1940s
Ten Island Tour
Sherkin Island Ferry
ARAN ISLANDS CAMPING & GLAMPING IS SITUATED ON INIS MÓR, THE LARGEST OF THE THREE ARAN ISLANDS IN THE MOUTH OF GALWAY BAY, ON THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY.
A place that is as wild as you can imagine, this group of Islands at the mouth of Galway Bay date back some 350 million years. The exposed location means that their susceptibility to the forces of nature has created one of the most remarkable landscapes imaginable.
Just as in the days of John Millington Synge, a leading figure in the Irish literary movement who wrote his celebrated plays there, the Aran Islands feel like a place lost in time.
It was the poet William Butler Yeats who suggested that Synge come to these islands. “Go to Aran,” Yeats told his friend.
“Live there as if you were one of the people themselves; express a life that has never found expression.”
John Millington Synge first came to the Islands in the summer of 1898 looking for inspiration and to learn the Irish language. Over the next several years he returned many times, growing more connected to the people and the windswept land they inhabited.
Back in the day, Synge would have taken a steamer from Galway that sailed at the mercy of the tides on the rolling sea and then transfer into a currach, a small canvas-covered fishing boat, to make it
to shore. Depending on the waves, the journey would not have been for the faint hearted!
“A dreary rock appeared at first sloping up from the sea and into the fog,” he wrote in “The Aran Islands,” his classic account of his time here. “The place looked hardly fit for habitation. There was no green to be seen, and no sign of the people.”
Then and now, the islands offer a glimpse into a way of life long forgotten. A bastion of traditional language and unique in their geology and archaeology, the islands defy their size with all they offer. In this rugged outpost discover ecclesiastical
ruins from early Christian times, medieval castles, caverns and cliffs, pre-historic stone forts, sandy beaches, unique flora and fauna and a rich folklore. The islands were an important place of pilgrimage, and there are many early Christian remains, including 12th Century Celtic crosses and the pre-historic fort of Dun Aonghasa, a world heritage site and one of the biggest attractions on Inis Mór.
With so much to offer, it is no surprise that the islands attract writers and artists. “I am in Aran Mór, sitting over a turf fire, listening to a murmur of Gaelic rising from a little public house" John Millington Synge.
Island Life
Synge noted stories of strange happenings on the island. "These people make no distinction between the natural and the
supernatural," he wrote. A Sligo woman for example had a dream that her blind son might be made to see if she traveled to a particular well out on the Aran Islands. She did so, and upon touching the well's water to her sightless child's eye, he exclaimed, "O mother, look at the pretty flowers!" Synge would use this story and his visit to the site to inspire his play, "The Well of the Saints.” All six of Synge’s plays were either set in
Dún Aengus is located on Inishmore at the edge of a 100-meter high cliff. It is an important archaeological site built during the Bronze Age and dates from 1,000 B.C.
or heavily influenced by his time on Aran. His most famous work, The Playboy of the Western World, was inspired by a story he heard on the islands. A tale of a murderer on the run, ‘The Playboy’ has killed his ‘da’ and he staggers into a shebeen in a place so isolated and barren, nothing ever happens. He is promptly installed as a hero by excitable women and drunken men, turning the local community on its head. When first staged in Dublin in 1907, Synge's play caused a riot. Two years later, its author was dead but his play went global. It features to this day on the Irish curriculum for modernday students.
Synge described the people of Aran as “beings who feel their isolation in the face of a universe that wars on them with winds and sea.” Where else can you immerse yourself in such desolate beauty at the very edge of the ocean? Marvel at the winding web of stone walls framing sheep-filled fields and seek out the smattering of early clocháns, dry stone beehive huts from the early Christian period resembling stone igloos.
Like The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran landscape is made up of limestone terraces – in fact, the three islands are three limestone outcrops of the western Irish coastline with horizontal sheets of Carboniferous limestone that have no naturally occurring topsoil. As a result, islanders lived a challenging life. They farmed barren land and fished in treacherous waters in small hand-carved curracks. Conditions were harsh and bitingly cold; thus, the Aran sweater was born out of necessity, a protective layer against the weather and the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean.
Using wool sheared from native sheep, the Aran sweater was made with unwashed báinín (white wool). Unlike today, the yarn was untreated, so it retained its natural lanolin, making it highly water-resistant. The sweater could absorb 30% of its weight in water before feeling wet. Most importantly, heavy wool kept the wearer warm on days and nights at sea.
As a craft, the Aran Sweater is a living legacy of an island community. A finished sweater can contain any combination of stitches, depending on the pattern. Many of the stitches reflect Celtic Art, and comparisons have been made to the stitches and patterns found at Neolithic burial sites such as Newgrange in Co. Meath.
Every pattern on an Aran sweater carries its own meaning. The Cable Stitch depicts the fisherman's ropes, a wish for a productive day at sea. The Diamond Stitch reflects the small uneven fields dotted across the islands, separated by stone walls. These diamonds are sometimes filled with Irish moss stitch, depicting the seaweed used to fertilize fields and produce a bountiful harvest. The Zig Zag Stitch is a half diamond that represents twisting cliff paths. The Tree of Life, one of the original stitches, reflects the clan's importance and
expresses a desire for family unity. Most importantly, every family had their own pattern, which was closely guarded and passed from generation to generation. It is said that fishermen who drowned at sea could be identified by their sweaters' unique patterning and stitching.
Patons of England published the first Aran sweater patterns in the 1940s. Popularity was growing, and when Grace Kelly appeared in Vogue wearing an Aran sweater in 1950, worldwide fame was just around the corner. Many famous people have donned an aran sweater, including John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, Marilyn Monroe, Steve Mc Queen, Elvis, Tom Cruise, Michael Fassbender and Taylor Swift, to name but a few!
In 2017 the sweater gained further status when an Aran sweater from the 1940s went on display as part of the “Is Fashion
Modern” exhibition at New York's Museum of Modern Art along with 111 other pieces that have influenced fashion over the past century. These pieces include the Little Black Dress and Levi Jeans. Thus the Aran sweater had arrived, and was recognized as a fashion icon.
Aran sweaters have graced the catwalk of many famous Fashion Icons, such as John Paul Galtier and Kenzo. This timeless garment captures the hearts and minds of people the world over. Not bad for a piece of clothing that began life as a fisherman’s sweater on a remote outpost off the Atlantic coast!
A short ferry crossing takes you to the islands with an average journey of just 40 minutes. The crossing is a delight, offering the most inspirational landscapes, spectacular sea cliffs, screeching sea birds and beguiling beauty.
While the three Aran islands are close in appearance and proximity, they each have their own distinct personalities. The landscape of all three islands is harsh and stony, separated from the sea by steep, rugged cliffs but there's a stark beauty about the islands and the simple lives its inhabitants eke out of a few inches of soil and a frequently angry sea.
Inis Mór is home to over 50 historical attractions including Arkin’s Castle and Dún Aonghasa - a stunning stone fort perched perilously on the island’s stone cliffs. Nearby is the Worm Hole, or Poll na bPéist, a striking natural rock formation just west of Gort na gCapall, the only village on the southern coast of the island. The large rectangular hole in the coastline shows the power of the sea to wear away the limestone, and also shows quite clearly how limestone itself is made of joints that form at right angles.
Inis Meáin is a rocky respite and the most traditional of the three Islands. As the least developed of the islands, its landscape, culture and history can be explored in peace and at the visitor's own pace. This combination of elemental beauty and personal space has long attracted independent thinkers and artists and was the inspiration for many well-known works including JM Synge's The Aran Islands and Martin McDonagh’s more recent The Cripple of Inishmaan (an anglicization of Inis Meáin).
Inis Oírr is the smallest of the islands, characterized by its distinctive charm. This island is close to the Burren with its unusual eclectic mix of color and the Cliffs of Moher clearly visible in all its panoramic splendor. The Island itself also has the true feel of a classical isolated fishing village. From the pier you are greeted with a pristine carpeted white sandy beach facing
clear crystal turquoise water and plenty of fishing boats, their nets, and fisherman returning at the end of the day with their catch. Inis Oírr is home to numerous historical attractions including the muchphotographed wreck of the former cargo ship ‘Plassy’ which ran onto rocks on 8th March 1960. The wheels of time turn very slowly here which is part of its charm.
The considerable allure of these islands is in what they lack. There are no movie theaters here and very few cars. In fact, electricity only arrived in the 1970s. While modern comforts and conveniences exist today, the Aran Islands still retain their feeling of isolation, and the sea still yields its considerable power.
To quote JM Synge: “every article on these islands has an almost personal character which gives this simple life something of the artistic beauty of medieval life.”
The poor man's tractor, the donkey cleared stones from fields, transported turf for fuel, potatoes to eat and seaweed for fertilizer as well as providing a simple mode of transport on market days.
We sell the best in mens, womens and childrens Irish knitwear. We also stock beautifully made Irish throws in vibrant colours and varying sizes.
Beautifully made from the best aran yarns, our pieces are the hallmark of the traditions and craftsmanship for which this region is renowned worldwide.
Aran Islands Knitwear Circular Road, Cong, Co. Mayo.
ARAN ISLANDS KNITWEAR IS A PROUD IRISH, FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS NOW IN ITS THIRD GENERATION, SELLING QUALITY IRISH KNITWEAR AND GIFTS SINCE 1938.
Honesty, hard work, and a love of Irish craftsmanship have led the company to gain a vast network of suppliers and friends who provide its stores with high quality handknitted and hand-loomed products.
The Aran sweater is as Irish as Shamrock and St Patrick. Also known as a fisherman’s sweater, originating on the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland, these sweaters were traditionally knit in the natural color of sheep’s wool, off-white or cream. The natural sheep’s wool retained its oils, making the sweaters waterproof and perfect for the bleak Irish weather. Originally the sweaters were knit by mothers and wives for the islander men who worked as farmers and fishermen. They have since become a fashion statement and a global symbol of Irishness.
A feature in Vogue magazine in the 1950s first thrust Aran sweaters into the world of high fashion, and many iconic photos can be seen of celebrities wearing these distinctive items.
The sweaters are knitted using a range of stitches, each with its own special traditional meaning. The most well-known of these stitches is the cable stitch, which was originally used to represent a fisherman’s ropes, and wearing one would better qualify you to have a fruitful day out at sea. The intricate honeycomb stitch represents hard work and its sweet rewards. It symbolizes the hard work of the honeybee.
As well as these beautiful sweaters, Aran Islands Knitwear has a wide range of other items, lovingly crafted in the traditional style. Choose from fabulous hats and snoods to cozy cardigans and shawls. Hands and
feet are well taken care of with a selection of gloves and socks to keep away the winter chills. Stay fashion-forward with a chic knitted beanie hat or peaked cap and keep windswept hair under control with a voguish headband. Or wrap up warm on a cool winters evening in one of the many beautifully made Irish throws available in vibrant colors and varying sizes.
The stylish menswear range includes sweaters and cardigans with a choice of stitch and collar style. Children from babies upwards will be kept warm and look adorable in items made from super soft merino wool, ideal for soft, delicate skin. If it’s an unusual gift you’re looking for, who wouldn’t be delighted with a cute, cuddly woolen sheep, or a dapper ‘mini me’ Teddy bear complete with his own Aran sweater.
Aran Islands Knitwear has four stores in two counties. On High Street in Galway City, in Clifden, Co Galway, on Inis Mor in the Aran Islands and in the picturesque village of Cong in Co Mayo.
The Mac Eochagáins will be delighted to meet you and help you choose your perfect Irish product to take home. The company is now in its third generation. On any given day, you could meet members of all three, with reluctantly retired parents struggling to stay at home and the youngest generation popping into the shops after school.
It’s a testament to the family and its staff’s commitment and love of the business that brings returning customers from as far afield as the US & Canada year after year, in the knowledge that the quality of goods and the overall shopping experience is unrivaled.
THE ARAN ISLANDS ON IRELAND’S WEST COAST ARE LOCATED
JUST OUTSIDE GALWAY BAY AND A FEW MILES FROM THE CLARE COAST AND THE CLIFFS OF MOHER. POPULAR WITH VISITORS WORLDWIDE, THE ARAN ISLANDS ARE THREE OF THE MOST UNSPOILED ISLANDS IN THE ATLANTIC.
Inis Mór is the largest of the islands and it can be discovered on foot with three looped walks from 10-16km. For the young and young at heart you can cover more ground with a bicycle, with bike hire on arrival at Kilronan village. Alternatively do it the oldfashioned way - with a personal guide in a classic horse and trap.
The pony and trap is one of rural Ireland’s oldest methods of transportation. Before the invention of the motor car, this was the main way for people in rural areas to get around and transport goods to local markets and other towns and villages.
The family business of pony and trap tours dates to the 1940s and Tony, aka Trappa Tony, is a proud follower of his family’s tradition. Tony offers several routes around
the island and you are guaranteed a trip to remember whichever route you choose. Tony is a real character and enjoys sharing his island with visitors, going the extra mile to ensure that strangers leave as friends. Rave reviews on numerous websites speak volumes about his entertainment value and genuine gift of the gab.
To the gentle ‘clip clop’ of Draiocht, the pony, breathe in the fresh sea air, soak in magnificent views, and discover monastic sites, a seal colony, the famous stone walls of the island and the mighty Dun Aonghasa.
The seal colony is located on the coast road, approximately one mile from Kilmurvy Beach. The best view of the
seals is at low tide when the animals are sunbathing on the rocks. Conversely, at high tide, the seals are much harder to spot as you can only see their heads in the water. During low tide at the Inis Mór seal colony anywhere from five to 20 seals can be spotted at a given time.
Described as ‘the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe,’ and equally as magnificent as the Cliffs of Moher – though considerably less crowded - Dun Aonghasa is perched at the edge of towering cliffs. It is a 3,000-year-old semicircular stone fort that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean with views that stretch the island’s length and to the mainland beyond. Dun Aonghasa is the largest of the prehistoric stone forts on the Islands, enclosed by three massive dry-stone walls and a chevaux-de-frise, which consists of densely populated, jagged limestone rocks set vertically into the ground to deter attackers.
Tony will take you to the fort, regale you with stories, and after your visit, stop for a coffee at its base. There are stops for lunch, photo opportunities and to visit local craft shops. If the weather is inclement, Tony has a covered carriage so visitors can enjoy the tour regardless of conditions. Return via the low coastal road to the main village with plenty of opportunities to overload Instagram on the way.
The start and end of a tour of Inis Mór is in the pretty sandy village of Kilronan. Originally a fishing port for the Aran fisherman, this is the point of arrival and departure from the island today. It is a location with accommodation, fine seafood and lively pubs for those who stay a little longer in this oasis of calm. And you never know who you might bump into in the pub – you might be able to buy Trappa Tony a pint! Call Tony on +353 87 6599253.
“Tony, aka Trappa Tony, Kelly the dog and Draiocht the pony made our trip to Inis Mór a truly memorable experience. Tony in his yellow carriage, which was more sophisticated than a trap, was professional, knowledgeable and excellent company. It is the only way to travel on the island. The weather was glorious, and Tony regaled us with stories, history and folklore. We saw all the sights on the island in comfort and style. I would recommend not only this method of transport but especially Tony and his jaunty yellow carriage on Inis Mór.”
THE RUGGED ARAN ISLANDS ARE THREE OF THE MOST UNSPOILED ISLANDS IN THE ATLANTIC, AND INIS MÓR (INISHMORE) IS THE LARGEST OF THE ISLANDS.
An ideal way to explore the island is by bicycle, allowing you to really go off-grid and discover every nook and cranny of this beautiful island. Aran Bike Hire, a family-run business, offers bike rental services catering to the needs of people of all ages.
A range of bikes is available to rent, including mountain, city, and children’s bikes. For people who want to share the work, tandem and tag-along bikes are also available, or for an easy ride, consider an electric bike. For visitors with children, buggy trailers and child seats are available, and if your four-legged friend wants to join in the fun, you can rent a dog buggy trailer.
Once you’ve decided on which bike, the world – or at least Inis Mor – is your oyster, with endless adventures to be had and places to explore. With Dun Aonghasa prehistoric fort just 30 minutes (four miles)
away and all the main attractions within easy reach, cycling is the ideal way to experience island life at your own pace.
There are about 1,100 inhabitants on Inis Mor, making it the most populated of the Aran islands. The main village of Kilronan, the arrival and departure point for visitors, boasts several ancient stone forts and churches, pagan standing stones, a seal colony and other wildlife. It really is impressive how such a small place has so much historical significance.
Every rental with Aran Bike hire includes a free map of Inis Mor Island, helmets and roadside assistance. Group bike hire is also available, and group leaders are issued with a cycling safety sheet and detailed instructions on navigating the Island. Rates are very competitive, and the helpful team can advise on which type of bike best suits your needs.
Enjoy a leisurely pace of life in a unique back-to-nature environment. In these parts stress and worry are left on the mainland, so kick back, enjoy and maybe combine a day’s cycling with an overnight stay within feet of the Atlantic Ocean at Aran Island Camping and Glamping.
The Aran Islands are renowned for their stunning beauty and slower pace of life. For anyone looking for a place to get away from it all, it’s hard to think of somewhere better. Wild, untamed cliffs, jaw-dropping landscapes, sweeping views, and local traditions and heritage that go back thousands of years are just some of the attractions. This is Ireland as it used to be.
Glamping is short for glamorous camping. It is the perfect choice for those who love the outdoors but are not altogether keen on traditional camping. It is a way of experiencing all the benefits of outdoor life without any of the hardships. Instead of a tent, you stay in a snug and warm glamping unit. Instead of worrying about sleeping on a hard floor, you have a comfy bed.
Glamping has seen a surge in popularity in recent years and many celebrities have embraced this new way of vacationing. A-listers such as David Beckham, Rita Ora and celebrity couple Justin and Hayley Beiber have all shared glamping snaps on their social media feeds.
While glamping itself is a relatively new term, the idea of glamorous camping is not so new. The Ottoman army would reside in palatial tents, transporting them between military bases. King Henry VII of England spent time in luxurious tents while attending a summit in France in 1520. Glamping also became more popular during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to the ease of social distancing and fresh outdoor air.
The glamping pods at Aran Islands Camping & Glamping offer all the conveniences of a home away from home
while being surrounded by the magnificent natural beauty of Inis Mór. Two types of pods are on offer: the larger Tigín unit and the original Clochán glamping unit.
The twelve Tigín units are the newest addition to Aran Islands Camping & Glamping. Inspired by traditional Irish cottages but with a modern twist, each unit can accommodate up to six people, with two single bunk beds, one single sofa bed, and a single pull-out bed. Each Tigín unit also has a separate shower room and bathroom.
The Tigín has a mini-kitchen with a fridge, tea/coffee-making facilities, microwave, plates, cutlery, and cups. This mini-kitchen is ideal for preparing breakfast or snacks, and many people appreciate being able to self-cater whenever they choose.
The twelve Clochán na Carraige, or Clocháns for short, were specially designed for Aran Islands Camping & Glamping. They were inspired by the traditional beehive-style stone huts that can be found scattered throughout the island. These huts were once used by monks.
Each unit has been thoughtfully constructed, offering a comfortable home away from home on Inis Mór. These snug and cozy units can accommodate up to four people, with one double bed, one single sofa bed and a single pull-out bed. Each of the Cochláns also has a shower room complete with w/c and washbasin.
One of the best things about Aran Islands Camping & Glamping units is that they are fully heated. No matter what time of year you visit Inis Mór, you will always have somewhere warm and dry to return to. This, more than anything, is what persuades some people to opt for glamping.
No special equipment is required for a glamping vacation, no special skills, and no more preparation than if you were staying in so-called ‘regular’ accommodation. Each of the glamping pods at Aran Islands Camping & Glamping come fully equipped with everything you need to make your
stay comfortable. You don’t even need a sleeping bag, as bedding is provided.
The stunning seaside location overlooking Frenchman’s Beach and Galway Bay was built with the modern holidaymaker in mind. With a selection of glamping pods and tent pitches, it also incorporates some smart innovations as part of its mission to be eco-friendly.
Aran Islands Camping & Glamping has introduced many eco-friendly initiatives and aims to continue adding more in time. The entire site was constructed using environmentally friendly materials, and the electricity and water supplies are solarpowered. Even the staff car is electric.
In addition to glamping, Aran Islands Camping & Glamping also offers a regular campsite on three organic grass fields. The campsite has purpose-built shower facilities, a camper’s kitchen and a laundry room providing all the essentials needed when camping.
Aran Islands Camping & Glamping is situated just a short distance from the ferry terminal in the island’s main town of Kilronan. Guests should keep in mind that the ferries that connect the Aran Islands
with the Irish mainland are not big enough to carry vehicles. This means that there is a short walk involved when arriving at the campsite, however, it is just a few minutes away.
There is plenty to keep glampers and campers of all ages occupied on Inis Mór. You can divide your time between visiting the island’s main attractions and simply seeing where the road or path will take you. Due to its relatively compact size, cycling is an ideal way to get to the further reaches of the island, while hiking is perfect for exploring the cliffs and walking paths. During your stay at Aran Islands Camping & Glamping, you can pick any or all of these attractions to add to your sightseeing itinerary.
The combination of the fantastic Aran Islands self-catering Glamping & Camping accommodation, numerous outdoor activities and famous Irish hospitality makes Aran Islands Camping & Glamping the perfect choice for a short break, corporate day out, or a family holiday to remember on the Aran Islands.
+35387 2470900
JOE WATTY'S BAR & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IS A WELCOMING TRADITIONAL ‘LOCAL PUB’ IN KILRONAN ON THE LARGEST OF THE THREE ARAN ISLANDS. IT PRIDES ITSELF ON AN AUTHENTIC IRISH PUB ATMOSPHERE WHILE PROVIDING THE FINEST PINTS OF GUINNESS - OR WHATEVER YOU’RE HAVING YOURSELF, AS WELL AS QUALITY FRESH LOCALLY CAUGHT SEAFOOD.
Ideally situated a short walk from the pier at the crossroads between the high road to Dún Aonghus and the coast road to the seal colony, Joe Watty's is run by a native island family of musicians. It is famous for its live music and craic; indeed it was named by Lonely Planet as one of Ireland's Top 10 Pubs for traditional Irish music.
The Irish language is spoken fluently by close to 10% of the Irish population and the regions where it is strongest are known collectively as An Ghaeltacht. The Aran Islands are situated off the west coast of Ireland in the heartland of the Connacht Gaeltacht region. Along with neighboring Conamara, they speak one of the three main dialects of the Irish language, the Connacht dialect (the others being the Ulster and Munster dialects).
You can travel to Aran by sea on one of the fine ferries from Rossaveal, Galway or Doolin or by air with Aer Arann from Conamara. Depending on the weather, you can relax and unwind in front of a warm, open fire with an Irish coffee (Watty’s is considered one of the ‘cosiest pubs in Ireland for a drink by the fire' by
the Journal.ie), or you can enjoy a spot of lunch in the beer garden and watch the world go by. A wide selection of craft beers, wines and whiskeys are available, and you might pick up a cúpla focal (a few words of Irish) from some of the locals.
Specializing in locally caught seafood, much of which is caught around the island, at any given time Joe Watty's might be serving lobster, mackerel, crab claws, salmon, oysters, mussels, prawns, seafood chowder and monkfish. The bar regularly serves specials of seabass, tuna and baked cod. These are all in addition to the popular ‘Catch of the Day’ and a variety of meat & vegetarian dishes and tempting desserts.
Live music is at the core of what Joe Watty’s is about and there is live traditional Irish music seven nights a week in the summer season with ballads and tunes in the evenings and anything from trad, country, folk to blues later on. The pub is run by a family of musicians, one of whom is singer-songwriter Padraig Jack who started a new live music show in the Joe Watty's Marquee in 2022. Named after
his 2022 hit single, which garnered praise from Sharon Shannon and Mike Scott of The Waterboys, 'Making Sand the Show' features storytelling and original songs in both the English and Irish language as well as traditional songs from the island, including songs in the sean-nós style which is the ‘old-style’ of singing from the area which goes back hundreds of years. See www.padraigjack.com for bookings.
Joe Watty's is the best place to enjoy the numerous festivals and events happening in Aran including the annual Aran half-marathon, Patrún festival, the jawdropping RedBull cliff diving weekend, Féile na bPúcaí Halloween weekend and Watty's has hosted the first thirteen years of the famous Father Ted festival TedFest.
When you visit Joe Watty's you’ll receive a Céad Míle Fáilte. You can chat with the locals and experience the quintessential Irish pub atmosphere with live music, a fine selection of beers, whiskeys and wines and quality locally caught seafood, or as we say, Ceol, Ól, Bia agus Craic!
Aran Off Road Experience is a family tour company set up by brothers and native Islanders Pádraig and Aonghus Hernon. The brothers provide personalized, smallgroup experiences that take visitors off the beaten track to landmarks and unique sites on Inish Mor.
The Hernon family goes back three generations of horse and carriage rides, but the brothers decided to shake things up, swapping from one horsepower to 50 so they could take visitors on roads less traveled.
Renowned by 4x4 enthusiasts as the vehicle best suited to off-road travel, the Hernon’s Land Rover Defender Jeep has been expertly converted for guests' comfort and the ultimate off-road experience. Navigate tracks and trails that no other vehicle can access with comfort assured through the
soft, oversized suspension. Large windows on each side allow passengers to take in the stunning views of the Island like 'The Wormhole', which can only be accessed on foot across bumpy, uneven terrain.
The Serpent’s Lair
Although it looks like some enormous machine cut it out, Poll na bPéist (The Wormhole) is naturally formed, and folklore tells that it is a serpent’s lair (péist meaning sea monster).
Poll na bPéist is a striking rock formation with underground channels linking it to the sea. Water rushes in through a subterranean cavern, and when the tide is high, it gushes over flat limestone topping up the lair. Some brave souls go swimming here, and it is a popular dive site. On two occasions, the world's best cliff divers took on the challenge of plunging 28 meters
The Hernon family goes back three generations of horse and carriage rides but the brothers decided to shake things up, swapping from one horsepower to 50 to take visitors on roads less traveled.into the lair with acrobatic flair for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. The Wormhole
Swimming here is not for the faint-hearted due to powerful currents; however, a visit is highly recommended as it is a spectacular sight and one of Aran’s hidden gems.
The brothers can customize a tour to your specific requirements, or you can opt for a day, evening, or sunset trip. The day experience includes Poll na bPéist and Dún Aonghasa. The evening experience visits Teampeall Bheanáin, an 11th Century church (St Benin's Church) reputed as one of the smallest in Europe, and Dún Duchathair (the Black Fort). The fort is perched right on the cliff edge with spectacular views of the cliffs, the Irish coastline and the ocean. Visit at sunset to experience the magic of the sun setting out in the Atlantic Ocean. Magic!
www.aranoffroadexperience.ie
ARAN ISLAND FERRIES, THE LARGEST AND LONGEST ESTABLISHED FAMILY-OWNED, YEAR-ROUND FERRY SERVICE TO THE ARAN ISLANDS RELAUNCHED THEIR GALWAY CITY DOCKS TO INIS MÓR AND THE CLIFFS OF MOHER CRUISE FROM APRIL TO SEPTEMBER.
Offering a 90-minute cruise on Galway Bay, Aran Island Ferries luxury vessels showcase the contrasting beauty and scenery of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way coastline of Connemara and Clare along with all three of the Aran Islands, Inis Oírr and Inis Meáin, before docking in Kilronan on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands for 4.5-hours. The return journey to Galway City brings passengers on a cruise along the iconic Cliffs of Moher, guided by on-board commentary. Visitors to the city of the tribes can enjoy a safe, all-weather experience of the jewels in the crown of Galway Bay.
On the island, visitors can hire a bike and enjoy breathtaking views in all directions or hear fascinating island histories on a minibus tour with a local guide.
One of five vessels to carry passengers on the new Aran Islands route, Saoirse na Farraige, the largest domestic passenger ferry in the country, was commissioned by the O’Brien Family of an Ceathrú Rua in the Connemara Gaeltacht. The new vessel
arrived from Hong Kong in November 2020, expanding on the high-quality fleet of Aran Island Ferries passenger ferries which they have operated for the past 40 years.
Celebrating 40 years in business, Aran Island Ferries and the O’Brien family have sailed to the Aran Islands since the 1970s, primarily from Ros a’Mhíl in Connemara. During this time, the O’Briens sailed with their first passengers in a traditional Galway Hooker boat, An Tonaí, and went on to purchase their first passenger ferry, the Dún Aengus, in 1983. Today with a fleet of five ferries, Saoirse na Farraige is of the highest passenger ferry specifications. On board passengers can enjoy a smooth and safe 90-minute cruise experience with an upper open-air deck space or the expansive inner cabin complete with the ultimate safety, style and comfort features. Leather seating, charging points and plasma screens allow comfort and entertainment on-board. An audio guide, which can be downloaded upon booking, will ensure an informed and entertaining
cruise. There’s also an on-board bar providing refreshments.
Saoirse na Farraige - Freedom of the Sea - joins the extensive Aran Island Ferries fleet carrying passengers on all routes from Galway City and Rossaveel. These include Draíocht na Farraige - Magic of the Sea, Ceol na Farraige - Music of the Sea, Glór na Farraige - Voice of the Sea and Banríon na Farraige, Queen of the Sea. All combined, Aran Island Ferries has a total capacity of 1,420.
Aran Island Ferries continue to sail from stunning Rossaveel (Ros a’ Mhíl) Harbour in Connemara year-round to all three Aran Islands with an average sailing time of 45 minutes. A shuttle bus to the ferry terminal operates daily, and visitors can sit back, relax and enjoy the views of Connemara along the way.
Ticket prices and sailing times from Galway City Docks and Ros a' Mhíl can be found on their website: aranislandferries.com
Located in the desirable seaside resort of Salthill; the mid-way point on the Wild Atlantic Way, within easy reach of the bustling medieval city of Galway to the East and the Gateway to Connemara to the West.
Galway Bay Sea View Apartments offer you the ideal base from which to discover the local environs or venturing further afield to explore the surrounding historical sites and expansive National Parks in Connemara and County Clare.
Each spacious apartment has its own private balcony or a rooftop terrace presenting a stunning, panoramic vista of Galway Bay along with views of the Clare Hills and dramatic Burren landscape. Stylishly furnished with all the amenities you expect in your home from home accommodation and where your comfortable and relaxing stay awaits. The unrivalled views of Galway Bay, coupled with a seaside village vibe, ensure a refreshing experience every time.
These spacious, contemporary apartments offer freedom and flexibility for both the leisure and corporate visitor alike with space to relax or work in.
Suitable for families, friends and colleagues alike each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher and a microwave leading on to an open plan dining/lounge area. The open plan area features an expandable dining table for up to 6 people, a 32-inch flat-screen TV and digital TV box with over 100 channels and individual, fast, reliable free Wi-Fi.
Complimentary on-site parking and complimentary fast, reliable Wi-Fi included in all prices.
Reservations: +353 86 022 98 02
Sitting at the very edge of Europe, the Galway landscape is considered one of the world's most outstanding areas of natural beauty. Wild, rugged, and right on the shores of the ocean, Galway is known for its cultural and historical heritage and an unbeatable lively atmosphere. In fact, "brilliantly bohemian" Galway is tipped as one of the world's top cities for travelers by travel bible Lonely Planet describing Galway as “arguably Ireland’s most engaging city where brightly painted pubs heave with live music and cafes offer front row seats to performing buskers."
Visitors to Galway are soon spellbound by its charm and laid-back atmosphere. Stroll around the city’s narrow cobbled streets and enjoy its cafes, shops and
gourmet restaurants. At night the city comes alive with pulsating traditional and contemporary music which lingers in the air, so follow the sounds!
Shop Street is the epicenter of Galway city life. This pedestrian hub bursts with the energy of shoppers, tourists, students, buskers, one-man bands, human statues, balloon artists, unicyclists, break dancers – you never know what you'll find walking down Shop Street and through the Latin Quarter. Wherever you see a gathering of onlookers, join in for a few minutes of free entertainment. A mixture of colorful shops, street entertainment and leading the pubs of Quay Street – Shop Street is a melting pot of Galway life and culture.
Galway City lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay. On the west bank of the River Corrib as it enters the sea, is the ancient neighborhood of The Claddagh. For centuries it was an Irishspeaking enclave outside the city walls. It was governed by an elected 'King' a title still used in an honorary and ceremonial context. The area is famous for its association with the Claddagh Ring. Located in the heart of the city for centuries, Thomas Dillon's Jewelers are the famous ring's original makers and are still handmade in store to this day!
The traditional boat of the Claddagh fishermen was the unique Claddagh or Galway Hooker, named after the hooked fishing lines used before the introduction of
PERCHED ON THE WESTERN EDGE OF IRELAND, GALWAY IS SURROUNDED BY THE ALLURING BEAUTY OF CONNEMARA AND THE COASTAL SCENERY OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY.nets. The hooker was constructed by hand using tarred timbers. The unique rust color of the sails came from being soaked in a solution made from tree bark, a process known as "barking."
During the 19th century, the Claddagh fishing industry went into decline, which led to a reduction in the hooker fleet. Recently however, groups and individuals in Galway and Connemara have started restoring old boats and building new ones, so the distinctive red hooker sets sail once more in Galway Bay.
The city is the most central port on the West Coast of Ireland in the sheltered eastern corner of Galway Bay. Regular passenger ferry and freight services operate between Galway and the Aran Islands, which attracts tourists in their droves in the summer months. Visitors can also set sail from Woodquay in the heart of Galway city for a leisurely cruise down the River Corrib and
onto Lough Corrib, the Republic of Ireland's largest lake. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while taking photos of castles and sites of historical and cultural interest. Lough Corrib is home to hundreds of islands and is a haven for marine and wildlife species, so there are plenty of scenic views and the tranquility is tantalizing.
The famed landscape of Galway includes the Mountains of Connemara, with a wide variety of natural and semi-natural habitats of geological complexity. Extensive sandstone deposits and veins of green marble and white quartz can be found in this area. The landscape also includes hundreds of irregularly shaped lakes set in ancient peat bogs that form the surrounding land.
The Connemara national park has over 2,000 hectares of wilderness and wonder. Even if you only have one day, find time to fit it into your itinerary.
From Galway, take the Clifden road and stop shortly after Moycullen to visit Brigit's Garden. Strolling through this unique place journey through the sacred spiral of the seasons and into the heart of Celtic mythology, folklore and heritage. Set within eleven acres of woodland and wildflower meadows, enjoy the sun trail, an ancient ring fort, the thatched roundhouse and crannóg, and the calendar sundial, the largest in Ireland.
From one inspirational spot to another, Kylemore Abbey & Garden sits on a luscious reedy lake in the thickly wooded hillside of the national park near Letterfrack. One of Ireland’s most photographed spots – and justifiably so - the abbey sits in unbelievably beautiful and tranquil countryside.
Journey to the lovely little harbor-side town of Cleggan where you can take a ferry to Inishbofin. This tiny gem of an island, practically car-free, is perfect for exploring by foot or rented bicycles. Discover the
remote villages of West Quarter, Fawnmore, Middle Quarter, Cloonamore and Knock and enjoy a pint or a delicious dinner of fresh seafood. If you like to swim, take a dip in the aquamarine waters (which are fantastic for diving and snorkeling) on one of the deserted beaches before catching the ferry back to the mainland.
Head back via Clifden, Connemara’s ‘capital’ with its elegant Victorian houses and church spires. Be sure and visit the museum at the Clifden Station House Hotel. Located in a restored engine house, it features an exhibition about the pioneering aviators Alcock and Brown, who made the first transatlantic flight in 1919 and crashed in nearby Derrygimlagh Bog.
A pretty village beside the sea, An Spidéal is one of the largest Irish-speaking settlements in the Galway Gaeltacht. Approximately 12 miles from Galway city,
‘An Spidéal’ or Spiddal, is known for its famous Irish school, Colaiste Chonnacht, where students from all over Ireland come to immerse themselves in the Irish language and its associated cultures during summer months. Making a trip to an Irish college is a right of passage for most Irish youngsters, and this first taste of independence from home is usually tempered with lots of outdoor activities, traditional "ceili dancing”, and sometimes even a little romance.
An Ceardlann craft village can be found here, where local artists and creators make and sell their creations. See makers specializing in basket weaving, acrylic painting, stained glass, pottery, screen printing, weaving, and Celtic jewelry.
Galway has become a bastion of arts, nightlife and a hub of activity. A city, yes, but it’s more like a giant, colorful town. A little city that is sure of itself and unafraid to flaunt its rustic beauty, Galway is exuberant, full of life and surrounded by the alluring beauty of Connemara.
If you had to sum up what’s special about Galway, it comes down to the people. The city is home to Galwegians, students, artists, artisans, tourists, poets, musicians, performers and many more. There is an atmosphere that is difficult to describe –That’s what happens when you fill a tiny, historic city with people from all walks of life – brilliantly bohemian, that’s for sure.
A bastion of arts, nightlife and a hub of activity, Galway is a little city that is sure of itself and unafraid to flaunt its rustic beauty, It is exuberant, full of life and surrounded by the alluring beauty of Connemara.
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THERE ARE MANY FILM FESTIVALS, BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE FILM FLEADH. THE GALWAY FILM FLEADH WAS ESTABLISHED AS A PLATFORM FOR INDIGENOUS IRISH CINEMA BY FOUR FILMMAKERS WHO WANTED TO IMPROVE THE REPRESENTATION OF IRISH PEOPLE ON-SCREEN.
A unique moniker for a special festival, Film Fleadh literally means 'a film feast' and for six days each July, filmmakers come from around the world to celebrate their work alongside their Irish peers. Set in the picturesque city of Galway, the team at the fleadh have a passion for film and nurturing film makers.
Over the past 35 years, the Galway Film Fleadh has become the leading film event in Ireland, encompassing a festival for all levels of film buffs, full of film premieres, special guests and Q+A's; a busy and dynamic marketplace, where professionals can attend to the business side of film; and an informative and inspiring film & TV conference, that covers talks on things that are interesting to film fans, and masterclasses with screen stars, screen directors, writers and cinematographers.
Galway has long been admired as an intimate and bohemian city and the film fleadh follows suit, as a festival that does not put on airs. Rather, the film fleadh boasts a 'no red carpets' policy, as the festival seeks to create an atmosphere where film fans, filmmakers, film financiers and film celebrities all rub shoulders with one another. The personable engagement
of Galway's audience with invited guests from other countries is a rare opportunity for insight and cultural exchange, delivered in the Galway style. No matter your generation or cultural background, you will form part of a mad diversity that offers something for everyone.
The Galway Film Fleadh places an equal emphasis on short film as an artform, and as a rich vein of new talented directors and cinematographers. The film fleadh is an Academy Award-affiliated festival, and each year two of Galway's award-winning shorts qualify for consideration by the Academy for an Oscar® nomination.
Each year, Galway invites luminaries of the silver screen to impart their knowledge, meet with their fans and celebrate their work. Previous guests of the Film Fleadh include:
Actors: Marisa Tomei, John C. Reilly, Will Forte, Martin Sheen, Isabelle Huppert, Amanda Plummer, Annette Benning, Michael Fassbender, Jessica Lange, Jeremy Irons, Kathy Bates, Colm Meaney, Woody
Harrelson, Zachary Quinto, Saoirse Ronan, Brendan Gleeson, Anjelica Huston, Peter O’Toole, Patricia Clarkson, Matt Dillon, Maureen O’Hara, Pierce Brosnan, Gabriel Byrne.
Directors: Sir Richard Attenborough, Lee Unkrich, Abbas Kiarostami, Mira Nair, Anthony Minghella, Agnieszka Holland, Gillo Pontecorvo, Arthur Penn, Jim Sheridan, Neil Jordan, Michael Moore.
Screenwriters: Ed Solomon, Kirsten Smith, Scott Alexander, Larry Karaszewski, Paul Schrader, Robert Towne, and many more.
The fleadh takes place from 11-16 July 2023 and promises to deliver even more world premieres, European premieres, Irish premieres, special guests and fun and films by the River Corrib. The film fleadh takes place in the historic Town Hall Theatre, the brand-new state-of-the-art Pálás theatre and multiple venues across Galway city, all within a ten-minute walk of each other. Visit the website for more details www.galwayfilmfleadh.com or follow the Galway Film Fleadh’s social channels by following @galwayfilm.
APPEARING AS IF FROM THE PAGES OF A STORYBOOK, KYLEMORE ABBEY, A MAGNIFICENT BARONIAL CASTLE, IS NESTLED BETWEEN MOUNTAIN AND LAKE IN ONE OF IRELAND’S MOST SPECTACULAR REGIONS, CONNEMARA.
The beauty, history, serenity, and hospitality for which Kylemore Abbey is known draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to discover this beautiful slice of Ireland for themselves.
“From Generation to Generation” is an apt title for the visitor experience inside Kylemore Abbey. Reopened with restored period rooms and modern multi-media interpretation in 2019, the experience guides visitors through the fascinating history of the castle as it passed through the hands and lives of its owners down through the years.
Over 150 years ago, Kylemore Lodge was transformed into Kylemore Castle but the wealthy, liberal politician; Mitchell Henry. Born and raised in Manchester, Henry
considered “every drop of blood in his veins” to be Irish, and after touring the area on honeymoon in the 1840s, he fell in love with Kylemore and vowed to make it a nesting place for his new wife and planned family.
Granite was brought from the east to the west coast, and the renowned architect James Franklin Fuller was behind the magnificent structure that still stands proudly today. It is thought that the mountain was blasted so the castle sits to perfectly reflect in the waters of Pollacapul Lake, a site that captivates visitors to this day.
Kylemore became, as Henry liked to refer to it, an estate with “all the innovations of the modern age.” The 70-room castle
boasted Italian décor, a magnificent ballroom, billiard room, library, study, drawing room, morning room, a dining room draped in black and gold silks, and an elaborate Turkish bath house. The estate also had its own dark room, post, and telegraph office, two model farms, an abattoir, sawmill, icehouse, and a fire brigade of scarlet-clad volunteer firemen. A mile away from the castle, the 8-acre walled garden with its 21 heated glasshouses was tended by up to 40 gardeners.
Henry, his beloved wife, and his nine children made a summer home for themselves in Kylemore in 1867 upon the castle’s completion and enjoyed a pampered lifestyle of hunting, fishing, and expensive hobbies such as yachting
Nestled at the base of Druchruach
Mountain and along the shore of Lough Pollacapul in Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland’s most iconic attractions and finest castles.
and photography punctuated by picnics, parties, and balls. Archive photographs show the sons posing with fishing gillies and gamekeepers, dressed in their Scottish tweeds and looking every inch the part of countrified young gentlemen. Kylemore provided a break from the formality of London life for the five Henry daughters, and they too enjoyed the ‘Irish Highlands’ outdoor pursuits.
The uninterrupted joy was short-lived, however. The first family tragedy struck just four years after the castle was completed when Margaret Henry died while on holiday in Egypt, aged just 45 years, leaving behind Henry and their nine young children. The family continued to Summer in Kylemore, and a heartbroken Henry had the neo-Gothic church built in his wife’s memory. Tragedy struck again when one of Henry’s daughters, Geraldine – “the flower of the flock” died in a carriage accident on the estate. This signalled the end of Henry’s passion for the estate, and he put the castle and grounds up for sale in 1902.
The subsequent owners of the estate were the glamorous Duke and Duchess of Manchester. The ever-fashionable couple weren’t to stay long, but they had a marked impact on the castle as they brought much of its interior décor in
line with the Edwardian style of the day. An American heiress and a fun-loving Duke, they were to leave Kylemore Castle just ten years after their initial purchase and unfortunately did so under a cloud of debt. As a result, the estate lay empty for almost seven years before the next inhabitants took up the mantle in 1920.
On the night of December 3rd, 1920, the Benedictine Nuns of Ypres found themselves looking at what would become their place of shelter and prayer until today. This ancient order had been forced to flee its monastery in Ypres Belgium after it was shelled in World War One. Leaving their home and all their possessions as bombs dropped behind them undoubtedly helped their attraction to the quiet and secluded region of Connemara and the thick granite walls of Kylemore Castle. Their residence at Kylemore turned what was once known
The west of Ireland receives many plaudits for its unique wildness, and rightly so! At Kylemore, the abbey, the estate and the surrounding area present a moment of serenity and beauty in an area famed for its raw beauty.
as Kylemore Castle into its now more widely known Kylemore Abbey. Their time in Kylemore wouldn’t stay too quiet; however, as in 1922, in keeping with the Benedictine tradition, the nuns opened an International Boarding School for girls. The education of young women from all over the world was to continue until 2010 when the school finally closed its doors, allowing for more of the castle and grounds to be opened to the many visitors who came to the area to behold the beauty of the Abbey and the serenity of the surrounding estate.
A visit to Kylemore encourages the visitor to explore and embrace the lives of those who lived here and to engage in the natural beauty all around. The “From Generation to Generation” visitor experience can be followed by a walk to the stunning neo-Gothic church, a miniature cathedral dedicated to the memory of Margaret Henry and
adorned in beautiful sandstone flowers and angels and the marbles of Ireland. The 6.5-acre Victorian Walled Garden, which is half formal flower garden, and half vegetable garden, is another essential. Visitors can see how in the late 1800s pineapples and bananas were grown in the 21 interconnected glasshouses.
No visit to Kylemore would be complete without sampling some of the home baking and cooking for which they are rightly renowned. Traditional breads, cakes, fruit pies and scones accompanied by good coffee will revive the weariest traveler and prepare you for further exploring along the avenues and extensive tree-lined walks of the Kylemore Estate. Little surprises await, such as a delightful children’s fairy village, resident rare breed pigs, a herd of beautiful Connemara ponies, and even a Giant’s Wishing Stone! Kylemore
Abbey also has a tradition of producing and selling its own artisan produce, such as chocolates and soaps handmade by the Benedictine nuns, baking mixes and a range of rustic pottery, all of which can be shipped worldwide. The Craft and Design Shop also needs to be explored as it is one of the best you will encounter on your Irish adventure.
The Benedictine nuns who own and manage Kylemore invite all visitors to join them in their church for mid-day prayer or Latin vespers in the evening. Regardless of your faith or persuasion, you are welcome to come and sit in the peaceful environs of the church, to light a candle for a loved one or just be still in your own company for a little while.
To visit Ireland without making time to visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey would be a shame, and once you visit, you are sure to be entranced for life!
BASED IN A SMALL, QUAINT TOWN CALLED LISDOONVARNA IN THE BURREN REGION ON THE WEST COAST OF IRELAND, THE BURREN SMOKEHOUSE SMOKE IRISH ORGANIC SALMON, MACKEREL AND TROUT. THEY ALSO WELCOME VISITORS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD.
You could say that theirs is a story a century in the making, bringing together Irish and Scandinavian history, tradition, skills and heritage.
It started when Peter Curtin’s grandparents bought a pub in Lisdoonvarna in 1893. At the time, the Roadside Tavern was not only a pub but also a very busy bakery and a butter market. Today the Roadside Tavern is a gastro-pub with great food, its own Burren Brewery craft beers and traditional music most evenings in summer.
Peter Curtin and Birgitta Hedin met when Birgitta came over from Sweden to Ireland on holiday. Peter offered her a drink, and the rest is history. Soon after they married in the 1980s. They then set up a salmon smokehouse at the back of their house
combining their need to stand on their own business feet with their love of seafood and everything natural. Since then, the customer base has gone from local to global.
In 1989, the smokehouse was established in its current location, built into a ravine to take advantage of the humidity from the river. A few years later, a visitor centre was added, serving as a ‘shopwindow’ for the smokehouse. In many cases, this is the first point of contact for tourists who want to taste the salmon and are curious to learn how the Curtins smoke fish.
The location just off the Wild Atlantic Way and near the Cliffs of Moher is perfect for accessing the best raw materials the Curtins can find - Organic Salmon from Ireland.
Over the years, the Burren Smoked Irish Salmon has been served to dignitaries and royalty on many occasions. In May 2011, during the State Dinner for Queen Elizabeth II, it was served as a starter. King Charles III, then Prince Charles, got a side of Wild Salmon when he visited the Burren, and in 2019, King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden paid a highly anticipated visit to the Burren Smokehouse.
Over the last seven years, Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon has been included in a St. Patrick’s Day food hamper offered by Bord Bía, the Irish food board, to the Presidents and Vice Presidents of the United States.
The main visitor center is about the Burren Smokehouse itself. It explains how salmon is smoked featuring an early kiln to explore. Visitors learn about the family history, prestigious customers like Dean & Deluca, Harrods and Fortnum & Mason, as well as the many awards and accolades for Burren Smokehouse. Visitors can sample the salmon and buy some to take home as well as other food products from the area. Products can be shipped to the USA, so there is no need to worry about packing or refrigeration.
For those who want to dive into the art of smoking salmon and brewing craft beers, exclusive VIP “Meet the Makers” tours cover both areas. The tours are personally guided by the owners of the Burren Smokehouse and the Roadside Tavern, Birgitta and Peter Curtin.
In 2019, the Curtins opened another visitor center next to the first one called “Taste
the Atlantic – Salmon Experience”. This experience is all about the Irish Salmon, its history, the legend of the Salmon of Knowledge, wild salmon fishing in the old days, and the need to protect wild salmon stocks by satisfying the demand differently. It is a self-guided, interactive experience suitable for the whole family – think shadow play, jigsaw puzzles and news reels. It also gives an insight into sustainability and nutrition.
The mini food trail extends to even more experiences next door.
Just down the road from the Burren Smokehouse you will find the Roadside Tavern, which has been the home of the Burren Brewery since 2011. Master brewer Peter Curtin offers beer tastings of his unique craft beers and tours through his micro-brewery. Peter conducts whiskey tastings, too. He also is a very gifted storyteller, or as it is called in Irish, a seanchaí. He loves telling stories about
his research on Tolkien in the Burren, the history of Lisdoonvarna, the Burren and more subjects.
So, you can easily spend half a day on this charming, personalized mini food trail. Well worth checking out while in the area - you are unlikely to come away empty handed!
Taste the Atlantic Salmon Experience
FOLLOW PILGRIMS' FOOTSTEPS ON A SACRED MOUNTAIN, BRACE YOURSELF AGAINST THE WILDS OF THE ATLANTIC WAY AND MAKE WAVES ON ACHILL ISLAND. MAYO'S RUGGED BEAUTY AND HAUNTING LANDSCAPES ARE LEGENDARY.
A prosperous and vibrant place today; life here hasn’t always been easy. The Potato Famine of 1845–51 was particularly savage in these parts, ravaging the country and prompting mass emigration.
In 1845 a previously unknown blight appeared, rapidly destroying the potato crop all over Europe. It returned in the following years, and it wasn’t until 1855 that the total harvest reached half of what it had been in 1844. Known as the great hunger, the starvation and suffering of the Irish people during this time was calamitous yet avoidable.
The famine began as a natural catastrophe of extraordinary magnitude, but the actions and inactions of the British ruling classes severely worsened its effects. As native Irish people starved in droves, food exports to England continued unabated. In many cases, carts taking food to Irish ports were flanked by police to prevent attack from the starving Irish.
The potato famine was just that – a failure of just one crop. Only the potato failed. No other crops were affected. Oats and barley were plentiful, however, these were 'cash crops', produced for export to England and owned not by those who produced
them but by English (mostly absentee) landlords. Throughout the Great Hunger, Irish tenant farmers had massive quantities of agricultural produce and livestock, but it was shipped out to meet rent or face eviction. This left the native population entirely dependent on the potato for food. It was plentiful, grew in poor soil, and had high nutrition. However, with the failure of that one crop, the Irish were left starving.
William Smith-O’Brien, a wealthy landowner from Dromoland Castle who was sympathetic to the tenant's plight, observed in 1846:
“The circumstances which appeared most aggravating was that the people were starving in the midst of plenty and that every tide carried from the Irish ports corn sufficient for the maintenance of the Irish people."
While some landlords tried to help, most were remorseless. This bailiff’s remark as quoted in the Freeman’s Journal in April 1846 was typical:
"What the devil do we care about you or your black potatoes? It was not us that made them black. You will get two days to pay the rent; if you don't you know the consequences."
More than a quarter of a million tenant farmers were evicted between 1845 and 1854 and even more walked away from their homes, roaming the country in search of food.
Controversially Dr Ó Murchadha, who teaches history and Irish at St. Flannan’s College in County Clare, puts forward the theory that the British ruling classes saw the famine as an opportunity to rid Ireland of the Irish. “There is a case for asking if the British deliberately used the famine to thin out the ranks of the Irish by allowing mass death and emigration after 1847.”
The New World
Around 1.8 million emigrants left Ireland to start new lives in North America. The cost of passage had dropped due to increased trade between there and the UK, and it made financial sense for ships to carry cargo both ways. Ireland's biggest export was its people.
In March 1864, a writer for the Mayo Constitution suggested that no more than 5% of the emigrants who left Mayo paid for their passage. Many received help from family members, the state, and even landlords who wanted to rid themselves of indebted tenants and use land more profitably.
Many emigrants, often eldest sons, left Ireland alone, sending their wages back to pay for the passage of other family members. Remittances, money transfers and boat tickets often accompanied letters home. Between 1845 and 1855, more
than 2.1 million people left Ireland with almost 1.5 million heading to the USA.
The emigration of so many led to the establishment of huge Irish communities in the New World. These vast networks helped to facilitate millions more Irish to emigrate in the decades that followed. To
give an indication of the colossal nature of Irish emigration, consider that roughly one in two people born in Ireland in the nineteenth century emigrated. In the late nineteenth century, nearly as many people born in Ireland lived outside the country as lived in it. No other European country contributed as many emigrants per capita to the New World during the so-called ‘age of mass migration’ between the midnineteenth century and the start of the First World War as Ireland.
Together with five million Germans and millions of Scandinavians who arrived alongside them, Irish immigrants changed the demography of America. As the historian David Reynolds put it, "During the decade from 1845 the United States opened its doors to three million people, proportionately the biggest influx in US history.”
The famine monument in Murrisk, Co Mayo, was commissioned to create a sculpture that encompassed the magnitude of suffering and loss endured by the people of Ireland during the potato famine. The result was the Famine Ship, a bronze memorial, with skeletal figures symbolizing the many people who died in coffin ships that set sail from Ireland in desperate hope of escaping to a better life.
Over 3.8 million Irish immigrants arrived throughout the 1800s.
Writing in the 1970s historian Gearóid Ó Tuathaigh summed up the struggle they faced:
"The struggle was protracted and at times, frustrating. But the sons and grandsons of the famine exiles were determined to see it through to the end. Only then could the accusing ghost of 'Black 47' be finally laid."
Initially, Irish emigrants found work hard to find, and many job advertisements included the phrase "No Irish Need Apply." However, the Irish were willing to work hard and for very little, so it became uneconomical not to hire them. America's early network of roads, railways and canals owe much to the Irishman "with his strong back and ability to wield a shovel or pickaxe from dawn till dusk." During a time when the United States was starting to unlock its industrial potential,
Irish immigration gave the United States the one resource it needed to keep the economy expanding - new and willing labor.
Most Americans today with an Irish family background are descended from these times. From poor, starving migrants, they and their descendants rose to positions of power, epitomized by the election of John F Kennedy as President of the United States in 1960.
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‘Most countries send out oil or iron, steel or gold, or some other crop, but Ireland had only one export and that was its people’
John F Kennedy
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The President’s ancestors hail from Ballina in County Mayo in the west of the island and from Carlingford, County Louth in Ireland’s Ancient East.
Biden is the first Irish Catholic president to visit the Emerald Isle in 60 years, the last being John F Kennedy, who spent four days in the country in 1963, five months before his assassination. Then Vice President Biden visited Ireland in 2016, a visit that coincided with the Brexit referendum when the majority of British people voted to leave the EU. Biden has made no secret of his opposition to the decision from which trade disputes continued during his latest visit, particularly those affecting Northern Ireland.
On this occasion President Biden was accompanied by his son Hunter and his sister and campaign manager, Valerie Biden Owens. The President kicked off
his tour with a visit to Belfast, where he met with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak before meeting with political party leaders at Stormont (Northern Ireland Parliament building). The visit was scheduled to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement - a pair of agreements signed on 10 April 1998 that ended ‘The Troubles’, a conflict in Northern Ireland that began in the 1960s.
Biden’s only official engagement in Belfast was to open the new Ulster University Campus, where he spoke to a massive crowd during which he praised Northern Ireland's young people, describing them as being at the "cutting edge" of its future.
Following the event, Biden boarded Airforce One and flew to Dublin, where he was welcomed by Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar and other delegates, along with US embassy staff and their children. Landing in the Irish
capital, the President described it as "like coming home," the first of many sentimental utterances he used during what was dubbed a homecoming tour.
The first visit on the packed agenda was to County Louth, where Biden visited Carlingford Castle, a national monument built in the late 12th Century. He then headed to Dundalk, a famous trading center during the 19th Century and now a key hub in the pharmacy, technology, and financial sectors. Louth is Ireland's smallest county but it is brimming with ancient monastic settlements, and it boasts a spectacular coastline with golden sandy beaches. Back in 2016 on his first visit to Louth as Vice President, Louth County Council bestowed Joe Biden with the Freedom of the County, and he remains the only individual to hold this honor.
President Biden is the second US president to formally visit County Louth.
In 2000, President Bill Clinton spoke to a 60,000-strong crowd of people gathered in the Market Square in Dundalk where he famously said: "It's a new day in Dundalk and a new day in Ireland", in reference to the peace process.
The second day of President Biden's visit took him back to Dublin where he met President Michael D Higgins and his wife, Sabina at Áras an Uachtaráin, President Higgins’ official residence. While there, he rang the Peace Bell and planted an Irish Oak tree within the grounds. Later the same day President Biden had a meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, following which he addressed the Houses of the Oireachtas (Irish National Parliament), where he spoke of a future of shared possibilities and referenced the Good Friday Agreement and its "significant positive impact" on the people across the island of Ireland.
The last stop on a busy day for the President was Dublin Castle where he attended a lavish dinner banquet. Numerous politicians and key figures attended the dinner during which Leo Varadkar gave a speech where he thanked President Biden for "coming home". The evening continued with musical entertainment, while the dignitaries and guests of honor tucked into a seafood appetizer with Lambay Island crab cake, a roast lamb entree followed by pear and maple tart.
The final day of the visit took President Biden to County Mayo, the President’s ancestral home. A flyover in Marine One was a dramatic start to what was to be an emotionally charged day.
First on the agenda in Mayo was a visit to Knock Shrine, a famous pilgrimage site in the village of Knock. In August
1879, an apparition of the Virgin Mary, St Joseph, and St John the Evangelist was witnessed on the south gable of Knock Parish Church. Some fifteen local people of different ages witnessed the event, and as a result, Knock became a major Irish pilgrimage site of prayer and worship.
A deeply religious person, the President’s visit to Knock Shrine was made even more poignant by a chance encounter with the priest who administered last rites to the President’s son Beau, who passed away in 2015. Father Frank O’Grady had tended to Beau, who died of cancer in a US military hospital. Later the President visited a hospice in the town of Castlebar whose walls bear a plaque dedicated to Beau Biden. Emotions were running high as President Biden was seen to quietly weep as he viewed the plaque bearing his son’s name.
The 46th US President is the 23rd Commander in Chief to have roots on the island of Ireland, meaning that half of all Presidents in US history have come from Irish or Scotch-Irish stock.
President Biden's historic visit to Ireland concluded with a visit to Ballina - the birthplace of his great-great-greatgrandfather Edward Blewitt.
The town of Ballina had invited the President and his wife, First Lady Dr Jill Biden to visit. The small town is celebrating its 300th anniversary this year with a year-long programme of cultural events. Chair of Ballina 2023 Steering Group, Councillor Jarlath Munnelly said it was a momentous year for Ballina and to have President Biden visit at this time made it all the more special.
The President made an impassioned address outside St Muredach’s cathedral which Blewitt had a hand in building in the 1820s. He spoke of Irish and
American values and shared the story of his ancestors who left famine-stricken Ireland seeking hope and opportunity in the spirit of the American Dream. Tens of thousands stood in line for hours to witness the event, while much of the small town was decorated with American flags and Biden posters.
During the event in Ballina, President Biden declared himself "Mayo Joe – Son of Ballina" and was described as the “most Irish of American presidents” by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
Commentators on both sides of the pond described the visit as a resounding success, and there was no doubting the 46th US president’s great passion and affection for Ireland and its people.
President Biden is proud of his Irish roots and famously said: “If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, you’re lucky enough.”
Ancestral Links
President Biden said recently “My Irish ancestry is part of my soul,” and he joins the thousands of Americans and others from across the world that have come to the island of Ireland to research their ancestry. In fact, the 46th US President is the 23rd Commander in Chief to have roots on the island of Ireland, meaning that half of all Presidents in US history have come from Irish or ScotchIrish stock.
The first US president known to have had Irish ancestry was Andrew Jackson, the seventh US president. His family was from the village of Boney in County Antrim, and the village is now home to the Andrew Jackson Centre.
President John F Kennedy, the US's first Irish Catholic President could trace his
ancestry to Limerick, Clare, Cork, and Fermanagh.
President Richard Nixon’s ancestors on his mother’s side were Irish Quakers from Timahoe, Kildare.
Presidents George HW and George W Bush had family who hailed from County Down.
President Barack Obama is a descendent of Fulmuth Kearney, an immigrant from County Offaly.
President Ronald Reagan, whose ancestors were from Tipperary, famously played down his Irish heritage during his election campaign, concerned that it would affect his chances of winning.
KNOCK SHRINE IS A TRULY UNIQUE PLACE OF PILGRIMAGE WITH A RICH AND FASCINATING HISTORY, BEAUTIFUL, SERENE GROUNDS AND A FULL PROGRAMME OF CEREMONIES AND SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS WITH SO MUCH TO ENRICH AND INSPIRE. FOR GENERATIONS, PEOPLE HAVE BEEN COMING TO KNOCK SEEKING PEACE AND TO PRAY.
Knock is a reminder of the faith that has been passed down through generations. Some come searching for answers and consolation, others to reflect and find peace. The Apparition of Knock in 1879 has drawn people from all over the world who come to experience peace and to seek healing and reconciliation.
On the 21st August 1879, at about 8 o’clock in the evening, fifteen people
from the village of Knock witnessed an Apparition of Our Lady, St Joseph, Saint John the Evangelist and a lamb on an altar before a cross at the gable wall of the Parish Church. The witnesses stood in the pouring rain for over two hours, watching the Apparition scene while praying the Rosary.
Immediately after the Apparition, the word spread quickly about the magnificent scene that had been witnessed and it was
widely reported in newspapers, both in Ireland and overseas. Two Commissions of Enquiry were established in 1879 and again in 1936. In the early days of pilgrimage to Knock, pilgrims would gather to pray at the gable wall, often taking holy water from the site as well as mortar from the gable wall. Early photographs of Knock Shrine can be viewed in the Wynne Collection.
Knock Today
Knock Shrine is open each day and ready to welcome you. Whatever your reason for coming here, we hope that your visit will end with an answered prayer, a sense of healing, or a new perspective on whatever troubles you. During the pilgrimage season from May to October, there is a full schedule of ceremonies, including daily Mass with Anointing of the Sick, Confessions, Adoration, public Stations of the Cross and Rosary Processions. The Faith Renewal Programme runs throughout the year, offering faith-based workshops, retreats, concerts and talks from guest speakers and facilitators.
Your Time at Knock Shrine
Whether you are visiting for just a few hours or several days, you will find plenty to enrich you during your time.
The Shrine sits on 100 acres of beautiful, landscaped grounds. There are five churches including the Apparition Chapel which encloses the original gable wall of the Parish Church. The Chapel is quiet and peaceful and provides a space for reflective prayer and contemplation.
The spire of the iconic Knock Basilica is visible across the western skyline as you approach Knock village. The Basilica houses the Apparition Mosaic, a stunning large-scale mosaic representing the Apparition scene, comprised of over 1.5 million pieces of colored glass.
The Mosaic was designed and illustrated by Irish illustrator PJ Lynch and made by hand by Travisanutto mosaic makers in Italy. You can also see a beautiful mural of The Last Supper, painted in the Celtic traditional style. Mass and Ceremonies are celebrated in the Basilica throughout the year, as well as special sacred music concerts and events. Take time to visit the Parish Church of Saint John the Baptist, the Chapel of Reconciliation, and the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.
Knock Museum
The best place to start your day at Knock is with a visit to the award-winning Knock Museum (open daily, admission free) where you can truly get a deeper sense of the Apparition in the context of life at the time and get a sense of the profound connection that pilgrims have to this special place today. Enjoy a self-guided
The Apparition at Knock draws people from all over the world who seek peace, healing and reconciliation.
The 46th President of the USA, Joe Biden was welcomed on a private visit to Knock Shrine during his visit to his ancestral roots in Mayo in April 2023. Having heard the unique story of the Knock Apparition, as depicted in the stunning Mosaic in the Basilica, President Biden followed in the footsteps of millions of pilgrims who had gone before him and made his way to the Apparition Chapel, the site of the Apparition of 1879.
The President took time for some quiet prayer and reflection in the Chapel and lit a candle for his prayer intentions. The historic occasion marked the first visit by a President of the United States of America to Knock Shrine.
tour of the grounds using an audio guide (available at Knock Museum). This service is free of charge and is a great way to explore the many beautiful artworks and points of interest.
Knock Bookshop (open daily), located on the grounds of the Shrine, is a calm haven where you can browse through a wide selection of spiritual books, journals, unique everyday titles, and all of the latest new releases. Choose from a selection of children’s books, saints, prayer and devotion, faith and spirituality, pastoral and health and well-being. You will also find a special selection of bespoke gifts from Knock Shrine. Online service available with international delivery.
There is a wide range of beautiful artworks at Knock Shrine, from large outdoor sculptures depicting Irish Saints to stunning stained glass windows, to the magnificent large-scale oil paintings of the Stations of the Cross at Knock Basilica painted by Westport based artist Ger Sweeney.
The pilgrimage season at Knock takes place from April to October yearly with daily Mass, Ceremonies, and public devotions. The National Novena to Our Lady of Knock takes place from 14-22 August, with ceremonies at 3pm and 8pm with guest speakers and an evening outdoor candlelight procession (weather permitting).
Spiritual Direction is available during the pilgrimage season in the peaceful prayer spaces in the Chapel of Reconciliation. Prayer Guidance is also available daily in the Prayer Centre as well as Evening Prayer in the Apparition Chapel.
Bring your group to Knock Shrine and enjoy a day immersed in peace and reflection. Whether you wish to visit for a few hours or a few days, an itinerary to suit your needs can be arranged. Groups who have a priest accompanying them can book a private Mass in the Apparition Chapel.
Every year, Knock Shrine hosts the National Novena to Our Lady of Knock, nine days of prayer and reflection from 14th – 22nd August.
A special feature of the Novena is the Family Day, when marquees and activities are set up in the Shrine grounds and families are welcomed to participate in a range of fun activities.
Get help in planning your visit
t. +353 (0) 94 93 88100 e. info@knockshrine.ie w. www.knockshrine.ie
Join us for daily Mass and ceremonies. Previous Masses are also available to watch back on our YouTube Channel.
Pray for a loved one by enrolling them in Knock Shrine Friends Association. Those who are enrolled are remembered in two Masses each day for one year at Knock Shrine.
If you can't come to Knock in person, you can still have a meaningful moment of prayer from the comfort of your home. Place a request to 'light a candle' on the Knock Shrine website and a real candle will be lit for your intentions at our outdoor candelabra.
Knock Shrine depends on the generosity of visitors. If you would like to support us in our work, please www.knockshrine. ie/make-donation/
Browse through a wide selection of spiritual books, journals and unique everyday titles as well as all of the latest new releases and popular books from the Bookshop at Knock Shrine. Categories include children's books, saints, prayer and devotion, faith and spirituality, pastoral, Vatican and health and well-being. Order seasonal resources for Easter, Advent and Christmas as well as liturgical calendars and diaries. You will also find a special selection of gift items, including bespoke gifts from Knock Shrine. International Delivery Available.
www.knockshrine.ie/online-shop/
LOCATED ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER MOY IN BALLINA, COUNTY MAYO, SAINT MUREDACH’S CATHEDRAL IS THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE LANDMARK IN THE TOWN. A PLACE OF PRAYER AND WORSHIP, IT WAS RECENTLY VISITED BY A DESCENDANT OF THE BLEWITT FAMILY WHO LEFT BALLINA DURING THE FAMINE TO SETTLE IN PENNSYLVANIA.
It was a predictable enough scene. On the table in St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, on the evening of 14th April last (2023), were two ledgers dating back to the early years of the nineteenth century. One was the first Cathedral Baptismal Register (1823); the other was the Cathedral Minute Book (1827), an extraordinary record of the building of Ballina Cathedral, described by the doyenne of nineteenth-century church historians, Professor Emmet Larkin of the
University of Chicago, as 'one of the most remarkable achievements in pre-Famine Ireland'.
After two centuries, the two invaluable archives sat forlornly on a gleaming white tablecloth which seemed to highlight the impression of their browned, bruised and battered condition. Standing over them and concentrating on their content was an 80-year-old returned emigrant, a common occurrence in parishes when
emigrants return searching for the gaps in a family's history.
But what was different about this encounter was that the emigrant was Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, whose great-great-great grandfather, Edward Blewitt left Ballina with his wife and family in 1851 at the tail-end of the years of the Great Famine to settle in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
But while Edward Blewitt's baptismal record was not accessible – he was born circa 1795, and the register is from 1823 – some of his children's baptisms were recorded, as was (in the Cathedral Minute Book) a record of the supply of bricks by Blewitt from his business and home base in garden Street in Ballina in 1828 in four separate invoices citing in all a total of £21-12-00 to 'Edward Blewitt, Brickman'. The President's visit was, in effect, a paying of dues to the memory of his forebears, a declaration of loyalty to his family past and present.
St. Muredach’s Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Killala. It's construction began with Bishop John McHale in 1827, with the foundation stone being laid on 24th of May of that year.
In 2027, God willing, St. Muredach’s Cathedral will celebrate its bi-centenary. Major renovations have been undertaken both inside and outside the cathedral in recent years. It is hoped to complete the work in the coming years in the leadin to the bi-centenary celebration. If you would like to learn more, check out the cathedral’s website at www.ballinaparish. org
(Thanks to: Brendan Hoban, Western People & Suas Drones, Ballina Co. Mayo)
PERCHED ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER MOY, OVERLOOKING ST MUREDACH'S CATHEDRAL IN THE CENTER OF THE BUSTLING HISTORIC GARRISON TOWN OF BALLINA, THE BALLINA MANOR HOTEL IS A FAMILY-RUN QUALITY HOTEL WITH A REPUTATION FOR GREAT FOOD AND THE WARMEST OF IRISH WELCOMES.
The North American love affair with Ireland continues and there’s no better place to pick up your story than in Ballina, North Mayo.
Ballina Manor Hotel is right in its heart, surrounded by quaint shops, narrow streets and traditional pubs. Rouse’s Bar, VJ Dohertys and An Bolg Buí Pub could have been plucked from your imagination. Expect chat from the locals, quality gifts, the warmth of a fire-lit pub, traditional music, and smooth pints of Guinness.
Back at the hotel the Ridgepool Restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of one of Ireland's top fishing destinations. Chef Ciaran Doherty
selects the finest local ingredients for his generous heart-warming menus with fresh fish specials. With river views it's the perfect spot for Afternoon Tea.
Find lots of little nooks and crannies for reading and hiding away, and the sound of the river with extra comfy beds makes for a restful night’s sleep. Expect a hearty breakfast in the morning.
Attractions like Connacht Distillery, St Muredach’s Cathedral and Foxford Woollen Mills are all close by, as are excellent fishing, surfing, golfing and charming country walks in Belleek Woods. North Mayo offers wonderful ocean scenery too, especially at Lacken Strand and Ross Beach.
Ballina Train and Bus Station is a fiveminute walk away, while free parking is available at the hotel, so it is easy to take or leave the car on your Wild Atlantic Way adventures.
Not to be missed by visitors exploring their Irish heritage and connecting with artifacts from their grandparents; and great grandparents is the Jackie Clarke Collection.
Arguably the most important collection outside of Dublin, featuring the 1916 Proclamation, Wolfe Tone's cockade and over 100,000 rare books, posters, newspapers, and treasures spanning 400 years.
President Joe Biden recently visited Mayo to much fanfare on his own heritage journey. His great, great, great grandfather, Edward Blewitt, emigrated to the US from Ballina over 160 years ago. His portrait, among others, make up the modern mural trail throughout the town.
Ballina is the ideal location for a west of Ireland holiday, being equidistant from Donegal and Galway as well as being close to Achill, Enniscrone, Westport, Connemara, and Sligo. It’s a true destination town on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Ballina Manor Hotel, perched on the banks of the River Moy in the heart of Ballina town looks forward to welcoming you to the West of Ireland. Enjoy the best of Irish cuisine and warm hospitality, as part of your Wild Atlantic Way journey.
Discover Local Heritage and your own Ancestry in the North Mayo Genealogical Centre or indulge in Golf, Salmon fishing, Surfing and Whiskey tasting in Ballina.
Ballina
The sound of the River Moy with extra comfy beds makes for a restful night’s sleep at The Ballina Manor Hotel.
AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS ‘THE WEE COUNTY’, LOUTH IS IRELAND’S LAND OF LEGENDS AND IS FULL OF LIFE! SAID TO BE THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE MYTHICAL WARRIOR CÚCHULAINN, AND THE SETTING FOR MANY OF HIS STORIES, REFERENCES TO HIS EXPLOITS CAN BE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY.
Located in Ireland’s Ancient East, midway between Dublin and Belfast, Louth is the smallest county in Ireland and stretches from the Boyne Valley northwards to the majestic Cooley Mountains. Visitors can wander miles of beautiful coastline with many Blue Flag beaches, and there are many historical attractions, festivals, topclass accommodations, award-winning local produce and delicious fresh seafood on offer.
County Louth is home to ‘Sea Louth’ – a scenic seafood trail. The trail captures what is best about County Louth’s 70km plus coastline, the stunning scenery and the finest local seafood. Come to explore the road less traveled, meet local characters, breathe the salty sea air, see
where seafood producers land their catch, eat fresh local dishes by the coast, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Simply pop into one of the tourist offices in Carlingford, Dundalk, or Drogheda to collect a ‘Sea Louth’ passport or print it from home via www.sealouth.ie The passport is a guide to 14 coastal scenic viewpoints along the trail.
Drop
Drogheda is the gateway to the worldfamous Boyne Valley region. Call into the Tourist Office located in the Thosel and discover all there is to see in the area with the ‘Drogheda, Gateway to the Boyne Valley’ exhibition. Be sure to pick up a map of the 'DRAWDA' Urban Art Trail; it is self-guided and focuses on key figures
and moments from the mythological past. Make sure to fit in a visit to Laurence’s Gate, the Medieval gateway to the town and the Highlanes Gallery, a former 19thcentury Franciscan Church, which houses the Municipal Art Collection, including the town’s most treasured heirlooms, a ceremonial sword and mace presented to the Borough Council of Drogheda by King William III of Orange after the Battle of the Boyne.
As the largest town in Ireland, Drogheda has a wealth of attractions within walking distance of each other. There are quiet lanes that feed into bustling thoroughfares and shopping areas, with many restaurants, cafes, bars and nightlife to enjoy.
St Peter's Catholic Church is located in the heart of Drogheda and is famous for housing the shrine of St Oliver Plunkett. It is a Gothic Revival church dating back to the 18th century and contains the preserved head of St Oliver Plunkett. Stroll to Millmount Martello Tower, known locally as the 'Cup and Saucer', then head to the adjoining Millmount museum, which houses various exhibitions on folklife, local industry and a fascinating collection of military memorabilia. It is located in the Cultural Quarter, home to an array of craft shops and artists’ studios.
The Boyne Valley Camino is a self-guided 25km looped walk that forms part of the Celtic Camino series. The walk goes from Drogheda along the River Boyne, through Townley Hall woods via Mellifont Abbey and Oldbridge House, through Tullyallen Village, along the Boyne Canal and returns to Drogheda along the Boyneside Trail.
Drive north to the remarkable monastic site of Monasterboice, best known for its collection of High Crosses dating back to the 9th century. There are three fine examples, most notably the South Cross (or Cross of Muiredach), the best surviving example of Irish religious art, and the West Cross (or Tall Cross), the tallest High Cross in Ireland, standing at nearly 23 feet high! A short drive from Monasterboice will bring you to Old Mellifont Abbey in Tullyallen, once one of the wealthiest and most influential monastic houses in medieval Ireland.
Further north is Dundalk, the county town, an ideal mid-way point between Dublin and Belfast. While steeped in history, this is a modern, multi-cultural town with a beautiful European-style piazza in the town center. The tourist office is located here, as well as information on all Dundalk and its surrounds has to offer, including the SEEK murals. There is a monthly walking tour of the murals, or you can get a map and follow the trail at your own pace.
Explore the cultural quarter, which includes An Táin Arts Centre, with its diverse program of local arts, national tours and visual arts. Dundalk is home to many local
St Patricks Pro Cathedral, Dundalk
artists who work in a variety of disciplines. Meanwhile, the Oriel Centre, in the historic Dundalk Gaol is open to visitors throughout the year with regular concerts featuring traditional Irish music performances.
St Patrick’s Pro-Cathedral at the heart of the town is an imposing Gothic design inspired by a chapel at King’s College in Cambridge, England named after St Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints. Just over 100 yards away is the multi-awardwinning County Museum, Dundalk. Over three galleries of permanent exhibitions the museum chronicles the historical development of County Louth. With over 50,000 items ranging from the proverbial (Viking) needle to an anchor, there is something here for everyone, including the quirky three-wheeled Ferrari-red Heinkel motor car in the lobby.
On the western edge of Dundalk, Cúchulainn’s Castle / Castletown Motte is the ruin of a castellated house known as 'Byrne's Folly,' built in 1780 by Patrick Byrne, a well-known pirate. This site is also said to be Cúchulainn’s birthplace.
Midway between Drogheda and Dundalk is the town of Ardee, which has a special place in Irish mythology as the site of the epic four-day battle between Cúchulainn and Ferdia at the fording point on the River Dee. Cúchulainn eventually won, and after fatally wounding Ferdia, he carried him across the ford so he could die in honor. A bronze sculpture located close to the river commemorates the mythical battle.
Ardee Castle, the largest surviving fortified medieval tower-house in Ireland, and Hatch’s Castle, built in the 1400s, are sited
Carlingford is a magical village full of character and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Ireland. Its history, stunning harbor and the the famous mountains of Mourne all combine to make Carlingford a idyllic destination.
on the town's main street. Also worth a visit are St Mary’s Abbey and the unusually named Jumping Church.
Traveling north of Dundalk to Faughart, visit the shrine to St Brigid, one of Ireland's patron saints. There you will find the ruins of a small medieval church, St Brigid's Bed, St Brigid's Pillar and St Brigid's Well. If you visit the shrine on her feast day, 1st February, there are likely to be thousands of pilgrims making their way to this ancient site of tranquillity and healing.
2024 marks the 1,500th anniversary of St Brigid's death, and a series of celebrations will take place between 2023 and 2024 to mark the event and create a meaningful legacy for all to enjoy. The Brigid1500 program seeks to engage communities throughout the county to come together to celebrate St Brigid's life and legacy, including live concerts with local musicians and choirs. Libraries and county museums will host workshops and lectures
throughout the year centered around the theme of St Brigid. A series of textile and artistic creations by local artist(s) will be exhibited during the celebrations and there will be walking tours at the place of her birth at Faughart, taking in the shrine and St Brigid's Well. A host of activities will be added to the agenda – keep an eye on the visitlouth website for details.
Nearby, on the grounds of Ballymascanlon House Hotel is the Proleek Domen –one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland. It has a huge capstone weighing approximately 35 tons at three meters high. Legend has it that a wish will be granted to anyone who can land a pebble on its capstone so that it stays there.
To the county's north are the Cooley Peninsula and Carlingford, a picturesque village nestled between Slieve Foye, Carlingford Lough and the Mountains of Mourne. It is full of character and charm and is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Ireland. Its history, narrow medieval streets, lanes leading to the harbor, majestic Slieve Foye mountain, and the famous Mountains of Mourne across the lough combine to make
Laurence’s Gate, Drogheda Brigid of Faughart, Mural, Dundalk
Carlingford unique. The Carlingford Lough Ferry allows visitors to enjoy the scenic lough and the Mourne-CooleyGullion region.
Carlingford is home to a host of outdoor activities, including guided walking tours, walking or cycling along the Carlingford Lough Greenway (which travels north along the shores of the lough to the lovely seaside village of Omeath), hill walking, horse trekking, sailing, yacht charter, windsurfing, canoeing and water skiing. Carlingford is also a great base with numerous restaurants, cozy pubs and excellent accommodations.
Travel inland to the nearby historic and picturesque villages of Tallanstown, Dromiskin, and Knockbridge. Visit Cúchulainn’s Stone on the outskirts of
Knockbridge, which is more than three meters high. Also nearby is Stephenstown Pond, a unique nature park with lakeside walkways, woodlands and a wide array of wildlife. A cottage that was once the home of Agnes Burns, sister of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, is also located here.
Louth offers a wonderful array of historical attractions, outdoor pursuits, festivals, top-class accommodations and friendly locals. Thousands of years of history, myth and legend combine with dramatic scenery and coastline to produce a memorable experience, truly a land of legends, full of life.
Carlingford lies in the shade of Slieve Foye, a mountain that in legend takes its form from the body of the sleeping giant Finn MacCumhaill. The castle dominates the town and overlooks the lough harbor. It was a vital point of defence for the area for centuries.
THE COUNTY MUSEUM, DUNDALK, IS ONE OF IRELAND'S BEST MUSEUMS. OVER THREE GALLERIES OF PERMANENT EXHIBITION, IT RETELLS THE HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COUNTY LOUTH – IRELAND’S SMALLEST COUNTY AND YET ITS BIGGEST SECRET – IN A WAY THAT IS BOTH RELEVANT AND REWARDING.
With over 50,000 items ranging from the proverbial (Viking) needle to an anchor, the historical, social, industrial and cultural development of Louth, is on view.
Louth is a county steeped in legends and stories. It is the birthplace of St. Brigid and Irish mythology’s greatest hero, Cúchulainn, as well as the home to Arctic explorer Sir Francis Leopold McClintock (who mapped much of the Canadian coastline); engineer Peter Rice (who was involved in many of the 20th Century's most remarkable building projects), Beatrice Hill-Lowe (the first Irishwoman ever to win an Olympic medal) and botanist Thomas Coulter (whose poppy graces the Museum courtyard every summer).
In celebrating these achievements, the museum also highlights the area’s
historical and defining events. In many ways, the story of Louth mirrors the national story e.g., the role and importance of Christianity (the monastic sites of Mellifont and Monasterboice), the impact of the arrival of the Vikings at Annagassan, the Battle of the Boyne and its legacy, and Cromwell’s fatal attack on Drogheda.
Of course, Louth’s story is much more than this – the impact of industrialization is hugely significant here, arguably more so than in any other part of the island. Dundalk was Ireland's shoe capital and home to the Great Northern Railway, producing the three-wheeled Heinkel motor car, not forgetting its strong tradition of heavy engineering, brewing, distilling and tobacco production. Ultimately, the combination of social, industrial, economic and military history
makes Louth and the County Museum, Dundalk so compelling. These are stories of aspiration and failure, economic boom, bust and re-birth; stories of our ancestors who sought to make their own way in life and a people who endured famine and war yet prevailed, providing later generations with the inspiration to survive and thrive. Their story is our story; this is the story of us.
In this great future, you can't forget your pastBob Marley
There have been many nights to remember at The Windsor; this one will go down in history as the place where Joe Biden made his first speech on his recent visit to Ireland. Situated at the corner of Dublin Street and Vincent Avenue, The Windsor is close to the town's main shopping complex and boasts a selection of bars, an off licence and a full 150-seater a la carte restaurant.
The McGeough family have been in the business in Dundalk since the 1950s and have run The Windsor since 1984. Maureen helped out in the early days and today her son Donal, together with 45 wonderful staff steers a great ship. Both were on hand to meet their most famous visitor and extend him a warm Irish welcome.
Donal said that while a few establishments were contenders for the President’s visit, he only learned that it could be his pub the day before it happened.
"Considering the magnitude of the occasion, there would normally be several weeks’ notice to allow for security checks and vetting, but in this case we were told on Monday that it may or may not happen, and then on Tuesday, the security lads arrived,” Donal says with a smile.
“The good thing was, I only had one sleepless night on Tuesday. After that all I had to do was open the doors and let in the secret service, White House staff, the CIA and the guards,” Donal adds. “It was kind of surreal but exciting, a historic occasion,
and we were delighted to welcome them all in.”
There was no bar service while the US delegation and the Gardai did their prechecks, but Donal made sure they were all well fed; after all, the pub has a reputation for great food and Donal was determined to live up to it!
On the big day, politicians, councilors, members of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, Comhairle na nOg, Taniste Michael Martin, national and international media, friends and family all packed the pub to capacity, and the atmosphere was electric.
The President gave a heartfelt speech saying, “I wish my mom Catherine Eugenie Finnegan Biden were here –Louth had such a special place in her heart.” He also talked of his Grandpa Finnegan, who used to say, “Remember Joey, the best drop of blood in you is Irish!” Grandpa Finnegan had never been to Ireland, but he raised his family with pride in their Irish ancestry.
President Biden made his way through the 150-strong crowd and mingled with everyone, including his local relatives, the Finnegans and the Kearneys. He even went behind the counter to shake hands and take photos with staff.
To Donal's delight, the President made a particular fuss of ‘the most important person in the room.’
"My mother Maureen and my eldest son Sebastian were here. My mother who is 89 was sitting in the snug and he made a beeline for her and said, "I'm going to talk to the most important person in the room. She is a mother of 10, grandmother of 37 and great-grandmother of 17, and he really made a big deal of her. Before he
left, he made a point of going over to her again to say goodbye and give her a kiss. It was just wonderful."
Politics aside, Donal says the visit and the atmosphere will stay with everybody for a lifetime, concluding, “he was a really sincere and great guy. Such a memorable night and it has put us in the history books. It was great for the town.”
President Biden remembered his Grandpa Finnegan fondly. He used to say, “Remember Joey, the best drop of blood in you is Irish!”
Specialising in Home-Cooked Food | Open Monday to Sunday
All produce sourced locally | Seating for 150 people
“First class food and service. Extensive menus makes for a difficult choice. Looking forward to taking my son and his partner there when they visit us from England. ”
Alan Reilly, England“Our meal was beautiful as always, love this restaurant, we have been regular customers this last 17 years and it never fails to impress us.
Bernadette Magill, Dundalk
“My favourite restaurant. The best quality of food and the staff are always so helpful. Definitely recommend, it’s our treat to come here. Love it.”
John Murphy, DublinTHE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, SPA & LEISURE CLUB, CARLINGFORD, LIES PEACEFULLY UNDER THE INSPIRING COOLEY MOUNTAINS, OVERLOOKING CARLINGFORD LOUGH AND ONLY A STONE'S THROW FROM THE RAMBLING STREETS OF THE BEAUTIFUL MEDIEVAL VILLAGE OF CARLINGFORD.
Carlingford is a must-see destination in Ireland – the coastal drive into Carlingford alone will give you that "never want to leave" feeling. A jewel in the crown of Ireland's Ancient East, Carlingford offers rugged landscapes, spectacular sea views, boutique shopping and cultural events consistently bringing a buzz of holiday feel and fun to all its visitors.
The hotel has recently undergone renovation, including fabulous executive bedrooms and brand-new signature
suites. The classically decorated lobby with a modern twist features sphere-hanging chandeliers and chic button tufted sofas. Guests can take advantage of the many eatery options in the new Lough Lounge restaurant or bar, while the leisure club with swimming pool, steam room, sauna and jacuzzi is a great way to relax at the end of a day exploring.
Discover the true meaning of a Spa break in the peace and tranquillity of the new Luxe Spa nestled between the mountains
and the sea. The spa team is committed to providing the ultimate in extravagance and relaxation. Luxe Spa treatments have been designed to encourage total comfort and well-being. The Spa is proud to announce the new Thermal & Wellness Suite hosting Ireland's first sun meadows: Vitamin D Therapy and Collagen Light Therapy. Relax in the Himalayan Salt Cave, hot tubs, experience showers and much more.
The Four Seasons Hotel is the ideal location for family get-togethers, reunions or destination weddings. Set in the tranquil
setting of Carlingford Lough, one hour from Dublin and Belfast, this is the perfect backdrop for any gathering.
At the Four Seasons Hotel, Spa & Leisure Club, Carlingford, you will be assured a warm welcome, superb cuisine, exceptional service, and a destination holiday amongst the best in the Emerald Isle.
+353 42 9373530
info@fshc.ie
www.4seasonshotelcarlingford.ie
The Crowne Plaza Hotel Dundalk has one of the most stunning views of all Dundalk Hotels, making it the perfect sightseeing venue in Louth. we pride ourselves on excellent conference facilities and luxury four-star accommodation in the heart of County Louth.
The Crowne Plaza Dundalk Hotel is an elegant 14 storey building o ering 129 superbly designed en-suite bedrooms, the most luxurious, Dundalk accommodation. Couple this with our renowned service and you have a recipe for the best accommodation in Dundalk.
Dundalk has established itself as the street art capital of Ireland with the completion of the country’s tallest mural. The 41meter tall mural of the warrior god Lugh (Lu) was completed by Australian artist Sam Bates aka Smug-One, and has fast become a tourist attraction. It took the Glasgow-based artist ten days using 247 cans of spray paint and 180 liters of emulsion, to paint the impressive image of Lugh, with his gleaming blue spear and an Irish wolfhound at his feet.
The town our hotel calls home, and surrounding environs have deep associations with the Irish mythical warrior Cú Chulainn (Coo Cullenn). Cú Chulainn is a mortal hero endowed with godlike strength and rage. In some iterations of his story, he is the son of the God Lú, in others, he is only favored by him.
Cú Chulainn features heavily in the Táin Bó Cuailhgne (Tawn Boe Coo-inn-ya) Irelands Illiad. The Táin Bó Cúailnge, or 'Cattle Raid of Cooley', is the most famous tale in Irish mythology. It is at the center of the Ulster Cycle of mythological sagas, known as the Rúraíocht in Irish.
Located midway between Dublin and Belfast we pride ourselves on excellent conference facilities and luxury four-star accommodation in the heart of County Louth.
Dundalk to Dublin Airport 46 min (72.1 km) via M1
Dundalk to Belfast Airport 1 hr 12 min (59.1 miles) via A1 Find
FOAMING SEAS, STAGGERING CLIFFS, ANCIENT SIGHTS AND STAR-FILLED NIGHTS; THE AWE-INSPIRING VIEWS OF IRELAND'S SOUTHERN STAR HAVE MESMERIZED VISITORS FOR CENTURIES.
Discover three impeccable peninsulas –Dingle, Iveragh, and Beara, each with its own unique identity, not to mention North Kerry with its sandy beaches, world-class golf courses and historic sites. From the ancient and ethereal beauty of the Ring of Kerry to the roaring seas of the Dingle Peninsula, experience that edge-of-the-world feeling along this untamed stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Start from Tralee, and seek out Dingle amongst the immaculate beaches and craggy cliffs of the Dingle Peninsula. Framed by its fishing port, the peninsula's ‘capital' Dingle Town is quaint without even trying.
Some pubs double as shops, so you can enjoy Guinness and a singalong among screws and nails, wellies and horseshoes. The town is picture postcard perfect; a cosmopolitan, creative place that attracts artists and creative types aplenty as well as hosts of visitors in the summer months.
Dine out on the freshest of shellfish in places like The Chart House and raise a toast to your fine adventure with Dingle's own whiskey, gin or vodka from the Dingle Distillery, before asking the locals to teach you "cúpla focáil" (a few words) in Irish to take home. After all, this is Gaeltacht territory.
Nearby Dunquin is renowned for its scenery and surviving Gaelic culture. A stunning trail on the Dingle Way winds through the natural splendor of West Kerry. The coastal walk leads from Dingle to Dunquin, offering spectacular ocean views as you walk along beaches and green pastures with sheep and cows for company.
Dunquin sits at the most westerly tip of the Dingle Peninsula overlooking the Blasket Islands. At 10°27'16"W, it is the most westerly settlement of Ireland. ‘Next stop America’ they say in these parts. The harbor offers spectacular views of the Islands and the narrow, winding pathway leading to
the pier is featured in many calendars, postcards and travel brochures. Visit in the evening to experience spectacular sunsets.
Uninhabited since 1953, ferries leave from here, and from nearby Ventry taking visitors out to the island with breathtaking
views while listening to the calls of breeding seabirds. A truly magical trip, it offers glimpses of dolphins, whales, and porpoises.
On the northern neck of the Dingle Peninsula sits Kerry’s largest town. Tralee is everything you imagine about a county capital, a thriving town with a range of indoor and outdoor attractions. Founded by the Normans in 1216, Tralee has a long history of rebellion. In the 16th century the last ruling Earl of the Desmonds was captured and executed here. His head was sent to Elizabeth I, who spiked it on London Bridge!
Tralee is a friendly place known for impromptu music sessions and serious craic in any one of its fine pubs. Slip into any Tralee pub on any unassuming evening and you'll likely be treated to a lively session of fiddlers and guitarists sipping on pints and jamming on traditional Irish tunes. The town really embraces tradition. Catch a show at Siamsa Tire, Ireland’s National Folk Theatre or better still, time your trip to coincide with the utterly unique Rose of Tralee Festival.
The Rose of Tralee International Festival is one of the largest and longest-running festivals in Ireland, celebrating 65 years in 2024. The heart of the festival is the selection of the Rose of Tralee which brings young women of Irish descent from around the world to County Kerry for a global celebration of Irish culture. The festival includes street entertainment, carnival, live concerts, theatre, circus, markets, funfair, fireworks and Rose Parades. Unlike any other pageant in the world, this is one of Ireland’s most loved and celebrated festivals.
County Kerry arguably has some of the most stunning beaches in the country, if not in the world, which is why thousands of families travel to its coastline every year to enjoy the striking views and clean water.
Take a moment to relax on Inch Beach, a 5km long sand spit jutting into the sea between the outer Dingle Bay and inner Castlemaine Harbor overlooking the magnificent Iveragh and Dingle Peninsulas. Breathe in the bracing air and soak up the glorious view; only then will you understand why this stretch of nature was chosen by David Lean as the beach
location for the movie Ryan's Daughter, and why the Playboy of the Western World was shot in its entirety here.
Take the ferry from Renard Point on the Iveragh Peninsula to Knightstown on Valentia Island. Valentia is an island of great beauty and contrast. It is joined to the mainland by a bridge via the Portmagee
County Kerry's Irish motto “Comhar, Cabhair, Cairdeas” translates to “Cooperation, Help, Friendship” which is what you will find in its charming towns and villages.
Channel. The western part of the island is dominated by the barren, dramatic cliffs of Bray Head which command spectacular views of the Kerry coastline while the mild effect of the Gulf Stream results in Valentia's balmy climate and lush, colorful vegetation.
A photographer’s paradise, you'll soon be distracted by mind-blowing views. This is, after all, part of the Ring of Kerry. Wind your way along the sheer cliffs looking out over the ocean, towards the Bray Head Tower. Built during the Napoleonic War, the tower was used again during World War II, and it is here that you'll see the word "ÉIRE" spelled out in stones: a signal to pilots that they were on the Irish coast. Peer out towards the stalwart Skellig Islands, and you might even catch a glimpse of a whale passing in the water below.
One of the largest islands off the South West coast of Kerry, a plethora of living
flora and fauna make this beautiful Island their home. Equally stunning are Fogher Cliffs and Geokaun Mountain.
Valentia was the eastern terminus of the first commercially viable transatlantic telegraph cable. This vast endeavor resulted, after four attempts, in commercially viable transatlantic telegraph communications from Foilhommerum Bay to Heart's Content, Newfoundland in 1866. Transatlantic telegraph cables operated from Valentia Island for one hundred years.
The island's historical lineage, however, goes back much further than that. Tetra pod footprints were found on the northern part of the island. These magnificent imprints of history are thought to date from Devonian times between some 350 to 370 million years ago.
Discover a whole different ‘dark side’ at the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve. Ireland’s first Dark-Sky region (Gold Tier), and the only Gold Tiered reserve in the whole of the northern hemisphere, on clear moonless nights the sky in this region of Ireland is simply stunning with many more astronomical sights to be seen with the naked eye than can be seen in the Grand Canyon or the desert plains of Africa.
One of the major assets of having a naturally dark sky is that you can view the sky as our ancestors did. Without the aid of any instrument other than your own eyes you will see thousands of stars varying in size and color, you’ll easily see the band of our own home Milky Way Galaxy, other galaxies, clusters, planets, satellites, nebulas and falling stars.
Back on the Ring of Kerry via the pretty fishing village of Portmagee, you will find
the main access point to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Skellig Michael. Famously home to Jedi knights, Skellig Michael was first occupied in the 6th century by monks who sought solitude and peace. The mind boggles at the challenges they must have faced living in this incredible location. If you're lucky enough to visit, climb the steep stone steps to the summit where stark beehive huts cling to the rock and an overwhelming sense of calm prevails. It’s a climb only for the fittest, so for those less able, take it all in at The Skellig Experience in Valentia, or hitch a boat ride with Skellig Michael Boat Trips. A variety of trips are available including a ‘Force Awakens’ sunrise/sunset or dark sky cruise.
Tucked away at the very end of the Iveragh Peninsula is the beautiful seaside village of Waterville, boasting miles of sandy beaches and views out into the glittering ocean. Waterville is unique in the fact that it is the only village on the Ring of Kerry that is actually right on the coast (you can taste the salt water on the main street on a calm day) and sandwiched on a strip of ground between the lake and ocean. Famed as Charlie Chaplin's favorite retreat, tales are told to this day of his fly-fishing skills (or rather, lack of them).
Golfers will delight at the renowned Waterville Golf Links, rated among the top links in Britain and Ireland. The brainchild of Irish-American businessman John Mulcahy and Eddie Hackett, no two holes are alike and Waterville has truly won its place among the necklace of great links of the west coast of Ireland.
On the banks of the bay, the haven of tranquility that is Kenmare sits perched between the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara. One of the few planned towns in Ireland, Kenmare was laid out on an X-shaped street plan in the late 18th century by the Marquis of Lansdowne as the showpiece of his Kerry estates. The Market House and the Lansdowne Arms Hotel still survive from this period – pick up a copy of the Kenmare Heritage Trail from the tourist office to discover more.
The history of the town is tied up in elegance, with the main industry of lace having lent its riches to the town – pieces of Kenmare lace are owned by Queen Elizabeth II and the Pope.
Famed as a foodie destination, this bustling, colorful town is a pretty spot with streets lined with craft shops, galleries, cafes and top-quality restaurants. The Lime Tree is recognized as a Kenmare's landmark and tables book up fast, so call ahead! Housed in a beautiful building dating back to 1832, quality ingredients are sourced locally and then carefully prepared with passion. Fish from the cleanest waters in Europe is delivered daily and lamb is provided by the local farmer. Simple caring preparation ensures tasty food with an emphasis on value for money in an informal manner.
The jewel of this area, though, lies just outside Kenmare. Ever wanted to see a majestic red deer up close? Visit Killarney National Park and you might! The native red deer are unique in Ireland with a presence in the country since the last Ice Age.
Internationally renowned for its scenic beauty Killarney National Park encompasses the three Lakes of Killarney and the mountains and woods which surround them. South and west of the town of Killarney is an expanse of rugged mountainous country. This includes the McGillycuddy's Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland, which rises to a height of over 1000 meters. At the foot of these mountains nestle the world-famous lakes of Killarney. Here where the mountains sweep down to the lake shores, their lower slopes covered in woodlands, lies the 10,236 hectares, Killarney National Park. The distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls under everchanging skies gives the area its unique scenic beauty.
The focal point of the National Park for visitors is Muckross House and Gardens. Elegantly furnished rooms portray the lifestyles of the landed gentry, while downstairs in the basement you can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the ‘big house’ back in the day.
While delicacies, such as prawns, oysters and scallops are harvested from the sea, venison, grass-fed, free-range beef, prized Kerry lamb and other locally-produced delicacies raised across the county's farmlands are menu staples in these parts.
Muckross House is home to a number of skilled craftworkers, who can be seen using skills in the crafts of weaving, pottery and bookbinding. The aptly named Mucros Weavers can be found here – an ideal spot to pick up a genuine hand-woven scarf to take back home.
See scarves being made with the finest quality yarns on Hattersly looms that are almost 200 years old. The older the loom the softer the scarf! And because all scarves are individually woven, they have a selvedge on each side ensuring they will stand the test of time and perhaps be handed down through the generations.
Visiting Killarney Town (and this is a “must”) be sure to call to Killarney House, restored to its former splendor and the beautiful gardens that surround it.
The draw of south Kerry and its magnificent peninsulas are hard to resist but north of the county from Tralee there is beauty in equal share which to a great extent, lie undiscovered. Take Ballybunion, for example, a beach town perhaps best known for its eponymous golf club and for being a firm favorite of former American President Bill Clinton.
The area is blessed with glorious beaches and panoramic cliff walks. The two commonly used beaches in Ballybunion, divided by the cliff atop which stands the ruined castle are known as ‘Men's Beach’ and ‘Ladies Beach’, given the fact that men used to bathe on a separate beach from women and children. The Nun’s Beach, a beautiful beach that is overlooked by an old convent, is accessed only using a steep track with the assistance of a rope handrail. The sheer cliffs over the beach have a scenic walking path, featuring a blowhole, views of sea stacks and a multitude of wildlife. The blowhole is a natural formation also known as The Nine Daughters Hole. According to local legend, the nine daughters of a local chieftain fell in love with nine invading Vikings and planned to elope and get married. The chieftain threw his daughters and the Vikings into the blowhole and they drowned.
Here you can meet award-winning authors, Hollywood stars, critics, readers and writers at Ireland’s best-known literary festival. Listowel Writers Week was established in 1970 and it has attracted international heavyweights such as JM Coetzee, Kazuo Ishiguro, Lionel Shriver and Germaine Greer to its relaxed atmosphere. It’s the mixture of talent and fun that creates the magic.
Playwright Michael West says, “Listowel is great because everyone likes books, of course, but they like to talk even more, so these household names go from pub to pub having deep chats with readers over a pint. It’s all a bit seat-of-the-pants,” says Michael West, but that’s its charm. “You’ll see big Hollywood stars get up, read something out and then wander around seeing what else is going on.”
Stars of the four-legged variety are a feature of Listowel Races, the social and sporting highlight of the Irish racing calendar. So much more than horse racing, this is a week-long affair of pure unadulterated enjoyment. A gathering of people with a
common aim, to have fun. Only matched in length by the Galway festival, seven days of turf, thrills and the passion of great racing are yours for the taking.
Listowel has plenty of excellent pubs and restaurants; it is a foodie town with a
vibrant open-air farmers’ market every Friday. Here you can walk in the footsteps of Bryan MacMahon and John B. Keane and even enjoy a pint of the black stuff in John B’s pub on William Street.
WE HAVE THE IDEAL VENUE IN THE IDEAL TOWN:
- a c o u p l e o f m i n u t e s w a l k f r o m b e a u t i f u l c h u r c h m e a n s n o t r a n s p o r t r e q u i r e d f o r g u e s t s
- a b i l i t y t o b o o k a l l r o o m s e x c l u s i v e l y o v e r s e v e r a l d a y s
- s h o r t w a l k t o a l l w e d d i n g s e r v i c e s s u p p l i e r s o f t h e h i g h e s t q u a l i t y
- s i s t e r b e a c h h o t e l o n W i l d A t l a n t i c W a y f o r p r e o r p o s t w e d d i n g p a r t i e s
- A w a r d w i n n i n g f a m i l y r u n v e n u e i n - h o u s e w e d d i n g c o o r d i n a t o r
- b e a u t i f u l r o o m s a p p r o v e d f o r l e g a l c i v i l & h u m a n i s t c e r e m o n i e s w i t h c o m p l i m e n t a r y d e c o r
- p i c t u r e s q u e h i s t o r i c I r i s h t o w n o f L i s t o w e l , a m u l i t p l e w i n n e r o f t h e N a t i o n a l T i d i e s t t o w n
- s t u n n i n g b a c k d r o p s f o r p h o t o s a t t h e l o c a t i o n
- l e t y o u r g u e s t s t a k e o v e r L i s t o w e l T o w n w i t h i t s t h e a t r e , m u s e u m s , f u n t r a d i t i o n a l p u b s , m u s i c v e n u e s a n d m a n y i n d i v i d u a l b o u t i q u e s
- p r o x i m i t y t o t h r e e i n t e r n a t i o n a l a i r p o r t s : K e r r y , S h a n n o n , C o r k
THE HISTORIC BUILDING OF THE LISTOWEL ARMS HOTEL DATES TO 1790 AND STILL RETAINS ITS ORIGINAL GEORGIAN FEATURES.
The venue is Ideally located in the heart of the heritage town of Listowel beside the 15th-century Listowel Castle and the River Feale. St Mary's Church as well as the town park and gardens are within a short walk, while the cliff and beaches of the Atlantic are only a few minutes drive away.
Over the years the hotel has been awarded by wedding industry experts many times, including the latest Overall Best Wedding Venue of the Year 2023, Kerry and Munster. Listowel town is located in the southwest of Ireland in the picturesque county Kerry. Its proximity to Shannon airport and the River Shannon ferry makes the hotel an ideal destination for a wedding in Ireland. Here is what some couples said about their beautiful day:
Our experience from the first meeting with Patrice in the Listowel Arms Hotel, right up to the day itself was just a joy. We live in Canada, so planning a wedding in a different time zone adds a layer of complexity, but even with that, Patrice still made it a breeze. She immediately understood our vision and taste and worked with us to ensure everything was right. She took all the stress out of planning the reception and walked us through everything. On the day, the hotel was decorated beautifully; the flowers, center pieces, and every tiny detail were just stunning. Not only that, but the food was incredible, and the service was second to none. Patrice and the whole team at the Listowel Arms Hotel ensured our guests and ourselves were well taken care of - we couldn't have been happier with everything they did. - Roisin & Daniel.
The Listowel Arms hosted our wedding reception and I couldn't wait to give the hotel its entire staff a glowing recommendation! First, upon entering the hotel, the beauty of the common-area rooms is striking. What you don't notice until you enter the individual hotel rooms is that they are all unique and utterly charming.
Being from the U.S., planning a wedding from afar was daunting but Patrice took care of every single detail -- she might just be a mind reader! Our wedding day ended up being a bit breezy and Patrice even offered to drive me up to the church herself. Every staff member we encountered throughout our entire stay was so pleasant and welcoming. We brought a bit of a rowdy crew of 80-something people across the Atlantic with us and the hotel staff were utter professionals with everyone throughout the entirety of the weekend. In addition, the food was stellar! The real hits of the night were the lamb, the salmon, and the goats cheese salad. The bar was top notch; there was never a wait for a drink.
I cannot say enough about how fantastic our stay was, particularly the wedding!
Our friends and family are still raving about it and are so happy. I only wish we could do it all over again! Highly highly recommended! - Shannon & Corey Gaul.
Roisin and Daniel
WITH ITS LAKESIDE SETTING AND VICTORIAN SPLENDOR, DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF THE MAGIC OF MUCKROSS, WITH SOMETHING TO APPEAL TO ALL AGES.
The world-renowned 19th-century Victorian mansion is situated amidst the spectacular scenery of Killarney National Park – Ireland’s premier National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney’s three lakes, famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base to explore this landscape.
Enjoy guided tours of the house and take in the elegantly furnished rooms, which portray the lifestyles of the gentry, and downstairs experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the house.
The Muckross Estate dates back to the 17th century when the first member of the Herbert family, who were originally from Wales, came to settle in Killarney. The present-day Muckross House was built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his family. It was completed in 1843. It is situated close to the eastern shore of Muckross Lake, taking full advantage of the magnificent views which can be enjoyed from this location.
Most of the house has been preserved as a late 19th-century mansion, with furniture and artifacts from that period. Portraits by John Singer Sargent adorn the walls alongside trophy stag heads,
while antique Killarney furniture with its distinctive inlaid scenes of local beauty spots graces the grand apartments along with tapestries, Persian rugs, silverware and china specially commissioned for Queen Victoria’s visit in 1861.
Muckross Gardens adjoin the house and are mainly informal in style. They date back to the mid-19th century when the Herbert family carried out extensive landscaping in preparation for the visit of Queen Victoria. Throughout their tenure at Muckross, the Herberts played a very active role in social and political life and the development and improvement of the Muckross Estate.
Relive the past and take a stroll down memory lane to a time before the advent of electricity at Muckross Traditional Farms, complete with three working farms from Kerry in the 1930s. Meet the bean an tí’s (women of the house) and watch the farmers as they work in the fields. Back in the day, the horse reigned supreme - all farming activities were carried out using horsepower and traditional farm machinery. The rhythm of life followed a yearly cycle and the farmer’s activities were governed by the seasons and the weather.
Visit three separate working farms, each complete with animals, poultry and machinery. The farm dwellings are furnished in traditional style, complete with dressers, settlebeds, and meal bins. There is also a laborer’s cottage, a carpenter’s workshop, and a blacksmith’s forge. Children will love the farm petting area, playground, picnic area and bouncy cottage! Visitors can also enjoy a free trip on the Muckross Coach.
Enjoy casual dining in the Garden Restaurant, conservatory and garden terrace with breathtaking views of Torc Mountain and Killarney’s famous National Park. All food is homecooked and reasonably priced with an extensive lunch and snack menu. Delicious pastries, scones and desserts are all made in the bakery at Muckross House. Children’s menu, vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.
Traditional farms, complete with three working farms from Kerry in the 1930s.
Take a stroll down memory lane to a time before the advent of electricity at Muckross
Muckross House is run by a trust as a voluntary and not-for-profit organization. Its mission statement is to act as guardians of the heritage of Muckross House and the traditions and folk-life of Kerry.
At Mucros Craft Centre, adjacent to the main house, Mucros Weavers create an extensive range of colorful scarves, stoles, capes and rugs on-site made from the finest wool, mohair and alpaca. There is also a headwear and bag collection in beautiful textiles that will stand the test of time and add elegance to any outfit.
Woven into the fabric of a local community, quality Irish hand-weaving is more farreaching than traditional craftspeople could ever have imagined. From humble beginnings, Mucros Weavers have grown to supply stores worldwide in countries including the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Japan. Discover the rich tapestry of Irish hand-weaving for yourself during your visit and treat yourself to a little piece of Kerry heritage.
KILLARNEY GLAMPING AT THE GROVE IS A TRULY UNIQUE GETAWAY AND ONE OF IRELANDS FEW “COUPLE’S ONLY” DESTINATIONS. DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY WITH THE IRISH CLIMATE IN MIND, ENJOY A SENSE OF ADVENTURE WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON LUXURY. WITH VIEWS OF KILLARNEY’S MOUNTAINS AND NATURAL MEADOWS DESCENDING TO THE BANKS OF THE RIVER FLESK, ENJOY A FEAST FOR ALL THE SENSES.
They offer a choice of fully self-contained Romantic Glamping Suites, Luxury Lodges and Cabins. Accommodating two guests each this is a perfect base for couples or solo travellers.
Picture yourself sitting al fresco under a million stars chatting until the early hours on your heated patio. Imagine lazy mornings curling up under your duvet listening to the dawn chorus from the forest beyond. Stroll hand in hand to our riverbank and you may even glimpse one of our many special residents ranging from otters to pheasants and horses to heron.
With all this on their doorstep you would be forgiven for forgetting the picturesque Killarney Town Centre is less than a mile from us, a 20 minute stroll or €8 in a taxi.
Spend a while to browse the numerous galleries and boutiques, stop for some locally made ice-cream or enjoy a range of night life entertainment from international acts at the INEC (Ireland’s National Events Centre) to award winning pubs.
Rest assured whether you choose a Romantic Glamping Suite, Luxury Lodge or the new Cabins at the Grove the emphasis is on your privacy and relaxation. To ensure the utmost enjoyment of all guests they do not accommodate groups at Killarney Glamping at the Grove. So if you are looking for a relaxed and peaceful getaway you have just found it!
Whatever option you choose you will enjoy a spacious bedroom with gorgeous natural views from your King or Double
Bed and heating throughout. Private kitchens and BBQs as standard come kitted out with everything from coffee machines to crockery allowing you show off your culinary skills. If laid back is more your style there is a variety of takeaway restaurants that will deliver right to the gate. The bathrooms with strong power showers are all fully en-suite and towels to organic toiletries are included. Get competitive with the selection of board games from monopoly to decks of cards provided. At days end you can enjoy your private patio perfect for taking in the sights and sound of the meadow.
The emphasis here is very much on privacy and relaxation and even though the owners are available on site at all times they also offer a completely contactless stay. Each suite, lodge or cabin is orientated to allow for maximum privacy. Owners Linda and Mike pride themselves on going the extra mile and have teamed up with numerous local suppliers to help you make the most of your time with them. A Spa Day with
Afternoon Tea, romantic sunset kayaking on Killarney’s Lakes or guided climbs of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s Highest Peak are just some of the activities that can be arranged.
Ideally located in Irelands southwest you can explore acres of Killarney’s UNESCO National Park by day, take in a show or concert at the nearby INEC (Irelands National Events Centre) at night or soak up the atmosphere of the quaint, picturesque town of Killarney less than a mile away. You will find you are also located on two breath taking Irish driving routes; The Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry.
Accessible from Kerry, Cork, Limerick or Dublin International airports whether you drive, take the train or bus you will find this a perfect base to explore the world famed beauty of Irelands South West region. The best rates are always available direct on their website.
“FÁILTE GO DTÍ GALF CHUMANN CHEANN SIBÉAL” – WELCOME TO DINGLE GOLF LINKS, OR CEANN SIBÉAL (“KEYOW-N SHE-BAIL”) AS IT IS KNOWN LOCALLY. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF IRELAND’S LARGEST ‘GAELTACHT’ AREA ON THE DINGLE PENINSULA IN COUNTY KERRY, THIS RUGGED AND NATURAL LINKS IS THE MOST WESTERLY GOLF COURSE ON THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY.
You could be forgiven for assuming that, given this tag line of most westerly golf course, the course must be miles from civilisation, but thankfully this is not the case. In fact, the course is only a 20-minute drive from the famous bars and restaurants of the bustling tourist town of Dingle.
The world-famous Dingle Peninsula, once described by National Geographic as “the most beautiful place on Earth”, probably first came to international attention following the filming of Ryan’s Daughter which was released in 1970. Indeed, Hollywood has returned to the area several times since, notably for the movies Far and Away and Star Wars The Force Awakens, which had scenes filmed on the Ceann Sibeal headland overlooking the golf course. With the wild Atlantic Ocean
and stunning Blasket Islands to the west, Ceann Sibeal Headland to the north, and Smerwick Harbour and Mount Brandon to the east, it is little wonder that the area was chosen for Star Wars – or indeed as a location for a golf course for that matter!
The thriving fishing town of Dingle has been transformed in the time since the filming of Ryan’s Daughter. The colourful town’s reputation as a tourism destination is known the world over and now tourism and hospitality are the heartbeat of Dingle’s economy. The bars and restaurants and luxury accommodation remain family-run in general, and with live traditional music nightly and a range of festivals throughout the year, it’s undoubtedly the case that the ‘craic’ (fun) in Dingle is second to none.
Dingle is the largest town on the peninsula that bears its name, but it’s certainly not just the food and fare that draws thousands of tourists here every year. The Dingle Peninsula is a mecca for hill walkers and hikers who come to climb Mount Brandon or complete the ‘Dingle Way’ - a trail of over 110 miles that generally takes about nine days to complete. The Atlantic Ocean is north, south and west of the peninsula, and there is a myriad of water-borne activities and excursions for visitors to partake in. Whether it is kayaking at sunset, taking a relaxing harbour cruise, visiting the Blasket Islands or trying to catch your own dinner on one of the many chartered angling boats, there’s no shortage of options for everyone to enjoy.
The area is also a huge domestic tourism destination. Visitors from all over Ireland come to Dingle to enjoy the attractions and soak in its unique atmosphere. From a cultural perspective, the region attracts many students and Irish enthusiasts who come to improve their Irish speaking skills in a natural setting. The land to the west of Dingle makes up Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht area (fully Irish speaking), and you will find Ceann Sibeal Golf Club at the northwestern tip of this region.
The club is immensely proud of its Gaelic tradition. The phrase ‘Galf as Gaeilge’ is emblazoned on the club crest, and this is much more than a tagline; it’s a huge part of the club’s ethos. This is a place where employees and members will be heard speaking in Irish more than they would in English. Each hole on the course is named in Irish and there are some great back stories to where some of the names came from. The signature 9th hole “Ifreann”, for example, is the hardest hole on the course. This par 4 measures almost 450 yards from the tips and plays
uphill to a devilish sloping green complex. What does ‘Ifreann’ mean you might ask – it literally translates to ‘hell’.
There’s nothing hellish about the golfing and visitor experience at Ceann Sibeal. The course itself is an Eddie Hackett classic. Hackett, who counts Dooks, Waterville, Carne, Enniscrone and Ballyliffin amongst his impressive list of course designs, was famous for utilising the natural topography of land upon which he worked and was often quoted for saying ‘I only try to dress up what God put there’. The links has naturally undulating fairways coupled with a meandering stream in play on 13 of the 18 holes. The course plays hard and fast like an Open Championship venue, and the fescue greens are among the country’s best. Despite the treachery outlined here, the course offers the perfect combination of playability and difficulty depending on which tee you play from and really is a joy to experience from start to finish.
Recent years have seen extensive course and clubhouse upgrades and these improvements are being recognised within
The signature 9th hole, “Ifreann”, is the hardest hole on the course. This par 4 measures almost 450 yards from the tips and plays uphill to a devilish sloping green complex.
What does ‘Ifreann’ mean you might ask? It literally translates to ‘hell’.
the greater Irish golfing community. Ceann Sibeal is firmly improving its standing year on year in the Irish golf course rankings, and 2022 saw the club break into the top 50 golf courses in Ireland for the first time (top100golfcourses.com). In addition to the golf course, the club boasts an awardwinning bar and restaurant where you can enjoy excellent fare, look out over the links, or catch the sun setting on the Blasket Islands. The pro shop at the club has an extensive array of crested apparel and golf memorabilia – as well as rental sets and golf equipment for those who may not have planned on getting some golf in on their trip to the Emerald Isle.
You may not have heard of Ceann Sibeal Golf Club yet, but just like the famous Blasket Islands, the club is a Sleeping Giant and a must play for anyone visiting the country’s southwest. You are guaranteed a friendly welcome, award-winning golf and dining, and an experience that will live long in the memory for years to come. Slán go fóill!
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN IRELAND’S TRADITIONAL MUSIC, SONGS, DANCE, AND FOLK CULTURE WITH A VISIT TO SIAMSA TÍRE. WITH MUSIC THAT LIFTS THE SPIRITS, SONGS THAT TOUCH THE SOUL, AND DANCES THAT EMBODY THE SHEER JOY OF BEING ALIVE, IRELAND’S CULTURAL HERITAGE IS A VIBRANT ONE.
No visit to the country is complete without an opportunity to engage with Irish culture, and there’s no better way to do that than to visit Siamsa Tíre, The National Folk Theatre of Ireland.
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way in the bustling market town of Tralee in County Kerry, Siamsa Tíre is one of Ireland’s busiest theatres and art centres. It’s also home to Ireland’s only theatre company dedicated to protecting and developing Ireland’s folk heritage of music, song and dance.
It all started in 1957 when a young curate called Father Pat Ahern was sent to Tralee with orders to establish a choir in a local church. Within a few years, the choir had transformed
into something truly unique. A performing group that understood the richness of the traditional culture of music, song and dance of North Kerry and wanted to celebrate and preserve it for future generations. Now more than half a century later, they continue to do just that.
The performing group is now a professional cast of full-time and part-time performers from the local community trained in Siamsa Tíre’s inimitable performing style.
Munnix dancing is central to this style. Hundreds of years ago in Ireland, dance masters toured the land, teaching people jigs, reels and hornpipes. Each of them brought their own personal touch to these
dances, which meant that different variations of step dancing emerged in different parts of the country.
A tradition that dates beyond the 1700s, James Molyneaux continued teaching Irish dance as a travelling dance master from the 1800s into 1900s. Locally known as ‘Munnix’, his style of dancing has been passed down to the dancers at Siamsa Tíre, who are now teaching it to the next generation.
They do this through their involvement in the National Folk Theatre Training Academy. Every year, young people are invited to audition to join this academy, where they are taught traditional songs, music and dancing to become part of the professional cast eventually. That is part of how the traditions are passed on at Siamsa Tíre. However, the traditions are shared with a wider audience too.
The National Folk Theatre creates and performs stage productions at home and abroad, using modern staging and production values to showcase Ireland’s cultural folk heritage.
These productions are staged at Siamsa Tíre from May to September every year as part of the annual Festival of Folk. Father Ahern directed the first season of these summer productions in 1968, and more than 20 original shows have been developed by the theatre since.
Siamsa Tíre’s first production was called ‘Fadó, Fadó’ (Long Ago) and celebrated aspects of typical family life across four seasons in the rural Ireland of old. Productions
staged since then include ‘Oileán’ (Island), which recreated the lives of the Blasket Islanders, and ‘Anam’ (Soul), which wove the beats of hard shoe step dancing styles from the US, Canada, and Ireland together with traditional music into an exhilarating show.
Each of these shows begins its life on the stage of Siamsa Tíre’s iconic building, which celebrated its 30th birthday in 2022. The building was designed to echo Ireland’s architectural heritage, and a 2000-year-old Iron Age ring fort inspired its round outer wall in south Kerry. This wall encircles a cluster of structures that would have been found within ancient ring forts, with a round tower here and a conical roof there.
Molyneaux himself who passed on the traditions dating back to the 1700s and beyond.
The Folk Homecoming Exhibition offers a window into Siamsa Tíre and what the theatre does to sustain and care for Ireland’s cultural heritage. It also gives an insight into the history and practice of traditional Irish music, song, storytelling and dance with its wealth of regional, national, and international variations.
Photographs, audio, and video material from the archive tell the story of its
beginnings half a century ago and introduce visitors to the people who have shaped and championed its work over the years. They explain the formation of the Folk Theatre Training Academy. They demonstrate how Siamsa Tíre passes on the traditions. They also give an insight into the architecture of the building itself.
Guided tours of the exhibition are given by members of Siamsa Tíre’s community cast. As they show people around,
they share their insights of life in the theatre, from stories of productions that have travelled the world to tales of how they learned their first steps of ‘Munnix’ dancing. If you’re lucky, you might even see a live demonstration of their talents.
Siamsa Tíre also offers other tour options. One allows visitors to explore backstage and the theatre’s costume and props department and pose for stage photos. Another includes a short intimate performance of traditional Irish music, song, and dance from the National Folk Theatre community cast members. Yet another invites visitors to attend a workshop where they learn a short tune, a traditional song, or some basic steps of ‘Munnix’ dancing.
Siamsa Tíre is a place where you can engage with Irish culture and appreciate its richness. You even get to bring a little bit of it home with you. By stepping through its doors, you step into the living folk culture of Ireland. Siamsa Tíre stages exhibitions, performances, tours, and workshops that allow visitors to experience Ireland’s age-old heritage and traditions for themselves.
A visit to Siamsa Tíre is an experience you will never forget. It will broaden your cultural understanding of Ireland forever. Until you can visit in person, you can keep up with all that’s happening at the theatre at www.siamsatire.com
Hundreds of years ago in Ireland, dance masters toured the land, teaching people jigs, reels and hornpipes. Each of them brought their personal touch to these dances, which meant that different variations of step dancing emerged in different parts of the country.
MURPHY’S ICE CREAM WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2000 BY BROTHERS SEAN AND KIERAN MURPHY, WHO HAD MOVED TO IRELAND FROM AMERICA. THE BROTHERS DREAMT OF MAKING ICE CREAM, BUT NOT JUST ANY ICE CREAM, ICE CREAM SO DELICIOUS IT WOULD SATISFY THE HEART AND SOUL.
The brothers dreamed of making the best ice cream in the world, and many would say they have totally cracked it! “When we moved to Dingle we immediately saw that Ireland has the best milk, cream and eggs, so it should also have the very best ice cream. So we set out to make it ourselves,” explains Sean Murphy.
“We don’t use colorings, flavorings, or powdered milk. We prefer the real thing - and that starts with Kerry cow milk, fresh from the farm, with lots of local creams, free-range eggs and organic sugar.”
Kerry cattle are known as the first breed ever to be bred solely for dairy, and some
say that the breed is among the oldest in the world. There aren’t many Kerry cattle left, and at one stage, numbers had dwindled to just over 1,000, but this has increased steadily thanks to farmers like Murphy’s supplier Colm Murphy. The rich, creamy milk from Kerry cows makes it ideal for ice cream.
Murphy’s makes all of its ice cream in Dingle, Co. Kerry, located on the southwest coast of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and part of the stunning Dingle Peninsula. The peninsula is dominated by the range of mountains that form its spine, running from Slieve Mish to the Conor Pass and
Mount Brandon, Ireland’s second-highest peak. The magnificent coastline consists of steep sea cliffs such as Slea Head, dramatic headlands and sandy beaches. Dingle is a place rich in tradition, literature and culture and where the Irish language, Gaelic, is spoken. Dingle is a huge part of who Murphy’s is, providing inspiration for many of the firm’s best-selling flavors.
Murphy’s is passionate about making ice cream from scratch. “We are always on the lookout for new flavors and every employee offer suggestions,” Sean says. “And there is a story behind every one of them.”
Sea salt water is collected from the local beach in Dingle and boiled down to make the company’s best-selling Sea Salt ice cream. Brown bread is caramelized for the Irish Brown Bread ice cream and Murphy’s bake their own cookies for Kieran’s Cookies ice cream and the newly launched Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich. In summer, fresh local Irish strawberries are used to make delicious seasonal Strawberry Ice Cream. They have Christmas Pudding flavor, Sticky Toffee Pudding and even Dingle Gin. “Its an evolving and collaborative process,” Kieran explains.
“We love working with like-minded Irish producers such as the Dingle Distillery for the Dingle Gin flavor and Micil Irish Cream for the Cream Liqueur flavour,” he notes. “The newest flavor is a collaboration with Tipperary based Nutshed company to make a honey-roasted Peanut Butter flavor.” And what better endorsement could you ask for - Phil Rosenthal from the hit Netflix show, ‘Somebody Feed Phil’ described the flavor as the best peanut butter ice cream he has ever tasted!
Murphy’s Ice Cream has expanded nationwide from the original shop in Dingle and now has seven shops across Ireland, with a summer pop-up on the famous Inch Beach in Co. Kerry. You can’t miss Murphy’s their stores; the shops are all painted a cheerful bright blue!
The Murphy team has one clear goal - to make its ice cream the best you’ve ever tasted. Murphy’s believe ice cream should be enjoyed, shared and savored - so when in these parts, pop in and try it for yourself. Find them in Dingle, Killarney, Cork, Galway, Dublin and Kildare Village.
Murphy’s ‘uachtar reoite gleoite’ is produced in the Gaeltacht area of Corca Dhuibhne, a place with special linguistic status, where the Irish language is still spoken on a daily basis.
COUNTY SLIGO HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN AS YEATS COUNTY BECAUSE OF ITS IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE LIFE AND WORK OF NOBEL LAUREATE, POET AND DRAMATIST, WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS (1865–1939).
Ever fascinated by Irish mysticism, Yeats was intrigued by places such as prehistoric Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Knocknarea Cairn, iconic Benbulben and the mysterious Innisfree Island. He called the county "The Land of Heart's Desire," and with its glorious coastline, shimmering lakes and picturesque towns and villages, it is easy to see why.
See Sligo through the eyes of Ireland's national poet on a trail that takes visitors around key points of the dramatic Sligo landscape that inspired the prize-winning poet. The Yeats Trail visits 14 places in County Sligo deeply connected to the life and poetry of W B Yeats. It journeys through an area Yeats referred to in his poem Under Saturn as the “valley
his fathers called their home”. This is a landscape that the poet knew intimately and remains unchanged from his day.
The trail starts at Knocknarea, a hill topped by an important Stone Age cairn under which the legendary warrior, Queen Maeve, is said to be buried. The 40,000 tonnes of stone here have never been excavated, despite speculation that a tomb on the scale of the one at Newgrange lies buried below. It’s a place that features prominently in Yeats’ poetry. In Red Hanrahan’s Song about Ireland, he writes: 'The wind has bundled up the clouds high over Knocknarea, And thrown the thunder on the stones for all that Maeve can say.'
The seaside village of Rosses Point, where Yeats spent many summer holidays is next, followed by Drumcliffe, where the poet is famously buried. In advance of his death in France in 1939, Yeats left instructions that his body be moved to Ireland, "when the newspapers have forgotten me, dig me up and plant me in Sligo," he wrote.
As was his desire, he is buried in a simple grave in the shadow of Ben Bulben –a table mountain that dominates the Sligo landscape. Its beauty and the mythology surrounding it influenced Yeats significantly, leading him to write the poem Under Ben Bulben.
Other key points along the trail include Glencar, where a waterfall inspired Yeats to write “the wandering water gushes from the hills above Glen-Car” and Dooney Rock, immortalized in The Fiddler of Dooney.
The trail also visits Lough Gill, where a tiny island inspired one of Yeats' most famous poems, The Lake Isle of Innisfree. The island lies tantalizingly close to the lough's shore, but it can't be accessed. Its air of tranquillity so moved Yeats that he famously wrote:
The Lake of Inisfree
In the shadow of Benbulben, Yeats' final resting place at Drumcliffe, Co Sligo
'I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree, And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made; Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee, And live alone in the bee-loud glade.'
Nearby Slish Wood lies on the southern shore of Lough Gill in a stunning location between the lake and the Ox Mountains. It forms part of the Sligo Way walking trail, and it is here where Yeats imagined a child being lured away by fairies: “Come away, O human child! To the waters and the wild with a faery, hand in hand”.
And then there is Lissadell, built in the 1830s and home to the Gore-Booth family. This imposing ancestral home is one of Sligo's top sights. Revolutionary nationalist and socialist Constance Goore-
Booth (Countess Markievicz) grew up here alongside her sister Eva and WB Yeats used to visit frequently. Yeats wrote these lines for Eva and Constance:
baronet, also provided for his tenants, supporting the growth of the cooperative movement and of local businesses.
The house and its extensive grounds are open to the public. A 45-minute guided tour leads through the house's grand guest rooms and the servants' quarters. Outside there is a glorious walled alpine garden leading down to the sea.
The family was very supportive of its workers. During the famine Sir Robert Gore-Booth, 4th baronet and the original owner provided food for starving tenants. His grandson, Sir Josslyn Gore-Booth, 6th
At each of the fourteen points on the trail there is an art installation that features the words of the poetry associated with the location. These offer the visitor a chance to reflect on the poem and see the Sligo landscape through Yeats’ eyes.
Benbulben and Classiebawn Castle, Mullaghmore
The light of evening, Lissadell, Great windows open to the south, Two girls in silk kimonos, both Beautiful, one a gazelle.
THE COLEMAN MUSIC CENTRE, SITUATED IN GURTEEN, CO. SLIGO, IS A COMMUNITY BASED, STATE-OF-THE-ART
TRADITIONAL MUSIC AND CULTURAL CENTRE.
The main aim of the centre is to preserve, promote and foster Irish traditional music and culture. It is also the Comhaltas Regional Resource Centre for the five counties, Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon, Leitrim and Fermanagh.
The visitors’ experience is informal, welcoming and friendly, providing a tailor-made first-hand experience of traditional Sligo-style Irish music. There is a permanent exhibition and information area comprising touch screens and a 12-minute audio-visual presentation on the history of traditional Irish music, which provides the visitor with a unique insight into traditional music.
There are pre recorded masterclasses for the music enthusiast on a selection of traditional instruments together with pre recorded concerts from resident group Ceoltóirí Coleman available for you to view on our large screen which is located in our theatre.
Many top-class national and international traditional music artists perform concerts and shows throughout the year in the 130-tier seated theatre. A program of music, song, and dance can be provided to suit the needs of individual groups and can include a music lesson or a lecture on any aspect of the history of traditional music. Over July & August, resident group Ceoltoiri Coleman perform live summer sessions every Wednesday evening.
Music tuition is provided in fiddle, concertina, flute, banjo, accordion, bodhrán, whistle, guitar, harp, cello, uilleann pipes, sean nós dancing, step dancing and singing. The teachers, all from the locality, have a keen insight and knowledge of the Sligo repertoire and technique of playing. Special one-to-one and group tuition is available all year round by advance booking.
The on-site music and gift shop stocks a vast selection of traditional music CDs, including many archival types, DVDs, music books, musical instruments and accessories, gift ideas and lots more.
A visit to this farmhouse cottage gives a unique insight into how people lived in Ireland during the early twentieth century. The building has three rooms, is constructed of red sandstone and is roofed in traditional thatch. The cottage contains everyday cooking utensils, furniture, crockery and other artifacts dating back to the 1920s.
SET IN THE HEART OF YEATS’ COUNTRY AND NESTLED ON THE IDYLLIC SHORES OF BEAUTIFUL LOUGH GILL, ST ANGELA’S LAKESIDE APARTHOTEL (SALA) PROVIDES GUESTS WITH A LOCATION THAT IS BOTH UNSPOILED AND CONVENIENT, AND ONLY A MATTER OF MINUTES AWAY FROM SLIGO CITY.
Come away, 0 human child! To the waters and the wild With a faery, hand in hand, For the world’s more full of weeping than you can understand.
W.B. Yeats TheStolen Child, 1886
Surrounded by nature and located on the charming grounds of St Angela’s College, this unique setting provides guests with the ultimate location for adventure in the great outdoors, or for a retreat, away from the hubbub and busyness of everyday life.
The hotel’s grounds and the immediate surrounding areas lends itself perfectly to outdoor pursuits by providing a blend of mixed open fields, hills and forestry and, of course, the picturesque waters of the beautiful lake with its many islands. This stunning location is perfect for contemplation and meditation.
For the more curious guests there are many inspiring and enriching well-known locations dotted around Sligo county, with something to suit everyone’s tastes. Our nearness to the wonder of the Atlantic Ocean and the spectacular vista of the Wild Atlantic Way is such that one can almost reach out and touch it. Coronavirus restrictions have ended, why not, «Come away, to the waters and the wild», to refresh and revive in this area of outstanding natural beauty that the renowned poet W.B. Yeats called «the land of heart’s desire».
From each room you can admire the waters of Lough Gill. The comfortable and spacious apartments are equipped with all modern conveniences, including a superb kitchen facility, Hi-Speed WiFi everywhere, and a smart TV. Every bedroom has a private ensuite. There are restrictors on all windows and lift access to all levels. All buildings are special needs user-friendly, and a number of select apartments are fitted with «wet room facilities» to meet special needs requirements.
Apartments are one, two, three or four bedroomed. A choice of double or single beds or any mix of both is provided. Guests can request the use of a travel cot and/or a highchair (free of charge).
Each apartment block plays host to a terraced rooftop, a wonderful spot from which to sit back and watch the sunset over the lake, or just to relish the peace and quiet of the surrounding countryside.
www.sala.ie info@sala.ie 00353 86 6005106
00353 86 1247775
PSRA Reg NO002839
A wonderful place for adventure in the great outdoors, or for a retreat, away from the hubbub and busyness of everyday life.
Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie Estate is one of the last great Irish estates still in the hands of its founding family. Steeped in history, full of character and charm, it is the ultimate Irish rural escape.
Only 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast, Castle Leslie Estate boasts a variety of accommodation and activities to suit all tastes. The Castle, at the heart of the Estate, offers authentic original interiors and old-style hospitality and is a complete respite from the world. The Lodge is the social hub of the Estate, a country house boutique hotel that brings locals and guests together in an atmosphere of conviviality and comfort. The Old Stable Mews are the perfect spot for groups that want the convenience of hotel living combined with private luxury home rental.
Castle Leslie Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. A host of activities are on offer including pike fishing for the nature enthusiast, exceptional walking trails for those who want to breathe in fresh country air, archery and clay target shooting for the more adventurous, falconry for those to experience nature up close, a fabulous spa for rejuvenation and of course the famous worldclass equestrian centre - just some of the choices that await you in this hidden corner of Ireland.
DINE LIKE A KING, SLEEP LIKE A QUEEN, AND ENJOY COUNTRY PURSUITS AT CASTLE LESLIE ESTATE, ONE OF THE FINEST EXAMPLES OF A CASTLE ESTATE IN IRELAND.
The castle has been in the hands of its founders, the Leslie family, since the 1600s - the family can trace its history back as far as the days of Atilla the Hun! The first Leslie to come to Ireland was Bishop John Leslie, Bishop of the Isles of Scotland. At the ripe old age of 67, he married a young girl called Catherine Cunningham. They had five children, two of whom lived to adulthood.
Bishop John Leslie was known as the ‘fighting bishop’ and defeated Cromwell’s forces at the Battle of Raphoe. On the Restoration of Charles II, the Bishop, then 90, rode from Chester to London in twenty-four hours. As a reward for his loyalty, the King granted him £2,000. Castle Leslie Estate was built on the original estate owned by Bishop Leslie.
Castle Leslie Estate is an utterly majestic, thoroughly relaxing place to stay. Over the centuries, it has welcomed poets, politicians and celebrities aplenty, so you will be in good company if you choose this fabulous estate
for your vacation. Just 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast, Castle Leslie Estate is easily accessible and fits in perfectly with any itinerary along Ireland's north and east coast.
Choose from a range of accommodation: stay in the main castle with its individually styled rooms, or the Ivy-clad Lodge for sumptuous country-style accommodation. Alternatively The Old Stable Mews offer the convenience of hotel living with private luxury home rental.
Communal areas throughout are delightful, and you'll soon feel at home – if home is a sprawling country estate! Family antiques and heirlooms are abundant throughout the buildings, each with its unique story.
The extensive grounds offer plenty of outdoor opportunities, with horse riding a particular draw at the world-class equestrian center. That said, every level is catered for, from beginners to professional riders. Many other options are equally exciting. Fancy an early morning hot air balloon trip or horse-drawn carriage ride? Maybe some falconry, fishing, clay pigeon shooting or a leisurely boat trip on Glaslough Lake - all there for the taking.
Indulgence is well catered for in the Victorian Treatment Rooms, offering a range of holistic treatments with massage and skin therapies; then take a splash in one of their two outdoor hot tubs, a glass of bubbly in hand!
After a day packed with relaxation or adventure, hole up by the fireside in the library, drawing room or Conor’s bar for a wee dram before dinner.
Castle Leslie Estate is quite perfect, yet the family is constantly refining its offering. Recently they unveiled a beautiful refurbishment of Conor's Bar & Lounge, Conor's Kitchen and Pantry and the spectacular Snaffles Restaurant. The social hub of the Estate, Conor’s brings locals and guests together in an atmosphere of conviviality and comfort. It is the ideal place to relax with a cool pint of Guinness. Guests can enjoy casual dining in Conor’s Bar & Lounge with traditional country home cooking or dine like a king at the 2AA Rosette award-winning Snaffles. Situated on the first floor in the Lodge, Snaffles Restaurant welcomes both residents and non-residents, though booking is advised
as it is hugely popular. Here signature dishes are cooked with locally sourced food prepared and presented with imagination and flair. Gin lovers will delight in the extensive gin menu, with over 100 gins from around the world, making Snaffles a pretty unforgettable experience.
An award-winning destination with charm and charisma in spades, Castle Leslie Estate Estate offers a luxury experience on a very personal level with guests returning time and again. An exceptional wedding venue (with on-site chapel) sitting at the heart of the pretty village of Glaslough, what’s not to love? A unique vacation is guaranteed.
Castle Leslie Estate has won more accolades than you could shake a stick at. In the last year alone, the Estate has scooped the top slot for:
TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award 2023
Hotel and Catering Review Gold Medal Award 2022 for Ireland’s Best Four-Star Resort and Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay.
World Travel Award 2022 for Ireland’s Leading Boutique Hotel.
Yes Chef 2022 Award for Executive Chef Aaron Duffy for Best Chef in Ulster.
Yes Chef 2022 Award Snaffles Restaurant for Luxury Hotel Restaurant of the Year in Ulster and an overall finalist in the Irish Culinary Experience of the Year.
Ulster Tatler Magazine Award 2022 for Hotel of the Year.
Certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ 2022-2023 (the first hotel in Ulster) by Great Place to Work® Institute Ireland.
Irish Restaurant Awards for Best Hotel & Guest House and Best Wine Experience in Monaghan.
LOCATED LESS THAN TWO HOURS FROM DUBLIN AND BELFAST, COUNTY CAVAN IS THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE THE BEGUILING LANDSCAPES OF IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS.
The land and water here are fresh and pure, and so too is the produce. In recent years Cavan has been recognized for its culinary delights. Award-winning chefs Neven Maguire and Richard Corrigan have restaurants here.
Cavan has four forest parks, each with unique characteristics and numerous walking, cycling and nature trails. The ‘Killykeen Way’ Greenway is a glorious 12km cycle trail linking Killykeen Forest Park with the lakeside village of Killeshandra.
More experienced walkers will enjoy the 26km Cavan Way from Dowra to Blacklion
past the Shannon Pot – the source of the mighty River Shannon. Ramble along country lanes with stone walls, forest tracks, breathtaking mountain walks and lakeshore paths in the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark.
Famous Lough Oughter is a water enthusiast’s paradise. Experience Hydro Bikes at Carafin Activity Park and pedal along narrow interweaving watery channels. Hire canoes, kayaks and boats at Cavan Adventure Centre or take a guided tour of the waterways with its myriad of stone bridges and the silently beautiful island castle of Clogh Oughter.
Cavan is rich in heritage, and nowhere more so than amid the life-affirming beauty of prehistoric Cavan Burren Park, with its breathtaking views and ancient megaliths. Located in mountainous West Cavan, the park has four marked trails.
Visit the county museum in its beautiful Georgian home and explore over 5,000 years of Cavan history, the GAA, arts and culture, and much more.
Did you know Cavan is home to the PGA National Slieve Russell – one of only eight PGA National designated resorts
worldwide. Cavan Golf Club and Farnham Estate Golf Clubs also boast spectacular parkland courses. With eight courses to choose from, you'll be spoiled for choice. Follow in the footsteps of sporting hero Leona Maguire for a perfect golfing breakaway.
Discover your Cavan ancestry at Cavan Heritage & Genealogy Centre. The center's database holds over half a million records of baptisms, marriages, burials, census records, pre and post Famine land records.
Cavan is famous for traditional music and has a rich cultural heritage. With two theatres, and a host of arts, comedy and music festivals, the county offers plenty in the way of celebrating the arts. Cavan Arts Festival takes place in May every year in Cavan town. In July 2023, the longawaited Cavan Calling (cavancalling.ie) sees Cavan diaspora welcomed home from all over the world to celebrate their heritage. The occasion will be marked with a week-long programme of music, concerts, drama, food and fun.
Cavan is an enticing, historic and scenic county with reputedly 365 lakes - one for every day of the year. A county that must be explored at leisure and where you’re sure to receive a warm and friendly welcome. Get off the beaten track, follow your path and let Cavan surprise you!
Find out more at www.thisiscavan.ie
Take the bait!
Cavan is widely known as Ireland's finest fishing destination. There are 365 lakes here and the Shannon and Erne rivers. Famous for coarse and pike fishing, there are many fine gameangling river stretches and wild brown trout lake fisheries.
A 18th-century castle on an idyllic island in Northern Ireland’s Fermanagh lakelands, Belle Isle is an enchanted setting for civil wedding ceremonies and receptions. The castle itself is the embodiment of romantic, old-world charm, while the estate’s 400 acres of rolling hills, flowering meadows, tranquil gardens, and views of Lough Erne form a magical backdrop for photographs and memories.
Belle Isle estate is spread over eight picturesque islands. Inhabited since the 12th century, the estate today offers a wide range of attractive self-catering and castle accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.
Belle Isle Estate and Private Island, Lisbellaw, Enniskillen, BT94 5HG
Telephone: +44 (0) 28 6638 7231
Web: www.belle-isle.com
Email Us: info@belle-isle.com
Fax: +44 (0) 28 6638 7261
A STONE’S THROW FROM NATURE, A LONG WAY FROM THE PRESSURES OF DAILY LIFE, BELLE ISLE PROVIDES AN OUTSTANDING MIX OF NATURAL BEAUTY AND AUTHENTIC HERITAGE ON A PRIVATE 400-ACRE ESTATE DESIGNATED A SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION.
Belle Isle has a rich history dating back to the 15th century as the place where the Annals of Ulster were written. Belle Isle Castle was built in the early 17th century as the home to many generations of nobles and has been hosting events since as early as 1760. In 1991, the castle was fully refurbished to open its doors to more visitors.
Belle Isle Estate stretches over 470-acres across Lisbellaw, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. It is a private estate with access to estate grounds and trails open solely to visitors. If you are looking for the ultimate experience in luxury, Belle Isle Estate is one of the finest venues Fermanagh can offer.
A range of accommodation options, including castle rental, luxury cottages, and self-catering apartments, are offered. Whether you are looking to host your wedding, enjoy a private event with friends and family or have a relaxing weekend with your pets, there is something for everyone here. Beautifully restored
courtyard apartments and lakeside cottages offer wood-burning stoves, BBQ grills, private picnic tables, and a homely feel. After a busy day exploring the estate and Fermanagh Lakeland attractions, it is the perfect place to return to.
If you’re looking for castle accommodation in Northern Ireland, Belle Isle in Fermanagh accommodates up to 30 people in and is perfect for a large group. The estate is brimming with character and offers a unique experience for families and pets to luxuriate in.
Belle Isle is an enchanting setting for ceremonies and receptions for weddings. The castle itself is the embodiment of romantic, old-world charm, while the estate’s 470 acres of rolling hills, flowering meadows, tranquil gardens, and views of Lough Erne form a magical backdrop for photographs and special memories. belle-isle.com | 011 44 2886 387231
BISHOP’S GATE HOTEL IN THE CITY OF DERRY’S CATHEDRAL QUARTER IS AN HISTORICAL HUB, RICH IN STORIES OLD FROM WHICH TO EXPLORE SOME OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S MOST STUNNING SIGHTS.
The exquisite Grade B1 listed building, within which the six-year-old hotel is housed, dates back to 1899 and blends handsome Edwardian architecture with stylish appointments and luxurious facilities, which have been sensitively restored to pay homage to the rich heritage of the building. The contemporary needs of the discerning guest are not forgotten in the impeccable restoration of this build, making it one of the most sought-after accommodations in Derry, the home of Ireland’s only wholly intact Walled City and one of the finest examples in Europe.
In its reincarnation no detail has been left to chance at Bishop’s Gate. This iconic landmark is an intimate urban oasis featuring 30 guest rooms, including two suites, a residents’ lounge, fitness area and at the heart of the hotel, The Wig Champagne Bar and Gown Restaurant — the perfect place to relax and unwind with a cocktail or glass of Champagne.
The bar and restaurant at Bishop’s Gate come alive when the ambience is complemented by live entertainment that captures the true talent on the Irish arts circuit. Meanwhile, decadent afternoon tea, served in the Hervey Library, provides an additional hospitality experience that is not to be missed.
The Bishop’s Gate Hotel site was originally home to The Northern Counties Club, a private members club where many civic leaders, members of the judicial system and intellects such as Sir Winston Churchill and W.B. Yeats met to discuss plans and ideas.
The marriage of this history with modern hospitality and fine cuisine has made Bishop’s Gate the beneficiary of many high-profile awards since its opening in March 2016. Among those distinctive accolades are the Georgina Campbell’s Ireland Hideaway of the Year gong, NI’s Best Hotel Stay at the Northern Ireland Tourism Awards and pride of place in the esteemed Ireland’s Blue Book — a guide to an impeccable collection of 56 country house hotels, manor houses, castles and restaurants located throughout the island of Ireland.
Derry is the home of the famous Derry Girls television series, the symbolic Peace Bridge, an abundance of museums and some of the greatest outdoor festivals in the world.
Guests can meander through the bustling streets of Derry in a day and enjoy a host of independent shops, cosy pubs, award-winning food venues and the buoyant atmosphere of a compact city where tales of the sea are conveniently close by.
Where The Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coastal Route, Bishop’s Gate Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the majestic ocean views and epic adventures of the unspoiled Northern Irish coastline. Within putting distance, visitors will also find some of the best links golf in the world, including Ballyliffin and Royal Portrush.
In addition to the quality courses, rich city history and gastronomic pleasures, guests of Bishop’s Gate Hotel will receive that famed Irish welcome from the minute they step into the property. With a commitment to excellence at its core and the strength of an amazing team behind it, you can be confident that you will have a trip to the Emerald Isle that you will never forget.
DONEGAL’S WILD AND UNSPOILED BEAUTY WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY. WITH AWE-INSPIRING OCEAN AND MOUNTAIN VISTAS, AND ADVENTURE ON LAND AND AT SEA, THE COUNTY BOASTS A RICH CULTURE AND TRADITIONS THAT EMBRACE THE IRISH LANGUAGE, MUSIC AND ART.
Ireland's surfing capital, Bundoran, is the perfect place to start your journey through South Donegal. The town has played host to the European Surfing Championships and is home to Ireland's best-known wave – The Peak. Local surf schools and shops will ensure you are well kitted out and get any lessons you need. And you can bask in the surf culture in local bars and restaurants. Other sea activities include fishing, stand-up paddling, kayaking and checking out the coastal caves.
If you prefer your adventures on land, you can explore on horseback with the Donegal Equestrian Centre. They cater to beginners and more experienced riders with beach and coastal treks and offer lessons and pony camps too.
The road north takes you to Ballyshannon, Ireland's oldest town and the birthplace of world-famous guitarist Rory Gallagher. The town also has family links to the authors of two classic Gothic horror novels, Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
Next stop is Donegal Town, home of Magee of Donegal - one of Ireland’s most iconic global brands. Magee is a fourth and fifth-generation family-run business, and they still hand-weave using lambswool, alpaca and cashmere. Their designers work closely with some of the world's leading fashion brands to create colorful, intricately designed fabrics. Today, the Donegal town store sells luxury menswear, womenswear and accessories. It also has a Gift Department, Food Hall, a Café, and clothing and footwear concessions.
Donegal Town is steeped in history and heritage. Highlights include Donegal Castle, the old Abbey, and trade and emigration from the old pier. Take in Donegal Town’s iconic 'Diamond,' markets and the famous Four Masters’ monument.
South Donegal also has plenty to tempt golfers with clubs in Bundoran and Donegal Town. Did you know that the Murvagh Links Course at Donegal Golf Club is one of the longest in Ireland and Europe?
Do not leave South Donegal without a visit to the iconic sea cliffs of Sliabh Liag - amongst the highest in Europe. Not far from Killybegs, they offer one of Ireland's most breathtaking and awe-inspiring vistas. The Sliabh Liag Visitor Centre relates the beauty and stories of Sliabh Liag. Fact
Donegal
ocean below.
and lore combine in ‘interpretation panels,' which include interactive activities for younger visitors. The center also provides key information on Sliabh Liag's walking routes, and safety advice for navigating them. Sliabh Liag is also the official starting point of the International Appalachian Trail (IAT Ulster-Ireland), with the route traveling east where the trail finishes at Larne on the east coast of Northern Ireland.
You can get a fantastic view of the cliffs from the sea with Sliabh Liag Boat Tours, who run sightseeing boat trips from Teelin Harbour. Look out for basking sharks, dolphins or whales if you can take your eyes off the soaring sea cliffs. Or swim the sheltered coves in warmer weather.
Challenge yourself with an early climb up Errigal, Donegal's highest mountain, to watch the sun rise over the surrounding mountains and lakes. Just ensure you
have the proper footwear and clothing and pay attention to the weather forecast. You can reward yourself afterward with coffee or brunch at one of the cafés or coffee vans located at nearby Gaoth Dobhair (Gweedore) and Cloich Cheann Fhaola (Cloughaneely).
If you’re ready for more adventure, check out a Far and Wild cycling tour of the Rocky Rosses. This lowland area unique to Donegal is littered with small glacial lakes and stunning beaches. Far and Wild provide all the equipment, a knowledgeable guide, advice and maps. You can cycle minor roads with superb views of northwest Donegal, along the coast from Annagry to An Clochán Liath (Dungloe).
After all that exercise, it might be time to wet your whistle with some fine Donegal whiskey. Sliabh Liag Distillers offer tours of their Ardara Distillery, where they are
inspired by the almost lost tradition of a smoky style of spirit. During the tour, learn about Donegal's distilling heritage and see skilled workers breathing new life into it. North of Annagry, the Crolly Distillery offers 60-minute tours from 11am to 5pm. With the help of a stunning audiovisual presentation, tour guides explain Donegal's unique connection to the invention of whiskey. Tours are followed by a sampling of your choice in their tasting lounge.
Take a day to explore some of West Donegal’s islands. From Burtonport, it’s a 15–20-minute ferry trip to the island of Árainn Mhór - a stunning route between tiny, picturesque islands. Árainn Mhór is wild and untamed with a vibrant heritage and culture and a spirit of innovation. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it's a close-knit community where Irish culture and language flourish.
Sliabh Liag are the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe where the cliff face of Bunglas rises over 600m above the
The island of Gabhla (Gola) is a popular destination for rock climbing, abseiling, and birdwatching. You can also kayak around Gola Bay with Great Outdoor Adventures on their Paddle and Prosecco package. Or explore the historical sites of Tory Island (Toraigh) which includes a round tower, a church ruin, and a Tau Cross - one of only two in Ireland. It is also a sanctuary for many wild birds, including the endangered corncrake, whose distinctive call can be heard over the summer months.
Take some downtime to enjoy West Donegal's rich music, song, and dance culture. Dip into one of the many pubs which host regular sessions where local musicians come together and play traditional Irish music. One of the most famous venues is Tábhairne Leo (Leo's Tavern) - the family home of Clannad and Enya. Teach Hiúdaí Beag in An Bun Beag is another popular local pub for music and craic.
Fanad Lighthouse is undoubtedly one of Donegal’s most iconic images and a great place to start your exploration of North Donegal. The region is rich in dramatic coastal scenery, with spectacular views from Horn Head to Mulroy Bay and round the Fanad Peninsula to Lough Swilly’s shores.
Fanad Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world and is a Signature Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. You can stay in one of the beautifully restored lighthouse keepers' cottages and tour the lighthouse. The tour takes you through the area's rich maritime history and heritage. Climb the 76 steps up to the viewing balcony at the top of the lighthouse – the vista will take your breath away.
Rest those legs now for Mulroy Drive, a 35k route of outstanding natural beauty down the Fanad Peninsula’s western coast. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and hospitality to enjoy along the way. You can also stop off and try walking and cycling routes, canoeing, swimming and fishing activities on Mulroy Drive.
Check out Donegal Heritage Trails to tour the Fanad Peninsula’s most beautiful towns. Check out some of the walking tours of the elegant, tree-lined Georgian town of Ramelton. From the 12th century it was an important seat of Donegal's ruling clan, the O'Donnells. Next, visit the seaside village of Rathmullan to share the story of the Flight of the Earls – who sailed from Rathmullan for Spain in 1607.
The nearby Cathedral Town of Letterkenny offers a vibrant mix of lively pubs and restaurants but is rich in culture, history and heritage. Enjoy a guided Cathedral Quarter tour, a visit to the County Museum, a show in An Grianán Theatre or a tour of the famous local craft beer brewery, Kinnegar.
Another jewel in North Donegal’s crown is Ards Forest Park - 1200 acres of excellent trails, beaches, salt marshes, lakes, rock faces and woodlands. The park is on the sheltered western shore of glorious Sheephaven Bay. It offers nine walking trails for both strollers and hikers to choose from - which match all abilities.
Take a breather in the picturesque seaside village Downings, home to McNutts of Donegal – a family-run working Woollen Mill for over 65 years. Every collection is designed in-house. They stock a selection of the finest quality Irish crafts and gifts in rich and varied shades and tones.
Make time to visit the 'links of heaven' at Portsalon Golf Club for a round of golf. Then take your shoes off, step barefoot onto the nearby beach for a stroll on a soft golden sand and feel the waves washing over your feet - sheer bliss!
Finish the day spectacularly with a Sunset Kayak Tour of Sheephaven Bay from Downings with Eco Atlantic Adventures. Watch the colors and reflections on the waters shift from golden yellows to purples and reds. The whole experience will fill your heart with joy.
Dip into one of the many pubs that host regular sessions to enjoy Donegal's rich music, song and dance culture.
Dip into Donegal’s rich archaeological heritage with a visit to the Beltany Stone Circle, just 3km south of Raphoe. This impressive Bronze Age monument is one of the oldest recorded stone circles, dating from around 800BC. Its name links to the important Celtic Festival of Beltane (Bealtaine), now known as 'May Day'. The 1st May marks the beginning of summer in the ancient Celtic calendar. It was associated with the lighting of hilltop fires in a rekindling of the sun.
Staying in Raphoe, you can visit Oakfield Park & Gardens. This privately owned estate and railway has won several National awards for the restoration of its gardens and buildings. It’s set in a lush landscape of parklands, lakes and mature woodlands, overlooking the distant Croaghan Mountain. The grounds include a hedge maze, sculpture, miles of walking paths, and a Fairy Wishing Tree. To wind down, enjoy a meal in the Buffers Restaurant located on the grounds.
Moving on to the twin towns of Ballybofey and Stranorlar, try a ramble through the Drumboe Loop Trail at Drumboe Woods. This 2k trail loops around the northern part of the forest. It follows old forest roads and tracks and a newly created section of trail through a rich variety of tree species. The forest includes towering beeches, pines, horse chestnuts, larches, limes and silver firs, a giant sequoia, and a Californian redwood. Drumboe also offers a 2k multiaccess trail.
Salmon and trout fishing on the nearby River Finn is said to be one of the best experiences in Europe. The Finn opens on the 1st March, with a peak time around the middle of April and closes on the 15th September. Permits are required, and you can learn more about fishing on the Finn River from the Lough Agency.
Before you leave the twin towns, treat yourself to some retail therapy at McElhinneys Department Store in Ballybofey. It's an iconic shopping destination in the northwest offering an opulent, luxurious setting to find the perfect outfit or gift, catering for every style, size and budget.
Shake things up a little and take a guided tour with a difference! Lifford Old Courthouse is a multi-purpose visitor center offering guided jail tours, escape rooms, musical performances, and an on-site bistro. The jail tour starts off with a bang. Visitors are charged, sentenced, fingerprinted, and shown their new surroundings. Try the 'jailbreak' – a 1-hour team challenge to escape from the historic dungeon cells deep beneath the courtroom. There’s a family friendly junior 'jailbreak', a 30-minute option that will get the kids thinking outside the box!
Nestled between Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle, the Inishowen Peninsula is home to one of Ireland's best-known spots, Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point. The area is renowned for its
dramatic landscape, beautiful beaches, and historical, scientific and ecological importance. Witness some of the largest sand dunes in Europe when you approach Malin Head from the coastal road along the north of Trawbreaga Bay at Lagg. Enjoy a walk, go fishing, swim in the shimmering water, take incredible photos or study the unique rock formations. And don't forget to look out for sharks and dolphins!
A much newer attraction for Inishowen is Wild Ireland near Burnfoot. It is a unique wild animal sanctuary in an ancient Celtic rainforest. Wild Ireland offers refuge to many animals such as Brown Bears, European Wolves, Lynx & Wild Boar, long extinct in Ireland.
You can watch feeding time, listen to the wolves and learn about the animals and
their habits. For children, there are tales of ancient Irish folklore, a play park, tasty treats, and gifts from the Wild Ireland Shop.
But no visit to Inishowen would be complete without some sea adventure thrown in. What better way to explore the stunning and wild craggy coastline of Inishowen’s Wild Atlantic Way than aboard a yacht! Amazing Grace Yacht Charter in Culdaff offer packages and custom trips for up to 12 people. Choose from dolphin watching, visiting an offshore island, or simply cruising the coast of this incredible peninsula.
Not too far away is Ballyliffin, home to one of Ireland’s best-known golf clubs, Ballyliffin Golf Club. Nearby is Doagh Famine Village. The Doagh Visitors Centre takes you on an informative and humorous journey through Irish history and culture.
Beach rides and trails are popular in these parts and what better way to discover the beautiful blue-flag beach at Rossnowlagh with miles of golden sands and safe, clear waters.
Life-size, authentic attractions include original thatched dwellings inhabited up until the 1980s. Other scenes include an Irish wake, an eviction scene, the travelling community, a Presbyterian meeting house, Orange Lodge and a Republican safe house. And don't miss out on the Haunted Rooms!
For a truly unforgettable experience, get up bright and early to enjoy the sunrise at the ancient hilltop fort of Grianán Ailigh in south Inishowen, near Burt. From here you can stand 250m above sea level on land which was probably first built on an earthen
rath. The view from Ailigh is breathtaking, overlooking the waters of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly and the entire peninsula. The origins of the Grianán Ailigh fort date back to 1700 BC, and it is thought that St Patrick visited the site in the 5th century and baptized the local chieftain, Eoghan (from whom Inis Eoghan gets its name).
Staying with historical sites, it’s well worth visiting Fort Dunree outside Buncrana, an important defensive site down through history. It is built into the craggy coastline of the Swilly and offers stunning views as well as a military museum, and a range
of exhibitions. Its origins stretch back to the days of the 1798 rebellion when it was built to guard against the possible return of a French fleet.
It’s no surprise that Donegal was named ‘the coolest place on the planet’ by National Geographic. We’ve given you just a small taste of what we have to offer. So, there’s only one thing left to do – book a trip to Donegal that will give you a lifetime of memories.
Glenveagh National Park and Castle is described by National Geographic as being "literally heaven on earth; peaceful, beautiful, charming and historical."
HOME TO THE MOST NORTHERLY POINT OF IRELAND’S COASTAL WILD ATLANTIC WAY, DONEGAL’S ASTONISHING LANDSCAPE, CONSISTING OF RUGGED MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS AND WHITE SANDY BEACHES MAKES THE COUNTY FAMOUS FOR ITS BEAUTIFUL SCENERY AND SPECTACULAR NATURAL IMAGERY.
The county and northern part of the Wild Atlantic Way is made more accessible by its airport. Situated on the north-western coast, in a small Gaeltacht area, Donegal Airport is the gateway to the northwest. Considering the size of Donegal, it would hardly be worth the flight without a vehicle on arrival, which makes the service provided by Enterprise Car Rental and Kelly’s Toyota Dealer Rental in the airport all the better. Whether traveling to or from Donegal or Dublin, or traveling from the 12 through-fare destinations in North America, Donegal Airport is most definitely the quicker, easier option. With a duration of approximately 55 minutes flying time from Dublin, it makes the visitor’s journeys over three times faster.
Along with the combined speed and leisure of air travel, Donegal Airport is unique in its aesthetic appeal, providing a beautiful mix of views from the islands off the coast, the mountain ranges to the south-east, to the stunning beaches all along the coast. This breathtaking scenery earned Donegal Airport the title of ‘Most Scenic Airport Approach’ by PrivateFly three years in a row (2018-2020). It’s no
wonder Donegal consistently holds this title considering its breathtaking scenery, with beautiful sandy beaches on either side of the runway bordering the clear blue ocean and Errigal Mountain in its background, giving Donegal Airport a unique appeal.
The airport isn’t just unique for its views; Donegal Airport was one of the first in Europe and the first in Ireland to use Smiths Detection HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX security system. The security process at airports is a tedious drawn-out process for people as it is, but this top-of-the-range system not only eliminates the need for limits to liquid, but its 3D imagery also provides a much quicker and even a safer security experience for passengers, setting Donegal Airport apart from domestic and international competition.
Emerald Airlines was selected as the exclusive operator of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) air route between Donegal and Dublin, providing an essential air link between the northwest and Dublin in the absence of a motorway or rail network in the region.
Emerald Airlines offers up to 4 flights daily, linking Donegal and Dublin with convenient flight timings and seamless connections on the Aer Lingus network from Dublin. This provides a huge boost for travel between Donegal and Dublin and also re-establishes vital tourism connections to Donegal on the wider Aer Lingus network. Emerald Airlines operates the Donegal-Dublin route using Aer Lingus’ flight numbers and the Aer Lingus brand franchise using the 72-seater ATR 72-600.
With Donegal Airport’s friendly, bilingual staff dedicated to customer satisfaction, offering the best service and food one could ask for in an airport, paired with the fact that it sits in a Gaeltacht region makes it unique for more than its amazing scenery. Truly the gateway to the Northwest, Donegal Airport is one of a kind.
www.donegalairport.ie
Head through the doors of The Ardara Distillery and appreciate an alternative side of Irish whiskey making, one that honors the methods of Donegal’s illicit forefathers and is inspired by the almost lost tradition for a smoky style of spirit, brought up to date with the very best distillation knowhow. During the tour learn about the history of Donegal’s immense distilling heritage and see skilled workers breathing new life into the craft.
The distillery is home to Sliabh Liag Distillers and houses all its distilling operations. It sits on the Show Field in the historic festival town of Ardara, overlooking the beautiful Loughrosmore Bay. Inspired by place and community, and with the mission of reclaiming the distilling heritage of Donegal, James and Moira Doherty returned to the northwest coast of Ireland to establish Sliabh
Liag Distillers. James' childhood holidays in Donegal nurtured a love for the folk tales of the Sliabh Liag Peninsula, resulting in the first product launched by the business, The Silkie range – named after the mermaids who were said to come ashore, shedding their seal-like coat to become beautiful dark-haired maidens and steal the hearts of local fishermen.
Sliabh Liag Distillers is an international drinks business based in Donegal. James and Moira Doherty returned here to build a legacy and have assembled their meitheal (work-gang) - with the Ardara Distillery complete and the spirits brands in 40 countries it is something the whole community are proud of. They are driven by a passion for soft-drinking hard spirits
and taking inspiration from the rugged landscape, harsh climate, and rich regional traditions. By allying this with the international view of a returning emigrant, they are producing a series of carefully crafted super-premium brands being sold across the globe.
The art of mixology is the study of inventing, preparing, and serving mixed drinks or cocktails. A good rule of thumb for making any cocktail is to choose a base spirit (such as whiskey or gin), add something bitter or sour, and finally, something to balance it out. Mix things up this summer by serving guests some of the Donegal brand's signature serves with Silkie Irish Whiskey and An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin.
The Silkie collection comprises The Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskey, the perfect sipping whiskey that can be enjoyed as it is or over ice; the Dark Silkie Irish Whiskey for those who like their whiskey with a bit more character; or the Midnight Silkie, the smokiest blend yet.
Midnight Silkie is used to make The Later Watch, similar to an Espresso Martini but smokier, with more character. For this serve you will need 50ml Dark Silkie Irish Whiskey, 30ml chilled espresso, 15ml coffee liqueur and 10ml syrup. Simply shake hard with ice and single strain and garnish with chocolate powder before serving.
With a name like The Donegal Orchard, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree for this cocktail inspired by the legends of the
Donegal Coast. Impress your guests with 60ml of the Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskey, 35ml cloudy apple juice, 10ml lemon juice and 15ml simple syrup. Shake the ingredients, double strain, and garnish with an apple fan.
While the collection of Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskeys is inspired by the joy of the smoky aromas from a Donegal peat fire in the shadow of Sliabh Liag, An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin is a love letter from the Donegal Coast and distiller, Moira Doherty's focus is one essential element: "To make An Dúlamán, we focus on capturing ‘Draíocht na Farraige,' or the Magic of the Sea. By foraging for natural products along the coast and using five locally harvested varieties of seaweed, including Carrageen Moss and Dulse, as well as
six other natural botanicals, An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin aims to capture the dry tang of a sea breeze over Donegal’s wild coastline in a bottle, making it the perfect drink for gin cocktails like the refreshing, summery An Dúlamán Maritime Mojito. It sounds off-beat, but it is simple to make and even easier to drink. You'll need 50ml An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin, 25ml fresh lime juice, 12.5ml sugar syrup, and 12 mint leaves to create the perfect serve. Shake the ingredients, strain, top with soda, and garnish with lime wheels and mint sprig.
An Dúlamán Santa Ana Armada Strength Gin is strong in alcohol but also remarkably soft. At the same time, the savory brine notes take on sweet blackberry, licorice, candied peel and a rich, comforting orange finish. Try Sliabh Liag Distillers’ take on the classic Negroni. You’ll need 30ml of An Dúlamán Santa Ana Armada Strength Gin, 30ml Campari and 30ml Sweet Vermouth. Just pour the three ingredients over ice, stir and garnish with an orange twist.
The latest addition to the gin family is An Dúlamán, Memories of Asia. This distinctive and innovative expression was inspired by Gin Distiller and Founder Moira Doherty’s time spent living in Asia. It is a sweeter, floral and fragrant gin. For this edition, three seaweeds have been replaced with seven exciting new ingredients; Oolong Tea, Ginger, Sesame Seeds, Hibiscus Flowers, Sakura, which is dried Japanese Cherry Blossom preserved in salt, Star Anise, and Kaffir Lime Leaves. These ingredients combine beautifully and
capture the flavors and aromas of Hong Kong life. An Dúlamán, Memories of Asia is now available exclusively on the Sliabh Liag Distillers online shop for €37.50.
The distillery’s Seanchaí Cask Club is a chance to own a piece of history. In Donegal, a seanchaí (pronounced shana-key) is the keeper of an area's oral tradition, imbibing stories, myths, facts, and folklore and fusing them together to recount rich tales. In owning a cask of the Ardara Distillery’s whiskey, you become one of Donegal’s Seanchaí. Your stories of its distinctiveness will help reclaim Donegal's distilling heritage and build the legend. Casks are available for €6,000, which covers samples and insurance. You can age it some more at the end of the five years or sell it back to the distillery.
The Ardara Distillery, which only opened to the public in July 2022, has already proven to be popular with tourists and locals alike. Tours are available Monday to Saturday at 10am, 12pm, 2pm and 4pm, and each tour lasts about an hour. The team advises that visitors check in ten minutes before the tour begins. To taste the gin and whiskeys, the administration fee is €25, while a tour without tasting is €15. Children ages 8-18 are free of charge, however, children any younger than eight years old are not permitted. Booking in advance is essential as there is a limit of ten people per tour. Tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users and guide dogs. Find out more at www.sliabhliagdistillers.com
The Ardara Distillery honors the methods of Donegal’s illicit forefathers and is inspired by the almost lost tradition for a smoky style of spirit, brought up to date with the very best distillation know-how.
A working mill devoted to the traditional indigenous craft of handweaving, producing original, colour ful and creative designs in throws, tweeds and gar ments, designed, handwoven and made in-house in Kilcar, Co Donegal.
Visitors are welcome to take a free guided tour of the mill, where you can meet the makers and see our products being made
Tel: +353 (0)74 97 38194
www.studiodonegal.ie
KA-LUNK, KA-LAK, KA-LUNK, KA-LAK, THE NOISE THAT ONCE ECHOED AROUND THE COUNTRYSIDE IN YEARS GONE BY – ACROSS VALLEYS, OVER MEADOWS, SOFT AND RHYTHMIC. MEN ARE HARD AT WORK AT THEIR LOOMS, WEAVING THE TWEEDS THAT HAVE BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH IRELAND, ESPECIALLY DONEGAL.
Feet moving on the shafts, opening and closing the 'shed', hands working in coordination, throwing the shuttle, beating the cloth. Part-time farmers or fishermen supplemented their income by producing hand-woven tweeds, in herringbone patterns, twill and plain.
However, with time comes change. Modern machinery replaced the slower, older way of doing things and for weaving the story was no different. Modern mechanical looms began replacing the old wooden hand looms; they were faster, more efficient and more profitable. Sadly, hand weaving was fast disappearing, another dying art. Still, in the hearts of some, there was a ‘gra’ for the older, slower way of doing things; the sense of satisfaction in weaving by hand, a connection between the maker and the made, the weaver and the cloth.
Thankfully hand looming is not entirely relegated to the past. In 1979 Studio
Donegal was established with the lofty aim of reviving this traditional craft. An article in a local newspaper, the Donegal Democrat of November 21st, 1980, stated, "Studio Donegal is idealistic – it is a new concept in the fading world of handweaving."
Over 40 years later, the Ku-lunk, Ka-lack can be heard daily in Kilcar, emanating from the art moderne building at the bottom of the village, Studio Donegal. The mill, now owned and managed by the son of the original manager Kevin Donaghy, shares the same passion for the handmade as the originators of Studio Donegal. Following in the footsteps of his parents, Tristan Donaghy says:
“We in Studio Donegal feel that this sound is part of the intangible cultural heritage of Kilcar and indeed, the wider Southwest Donegal area. We feel that preserving this craft and passing it on to future generations is imperative. Our ambition is to keep the
soft rhythm of the handloom alive for many years to come. It is the foundation stone of Studio Donegal, and it has remained so since our business was first established in 1979. 100% of the cloths we produce are woven on old traditional hand looms, dating back over 100 years.”
A busy team of twelve currently work in the mill. Skilled hand weavers and garment makers move to a slightly different beat, a hive of activity and a hum of creativity.
The designs and colors of Studio Donegal products are very much of the modern times, contemporary design using traditional methods and machinery.
The range of throws are vivid and sometimes off-beat while the clothing range is timeless and ageless, all made by hand in the mill, a link to the past and a face to the future.
County Donegal is a special place. They say ‘It’s different up here’ and they are right. The landscape, the light, and the attitude are all different. So much better for the creating of art and craft in abundance. Amelia’s, Irish Design & Gifts has as its focus the showcasing of these skills by local artists and designers.
Frances Spears, the owner, has always used the criteria of quality, originality and beauty as essentials for her choosing the right makers and this is obvious once you step inside this small, friendly and colorful shop.
Amelia’s is situated in Letterkenny, a bustling town with a mix of business and tourism, which is a center of accommodation for those visiting the beautiful local scenery. It is in the Cathedral Quarter close to good restaurants and lively bars full of music and chat.
Although Amelia’s (named after Frances’s granny) opened 8 years ago on Main Street it started as a small enterprise in the antique shop belonging to Frances a few doors down, Mourne Antiques & Jewelery, in 2010 when the recession hit badly and the craft industry was reinventing itself.
On sale are works from around 50 local makers. Frances also hand picks work from some of the most creative people from
all over Ireland offering around 150 in total. She loves to meet artists in their own homes and workshops where she can see the influence of their work.
The mountains of Errigal and Muckish and the great number of spectacular beaches in the area offer amazing scenes through the seasons. These are as popular with the locals as with the visitors, and they offer a special piece to take from their trip or as a gift for a loved one.
When you visit Amelia’s you will find every piece of art, pottery, tweed, and craft handmade in Ireland with skill and passion.
The Haven, originally Villa Marina, was built in 1864 as a summer house for the Malcomson family and enjoys striking views over Dunmore Bay and the Hook Peninsula.
It was bought in 1964 by John and Jean Kelly, and their son Paul continues to manage and run the hotel today with his wife Karen. The Kellys and their staff offer a warm welcome and do their utmost to make you feel at home. Most of the original features of this charismatic building remain while guests can enjoy all modern comforts.
Pop in for a drink or a coffee. Enjoy something to eat while taking in the views, or book to stay in one of the 18 luxurious individually designed bedrooms.
The Kellys pride themselves on their menus and specialize in their not to be missed "World Famous Roast Rib of Prime Irish Beef" and locally caught seafood.
Music is the heart of The Haven Hotel. Live music is played in the bar or on the patio at weekends and there are regular live music events throughout the year. For live music events, check the website or social media for details.
An award-winning wedding venue, the Haven Hotel is the perfect setting for destination weddings or a family reunion. Weddings
can enjoy use of the glass marquee, hotel and grounds, and the breathtaking scenery provides the perfect backdrop for photographs.
The Haven Hotel is also the perfect venue for events and family occasions of any size, and there are plans to replace the glass marquee in 2023/24 with a new purpose-built function room sitting into the front lawns.
The Haven Hotel is the perfect base to explore County Waterford and the “Sunny South-East”. It has a wealth of stunning scenery and things to do and see all year round on its doorstep: blue flag beaches, watersports, woodland, and cliff walks. If that’s not enough, why not explore the working harbour or take in a round of golf at the Dunmore East Golf Course. Waterford City is only a ten-minute drive from Dunmore East. Explore the Viking Triangle, tour the House of Waterford Crystal or hire a bike on the Waterford Greenway. The Hook Peninsula is only a short ferry hop away, where you can visit the world’s oldest working lighthouse.
Whatever you choose to do in the sunny South East, make sure to visit The Haven Hotel, where there really is something for everyone!
Contact the hotel directly for best rates. www.thehavenhotel.com
Wedding: Evelyn McNamara Photography Ariel Photography: skypix.ie
THE CUSACK HOTEL GROUP, LOCATED IN COUNTY MEATH IS A HISTORICAL HUB, RICH IN HISTORY AND HERITAGE, AND AN IDEAL BASE TO EXPLORE SOME OF EASTERN IRELAND'S MOST FAMOUS AND KNOWN SITES.
The Group is a family-run chain of hotels conveniently situated in Co. Meath and only a short drive from Co. Dublin. Each hotel offers an individual and unique experience while sharing a warm and wholesome atmosphere that will give you a "home away from home" feel.
The establishment of the Cusack Hotel Group was in 1998 with the opening of the first hotel under the label – the awardwinning Newgrange Hotel. This hotel is designed and inspired by the area's ancient history and therefore serves as a luxurious and enchanting destination in the heart of Navan. Set in one of the most historical and beautiful spots in the country, guests from around the globe are invited to experience the old-world charm of luxury hotel accommodation in Ireland. A close drive to Newgrange Passage Tomb and you can experience ‘a place of astronomical, spiritual and ceremonial importance’ by local experts.
The three-star deluxe hotel offers 62 en-suite guest bedrooms, spaciously decorated and designed with comfort and tranquillity in mind. The resident’s lounge is at the heart of the hotel, the perfect place to relax and unwind with a cocktail or glass of champagne.
Often referred to as one of the best hotels in Ireland, The award-winning Ardboyne Hotel is situated at the heart of the picturesque Irish heritage town of Navan. Here, in the birth town of movie star Pierce Brosnan, visitors can expect to be treated to good old-fashioned Irish hospitality, coupled with a Navan hotel experience you will never forget. If you seek charm and genuine ambient warmth, The Ardboyne Hotel is the perfect accommodation in Meath for you.
The three-star deluxe hotel offers 29 recently refurbished en-suite guest bedrooms spaciously decorated and designed. When the ambiance is enhanced with live entertainment that showcases the best of the Irish arts scene, the Kell's Bar at the Ardboyne Hotel comes to life. Meanwhile, afternoon tea is provided in the lounge, offering yet another exceptional hospitality experience.
Nestled in the heart of the heritage town of Trim lies a hotel that invites guests to immerse themselves in old-world charm, unique culture and the fascinating history of this beautiful town. Few places in Ireland contain more medieval buildings than the heritage town of Trim. It is home to many
historic sites, including Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman Castle in Ireland and featured in the well known movie ‘Braveheart’.
The Castle Arch Hotel is an award-winning three-star boutique hotel, taking the bronze award in the Virgin Media Gold Medal Awards for 2022. The hotel offers 21 ensuite bedrooms, family-oriented services, family rooms, and adventure packages to nearby attractions.
For more leisurely family meals or cosy lunches when the weather is unpleasant, seek out The Arch Lounge for its laid-back ambiance and antique stone wall accents. Enjoy the daily carvery lunch, produced by a team of award-winning chefs and paired with a wine selection from the comprehensive list.
Whether you choose The Newgrange Hotel, The Ardboyne Hotel or The Castle Arch Hotel, opulent rooms provide outstanding value for money and are the preferred place for single travelers, couples, and families.
With the island’s frequent rain, it is lush and green throughout. Locals often joke that we have forty shades of green for sure, but it takes fifty shades of gray to keep it!
Worry not, the rain is not as bad as it seems, and Ireland generally enjoys warm, mild summers with a gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor pursuits - of which there are many, and Ireland’s Greenways are a great way to experience some of the most unspoiled parts of the country. Walk, cycle or e-cycle along hidden highways, seeing Ireland and its greenery from an entirely new perspective.
The Great Western Greenway in county Mayo is a 42km trail that follows the route of the now defunct Achill to Westport railway line and offers stunning views of Clew Bay and its surrounding landscape. First opened in 2010, the n Greenway
is divided into three sections – Achill to Mulranny, Mulranny to Newport and Newport to Westport – and can be completed in sections or as one whole cycle or walk.
The first section starts on Achill Sound, at the Achill Island Hotel, where an official access point is located. Whether on bike or foot, you'll be able to follow the dedicated signs that mark your way onto the official path. The route is relatively flat and a great way to ease yourself into the adventure, taking in beautiful views of the Mayo countryside.
The second stage of Greenway increases in difficulty and length. The route stretches over 18km and includes steep climbs and off-road paths. Although your legs might be tired, your eyes will be thrilled with the stunning views over Clew Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, making this section of the Greenway a must-do for visitors.
The final stretch is the shortest, at 11km. The route leads directly through the town of Newport before bringing you into the center of Westport, a lively, popular town with a reputation for music and craic.
The Waterford Greenway is the longest, dedicated off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland. 46km long, visitors can cycle or walk the route from Waterford City to Dungarvan and follow the old Waterford to Mallow railway line.
Starting in Dungarvan, the route affords beautiful views of Dungarvan Bay, King John's Castle, and the Waterford coast before passing over the famous Ballyvoyle Viaduct.
After the viaduct, cyclists and walkers can look forward to traveling through the Durrow Tunnel – one of the most iconic features of the Greenway. Cycling through
the dark stone tunnel allows tourists to relive what it was like traveling by train all those years ago. In terms of difficulty, the trail is suitable for people of all fitness levels and is a great way to spend a family day out.
The gateway to West Limerick, the Limerick Greenway is a 40km off-road cycling and walking trail which allows visitors to explore quaint towns and villages, including Rathkeale, Ardagh, Newcastle West, Templeglantine, and Abbeyfeale. Starting in Rathkeale, cyclists or walkers travel westward through the town towards Ardagh.
En route, cross over five beautiful cutstone bridges and enjoy pleasant views of the surrounding farmland. Once past Ardagh, head for Newcastle West, a bustling town overlooking the River Arra. Book a guided tour of the 15th-century Desmond Castle Banqueting Hall or wander through the beautiful parklands of Castle Demesne.
Between Newcastle West and Barnagh, visitors face the Greenway's steepest incline; however, the climb is worth it as this section of the route boasts incredible views of the Limerick plains and the Golden Vale. From Barnagh, the route is mostly downhill and passes through bridges, embankments, and peaceful woodland.
The Grand Canal Way is a 117km longdistance trail that follows the canal's towpath from Lucan Bridge outside Dublin to Shannon Harbour in Clare. The mammoth trail is typically completed in five days or can be cycled or walked in sections.
A delightful section of the Grand Canal Way is 8.5km long between the third lock at Inchicore in Dublin and the twelfth lock at Lucan. This stretch of the route opened in 2010 and is a great way to explore the capital, whether you’re just visiting or a True Blue.
Totaling 144km long and almost parallel to the Grand Canal Way, the Royal Canal
Way passes through Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Westmeath before reaching its final destination in Longford. The entire trail typically takes four to five days to complete but can be split into smaller sections, stopping for overnights at B&Bs along the way.
What exactly does the Royal Canal Way offer visitors besides miles of glorious countryside and spectacular scenery? Cyclists or walkers can enjoy visiting many cultural and historical sites with plenty of examples of late-eighteenthcentury industrial archaeology to admire, including the Ryewater Aquaduct, which brings the canal over the Rye River.
The Boyne Greenway is the ideal way to explore Ireland's Ancient East. Running from Dominic's Park on the south bank of the River Boyne near the Bridge of Peace in Drogheda, the Boyne Greenway leads west of Drogheda towards the Mary McAleese Cable Bridge. From there, follow the route along the Boyne Canal to the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre at Oldbridge.
This famous site is where William of Orange defeated King James ll of England’s forces to regain the British crown and become king. After his loss, James fled to France and never returned to the British Isles again. The site’s historical significance has made it one of the bestknown battlefields in British history and a key part of Orange Order folklore.
The Great Eastern Greenway is a short 7km trail that runs from Carlingford Lough in Louth to Omeath. The short distance means the route can be easily walked or cycled and is open to anyone regardless of age or fitness level. The trail runs along the lough’s southern shore and was built on the old railway line. Visitors will enjoy spectacular views of the lough, Slieve Foy and the surrounding Mourne Mountains.
Ireland is an excellent destination for outdoor activity. Discover Ireland's great (and green) outdoors at any time of the year.
I miss the River Shannon and the folks at Skibbereen the moorlands and meadows and their Forty Shades of Green
But most of all I miss a girl in Tipperary town and most of all I miss her lips as soft as eiderdown
I long again to see and do the things we've done and seen
where the breeze is sweet as shalimar and there's Forty Shades of Green
Shop our new season collection, to find everything you need for your family adventures this year. Find men’s, women’s and juniors, clothing and footwear at Regatta Great Outdoors.
regatta.ie 34 stores nationwide
Goat’s Path Farm and Pod Park, a beautiful picturesque location for you and yours to unwind.
You will find our luxury pods equipped for all your essential needs. Our pods are set into the high landscape which allows you to absorb the surrounding countryside of the Sheep’s Head Way and sea views of Bantry Bay.
BOOK NOW AT www.goatspathpods.ie
IN THE PICTURESQUE, RURAL LOCATION ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE SHEEP'S HEAD PENINSULA IS A LOVELY
NATURES BEAUTY AND DIVERSITY ARE A RICH SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR CRAFTWORKERS ACROSS IRELAND AND IT IS IN PLENTIFUL SUPPLY.
The breathtaking beauty of the Irish landscape has inspired generations of poets and painters who seek to capture in their craft, its essence; the moss-covered dry-stone wall, the purple carpet of bell heather or the yellow blaze of furze on the mountainside, the sheer granite cliff glinting in the sunlight as the Atlantic waves crash to shore. So too have Irish craftspeople turned to the landscape around them both for inspiration and materials when honing their craft.
Early Irish crafts, particularly Irish textiles, are interwoven in the very fabric of the
history and culture of Ireland. From oncehumble beginnings Irish Aran knitwear, Irish Linen, Donegal tweeds and other textile crafts have grown from simple items of necessity to extraordinary works of quality and design which have earned their place on the international stage.
Ireland’s two dominant indigenous textiles are wool and linen. Wool has been woven in Ireland since the late Bronze Age. The earliest known surviving piece of Irish woven wool was found in County Antrim and dates from approximately 750 BC. The piece shows considerable skills in weaving
had already been accomplished by the Irish at this time. Irish woolen cloth is arguably one of Ireland’s first manufactured exports having been successfully exported from medieval times.
One of the world’s oldest textiles, linen is named after the Latin name for the flax plant, from whose fibers it is either spun or woven. Ireland has long been a producer of this fine fabric and remains one of the few producers of high-quality linen in the world.
A truly ancient textile craft, there are records of flax growing in Ireland as early as 1000 BC. So important was flax that the Brehon Laws, the ancient laws of Ireland, extending back as far as the bronze age, made it obligatory for farmers to learn and practice the cultivation of flax. The production of linen from flax is a complex process with several stages. Age-old techniques honed over the centuries are still employed today at several linen manufacturers in Ireland. Exacting manufacturing processes are strictly followed by all members of the Irish Linen Guild to ensure top-quality linens are being produced, whether that be linen for household use, such as table, kitchen or bed linen, or indeed for apparel or fashion linens.
Dublin-born designer Paul Costelloe has been working with Irish linen since the 1970s. The veteran designer waxes lyrical about its uses, from how it looks to how it behaves in production, flying through the machine. "Think Marcello Mastroianni in the film La Dolce Vita. He is wearing a black linen suit which is very masculine and actress Anita Ekberg wears a white linen shirt. It looks so beautiful, so chic," he says.
More recently Sarah Burton, creative director at Alexander McQueen and designer of Kate Middleton's wedding dress, brought fresh eyes to the Irish linen landscape when she and her team traveled to Northern Ireland on a research trip.
"Often our collections start with a research trip, and we went to Ireland," Burton told fashion bible Vogue. "I wanted the next collection to be about slowing things down, stripping back to the toile and about timelessness. That led us to linen, a completely sustainable cloth, a noble fabric, and one that Ireland, in particular, is famous for."
And just like the Aran Sweater, Linen was luxe and in demand at the highest levels.
From the uniform of peasants to the darling of couturiers, tweed has been transformed across the centuries. Its resurgence in fashion and interiors is good news for Irish companies who never faltered in their love of weaving the warp and weft.
Donegal is the heartland of Irish tweed and Donegal tweed is better known than other Irish tweeds. The tweed tradition here is centuries old; woven from native wool and dyed to reflect the earthy, heathery landscape of the area. It was originally woven by hand on small spindles, using a variety of colored wools, later progressing to larger hand looms and later again to mechanized production. While patterns produced include herringbone and checks, it is the ‘salt and pepper’ pattern that makes Donegal tweed so distinctive, and recognizable worldwide. It is most typically produced in the colors of the dramatic surrounding landscape in a mixture of wools yielding a dotted effect in moss greens, earthy browns, fuchsia pinks and Atlantic blues.
Water-resistant and hardwearing, Donegal tweed has been used to produce outdoor clothing for hundreds of years. An explosion of interest in the Victorian era saw demand escalate as Donegal tweed became a fabric of choice for those involved in fashionable outdoor sporting pursuits, including fishing, shooting, game hunting and cycling. This trend continues today, with Donegal tweed recognized the world over for its quality, style and durability, as one of the most famous tweeds in the world.
One of the most recognized Donegal tweed manufacturers dates back to 1866; Magee, based in Donegal town manufactures the traditional Donegal tweed fabric, and also produces a collection of ladieswear, menswear and homewares. Magee specializes in the use of high-quality natural yarns such as cashmere, alpaca, angora, merino and lambswool. Magee’s tweeds are both designed and woven in their mill in Ireland. The company employs handweavers to create unique and beautiful soft tweeds speckled with color, inspired by the surrounding landscape.
Studio Donegal - Ruby Mint PinksDonegal is also home to several smaller tweed weavers such as Studio Donegal, a traditional mill on The Wild Atlantic Way in Kilcar Co. Donegal. Visit this charming village in southwest Donegal to see the ‘keepers of the craft’ in action. A team of skilled hand weavers are busy at their looms, producing a stunning array of contemporary designs that have become the hallmark of Studio Donegal, hand weavers and garment makers. Enter the weaving room to the smell of wool, the rhythmic clatter of the handlooms, and the soft Donegal accents of the weavers as they discuss the matters of the day. Watch as expert hands throw the shuttle and beat the cloth to an even tension, an array of colors and patterns, feel the texture of the cloth - a feast for the senses.
In the sewing room the tweed is cut and sewn into a collection of timeless wearables, jackets, capes, hats and scarves. The team of skilled garment makers are always willing to chat and explain their work.
Originally the tweeds produced in the homes of hand weavers would have been destined for use in garment making only. Nowadays, the hand looms at Studio Donegal produce creative contemporary designs not only in cloth but in scarves, throws, and cushions.
Run by Tristan Donaghy, and true to the handcrafted nature of traditional weaving, Studio Donegal does its own carding, spinning, hand weaving and garment making. In fact, everything with the Studio Donegal label is hand woven and made in the mill at Kilcar, Co Donegal.
Every garment is made entirely from start to finish by a single craftsperson to
ensure quality. A full range of products are available at the studio to view or purchase, including tweed throws, men’s and women’s clothing, hats and accessories as well as Donegal Yarns knitting wool and a selection of contemporary and traditional knitwear.
Not all Irish tweed is made in Donegal, Mucros weavers, are located at Muckross House, which is the focal point for visitors to Killarney National Park. Surrounded on all sides by the distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls under ever-changing skies, inspiration is everywhere.
Master Weaver John Cahill knows something about tradition, and about taking inspiration from the surrounding
beauty of nature. Mucros Weavers’ scarves are woven using only the finest quality yarns, on Hattersly looms that are almost 200 years old. Mucros Weavers supply more than 100 shops internationally, including shops in the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Japan. The range of exquisite products on offer has also expanded in the more than 40 years that John Cahill has been weaving here. The product range now includes colorful scarves, stoles, capes and rugs, all made from premium yarns such as wool, mohair and alpaca. These ranges are complemented with ladies’ and gents’ tweed headwear in both traditional and contemporary styles as well as ladies’ capes and gents’ waistcoats in tweeds to match the headwear.
There are an abundance of craft studios where you can see skilled artisans at work using natural Irish materials. Include a craft experience into your itinerary for a take home piece like no other.
Jimmy Hourihan and his family have been making beautiful tweed garments from his Dublin base for more than 60 years. Hourihan’s is one of the world's leading manufacturers of these specifically Irish garments, women's quality Capes, Wraps, and Shawls in magnificent luxury fabrics such as 100% Cashmere, Cashmere/Wool Blends, Precious Fiber Blends, Doubleface Lodens, and of course their famous Irish tweeds from Donegal. While taking inspiration from traditional designs and fabrics, Hourihan’s capes and wraps bring femininity and softness, with an understated element of luxury, to today's fashion look.
Alexandra Zolich is a Polish-born artist now living and working in Ireland. With an art qualification from Poland and a textile qualification from NCAD in Dublin, she has brought a unique perspective to her Irish crafts. Alexandra creates one-of-akind ladies’ luxury scarves using a ‘Nunofelting’ technique. In nuno-felting loose fiber (merino wool) is bonded into sheer fabric such as silk, creating a lightweight felt. Warm soapy water is applied to the layers of loose fiber. Repeated agitation and compression cause the fiber and silk to hook together, forming a new fabric. The result is something extraordinary.
Each of Alexandra’s products is created by combining high-quality silks and merino wool, which is softer and more finely crimped than other wools. Alexandra’s scarves are impressive; inspired by the natural landscape and imaginatively designed, she uses a whole palette of colors to create a truly unique and individual wearable work of art.
While some producers of Irish textiles and garments are well-renowned, others particularly individual artisans and small producers of high-quality handmade goods can struggle to be discovered. One person who wanted to do something to change this was New York-based Irish native Margaret Molloy. A Harvard graduate and global chief marketing officer at Siegel+Gale, Molloy started a social media campaign to support Irish design back in 2016. A personal passion project centering around St Patrick’s Day Molloy started a hashtag campaign for #wearingirish. Molloy encouraged her 30,000+ followers to photograph and tweet about the Irish designs they were wearing in the month of March. The hashtag and associated Twitter account has garnered global attention and has given a platform to contemporary Irish designers whose work is now seen and shared across the world.
In many ways today’s Irish crafts reflect a modern Ireland, while no longer borne out of the necessities of harsh island weather. Ireland’s modern-day crafts provide a fresh outlook as well as a link to Ireland’s ancient past. Artisans still explore the skills of their forbears, and draw inspiration from the landscape, from the sky and from the earth itself while also welcoming new influences and new interpretations; Irish craft is a constant and vibrant journey of discovery.
Each of the patterns on the Aran sweater has a meaning. The stitches are passed down the generations and make Aran sweaters unique to Ireland.
IrelandsEye Knitwear.
From keeping fishermen warm at sea to making Hollywood stars look glamorous, Aran has a broad appeal. Practical and stylish in equal measure, it’s a timeless classic.
www.irelandseyeknitwear.com
IRISH DESIGN AND CRAFT MAKERS OFFER A WEALTH OF PRODUCTS AND EXPERIENCES FOR ALL.
Irish design and craft offers an important link for almost 70 million people with Irish connections worldwide. For many, this relationship is deep and layered. Similar to the products and experiences on offer today by designers and craft makers working across Ireland, there are many ways to learn about and experience Irish design and craft. For example, Irish makers and their products are available through retail stores of members of the North American Celtic Trade Association (NACTA).
Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), headquartered in County Kilkenny, Ireland and funded by the Government of Ireland, promotes the commercial development of design and craft across Ireland. It also
provides a fantastic resource through its website, www.dcci.ie, where buyers can learn about products and buy directly from makers through www.designireland.ie. DCCI also maintains the largest directory of Irish craft businesses in the ‘Made Local’ section of the website. This is an important resource for all lovers of Irish design and craft.
Beautiful hand-crafted products are produced across a full range of disciplines. These include fashion, jewelry, textiles, ceramics, wood, and metalwork. Irish craftmade products are unique and combine design and quality, created by makers who have spent years working on perfecting their skills. Buyers can visit a maker’s workshop or attend a short educational
course in craft skills for their next holiday in Ireland through designireland.ie. These courses include jewelry making, glass blowing, wood turning, pottery, silversmithing and tapestry. The DCCI Gallery in the Castle Yard Kilkenny is also a fantastic destination to see exhibitions by Irish makers and designers.
Explore the many craftspeople such as Hearts of Ireland, Adelle Hickey, located in Dublin's capital. Adelle is a designer and printmaker, and her research work in design history and material culture inspires her latest hand-printed collection of cards, Irish linen, notebooks and prints. BBpapercuts, maker Barbara Burke, whose love for maps and street patterns
of cities, creates intricate papercut maps of cities and towns. Ceramicist Rebecca Killen from County Down is located on the northeast coast of the island. Rebecca hosts workshops where you can dive into the world of ceramics. Rebecca’s unique creations for the home are inspired by traditional blue and white pottery.
The long-time home of DCCI in county Kilkenny is located in the southeast of the island of Ireland. It is often considered one
of Ireland's original homes for design and craft. It is also one of just a few World Craft Council-specific regions.
DCCI plays a considerable role in the future development of skills and education. DCCI supports the training resources needed to sustain the craft sector in Ireland. This includes strong ties with Irish universities, including the Atlantic Technical University and Trinity College Dublin.
Irish craft-made products uniquely combine design and quality, created by makers who have spent years honing their skills.
“Design and craft is a very important business sector in Ireland. The sector covers 18,000 enterprises, providing over 100,000 jobs. Most craft businesses are small with makers working in one or two-person workshops located across the country - in towns and villages and in some of the most spectacular landscapes in western Europe.
“The heritage of Irish design is deep, going back centuries. However, it was just over sixty years ago that the Irish Government recognized the role that design and craft should play in a small but growing Irish economy. The Kilkenny Design Workshops were established to promote and develop Irish craft skills and products. Almost 50 years ago, DCCI was created to represent and promote the development of craft skills and makers. It has successfully encouraged the preservation of traditional crafts while supporting innovation and contemporary design.
“Today, design and craft play a strong role in 'brand Ireland.' Interest in the sector is growing, particularly among international buyers. This was demonstrated earlier
this year at the Showcase event for trade buyers in Dublin in January. There was a huge attendance at the show, with almost 400 exhibitors and over 4,000 trade visitors. Many were overseas buyers from key markets in the USA, the United
Kingdom, and Europe. Customers and buyers of Irish design and craft are really important to us. We value them and work hard to retain their loyalty and interest in our makers.”
Hearts of Ireland, Adelle Hickey – Gold foil cable knit heart
KILKENNY SILVER JEWELLERY IS A RENOWNED BRAND SPECIALIZING IN EXQUISITE CELTIC IRISH STERLING SILVER JEWELLERY. THEIR COLLECTION SHOWCASES A WIDE RANGE OF METICULOUSLY CRAFTED PIECES, EACH REFLECTING THE RICH HERITAGE AND INTRICATE SYMBOLISM OF CELTIC CULTURE.
One of the distinguishing features of Kilkenny Silver jewellery is that each piece is hallmarked in Dublin Castle, guaranteeing its authenticity and quality. The Dublin Castle hallmark is a testament to the brand's commitment to upholding traditional craftsmanship and ensuring the highest standards of silver jewellery production.
The owners of Kilkenny Silver jewellery, Daniel and Jack, are passionate about preserving and celebrating the beauty of Celtic Irish design. They pride themselves on designing and creating unique, captivating pieces that capture the essence of Irish culture.
From intricate Celtic knots and spirals to iconic symbols like the Claddagh and Tree of Life, their collection encompasses a wide variety of designs that are steeped in tradition and carry deep meaning.
Whether you're searching for a stunning pendant, an elegant ring, or a timeless bracelet, Kilkenny Silver jewellery offers
a diverse selection to suit every taste and occasion. Their attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each piece is not only visually striking but also built to withstand the test of time. When you choose Kilkenny Silver jewellery, you're not just acquiring a beautiful accessory but also becoming part of a rich heritage. With Daniel and Jack at the helm, the brand continues to inspire admiration and captivate jewellery lovers around the world with their exceptional Celtic Irish sterling silver jewellery.
www.kilkennysilver.com
Daniel (right) and Jack (left) - together they take pride in their craft and are eager to assist their customers.
ANAM CRAFT IS AN EXCLUSIVE ONLINE B2B TRADING PLATFORM FOR NORTH AMERICAN RETAILERS TO DISCOVER, CURATE AND SHOP QUALITY PRODUCTS FROM EMERGING AND ESTABLISHED BRANDS FROM IRELAND, SCOTLAND & WALES.
ANAM Craft is a platform for authentic Celtic manufacturers to connect successfully with wholesale buyers who want the very best to delight their customers.
The firm has built a niche platform with convenience and curation at the core, elevating well made products for Main Street America to discover great products from Ireland, Scotland & Wales.
For makers, ANAM is a chance to share your story with a larger audience of international store owners, increasing both your visibility, and availability as a brand. ANAM Crafts provides you with the
powerful sales, marketing and analytic tools to easily scale your business while keeping your focus on what you lovemaking innovative design craft.
For busy buyers, ANAM Craft provides a unique centralized secure platform to discover, curate and purchase amazing products from the Celtic Nations, anytime from anywhere. Here is a small selection of the brands showcased, look out for them and many more in your favorite Celtic goods store.
12 Quali Farm Soap Studio is based in Fenagh, Co. Leitrim, Ireland. Mother and daughter duo, Tina and Lisa hand-make a range of soaps using donkey milk, from their farm in the heart of Ireland. Donkey milk has been known since the time of Cleopatra for its health benefits.
Cleopatra was not the only one who enjoyed the benefits of donkey milk baths; historic records show that donkey milk was often used as a treatment to revitalize the skin.
At 21 Quail Farm, they combine donkey milk in a soap with other ingredients. Activated Charcoal is a great exfoliant and soaks up skin toxins to cleanse and rejuvenate. Natural cosmetic clays are added to the soaps to give color and also fragrances and essential oils for scent. They then take this donkey milk soap mixture and hand-pour it into molds to create artistic works completely different from the normal handmade soaps you will find on the market.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to Lisa and Tina as Tina explains: “A Jenny or female donkey is pregnant for 11-14 months before giving birth. When the foal is born they spend the first three months feeding from their mother.
“After three months, they naturally begin to wean off mothers' milk onto grass and feed. This is a normal process both for humans and all animals. Only at this point
do we begin to take any excess donkey milk from the Jenny and only when the foal has had its fill.”
All the soaps take the form of small sculptures, not just bars of soap, so are very unique and of course, wonderfully soft and moisturizing on the skin.
12quailfarm.com
Anne Healy is the owner and creator of Biddy’s Good Luck Horse Shoes a multiaward-winning Irish business based in the beautiful city of Kilkenny, Ireland, the home of Irish craft and design.
With a love of tradition and a belief in the good luck of the Irish horseshoe, Anne Healy started her business initially as a hobby to share good luck with friends and family.
Anne received a horseshoe on her wedding day 30 years ago from her flower girl Cecelia, and it proudly sits in her kitchen. Horses have been a big part of Anne’s family life with her two sons Edward and Mike both avid riders.
In January 2019 Anne left her corporate job to follow her passion and make memories and magical moments full of Irish good luck for you to share.
Anne only uses genuine horseshoes that have been worn, each now repurposed into a beautiful gift (saved from landfill). All pieces are hand created in the studio in Kilkenny, a city rich in culture, heritage and craft.
These shoes have touched Irish soil, traveled all over Ireland, they have been so close to nature and the Irish countryside, they are a little piece of Irish heritage for you to enjoy and share. Items are made to order and each piece is made individually and just for you.
Stephen McDowell is the owner and creator of Bog & Brass unique wooden handcrafted gifts. Stephen always had a fascination with wood when he was young, but it wasn’t until he started collecting driftwood on walks along the shore of his local town in Moville, County Donegal, and began creating random things from what he found that his passion grew.
This led Stephen to look more into woodworking, and he decided on trying woodturning after seeing a few videos on YouTube. After a lot of reading and watching videos online, He learned the basics and used this to practice until he felt comfortable with what he was doing.
Stephen says that every day is a learning experience and he loves trying new ideas and techniques. He is still learning and loves creating. He creates all the pieces in his workshop which grows by the day and he loves making new things, especially custom orders.
Biddy’s Good Luck Horse Shoes’ story is a journey from hoof to good luck and bespoke pieces are created for all customers. Anne can’t wait to share this beautiful old tradition with you.
biddysgoodluckhorseshoes.com
Bog & Brass has a wide range of items for sale including, cufflinks, earrings, fountain pens, gift certificates, gift sets, pencils, pendants & necklaces, razors and shaving sets. The store also has many one-of-a-kind items and a special signature collection.
New to the store is the Bethlehem Olive Wood collection which is proving to be extremely popular. For those who can’t decide what to buy someone, gift certificates are also available.
Nothing makes Stephen happier than when his customers are overjoyed with their one-of-a-kind unique handcrafted items.
Bogandbrass.com
Erin Knitwear specializes in hand-knitting and was set up in 1965 by Tom and Sally Lane. Today the company is still owned by the Lane family and run by Tom’s sons Billy and John.
The company began by producing both traditional and fashionable Aran handknits and accessories for ladies, gents and children. The company’s product range has changed and evolved greatly since then.
Knit Bits Collection was launched in 2018, a delightful range that includes standalone sheep in various sizes and colors. The felt collection is unique, with colorful items which make perfect gifts, while the tapestry collection features coin purses and bags featuring wonderful designs.
With Erin Knitwear’s in-house design team the company is proud to add new products to its collections every year. These designs appeal both to the domestic as well as the international market.
All Erin Knitwear products are hand knit using 100% wool and are fleece lined for warmth and comfort. The company produces hats, caps, gloves, handwarmers, scarves and bags in a range of designs in vibrant and muted colors.
Aran knitwear has a long tradition. The people of Aran lived there for centuries and made their living by the cultivation of the land, entailing really hard work as there is only a thin covering of soil over the rock surface and often no soil at all. It was said that if a fisherman were drowned at sea and washed ashore far from home he might be identified by the stitches or pattern of his Gansey or other garment.
Erinknitwear.com
Forager Skincare harnesses the healing powers of wild Irish herbs. A collection of small batch, hand-poured balms made with foraged native Irish wild herbs and 100% natural ingredients by Feebee Foran in Dublin, Ireland.
“Mother Nature was very clever to put our medicine at our feet,” says Feebee.
This is the ethos and belief system at the heart of the company. Born out of a love and complete trust in nature, Feebee has created a range of skin-loving balms that nourish and care for your skin with a respectful nod to long-lost Irish remedies.
Feebee explains more: “Have you ever wondered where the saying fresh as a daisy comes from? Well, it’s questions like this that keep my brain buzzing at night, when I should be sleeping. In fact, it's the question that sparked my first Healing Balm, using the small but mighty Daisy.
“Everything about nature revives me. From having my hands in the soil, scanning every weed I pass on my daily walks with my dog Sika, researching plants that I have never seen before, growing vegetables and harnessing the potent powers of the plants I find, absolutely brings me joy and makes my heart sing.”
Feebee’s Forager products are delightfully packaged and each features a unique name. You can even treat your four-legged friend to paw balm, a ‘pawfect’ gift for a pup.
Gift certificates are also available along with presentation boxes which are ideal as a gift for a special person.
Forager.ie
Kelly Hood is a well-known Irish photo realism artist. From her County Wicklowbased studio, her paintings are lovingly created, printed and shipped all over the world.
Kelly Hood
Her designs are influenced by nature and the lush Irish countryside. As a child growing up on the beautiful Dingle peninsula, she spent countless hours happily wandering through fields, crossing streams and playing with the animals on her Granny Mae’s farm.
Kelly was always captivated by nature and animals. “I’d like to think this love for animals and the Irish countryside can be found in my paintings. I am convinced that every animal has a different personality and my passion is to capture it in an honest way.”
Nowadays most paints and dyes are chemically mass manufactured. Kelly’s
work is strongly inspired by the natural world and using natural pigments is just another step towards a more sustainable art practice. The palette she uses is completely earth-friendly, human-friendly and animal-friendly, and above all a satisfying way to create art.
“I am a contemporary realist painter with a constant need to paint the things in life that go unnoticed and which are often most interesting and beautiful,” Kelly explains. “I believe that if we took the time to look more closely at things we would truly have our eyes opened to the beauty in even the most mundane”.
Kelly lives in Co. Wicklow, and documents her painting journey and life in a little Irish cottage in the heart of the countryside with her husband Patrick and her little boy Jake.
The Irish Woollen Workshop
Ireland’s largest wholesaler of genuine Irish sheepskin rugs and products, with a large range of beautiful hand-crafted Irish rugs, a luxurious slippers range and designer sheepskin products, The Irish Woollen Workshop is your one-stop shop for anything sheepskin related.
It all began in the late 1980s when the current owner Gary Duffy’s father Eamonn, set up a company in Co Sligo in the beautiful northwest of Ireland. Eamonn’s company quickly grew into one of the leaders in its field within Ireland and was selling quality Irish materials across the globe.
By the late 1990s and with the demand for quality Irish sheepskin products, the firm selected the sheepskins, collected from all over Ireland and began to get them tanned into a large range of sheepskin rugs. Initially, rugs were the main seller of the firm’s products but over the years the product range expanded and today The Irish Woollen Workshop has a large range of sheepskin products from rugs to slippers and pet beds to homeware and much more.
Sheepskin is unique in that it keeps you warm in the winter but also cool in the warmer months. This means sheepskin products such as slippers and pet beds can be used all year round.
Bespoke items such as sheepskin rugs can be made to order and come in a range of sizes and colors, these rugs make ideal statement pieces for any home.
Today The Irish Woollen Workshop is Ireland's largest supplier of genuine Irish sheepskin products and sells the finished products all over the world, direct to consumers and wholesalers and aims to continue the hard work initially put in by Eamonn and continue to be the number one supplier in its field globally.
theirishwoollenworkshop.com
It all started with a rustic love for the simple life and a desire to honor our spiritual ancestors, the Celts. In 2004, Terry Kast, the original head honcho of The Celtic Ranch started selling traditional grandfather collarless shirts. The menswear sold so well that she decided to manufacture her own line of shirts with a rugged twist fit for cowboys to wear with jeans and boots. Lo and behold, the Celtic Ranchwear line was born!
She expanded the menswear line to include men’s wool and tweed vests to complement the grandfather shirts. Mixing the Irish tradition with a contemporary “wild, wild west” style, the vests soon became another bestseller. The Celtic Ranchwear continued to expand with the addition of women’s tartan skirts and accessories. In the fall of 2022, Celtic Ranchwear introduced a plethora of new apparel such as men’s shackets and Hawaiian shirts, and women’s ponchos, jackets, and denim shirts.
What started as a few choice bottles of Irish whiskeys quickly became the current home of The Whiskey Snug, home to over 900 domestic and international whiskeys. Explore an impressive collection of Irish, Scotch, and American whiskeys. Experience whiskey flights and cocktails and sign up to be a Snug Club member for speakeasy invites, discounts, and more.
The spirit of the Celtics continues to live on at The Celtic Ranch. Specializing in authentic Irish apparel, fine Celtic-themed jewelry, traditional keepsakes, and more. The Celtic Ranch is your home to unique
treasures just for you. Get a little taste of Ireland when you shop at The Celtic Ranch.
Weston, Missouri celticranch.com
Liza Betz arrived in Lexington, Kentucky in 1996 from Dublin Ireland. She began working in McCarthy's Irish bar first as a bartender and then as a manager. Liza did not expect to call Kentucky her forever home but as time went on she loved the way of life and how Kentucky felt like a home away from home.
There is a very large Irish population in Lexington Kentucky because of the horse business and because of the college, so the craic was easy to find. The only thing missing was an Irish shop.
In a call to her parents in Dublin in 2000 she told them that she was thinking of opening an Irish shop or if not, moving back to Dublin. Liza’s mum said she saw her life in America and gave the young entrepreneur the support she needed to open up her shop.
Fáilte opened in December 2001 with the help of a friend in the horse industry who she eventually bought out and Failte recently celebrated its 22nd anniversary
Liza met her husband Mike shortly after the shop opened. They have been married 16 years and have two wonderful children Elodie & Conway. Liza is truly living the American dream. As well as the popular food products, Failte also sells Celtic jewelry, caps, Aran sweaters and cute household items. The store has something for everyone. St Patrick's Day and Easter are some of the busiest times for the store.
Liza is very involved in the Irish community and has helped for many years with the Lexington St Patrick's parade and festival. She is passionate about making the Irish community stronger in any way she can and the couple travels to Ireland every year.
Lexington, Kentucky lexirish.com
The Irish Design Center has been a cornerstone of the Irish/Celtic community in Pittsburgh and its vicinity since 1978. Maura Krushinski and Tom Petrone assumed ownership of this iconic shop in March 2018. A vital resource for the Pittsburgh community, the shop is known for its high-quality merchandise at affordable prices.
In addition to providing authentic Irish/ Celtic merchandise and food, the Irish Design Center also offers education, outreach programs, Ireland tours, travel advice, and cultural events to the greater Pittsburgh area and beyond.
Maura and Tom are deeply committed to helping non-profit organizations that support public awareness of Irish/Celtic culture. They are loyal donors to a variety of local charities, educational institutions, senior centers plus local and regional Irish events, including the Pittsburgh Irish Festival, now in its 33rd year.
Mary-Anne's Irish Design & Craft Shop, owned by Mary-Anne, a former Rose of Tralee, was established more than 32 years ago. The shop is located in Riverdale, a beautiful residential neighborhood nestled on the Hudson River just 10 miles north of Times Square.
What makes the shop unique is not only the handmade Irish crafts but also that Mary-Anne's shop is attached to her parents' traditional Irish bar and restaurant. You can do some shopping then step into the bar and order one of NYC's best pints of creamy Guinness or delicious Shepherd's Pie, making you feel like you are in Ireland.
Mary-Anne spent her childhood in Ireland, and her love of the landscape, its people, heritage, and craftsmanship took hold of her and never left. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 1991 she knew exactly what she wanted to do, gather crafts from some of the finest artisans the Emerald Isle has to offer and showcase them in NYC.
Mary-Anne has always loved textiles, and this is evident when you walk inside and see bursts of color everywhere. When speaking to Mary-Anne, you can see her eyes light up when she tells you about the different weavers, knitters, and other Irish artists she represents. "Every piece has a story, and I just love sharing them with my customers. I love being able to give these extremely talented artisans a platform to be able to sell their designs here in New York City.”
In Mary-Anne’s shop, you can find something for everyone, whether it be a baby Aran sweater, a men's traditional tweed cap, a handwoven scarf, handcrafted jewelry and much more. You can choose personalized gifts such as etched crystal for a presentation piece, a baby bank with gold lettering, or handlettered wedding blessing on a piece of Belleek China, to name a few.
Every January Mary-Anne makes a pilgrimage to Ireland to hand-select what she will carry in her shop for the following year. She says that this trip is vital to be able to see colors and feel the fabrics. Trying on sweaters to see how they hang is extremely important. Fully stocked with the best in Contemporary Irish Design.
An rud is annamh is iontac - what is seldom is wonderful, this shop is filled with unique handcrafted goods that are made to last. When you make a purchase here you are making an investment.
Riverdale, New York connaughtonnyc@gmail.com
maryannesirishgiftshop.com
Things Celtic is the only store in Texas specializing in Irish and Celtic imports. After many years in Austin, the owner decided to move to the cute little town of Dublin, Texas. Conveniently located only a couple hours away from Dallas, Ft. Worth, Abilene, Waco or Austin, Dublin boasts beautiful old homes, huge pecan trees and red brick streets with traditional Irish names, such as Grafton, Sheridan and Erin.
When you enter Things Celtic you’ll discover many of your favorite Irish products, including Inis perfume, caps from Hanna Hats, jewelry from Solvar, purses from Mucross and sweaters from Saol Knitwear.
If your love of all things Celtic extends to Scotland Things Celtic has over 500 tartan samples available from Lochcarron, House of Edgar and Strathmore Woolens. This is your chance to order a custommade kilt or sash in your family tartan, the store also stocks the Irish and Welsh tartans.
At Things Celtic, you’ll find everything from jewelry, art, gifts, books and clothing. Open seven days a week, the owners look forward to welcoming you when come to visit Dublin, Texas. Be sure to take a photo next to one of the giant Shamrocks on your way into town, or if you don’t have a chance to visit check out the website – shipping is available across the USA.
Susan Banks is a wife, mom, and also known as Grammie Sue. She is also the owner of Faith & Begorra, Past President of the Denville Chamber of Commerce, Past President of the North American Celtic Trade Association, mentor to the International Highland Games Festival Chairmen, and mentor to International Celtic & Irish Festival Directors.
Susan is a traveler, a tinker, and a camper. Before opening her shop in 1992 she sold at top craft festivals with fabric art and quilts for 17 years. After reaching 35 weekends, she decided it was time to put down roots in one location. After much research, in 1992 Faith & Begorra was born.
Some 31 years later Susan is still traveling all over the US to Irish & Celtic Festivals. Over the years she has traveled from Long Island to Hunter Mt, to East Durham, Chicago, Milwaukee, Kansas City, Dublin, Pittsburgh, Jersey City, and Bethlehem, PA to name a few.
Susan’s booth is known as the Hanna Hat Booth (they are the only hats still fully made in Ireland) as well as the Baby Booth selling her own sweet line of Wee One baby clothes, designed and embroidered at her shop. She also sells jewelry, capes, socks, blankets and Harris Tweed accessories from Ireland and Scotland.
Susan travels in her 25’ Airstream. She has stayed in some amazing places such as Shipshewana, IN, a quilting haven in IN, to Muscatine, Iowa, where she spends a week on the Banks of the Mississippi River, watching the barges go by.
Denville, New Jersey faithandbegorra.com
Ciara’s Irish Shop
334 Second Street
Eureka, CA 95501
Tel: 707-443-0102
Website: www.ciarasirishshop.com
Contact: CC O’Brien-Cree
Irish Eyes
8A Olde Mistick Village
27 Coogan Boulevard
Mystic, CT 06355
Tel: 860-536-9960
Email: irisheyesmystic@aol.com
Contact: Donna Gorman
Peggy’s Cottage
1773 Post Road E
Westport, CT 06880
Tel: 203-292-3487
Email: marah.peggyscottage@gmail.com
Contact: Marah Melillo
Bits of Ireland
Website: www.bitsofireland.com
Contact: Pat McDonald
DELAWARE
Fenwick Float’ors
35034 Buoy Boulevard
West Fenwick Island, DE 19975
Tel: 302-436-5953
Website: www.fenwickfloators.com
Contact: Tina McBride
Irish Rose
42 North Walnut Street
Milford, DE 19963
Tel: 302-491-4125
Website: www.irishrosegiftshop.com
Contact: Eugenia Sparks
Heritage International
Spanish Springs & Sumter Landing
The Villages, FL 32159
Tel: 352-840-3212
Website: www.celticelegance.com
Contact: Marian Halpin
(The) Celtic Gift Store
212 W Cocoa Beach
Causeway
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Tel: 321-505-1966
Website: www.thecelticgiftstore.com
Contact: Yvonne Walsh
Celtic Shop of Dunedin
354 Main Street Dunedin, FL 34698
Tel: 727-733-2200
Website: www.celticshopdunedin.com
Contact: Lynn Thorn
(The) Irish Gift Shop
26 Cuna Street
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Tel: 904-824-5040
Website: www.theirishgiftshop.com
Contact: Michelle & Shane Pierce
Lynch’s Pub & Grub
19 N Blvd of Presidents
Sarasota, FL 34236
Tel: 941-388-5550
Website: www.lynches.pub
Contact: Jason Burns
GEORGIA
(The) Celtic Geek
228 W Broughton Street
Savannah, GA 31401
Tel: 912-777-5911
Website: www.got-kilt.com
Contact: Dirk Carswell
Enchanted Shire
6905 Virlyn B Smith Road
Fairburn, GA 30213
Tel: 585-329-5653
Website: www.enchantedshire.com
Contact: Arlene Dougherty
IDAHO
All Things Irish
315 E Sherman Avenue
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Tel: 208-667-0131
Website: www.all-thingsirish.com
Contact: Craig & Ilene Moss
ILLINOIS
(The) amEirecan – Irish Gift Shop
Tel: 785-473-8867
Website: www.theameirecan.com
Contact: Stephen & Brandy Caulfield
A Touch of Ireland
6761 W 95th Street
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Tel: 708-237-3473
Website: www.atouchofireland.com
Contact: Katie & Annie Cremins
Irish American Heritage Center Gift Shop
4626 N Knox Avenue
Chicago IL 60630
Tel: 773-282-7035 x 14
Website: www.irish-american.org
Contact: Irene Higgins-Hruby & Mary Rose Teahan
Paddy’s on The Square
228 Robert Parker Coffin Road
Long Grove, IL 60047
Tel: 847-634-0339
Website: www.irishboutique.com
Contact: John Barry
INDIANA
Three Irish Sisters
Website: www.threeirishsisters.com
Contact: Ruthie Yarbery
IOWA
Shamrock Imports
391 Bluff Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
Tel: 563-583-5000
Website: www.shamrockjeweler.com
Contact: Michael Siegert
St Pat's Association & Irish Gift Shop
1001 South Broadway
Emmetsburg, IA 50536
Tel: 712-852-4326
Website: www.emmetsburgirishgifts.com
Contact: Stephanie Mehan
KENTUCKY
Failte Irish Import Shop
113 South Upper Street
Lexington, KY 40507
Tel: 859-381-1498
Website: www.lexirish.com
Contact: Liza Hendley Betz
Walsh's Celtic Center
Website: www.walshscelticcenter.com
Contact: John Walsh
Enchanted Shire
46468 River Road
Hammond, LA 70401
Tel: 585-329-5653
Website: www.enchantedshire.com
Contact: Arleen Dougherty
MARYLAND
A Lit'le Irish, Too 143 N Market Street
Frederick, MD 21710
Tel: 301-378-2340
Website: www.alittleirishtoo.com
Contact: Tory Warren
Irish Traditions
141-143 Main Street
Annapolis, MD 21401
Tel: 410-990-4747
Website: www.IrishTraditionsOnline.com
Email: shop@TipperaryStores.com
Patti’s Flocks
54 North Main Street
Belair, MD 21014
Tel: 410-688-9792
Email: cfaithpatti@gmail.com
Contact: Christina & Matthew Browe
Babe Mannion’s Irish Shoppe
786 Adams Street
Dorchester, MA 02124
Tel: 617-506-1375
Email: bridie79@aol.com
Contact: Bridget Nee-Walsh
Bridget’s - An Irish Tradition
88 West Main Street
Norton, MA 02766
Tel: 508-285-9700
Website: www.bridgetsirish.com
Contact: Bridget Daly
Erin Gift Store
56 Knapp Avenue
Worcester, MA 01605
Tel: 508-735-9540
Email: erinbusiness56@gmail.com
Contact: Jennifer Courville
MASSACHUSETTS
Highlands Card & Gift
303A Springfield Street
Agawam, MA 02766
Tel: 413-315-3442
Website: www.highlandscardandgift.com
Contact: Heather & Earl Dandy
Southie’s Own
396 West Broadway
South Boston, MA 02127
Tel: 617-268-0714
Email: bridie79@aol.com
Contact: Bridget Nee-Walsh
MICHIGAN
Got Kilt
568 Main Street
Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Tel: 989-262-8065
Website: www.got-kilt.com
Contact: Dirk Carswell
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel
213 S 4th Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Tel: 734-846-2025
Website: www.realirish.com
Contact: Stuart Marley
Sullivan’s Irish Alley & Travel Too
104 East Main Street Flushing, MI 48433
Tel: 810-487-2473
Website: www.CelticAlley.com
Contact: Ed & Caron Sullivan
(The) Twisted Shamrock
3074 12 Mile Road
Berkley, MI 48072
Tel: 248-544-4170
Website: www.thetwistedshamrock.com
Contact: Jim Monahan
MINNESOTA
Got Kilt
Mall of America - Store
Number W385
60 E Broadway
Bloomington, MN 55425
Tel: 952-303-4477
Website: www.got-kilt.com
Contact: Dirk Carswell
MISSOURI
Browne's Irish Market
3300 Pennsylvania Avenue
Kansas City, MO 64111
Tel: 816-561-0030
Website: www.BrownesIrishMarket.com
Contact: Kerry Browne
(The) Celtic Ranch
404 Main Street Weston, MO 64098
Tel: 816-640-2881
Website: www.celticranch.com
Contact: Renz Pros
(The) Kerry Cottage
113 N. Kirkwood Road
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Tel: 314-394-0331
Website: www.thekerrycottage.square.site
Contact: Karin Jorgenson
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Celtic Crossing
112 Congress Street Portsmouth, NH 03801
Tel: 603-436-0200
Website: www.celticcrossing.com
Contact: Karin Scott
NEW JERSEY
Bridget’s Irish Cottage
15 E Broad Street
Westfield, NJ 07090
Tel: 908-789-0909
Website: www.bridgets.com
Contact: Bridget Lawn
Celtic Irish Gifts
1943 N Route 9 #16
Clermont, NJ 08210
Tel: 609-425-5854
Email: mp08210@yahoo.com
Contact: Mary Pratico
(The) Cross & Shamrock
1669 Route 33
Hamilton Square, NJ 08690
Tel: 609-586-9696
Website: www.crossandshamrock.com
Contact: Ann & Tim Bauersachs
Emerald Gifts
137 Parsippany Road
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Tel: 973-884-3241
Email: edhansberry69@gmail.com
Contact: Edward Hansberry
Faith & Begorra
40 Broadway
Denville, NJ 07834
Tel: 973-625-0070
Website: www.faithandbegorra.com
Contact: Susan Banks
Irish Centre
1120 Third Avenue
Spring Lake, NJ 07762
Tel: 732-449-6650
Website: www.njirish.com
Contact: Moya Rushe
Kelly's A Touch of Ireland
21 South Broadway
Pitman, NJ 08071
Tel: 856-589-4988
Website: www.kellystouchofireland.com
Contact: Judy Miller
O’Ireland
130 North Broadway
South Amboy, NJ 08879
Tel: 732-525-0515
Website: www.oireland.com
Contact: Rosanne Savoi
O’Ireland
30 Monmouth Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Tel: 732-747-4433
Website: www.oireland.com
Contact: Paul Savoi
Out of Ireland
3 New York Road, Store #22
Historic Smithville, NJ 08205
Tel: 609-748-6707
Website: www.shopoutofireland.com
Contact: Kathleen O’Gara
(The) Pipers Cove
212 Kearny Ave
Kearny, NJ 07032
Tel: 201-998-3695
Website: www.piperscove.com
Contact: Joan Nisbet
NEW YORK
Cashel House
224 Tompkins Street
Syracuse, NY 13204
Tel: 315-472-4438
Email: cashelhouse@gmail.com
Contact: Peter Heverin
Celtic Aer Gift Shop
1137 E Main Street, Suite B
Shrub Oak, NY 10588
Tel: 914-526-3361
Website: www.celticaer.com
Contact: Ashley Rooney
Celtic Treasures
456 Broadway
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Tel: 518-583-9452
Website: www.celtictreasures.com
Contact: Paul O’Donnell
(The) Danu Gallery
39 E Central Avenue
Pearl River, NY 10965
Tel: 845-735-4477
Website: www.thedanugallery.com
Contact: Karen Curran
From the Hart
108 N Main Street
Wellsville, NY 14895
Tel: 585-593-2017
Website: www.fromthehartstore.com
Contact: Nancy Hart
Guaranteed Irish
2220 Route 145 East Durham, NY 12423
Tel: 518-634-2392
Email: kkelly2121@aol.com
Contact: Kitty Kelly
Irish Crossroads 58 Main Street Sayville, NY 11782
Tel: 631-569-5464
Website: www.irishcrossroadsonline.com
Contact: Kathleen Quinn
Irish Treasures
2567 Main Street
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Tel: 518-637-7694
Website: www.irishtreasureslp.com
Contact: Tiffani Healey
Kathleen’s of Donegal
8 N Park Avenue
Rockville Center, NY 11570
Tel: 516-536-9616
Website: www.irishgiftsofrvc.com
Contact: Patrick & Kathleen Alcock
Lennon’s Irish Shop
164 Jay Street
Schenectady, NY 12305
Tel: 518-377-0064
Website: www.lennonsirishshop.com
Contact: Dale & Mary Ann May
Little Shop of Shamrocks
Website: www.littleshopofshamrocks.com
Contact: Linda Low
Mary’s Celtic Collectibles
117 E Mill Street
Horseheads, NY 14845
Tel: 607-738-5272
Email: mscollectibles@gmail.com
Contact: Mary Schuehler
Tara Gift Shoppe
250 Abbott Road
Buffalo, NY 14220
Tel: 716-825-6700
Website: www.taragiftshoppe.com
Contact: Thomas Heneghan
Tipperary Irish Importer |
Celtic Jeweler
3956 State Highway 2
Brunswick, NY 12180
Tel: 518-279-8272
Website: www.ShopTipperary.com
Email: shop@TipperaryStores.com
Tipperary Irish Importer |
Celtic Jeweler
Clifton Park Center
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Tel: 800-255-8272
Website: www.ShopTipperary.com
Email: shop@TipperaryStores.com
Enchanted Shire
16445 Poplar Tent Road
Huntersville, NC 28078
Tel: 585-329-5653
Website: www.enchantedshire.com
Contact: Arleen Dougherty
Ladies View
208 1st Street West
Jamestown, ND 58401
Tel: 701-320-9534
Email: ladiesview@outlook.com
Contact: Cheryl Lynn Fowler
Casey’s Irish Imports
19626 Center Ridge Road
Rocky River, OH 44116
Tel: 440-333-8383
Website: www.caseysirishimports.com
Contact: Kathleen Casey Proctor & Maureen Casey
Celtic Corner
502 Old State Route 74
Cincinnati, OH 45244
Tel: 513-528-5578
Website: www.celticcornerstore.com
Contact: Louise & Robert Reid
Eire on Erie
3512 Erie Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Tel: 513-321-3287
Email: hapsirishpub@aol.com
Contact: Danny & Amy Thomas
Irish Crossroads & Gift Shop
38015 Euclid Avenue
Willoughby, OH 44094
Tel: 440-954-9032
Website: www.irishcrossroadsohio.com
Contact: Michelle Morgan
Lynch's Irish Imports & Gifts
116 S. Market Street
Wooster, OH 44691
Tel: 330-601-0160
Email: lynchsirishimports@gmail.com
Contact: Thomas Lynch
OREGON
Bridie's Irish Faire
715 NW 3rd Street (Nye Beach) Newport, OR 97365
Tel: 541-574-9366
Website: www.bridiesirishfaire.com
Contact: Susan Spencer
PENNSYLVANIA
A Lit’le Irish, Too
9 Chambersburg Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Tel: 717-334-6609
Website: www.alittleirishtoo.com
Contact: Tory Warren
8 Prospect Avenue West Grove, PA 19390
Tel: 610-662-9154
Website: www.celticclothing.com
Contact: Charlie Lord
Celtic Culture
137 East Main Street
Ligonier, PA 15658
Tel: 724-238-2420
Website: www.celticcultureonline.com
Contact: Andrew Carr
Donegal Square
534 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Tel: 610-866-3244
Website: www.donegalsquare.com
Contact: Neville Gardner & Marie Barry
Enchanted Shire
2775 Lebanon Road
Manheim, PA 17545
Tel: 585-329-5653
Website: www.enchantedshire.com
Contact: Arleen Dougherty
Irish Design Center
303 South Craig Street Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Tel: 412-682-6125
Website: www.irishdesigncenter.com
Contact: Maura Krushinski
Oxford Hall Celtic Shoppe & Tea Café
233 Bridge Street
New Cumberland, PA 17070
Tel: 717-774-8789
Website: www.oxfordhall.com
Contact: Cindy & Steve Washburn
Tullycross
110 South Street Philadelphia, PA 19147
Tel: 215-925-1995
Website: www.tullycross.com
Contact: Meg Turner
USA Kilts
3389 Schuylkill Road (Rt. 724)
Spring City, PA 19475
Tel: 610-948-4110
Website: www.usakilts.com
Contact: Rocky Roeger
Basic Irish Luxury
127 Swinburne Row, Thames Street
Newport, RI 02840
Tel: 800-255-8272
Website: www.BasicIrishLuxury.com
Email: shop@TipperaryStores.com
(The) Celtic Cup
106 North Anderson Street
Tullahoma, TN 37388
Tel: 931-563-7733
Website: www.thecelticcup.com
Contact: Denise & Chris Smith
Celtic Heritage
634 Parkway, The Village #26, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Tel: 865-436-2588
Website: www.celticheritage.net
Contact: Melody VanNus
Things Celtic
115 E Blackjack Street
Dublin, TX 76446
Tel: 512-472-2358
Website: www.thingsceltic.com
Contact: Lanora Davidson
Celtic Tides
23A S. Jefferson Street
Lexington, VA 24450
Tel: 540-464-6545
Website: www.celtictides2.com
Contact: John & Mary Jo Morman
Irish Eyes of Virginia 725 Caroline Street
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Tel: 540-373-0703
Website: www.irisheyesofva.com
Contact: Mike & Bernadette Esler
Maggie Casey’s Celtic Treasure
124 Main Street
Smithfield, VA 23430
Tel: 757-371-6100
Email: mcceltictreasure@gmail.com
Contact: Kristin Wilda
Piper Dan's Keltic Shoppe
109E Main Street, Old Town
Purcellville, VA 20132
Tel: 540-751-0777
Email: piperdanskeltic@aol.com
Contact: Mary Brady Shea Knight
Pixie Treasures Celtic Shoppe
2925 Virginia Beach Boulevard
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Tel: 757-961-7494
Website: www.pixietreasures.biz
Contact: Jeanne & Bob Rider
Scotland House Ltd
430 Duke of Gloucester Street
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Tel: 757-229-7800
Website: www.scotlandhouseltd.com
Contact: Sam & Michelle Wallace
WASHINGTON
Celtic Crossroads NW
2205 E Sims Way
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Tel: 360-344-2123
Website: www.celticcrossroadsnw.com
Contact: Debbie Sonandre
Galway Bay Trading Co
880 Point Brown Avenue NE
Ocean Shores, WA 98569
Tel: 360-289-2300
Website: www.galwaybayirishpub.com
Contact: William Gibbons
WISCONSIN
(The) Irish Boutique of Cedarburg
W63N680 Washington Avenue
Cedarburg, WI 53012
Tel: 262-546-0380
Website: www.irishboutique.com
Contact: John Barry
O’Meara’s Irish House
3970 State Highway 42
Fish Creek, WI 54212
Tel: 920-868-3528
Website: www.omearasirish.com
Contact: Megan O’Meara
(The) Celtic Geek
West Edmonton Mall - Store Number 2540
8882 170th Street
Edmonton, AB T5T 4M2
Tel: 780-444-6238
Website: www.got-kilt.com
Contact: Dirk Carswell
(The) Plaid Place
1903 Barrington Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3L7
Tel: 902-429-6872
Website: www.plaidplace.com
Contact: Lisa Risley
Red Label Kilts
90 Esplanade
Joan Harris Cruise Pavilion
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Tel: 902-561-6339
Website: www.redlabelkilts.ca
Contact: Deana Lloy
(The) Scottish & Irish Store
East 1713 St. Laurent Boulevard (at Innes) Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 3V4
Tel: 613-739-3393
Website: www.scottishandirishstore.com
Contact: Michael Cox
(The) Scottish & Irish Store
West
2194 Robertson Road
Ottawa, Ontario, K2H 9J5
Tel: 613-829-2251
Website: www.scottishandirishstore.com
Contact: Michael Cox
(The) Wee Tartan Shop
177 Queen Street
Port Perry, Ontario, L9L 1B8
Tel: 905-985-6573
Website: www.weetartanshop.com
Contact: Stewart Bennett
The North American Celtic Trade Association provides a networking forum, where our members can connect and join together in the pursuit of ideas, innovations and best practices to advance their own business progress and the availability of quality goods in the Celtic Marketplace.
Joining NACTA gives Celtic business owners a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues, promote their businesses, and contribute in a meaningful way to the thriving Celtic marketplace. Our members represent the full gamut of Irish and Celtic specialities, including apparel, gifts, jewelry, food, music and more.
For more information or to join NACTA visit www.nacta.ie
