Travel ireland magazine volume 2 issue 17

Travelireland magazine

Volume 2 Issue 17 September 2015

A southern chill at the

Cobh Blues Festival

Waterford

Harvest Food Festival

Dingle Trad Festival Acting the lughnasa at the

DUBLIN THEATRE FESTIVAL!

Local Characters Aidan Walsh Master of The Universe

Design Heroes at

Waterford Glass

Ballina

food fleadh

The MulTi AwArd-winning MusicAl cOMes hOMe TO duBlin

A duBlin experience nOT TO Be Missed!

HHHH ‘winning…exuberant…the music is the show’s trump card’ HHHH ‘noisier, bawdier and funnier The IrIsh TImes

than the film’ IrIsh maIl on sunday ‘brilliantly adapted…ingeniously staged…hilarious’ sunday TImes ‘stellar…exceptional… a must-see’ hoT Press HHHH ‘gorgeous…a masterclass… exquisite… charismatic’ The herald HHHH ‘beautifully crafted… hysterically funny…truly uplifting’ IrIsh daIly maIl

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CONTENTS 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 36 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Welcome To Leinster Explore Leinster Dublin Theatre Festival Theatre Explore Leinster Local Characters

Culture Night at Alliance Française / Dublin Festival of History Leinster Pubs Dublin’s Art & Antiques Quarter Leinster Restaurants Welcome To Munster Waterford Harvest Festival Ballina Food Fleadh Munster Pubs Munster Restaurants An Canteen Restaurant Design Heroes Exhibition Explore Munster Cobh Blues Festival Taste of West Cork New Ross Piano Festival Dingle Tradfest Welcome to Connaught Explore Connaught Connaught Pubs Connaught Restaurants Welcome To Ulster The Gobbins Ulster Pubs Explore Ulster Ulster Restaurants

Ellen Media Communications Ltd Father Matthew Hall Second Floor, 131 Church St, Dublin 7.

Tel: 01 561 2431 / 087 911 3732 www.travelirelandmagazine.com Travel Ireland Magazine @traveliremag

Welcome to our September issue!

Whether this is your first time visiting our shores, or whether you are returning once again to trace the steps of your distant ancestors, here at Travel Ireland we hope in some small way to be able to gently guide you as you plan your stay here. There’s so much to do and see all year round in Ireland and September is no exception. Take in a show at the Dublin Theatre Festival or take a stroll through Dublin’s Arts and Antiques Quarter. Enjoy some music at the New Ross Piano Festival and the Cobh Blues Festival, or tempt your taste buds at A Taste of West Cork and the Food Fleadh in Ballina. Whatever you end up doing, we at Travel Ireland wish you a hefty and heart-felt Céad míle fáilte!

And enjoy your stay!

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Published by Ellen Media Communications Ltd Publisher John Carey Features Writer Mark O’Brien Design & Art Direction Oonagh Dowling Credit Control Manager Nichola Thomas (nichola@ellenmediacom.ie) Advertising John Carey (john@ellenmediacom.ie, 01 561 2431, 087 911 3732) Aran Sheehan (aran@travelirelandmagazine.ie, 085 711 0826) Contributors: Adam Patterson Photography, Arran Henderson, John McCurdy, Paula Moore, Patrick O’Neill, Stephen Walker, Ivan Donoghue, Joleen Cronin Richard Eibrand, Padraig O’Donnell, Michael Mc Laughlin.

We wish to record our thanks to Paula Sneyd, Failte Ireland, The Office of Public Works and the National Monuments Service, Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. And to the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and The National Trust-Giants Causeway (NI), for their help and guidance in the production of this edition.

And to Paddy Donovan, Ed Reeve, Carr Cotter and Naessens, jonandlauren.wordpress.com and10bestpubsingalway.wordpress.com for the use of their images.

Ellen Media Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Ellen Media Communications Limited does not accept responsibility for any advertising content. All unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted or returned. No material may be used in whole or in part without the publishers prior consent. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all the events information or recommendations on this site, no responsibility will be accepted by Ellen Media Communications Ltd, its editorial team, designers, authors or agents acting on their behalf for alterations, errors or omissions which may occur.

SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Leinster - The East Coast Province Leinster is the most easterly of the four provinces of Ireland, and is the most populated with the city of Dublin at its heart. The province is made up of counties Dublin, Louth, Meath, Carlow, Kildare, Wicklow, Laois, Offaly, Longford, Westmeath, Kilkenny and Wexford. These counties have a host of historic monuments, a picture perfect coastline and cities and villages thronged with things to do and see.

County Dublin is the home to the capital city. Dublin is the administrative, cultural, and economic capital of the country. It is one of the most exciting places to visit with a thriving arts, musical and theatrical nightlife.

All roads lead to Saint Stephen’s Green in the very centre of the city. You’ll find it at the top of Grafton Street, with Trinity College down at the other end. And just around the corner you can stroll around the cultural quarter of Temple Bar between Dame Street and the river that, famously, divides the North and the South of the city.

If you want to escape to the country without

GPO, Dublin actually leaving the city, then you can head north to Howth Head, or south to the charming and culturally vibrant villages of Dalkey and Killiney. Half an hour on the DART train will take you from the centre of the city to what feels like the heart of the country.

County Meath formerly known as the Royal County is the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland who were based around the Hill of Tara. Meath is also one of the most archaeologically important counties on the island with its Neolithic sites at Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. These ancient religious sites (built before the Pyramids) have been excavated and restored in recent years making 4

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Hill of Tara them some of the busiest visitors’ attractions in the country. The sites are all only less than an hour’s drive out of Dublin and are accessible through the Bru Na Boinne Visitors Centre.

The county also features the site of the Battle of the Boyne which was one of the great battles fought on Irish soil. For horse racing lovers, Meath has the wonderful Fairyhouse Racecourse, and there is also summertime horse racing on Laytown Beach.

County Wicklow has several world famous sites and attractions, from the Glendalough monastic settlement with its Abbey and Round Tower, to the fabulous Powerscourt House and Gardens. The Wicklow Hills rising majestically over the county and the seaside town of Bray are just some of its many attractions.

Offaly is situated in the centre of Ireland. Nestling between the Shannon River to the West and the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the East, Offaly is one of the lowest lying counties in the country.

Any visitor should travel along the Royal Canal where one can experience a peace and tranquillity little known in our busy world.

Kildare is the home of the National Stud, Newbridge Silverware and Maynooth College. Couple all these with Mondello Park motor racing, Naas horse racing course and Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park and there is something for everyone.

Westmeath is a county which has at its heart the town of Athlone which is exactly situated in the middle of Ireland. It is home to the RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival, the oldest pub in Ireland and some of the finest golfing, fishing and health spas on offer throughout the land.

Louth is known as “the wee county” as it is the smallest county in Ireland but what it lacks in land mass it makes up for in places to see.

It is the home of the Cooley Mountains, the

Boyne river which is famous for its salmon fishing and the beautiful Carlingford area. If it is a leisurely drive you seek Louth is the place to go. Carlow is where you will find three of Ireland’s key national walking routes – the South Leinster, the Barrow and the Wicklow Ways. Carlow is blessed with hundreds of miles of excellent and varied walking trails, and hosts a wonderful arts festival every June.

Laois is where you can try your hand at a range of activities from paintballing in the Stradbally Woods to western-style riding at Fossey Mountain, bowls at the only indoor

Kilkenny Castle bowls stadium in the Republic or tie a fly at the unique Irish Fly-fishing and Game shooting Museum .

Kilkenny City was voted Ireland’s Top Tourism Town for 2013 by Failte Ireland which is Ireland’s main tourism body. It was voted Cleanest Town in Ireland at end of 2013

by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), and has also been voted 9th friendliest city in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. The city was in addition voted Most Friendliest City in Europe. Couple all these awards with a huge countywide cultural heritage trail and it is a must see destination for any visitor.

Longford is situated in the basin of the River Shannon and the upper catchment area of the River Erne. It is ideally located in the heart of the Lakelands region within easy reach of many stunning and historic tourist attractions.

The county’s accessibility to many of Irelands main towns and cities make it a prime location as a holiday base.

Finally, Wexford is famous for its glorious sandy coastline and together with County Waterford is known as ‘The Sunny South East’.

You can also visit the oldest lighthouse in Europe which stands on the Hook Peninsula.

So now you know, whether you are a family group, a couple, or a single traveller, there is something for everyone in Leinster!

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Explore Leinster

The James Joyce Museum In 1904, James Joyce stayed in the Martello Tower in Sandycove as a guest of Oliver St. John Gogarty. Although his stay was short, the Martello Tower became the setting for the opening of Joyce’s masterpiece Ulysses. The Martello Tower is now the home of the James Joyce Museum, dedicated to the life and work of one of Ireland’s greatest writers. Open all year round with free admission, the James Joyce Museum has many first editions of Joyce’s work on display. Visitors can also view pictures inspired by Joyce and his work, photographs of the author, his family and his friends, and one of two plaster death masks made by the sculptor Paul Speck.

The James Joyce Museum is a must visit for lovers of literature. www.joycetower.ie

Glendalough

This beautiful glacial valley in County Wicklow is renowned as the place where Cistercian monks settled in the sixth century, and the remains of the monastic priory including a round tower can still be seen today. Known locally as “the valley of the two lakes” , the locals also say it will still your mind, inspire your heart and fill your soul.

The early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the “Monastic City”. Tel: 0404 45325/45352.

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

The Chester Beatty Library The only museum in Ireland to win ‘European Museum of the Year’ and described by the Lonely Planet as not just the best museum in Ireland, but one of the best in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library opens a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world.

Egyptian papyrus texts, beautifully illuminated copies of the Qur’an, the Bible, European medieval and renaissance manuscripts are among the many highlights that you’ll find on display here.

And be sure to avail of the excellent guided tours that the loquacious and extremely well-informed guides provide there, free of charge. They take place on Wednesdays at 1pm and on Sundays at 3pm and 4pm.

Opening hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm.

Tel: 01 407 0750

Kilmainham Gaol (Jail) Kilmainham Gaol may seem like an unusual place to spend a morning or afternoon but despite its sometimes grim past it makes for a fascinating visit. Built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol served as a prison for 128 years, and tours detail some of the most heroic and tragic events in Ireland’s emergence as a modern nation. The tour of the prison includes an audio-visual show.

Tickets are sold on a first come first served basis and cannot be booked in advance.

Tel: 01 453 5984

The Book Of Kells

The Guinness Storehouse

Formerly known as the Hop Store, the Guinness Storehouse is laid out over seven floors surrounded by a glass atrium that rises up through its centre. You make your way up on a self-guided tour, where you learn all about the beer’s history, the central part that the Guinness family played in the development of the city, and of the world famous advertising campaigns that did so much to help promote it.

Tours are e16.50, which includes your pint of Guinness in The Gravity Bar on the 7th floor. Which might sound a bit steep for a self-guided tour, but it’s all beautifully laid out and the whole experience is richly rewarding. Tel: 01 408 4800.

The Old Library and the Book of Kells Exhibition in Trinity College Dublin are the first things that all visitors gravitate to when first setting foot in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, a walk through the cobbled stones of Trinity College will bring visitors back to the 18th century, when the magnificent Old Library building was constructed. And upstairs, you’ll find yourself in the magical environs of the justly famous Long Room.

Inside the Book of Kells itself is a 9thcentury gospel manuscript famous throughout the world for its lavish decoration. The manuscript contains the four Gospels in Latin based on a Vulgate text, written on vellum (prepared calfskin), in a bold and expert version of the script known as “insular majuscule”.

Guided tours of the campus, including the Old Library, The Books of Kells, and the magnificent Long Room upstairs are e12.

Opening hours: 9:30am-5pm (4:30pm Sun) Tel: 01 896 1661

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81 - 82 TALBOT STREET, DUBLIN 2 |TEL: 01 704 0126 |EMAIL: INFO@LEBONCRUBEEN.IE |WWW. LEBONCRUBEEN.IE

Celtic Lodge Guesthouse

In the Heart of Dublin City Centre

Celtic Lodge is located on Talbot Street in Dublin City Centre.

Recently refurbished throughout, the rooms are decorated in modern colours and fabrics with luxurious touches, to make your stay in Dublin as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

The Celtic Lodge Guesthouse is located just 5 minutes walk from both Connolly Train Station and Busáras, the main bus station in Dublin. Popular Dublin attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Book of Kells at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and the Old Jameson Distillery are also close by. Celtic Lodge offers quality Dublin accommodation at great rates and is an ideal choice for your stay in Dublin.

81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 . Tel: 01 878 8810 Email: info@celticlodge.ie www.celticlodge.ie

Dublin’s Finest Traditional Irish Pub Traditional Irish Music Every evening from 9pm. Come on in for a pint and the craic!

Come along and experience the authentic atmosphere found only at The Celt Bar, the traditional Irish pub in Dublin that’s as full of life as it always has been. Friendly faces, a classic bar menu, the finest selection of Irish whiskey’s, beers, ales and stouts, ciders and not to mention the goodness of real Guinness.

www.thecelt.ie

The Celt Bar 81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Dublin THEATRE FESTIVAL Bringing artists, theatre-makers and audiences from Ireland and all over the world together, the Dublin Theatre Festival takes place from 24th September to the 11th of October. The festival has been running since 1957 with a programme that incorporates theatre, music, dance and family events. There’s classic drama by celebrated companies through to work from exciting up and coming theatre makers from home and abroad to be enjoyed in venues across a city that has a long and proud theatrical tradition. With a wide range of tastes catered for, there is so much to enjoy at this year’s Dublin Theatre Festival.

T

he Night Alive runs from 22nd September to the 4th of October in the Gaiety Theatre. Written and directed by Conor McPherson and starring Adrian Dunbar, Laurence Kinlan, Ian Lloyd-Anderson and Kate Stanley Brennan; the play has already enjoyed hit runs at the Donmar Warehouse in London and the Atlantic Theater in New York, winning the 2014 New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play in the process. Set in Dublin, The Night Alive tells the story of Tommy, a middle-aged man who is just getting by. He’s renting a run-down room in his uncle Maurice’s house, dealing with his ex-wife and kids and flitting from one get-rich-quick scheme to the next with his pal Doc. Then one day he comes to the aid of Aimee, who’s not had it easy herself and is also struggling through life. Their

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

past won’t let go easily but together there’s a glimmer of hope that they could make something more of their lives. There will be a post-show Talking Theatre event on 26th of September with the director and members of the company.

Music and theatre collide in I’m Your Man, which runs in the Project Arts Centre from 24th of September to the 3rd of October.

Written by Mark Palmer and Philip McMahon, I’m Your Man is a gutsy love story that keeps you moving forwards when you think you’re moving backwards. Can love bring us back to life? Can we overcome obstacles and win those battles with our inner demons? Maybe this intimate and poignant new show can answer these questions. Or maybe the writers and members of the company can answer them at their post-show Talking Theatre

for lovers of culture, theatre and the arts.

Whether you’re looking for classic plays, edgy new theatre, musicals or just wish to gain an insight into the world of theatre, Dublin Theatre Festival is sure to have something for you. www.dublintheatrefestival.com event on 25th of September.

Marking the 25th anniversary of its premiere in Dublin, Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa comes to the Gaiety Theatre from 6 - 11th of October. This production is directed by Annabelle Comyn with a cast including Declan Conlon, Catherine Cusack, Vanessa Emme, Catherine McCormack and Mary Murray. The play is one of the best loved Irish plays of recent times and has won Tony and Olivier Awards. It tells the story of the five Mundy sisters and their brother Jack who returns home to Donegal in 1936 after 25 years away at the missions. Set during the Celtic harvest festival of Lughnasa, the story is told by the sisters’ nephew, Michael, who recalls the summer spent with his aunts when he was seven years old. As August fades into September, Michael tells the story of childhood in Ballybeg, where his aunts raised him in their rural home and where once they danced a dance to the exciting, fleeting melody of the past and against the harsh, progressive beat of the

present. There will be an audio described performance on 10th of October as well as a post show Talking Theatre event with members of the company.

The Ark in Temple Bar will host Family Season during the festival. Children and the young at heart can enjoy a range of familyfriendly plays, including Bees! by Mark Doherty, Manxmouse by Paul Gallico, Up to Speed by Rosalind Sydney and Paper Moon by Giacomo Ravicchio. Whether you’re young or not so young, Family Season is guaranteed to entertain.

As well as a huge range of plays, visitors can also enjoy a range of talks and events with Festival+. These include French Focus, which features music and cultural events with a French flavour, Works-in-Progress offers a chance to see a work performed while it’s still in its development stages, and there will also be a range of Development and Networking events, Discussions and Readings, Critical events and Exhibitions.

With so much to see and experience, Dublin Theatre Festival represents a feast

Dublin Theatre Festival Box Office, 44 East Essex Street, Dublin 2 Tel: +353 1 6778899 Photos clockwise from top left: Dancing at Lughnasa photo Chris Heaney; The True Story of Hansel and Gretel - photo Ross Kavanagh; Dancehall - photo Luca Truffarellli; I’m Your Man - photo Fiona Morgan; At The Ford - photo Ste Murray.

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Theatre The Abbey

simply not to be missed. MUST END 12 SEPTEMBER 2015.

Marina Carr’s By the Bog of Cats receives its first revival since it premiered on the Abbey stage in 1998. Directed by Selina Cartmell, this gripping drama that tests the limits of human endurance tells the story of Hester Swane, a woman scorned. She’s an outsider in her community who is haunted by her past.

When her world is torn in two, what lengths will she go to so as to protect what is rightfully hers? Starring Susan Lynch as Hester, this haunting play will leave a lasting impression.

4th July - 12th September

By the Bog of Cats

14th August - 12th September Tel: 01 887 2200

The Gate

A View From The Bridge

Director Joe Dowling brings Arthur Miller’s captivating tale of illicit desire, A View From The Bridge to The Gate this September. Set in Brooklyn in 1956, Longshoreman Eddie Carbone agrees to take in his wife’s Italian cousins, Marco and Rodolpho, who have arrived to work illegally. But trouble begins when his orphaned niece Catherine becomes attracted to the charming Rodolpho.

8th September - 24th October Previews from 3rd September Tel: 01 874 4045 / 01 874 6042

The Olympia Once

After three years on Broadway and two years in the West End, Once is coming home to Dublin’s much-loved and historic, Olympia Theatre. Once has captured hearts around the world with its touching love story, glorious music and irresistible humour. It’s a celebration of music, love and the city that inspired it. Now it’s coming home. Once has it all - stunning music, humour and a hint of romance. The extraordinary cast, which includes Tom Parsons as ‘Guy’ and Megan Riordan as ‘Girl’, sing, dance and play their hearts out on stage This brilliant show has captivated audiences all over the world and seeing it in Dublin is an experience that is 10

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Tel: 01 679 3323 www.olympia.ie Also in the Olympia this month Oliver Callan (18 September), Welcome to Night Vale (19 September), Mans Zelmerlow (22 September), Leon Bridges (25 September), Lifehouse (28 September) and Bullet for My Valentine (29 September).

National Concert Hall

The National Concert Hall is home to the RTE National Symphony Orchestra, Irish Baroque Orchestra, and the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. But its cultural brief extends across all musical genres from Classical to Irish Trad, to jazz, folk and world music.

Highlights this September include RTE Concert Orchestra: The Two of Us (5th September), ESB Live 2015: St Etienne Foxbase Alpha (8th September), The Music of Brian Byrne (10th September), RTE National Symphony Orchestra Beethoven, Liszt, Mahler (11 September), A Tribute to James Horner (17 September), IBO: Concerti Bizarri (27 September), Workplace Choir of the Year (27 September) and Basel Symphony Orchestra (29 September).

In their most dangerous show ever The Nualas break the mould with new songs, higher harmonies, different keys and slightly shorter dresses. There will be new Nuala revelations, harder laughs, slicker riffs, and even tighter foundation. Rumour has it that when the show previewed in Dolan’s of Leitrim, at least three Gardai and a relationship counsellor had to be called. In the fallout from this, the girls were obliged to call this hilarious new show, Lock Up Your Husbands. You have been warned.

25th September Tel: 01 2724043 or visit www.mermaidartscentre.ie Also at Mermaid Arts Centre this month Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck (11 September), Phoenix (14 September), The Night Alive by Conor McPherson (17-19 September), Shorts for Middle Ones (27 September) and Roger Waters: The Wall (29 September).

The Gaiety

Fly Me to the Moon

Tel: 01 417 0000 Or go to www.nch.ie

Bord Gais Energy Theatre Love Me Tender

From the producers of Hairspray, Midnight Tango and The Rocky Horror Show comes a hilarious feel-good musical featuring Elvis Presley’s greatest hits. In a small town in 1950s America, a guitar-playing stranger rides his motorbike into town and it’s up to the townsfolk to decide if he’s The Devil in Disguise or a Hound Dog in his Blue Suede Shoes. The show features 25 of Elvis’ greatest hits and is a moving tale of hope and the healing powers of rock ‘n’ roll.

Tel: 01 677 7999 or visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie Also at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this month Crosby, Stills & Nash (16 September) and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (29 September 3 October)

Mermaid Arts Centre The Nualas: Lock Up Your Husbands

Having received universal acclaim for Stones In His Pockets, Marie Jones returns with another hilarious comedy, and this time she will be in the director’s chair too. Fly Me To The Moon tells the story of community care visitors Francis and Loretta. When Davy, one of the elderly residents has a large win on the horses that he doesn’t know about and won’t be around for some time, the two cash-strapped ladies are faced with a mouthwatering dilemma.

2nd -19th September Tel: 0818 719 388

Theatre Royal, Waterford

The Theatre Royal in Waterford is the premiere theatre venue in the South East of Ireland and hosts some of the best national and international touring artists and theatre companies. This month’s highlights include Awesome 80s (7 & 8 September), A Night of Musicals 2 (10 - 12 September), EAT Waterford (11 - 13 September), West Side Story (15 - 19 September), Little Green Cars (18 September) and Goldilocks and the Three Bears (27 September).

SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Explore Leinster

The War Memorial Gardens

Avondale House and Forest Park

The Old Jameson Distillery Experience the Old Jameson Distillery whiskey tour and let expert guides take you back in time as they lead you through the fascinating story of Jameson Irish Whiskey.

At the end of the tour, all visitors are rewarded with a complimentary dram of whiskey at the Jameson Bar and partake in a comparison whiskey tasting session where you will learn how to tell the differences between Scotch, Irish, and American whiskey. The tour finishes at the exclusive gift store where people may choose to buy a personalised bottle or a memento of their visit. Dublin is a city famous for its whiskey and a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery is essential for any person looking to explore, sightsee or even just enjoy themselves and have a drink.

Open Daily from 9am-6pm Tel: 01 8072348/ 2316

Cultural and Historical Walking Tours The streets of Dublin have been home to the Vikings, Normans, Elizabethans, Georgians and Victorians. What better way to explore its secret nooks and crannies than to take one of the many cultural and historical walking tours that the city has to offer.

At Dublin Decoded, Arran Henderson provides a wide range of fascinating insights into Dublin’s history, with particular emphasis on its art and architecture.

From “How To Read A Painting:symbols and meaning at the National Gallery” to Architecture of Georgian Splendour, and an historic Medieval Treasure Hunt.

Alternatively you can talk to him about designing your own tour.

See www.dublindecoded.com 12

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

When you are visiting IMMA in Kilmainham, you should walk on over to Islandbridge about half a kilometer further on. The gardens there are dedicated to the memory of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1st World War. The names of all the soldiers are contained in the beautifully illustrated Harry Clarke manuscripts in the granite bookrooms in the gardens.

Not merely a place of remembrance, they are also of great architectural interest and beauty. They are one of only four gardens in this country designed by the famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944).

The others being Heywood Gardens, Lambay Island and those in Howth Castle.

The sunken rose gardens, herbaceous borders and extensive tree planting on view here make it well worth that extra bit of a walk.

Open all year round. Tel: 01 475 7816

The National Museum of Ireland

The Museum is recognised as Ireland’s premier cultural institution and home to the greatest collections of Irish material heritage, culture and natural history in the world. Admission to the museum is free and there are numerous exhibitions, talks and tours.

Tel 01 677 7444

Avondale House was the birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (18461891), one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. Set in a magnificent forest park of over 500 acres, there are tree trails and walks ranging in duration from one to five hours.

Visitors are introduced to this wonderful historical house by a specially commissioned audio visual presentation.

Other facilities include a licensed café, bookshop, picnic areas, children’s play area, three orienteering courses (maps can be downloaded at www.coillteoutdoors.ie) and a large car/coach park.

Tel: 0404 46111 www.heritageisland.com

Gallery Zozimus

Gallery Zozimus, art gallery, in the centre of Dublin’s Arts and Antiques Quarter of Francis Street, is ideally situated in the centre of a triangle that comprises Christchurch, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Visitor Centre at the Guinness Hop Store.

They hold a collection of Paintings, Sculptures in Bronze, Ceramic, Glass and Wood, Photography and more recently have exhibited Street or Urban art.Their’s is the largest Ceramic Gallery in Dublin exhibiting over 75 artists work Their aim is to ensure that you have an exciting array of artworks to choose from so they have created this very special place where you can view a mix of contemporary and traditional works. Gallery Zozimus represents over 120 artists, some well established and some just starting out.

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10.00 – 5.30 Sunday by appointment.

Tel: 353 1 453 9057.

Email: info@galleryzozimus.ie www.galleryzozimus.ie Gallery Zozimus, 56 Francis St, Dublin 8

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LOCAL CHARACHTERS Aidan Walsh

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he King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Master of the Universe and a true one-off; Aidan Walsh is the type of character that only Ireland could produce. There aren’t many people who can say that they were signed to a record deal on the back of a three minute performance, ran in the General Election and were the subject of a documentary but these are all milestones that Aidan has achieved during his colourful life.

Already known around Dublin for his involvement in Temple Lane Studios, which is now the Button Factory in Temple Bar, Aidan was encouraged by his friends, musicians Gavin Friday (of The Virgin Prunes) and Simon Carmody (of The Golden Horde), to perform in a bar in Dublin one night while Joe Foster of Kaleidoscope Records was there.

“I was different and that’s how I got my record deal,” is Aidan’s simple explanation as to how he broke into the world of rock ‘n’ roll. Getting on stage and performing the Hokey Cokey is certainly different and that three minute performance was enough to convince Foster to sign Aidan up and release his album A Life Story of My Life.

Aidan launched the album in typically flamboyant fashion.

“I tried to buy McBirney’s at the time,” says Aidan. “I was going to turn it into a hotel, rock star hotel, and all the bands come from the airport underground, tunnel underground through the Liffey.”

Unfortunately Aidan’s grand plan didn’t come to fruition and McBirney’s became the Virgin Megastore, so he decided to launch the album there anyway by riding a white horse into the store while kitted out in full cowboy gear and a crown, much to the bemusement of those present. “It was good fun doing that at the time with Gerry Ryan, Simon Carmody and Gavin Friday,” says Aidan when he fondly recalls the bizarre and brilliant way that he released his record.

After his foray into music, Aidan kept himself in the public eye by running in 14

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

the 1997 General Election - going up against Bertie Ahern in the Dublin Central constituency. Unsurprisingly Aidan didn’t fare too well, achieving only 43 votes but he had great fun running and ruffling the feathers of the politicians of the day and believes that he may have even garnered more votes if he’d ran in the age of social media.

More fame came Aidan’s way in 2000 when director Shimmy Marcus made a film of his life, Aidan Walsh: Master of the Universe. The film was a huge critical success and went on to be shown at a film festival in New York which gave Aidan the chance to bring his madcap antics Stateside for what he describes as a “great fun five days in Manhattan”.

The film also sheds light on Aidan’s childhood in the Lota school in Glanmire, Cork, where he was brought up, having never met his mother. Having achieved so much in his life, Aidan has one mission left to fulfill. “Before I pass away to different galaxies, I would like to find my mother if I can,” he says and he would like to find a clairvoyant who can help him do just that. Thanks to Margaret Hogan, Aidan has been able to establish that his mother is most likely in London and believes that a clairvoyant could help him find her.

Not that he has plans to head off to different galaxies any time soon. Aidan

has been an accomplished photographer for many years and hopes to exhibit his work in the near future. He also still keeps a close eye on the local music scene and singles out Dublin band Gangs as ones to watch in the future.

“I’ve been taking it easy because I’ve been very ill,” he says when asked how life has been since the release of the documentary, adding reflectively, “Life goes on. I will be forgotten or remembered, I do not know.”

Anyone who was around at the time of his music career, or anyone that has met him since knows the answer to that. There’s no forgetting this truly unique Dublin character. Watch Aidan Walsh: Master of the Universe on Volta www.volta.ie/films/ aidan-walsh-master-of-the-universe

236 Lower rathmines road, dubLin 6 teL: 01-4977057

GROGANS Where time stands still Host to a continuous changing art exhibition

15 South William Street Telephone 677 9320

Welcome to Zaragoza, where you’ll find deliciously fresh Mediterranean tapas served with the warmest Irish welcome.

A contemporary fusion of modern, authentic cuisine presented in a convivial atmosphere, Zaragoza is not just a place, it’s a destination.

South William Street, Dublin 2 Ph: 01 6794020 Opening hours: Monday - Sunday - 12noon - Midnight (last orders 11pm)

Culture Night at Alliance Française

C

ulture Night takes place on the 18th of September and this year the Alliance Française will organise two sets of activities to mark the night; one for little nimble fingers and the other an evening of easy listening.

From 6pm-8pm it’s Playdough Pâtisserie, where budding young chefs are called to let their imagination run wild. Entrants are invited to create a new French patisserie, with prizes on offer for the best creations.

Later on from 9pm-11pm, a special concert Do you wish you were still on holidays? will take place. This special concert with a French atmosphere will transport you back to your summer evenings, easing you gently into the weekend.

La Cocotte restaurant will be opened throughout the evening and there is no

better place to spend culture night than in the listed Irish Heritage site that is the main centre for promoting French culture in Ireland. www.alliance-francaise.ie

Dublin FESTIVAL of HISTORY

D

ublin’s social history, Napoleon, Wellington and the 1916 Rising are just some of the topics that will be covered at this year’s Dublin Festival of History. The festival is now in its third year and will take place in The Printworks in Dublin Castle, Dublin City Council public libraries and various other venues, and is packed full of interesting debates, lectures, films and walks.

The festival opens with a panel discussion on the 1916 Rising.

Irish historians Diarmaid Ferriter, Anne Dolan, John A. Murphy and Eamon Phoenix will reflect on the recent commemorative events and look ahead to the plans to mark the centenary of the Rising.

The New York Times best-selling author Andrew Roberts will talk about his definitive biography of Napoleon, while broadcaster Peter Snow will shed some light on the role that the Duke of Wellington (who was born in Dublin) played in Napoleon’s downfall.

There will also be a Family and Children’s programme at this year’s festival, which includes a specially commissioned walk; “A Child’s view of Dublin Life through the ages”. There will also be Drop In Drawing with Roxana Manouchehri and Marita Conlon-McKenna, author of Under The Hawthorn Tree and Wildflower Girl will give a talk about the Great Famine and the Irish diaspora abroad.

This is a brilliant chance to learn more about the history of Ireland and what’s more - it won’t cost you anything. All lectures and children’s events at the Dublin Festival are free, so make sure you avail of the chance to enjoy this unique cultural experience. www.dublinfestivalofhistory.ie

16

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Priceless treasures that belong to everyone

Free admission to the greatest collections of Irish heritage, culture and history in the world.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.

Sunday 2pm to 5pm.

Closed: Mondays including Bank Holidays

Guided Tours & Lectures. Museum Shops & Cafes.

For further information Telephone (01) 6777 444

Archaeology Natural History Decorative Arts & History Country Life

Free Admission Free Exhibitions Guided Tours Museum Shops & Cafes

Family programmes & events for people of all ages.

For information visit: www.museum.ie

Recommended Pubs in Leinster The Stag’s Head

The Gravediggers

Hidden away just off of Dame Street, there’s been a tavern here on this corner for over 200 Years. And the Stags has long been a traditional haunt for Trinity students, and for the stars of film and television that they grow up to become. Whilst downstairs you can see comedy on Mondays or Irish Trad at the

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the celt

strolling into the celt is like taking a trip to the west, play boys and

1chailĂ­nĂ­ Dame Court, Dublin Tel: 01 to 679 3687 payfor attention and dance2. along the way the early light ÍœÍ•ÇŚÍœÍ– –ƒŽ„‘– •–”‡‡–ǥ †—„Ž‹Â? …‹–› …‡Â?–”‡ ™™™Ǥ–Š‡…‡Ž–Ǥ‹‡ –‡Žǣ ͔͕ ͛͜͜ ͚͙͙͜

The Celt

“John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, established in 1833 and still run by the Kavanagh Family today. One of Dublin’s finest bars and best pint of Plain. No music no TV, but fine pints and fine food served. Beside the old cemetery gate hence our local name The Gravediggers�

Johnnie Fox’s

1 Prospect Sq., Dublin 9. Tel: 01 8307978

Situated on Talbot Street in the heart of Dublin, The Celt Bar is always thronged with locals and visitors thanks to the authentic Irish experience that is on offer there. Visitors can sample the finest Irish whiskeys, beers, ales and stouts and enjoy live traditional music seven nights a week. The Celt also offer traditional Irish food seven days a week. The classic bar menu includes beer battered haddock and traditional beef and Guinness stew. There’s no better place to go to for the full Irish experience than The Celt Bar. 81 Talbot St, Dublin Tel: 01 878 8655 www.thecelt.ie

Grogan’s

This is the regular hang-out for Dublin’s finest writers and painters, or the great unwashed, and the walls inside are decked out with paintings and drawings which can, for a small sum, be purchased. Improbably, it is also part of one of the most fashionable mini crossroads in the city centre. And at weekends, the place is humming.

15 S William St., Dublin 2. Tel: 01 677 9320 18

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Dice Bar

Situated on the corner of Benburb Street and Queen Street, near Smithfield Square, at Dice Bar they strive for three things – great drinks, great staff and great music. The welcoming staff offer a range of premium Irish whiskeys and if whiskey isn’t your thing then you have another great option. Dice Bar brew their own beers; the delicious Revolution Red and Augustine With so much choice and a relaxed setting, Dice Bar warrants many return visits.

Open from 3pm daily.

Set high up in the heart of the Dublin mountains, Fox’s is an institution. Superb food and a unique atmosphere, there’s Irish trad here every night, and at weekends in the afternoons as well. And there’s a shuttle bus that gets you there and back in 30 minutes for a fiver either way. But be sure to book, as it’s one of the most popular pubs in Leinster.

93-94 Benburb Street Tel: 01 633 3936 www.thatsitdublin.com

Glencullen, Co Dublin Tel: 01 295 5647

Recommended Pubs in Leinster 57 The Headline

Sin É

JJ Smyth’s

Sin É

Situated only a short walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral and Teeling Whiskey Distillery, 57 The Headline is the ideal spot to sample the best of Irish Craft Beers and Whiskeys.

With 24 taps dedicated to the best of Irish and International beers, you won’t be stuck for choice. They offer Beer tasting trays from 3 to 9 choices and 5 Whiskey trays. They also serve the best bar food in Dublin 8 and you won’t be paying city centre prices. Visit their website for all products, opening times and more.

Sin É on Ormond Quay is Dublin’s original late night alternative music venue. Whether it’s bluegrass, ska, alternative rock or open mic night’s that you’re looking for, Sin É caters for a range of eclectic tastes. The staff are warm and friendly and will serve you a range of incredible craft beers and cocktails at agreeable prices. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere and some of the best musicians in Dublin then Sin É is definitely the place to be.

Clanbrassil St. Lower, Dublin 8 Tel: 01 5320279 www.57theheadline.ie

14 -15 Ormond Quay Tel: 01 555 4036 & 01 555 4037

With live music six nights a week, JJ Smyth’s is the home of jazz and blues in Dublin. The family run pub is steeped in history and the welcoming atmosphere keeps the loyal regulars coming back for the finest service and some of the best music that Dublin has to offer. JJ’s started out as a family owned grocery store and public house in the 1730’s and is one of the city’s oldest continuous licensed premises.

It was also the birthplace of the famous Irish lyrical poet Thomas Moore, who was born there in 1779. If you love jazz and blues, then you’ll love JJ Smyth’s.

The Porterhouse

Doheny & Nesbitt’s

12 Aungier St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 475 2565

There are three now here in town, but the one on Parliament Street is the best known. part of the increasingly popular micro brewery scene, the Porterhouse produces its own choice of stouts, lagers and craft beers, as well as a choice of others from home and abroad. And they usually have live music playing on the mezzanine.

Temple Bar, 16-8 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 679 8847

One of the oldest and more venerable pubs in Dublin, and traditionally the spot where politicians of old would juggle figures before swinging round the corner and into the Dail to present the next budget. It has now been extended both back and up, so that without sacrificing any of its illustrious history, it is now significantly roomier.

5 Lower Baggot St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 676 2945

The Liquor Rooms

Situated under the Clarence Hotel on the quays, the Liquors Rooms offer up a heady mix of retro, vintage decor and a smart modern vibe that the too cool for school hipsters find hard to resist. Once you get in, it’s actually a lot bigger than it seems, and there are all sorts of nooks and crannies for you to get up to who knows what kind of mischief.

7 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2 Tel: 087 339 3688

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Dublin's ART & ANTIQUES QUARTER

T

he Liberties is one of the most historic areas in Dublin and is home to some of the city’s top attractions. One of the best attractions that can be found in the area is Dublin’s Art & Antiques Quarter on Francis Street. It may take a while for visitors with an interest in culture, arts and antiques to make their way up this venerable street, as every shop and gallery has a unique character that is waiting to be explored.

Stop in to Brian Behan Antique Galleries and take a look at the antique furniture and curios that are on offer, or pick yourself up a unique Irish sculpture or painting. Antique fireplaces, door knockers and letterbox handles are available in Sugan Antiques, while if it’s antique clocks you’re after, then Timepiece is the place to go.

Oriental rugs can be found in the Oriental Rugs Company and if knitting, crochet and sewing are your thing, then The Constant Knitter will take care of you.

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Among the many art galleries in the area is Gallery Zozimus. Opened in November 2007, the gallery holds a unique collection of Irish paintings, sculpture, bronze and ceramics, with over 150 artists represented.

The gallery is named after legendary local ballad singer Michael Moran, AKA Zozimus.

Moran was born in the late 18th Century and went blind soon after birth. He was sent out by his parents to rhyme and beg on the streets of Dublin. His most popular religious tale was St Mary of Egypt. It told the story of a fast woman of Egypt, Mary, who followed pilgrims to Jerusalem for no good purpose, and then, turning penitent on finding herself withheld from entering the Temple by supernatural interference, fled to the desert and spent the remainder of her life in solitary penance. When she was about to die, God sent Bishop Zozimus to hear her confession. Moran soon became known as Zozimus due to the popularity of this tale.

Since opening, Gallery Zozimus has

hosted over 80 Exhibitions, 9 National College of Art and Design Shows and been part of 8 Culture Nights and 3 Liberties Festivals, with a host of celebrities coming through the doors to open the exhibitions and lend their support. Buoyed by this success, in 2011 they expanded next door with Ceramics Zozimus, which is now the largest ceramics gallery in Ireland with works by over 75 makers.

If you’re looking to get to the heart of old Dublin then the Liberties area is the place to go and no trip there will be complete without a stroll down Francis Street to enjoy Dublin’s Art and Antiques Quarter. You never know what you may find. www.artsandantiquesquarter.ie Photos clockwise from top: Gallery Zozimus Keith Richardson Oil on Canvas; Gallery Zozimus - Willem De Bont Oil On Board; Gallery Zozimus - Eileen Singleton Ceramic.

Gallery Zozimus 56 Francis Street, Dublin 8, PH: 01 453 9057

Nubian Ibex by Michael Keane Bronze

Propeller fish by Ivan Panov Ceramic

Lilly Pond Botanic Gardens by Andrii Trushkevych Oil on Canvas

Sun & Moon

by Fidelma Massey Ceramic

Dublins Largest Ceramic Gallery incorporating Fine Art Over 70 Ceramic Artists on Show

Email: info@galleryzozimus.ie, Web:www.galleryzozimus.ie

Brian Behan Antique Galleries

Established in 1992, Michael Connell Antiques specializes in goods from the Georgian to the Edwardian period.

We only deal in merchandise of antique showroom quality.

A must for collectors of fine Irish art, C19th & C20th furniture and exquisite collectables, this treasure trove specialises in high quality pieces. View irish sculpture by John Behan, Jarlath Daly, Leo Higgins. Irish Paintings by Tom Byrne, Hector Mc Donald, Markey Robinson and John Shelton amongst others.

Prices from â‚Ź250.

Free Delivery in Ireland. View and buy stock on-line.

Delivery worldwide on request.

OPEN: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Brian Behan Antiques and Irish Art, 105 Francis Street, Dublin 8.

Tel +353 87 921 2472 www.brianbehanantiquegalleries.com

Stock ranges from furniture, gilt mirrors, light fittings, marble figures & silver to items of Irish interest such as bog oak and Killarney wood pieces.

Worldwide shipping is available on request.

Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5.30pm.

Michael Connell Antiques 58 Francis Street, Dublin 8. Tel: 01 473 3898

www.michaelconnellantiques.com

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Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Restaurant FortyOne

Frite Haus

Under the expert guidance of Graham Neville, Restaurant FortyOne has scooped numerous awards and flourished over the past three years. This is thanks to the superb experience that they offer, eschewing butter and sugar in favour of olive oil, vegetables and fruit juices that are sourced from the restaurant’s own garden. These unique ingredients are used to create fulsome, sumptuous courses, making Restaurant FortyOne the home of fine dining in Dublin.

Frite Haus offer a unique artisan fast food experience with care and attention given to every aspect of the menu. A relaxed Belgian style ‘Chip Shop’ restaurant, Frite Haus serve authentic Belgian fries with a range of craft sauces and delicious Jane Russell sausages. Jane Russell sausages use only prime fresh cuts of Irish pork, free from preservatives so you know that you are getting the finest, freshest meat.

They also serve a fantastic range of craft beers, including delicious Belgian Trappist Brewery beers. Frite Haus is the only choice for a fine dining experience at very reasonable prices.

41 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 662 0000 info@restaurantfortyone.ie www.restaurantfortyone.ie

Le Bon Crubeen

87 Camden Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 4758948 www.frite-haus.com

Chez Max

Odessa Restaurant

The intimate and warm Odessa Restaurant is perfect for birthdays, weddings or an evening dinner. Diners can enjoy the great value Early Bird menu all night on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Choose from a range of great dishes, including Grilled Goat’s Cheese Bruschetta, Pea & Mint Risotto and CharGrilled Swordfish. Their famous Brunch Menu is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3.30pm and includes such delights as Eggs Benedict, Baked Ham with Poached Eggs and the traditional Irish Breakfast.

13 Dame Court, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6703080 www.odessa.ie

Café Topolis

This is one of the best value restaurants in Dublin with a brasserie menu to suit all tastes.

It won the Best Value Restaurant Dublin in “The Dubliner” Top 100 restaurants in 2012, having previously won the Irish Restaurant Awards’ Best Casual Dining Restaurant in Dublin in 2010. Value and quality.

81-2 Talbot St., Dublin 1 Tel: 01 704 1026 www.leboncrubeen.ie

My Meat Wagon

Feel the spirit of France right here in Dublin!

Chez Max Baggot Street is renowned for its outside seating area. There is a smart garden at restaurant level as well as a sizable terrace on the upper level. The outside areas are wellheated and covered to allow customers to dine outside all year round! In summer, diners flock to Chez Max, Baggot Street to enjoy lunch in the sunshine.

133 Lower Baggot St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 661 8899

Camden Kitchen

Situated on Parliament St, Café Topolis is one of the best Italian restaurants in town with an extensive menu offering superior Italian cuisine. Best of all, it’s one of the very few places where they cook their pizzas in the traditional wood fired oven.

37 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 670 4961

Corfu Greek Restaurant

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If you love your meat, then you’ll love My Meat Wagon on Smithfield Market Square. The staff are warm and friendly and the ambience and decor are just perfect. But above all, the food is simply delicious. Diners can choose from a range of sumptuous, smoky barbecue meals, including ribs, chicken and the best burgers in town. The portions are generous and reasonably priced and they have a wide selection of beers and wine. For the perfect summer dining experience, look no further than My Meat Wagon.

A culinary gem in the heart of Dublin, Camden Kitchen is the place to go to for lunch or dinner. Their menu changes daily to reflect the best seasonal ingredients available, meaning you know that you’ll be served fresh, seasonal food every time. Diners can choose from beautiful starters such as Irish Line Caught Mackerel, Connemara Crab Meat or Whipped Goats Cheese and then move on to delicious main courses, like Breckland Duck Leg, Irish Rib Eye Beef and Smoked Haddock Risotto, all served up in a wonderful cosy atmosphere by the friendly staff.

Corfu Greek Restaurant is a hidden gem situated on Parliament Street. Here, the friendly and attentive staff will serve you some of the finest Greek food at incredibly reasonable prices. Choose from a range of starters, such as calamari and dolmadakia, and then tuck into some delicious traditional Greek main courses, including moussaka, kleftiko and stifado, all washed down with a nice glass of wine from their varied wine list.

Smithfield Market Square, Dublin 7 Tel: 01 874 8172 www.mymeatwagon.ie

3 Camden Market, Grantham Street, D8 Tel: 01 4760125 www.camdenkitchen.ie

12 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 675 0050

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Recommended Restaurants in Leinster The Blind Pig

Whether it’s for an Italian coffee, a sweet or savoury snack or a full meal with wine, you can call in here for continental cuisine, exemplary service and great value.

Zaytoon

236 Rathmines Rd Lwr., Dublin 6.

Tel: 01 497 7057 www.kafka.ie

Peploe’s Want to know where to find the best cocktails in Dublin? We know the place but you have to keep it secret. The brainchild of award winning mixologist Paul Lambert and named after the police who turned a blind eye to speakeasies in the prohibition era in the US, The Blind Pig is Dublin’s best kept secret and the perfect place to go to enjoy the finest cocktails and the best food that Dublin has to offer. Originally a pop-up speakeasy bar, The Blind Pig is now in permanent residence and has developed a loyal fanbase thanks to the unique experience that this venue offers. So how do you find them?

Give them a call, book through their website, and await further instructions.

Tel: 085 874 7901 www.theblindpig.ie reservations@theblindpig.ie

Whitefriar Grill

Peploe’s Wine Bistro is a chic and ambient restaurant located in the heart of Dublin City Centre. With it’s cosy lighting and comfortable spacious dining area, it is the perfect place to enjoy a fine meal in a relaxed atmosphere. All produce is sourced from only the best Irish suppliers and prepared to the highest standard.

Located opposite St Stephens Green, Peploe’s is the perfect place to visit for a glass of wine to greet the evening after a twilight stroll in the park.

Zaytoon gives you the chance to choose a healthy eating option and indulge in the guilty pleasure of treating yourself to a scrumptious kebab. More a casual diner than a fast food place, they offer the very best of Persian cuisine. And as well as the one in Temple Bar they’ve opened a second one at the top of Camden Street.

14/15 Parliament St., Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 3595 www.zaytoon.ie

ASADOR

16 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 676 3144 www.peploes.com

Zaragoza

They pride themselves on putting brunch back on the menu, and in producing the best brunch in Dublin. But there’s a lot more than that going on at this superior smart casual restaurant. Their latest Ribs N Rump gives you a 14oz steak and a choice of ribs plus 2 sides for just g40 on Sunday nights.

16 Aungier St, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 475 9003 www.whitefriargrill.ie

Kafka Restaurant

The Spanish city of Zaragoza is any food lover’s idea of paradise. Zaragoza have taken some local delicacies along with some of Spain’s authentic specialties to create a unique dining experience.... seasoned with a generous helping of the homegrown hospitality they are famous for. So come down, sit back and explore the tantalizing recipes created by their chef and enjoy with friends a glass or two of their exquisite handpicked wines.

Open Mon-Sun 12noon - Midnight (last orders) 18 William St., Dublin 2. Tel: 01 679 4020 www.zaragozadublin.com

‘ASADOR’ A Spanish word meaning barbecue, grill or spit. ASADOR Haddington Road opened its doors in November 2012 to great critical acclaim. The idea behind ASADOR is simple; take the best meats our fields can provide, the freshest seafood landed on our shores and cook this great Irish produce over a bespoke built 7 foot barbecue or ‘Asador’. ASADOR was the first restaurant operation to bring premium level barbecue to the Dublin dining scene. Customers flocked to sample signature dry-aged steaks, lobster, fish and game cooked in the most ancient of ways.

Guests can expect the best of old and new world wines, craft beers and of course a range of cocktails from the experienced team of mixologists - the perfect partner for premium barbecued food.

ASADOR, the balance of flames, flavour and food.

1 Victoria House, Haddington Rd, Dublin 4.

Tel: 01 254 5353 www.asador.ie SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Suesey Street

Taco Taco

Suesey Street is Dublin’s new social destination, promising good times in the bar, great food from the kitchen and a relaxed vibe on the outdoor terrace. Located on the corner of Fitzwilliam Place, it is a welcoming space full of atmosphere and comfort, offering an informal approach to drinking and dining.

The food is classed as modern Irish, changes with the season and is very creative - the flavours are awake and the customer is in for a real gourmet experience.

Perfect for brunch or a casual evening meal, Taco Taco is sure to get your taste buds tingling. They have a range of specials on offer, such as Chargrilled Jerk Chicken for two with a range of sides for €29.95 on Sunday nights and Super Nacho Happy Hour from 5pm to 6.30pm from Monday to Sunday. While you’re there, make sure you sample some of their amazing cocktails, such as Whiskey Smash, Brunch Sour or Mojito.

26 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 669 4600 www.sueseystreet.ie

14 Dame Court, Dublin 2 Tel: 083 449 9584 www.tacotacodublin.com

Thornton’s Restaurant

Super Miss Sue

This one star Michelin restaurant is, as they say, reassuringly expensive. Which is only as it should be as the man in charge is Ireland’s finest chef, Kevin Thornton. If you have any intention of cementing a relationship, or of instigating a new one, this is the place to take them.

Above the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Stephen’s Green. Tel: 01 478 7008

One of the few places to get really great fresh fish in the centre of town, and surprisingly affordable. You can treat yourself to a full meal in the restaurant proper, or a traditional fish and chips of exceptional quality in the diner next door.

Drury St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 679 9009

Darwin’s Restaurant

The Good World

There’s been a huge influx of Chinese in Dublin of late, and the choice of Chinese food in the city has improved no end. But this is still the best place to find dim sum. And significantly, most of the people you’ll find eating here are other Chinese diners.

18 S George’s St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 5373

Salamanca

Located on Andrews Street, near the new home of the Molly Malone statue, Salamanca was one of the first Tapas Bars in the city and remains one of the best. Their Tapas dishes are served by authentic Spanish chefs and they use only the finest quality fresh ingredients. Diners can choose from a wide range of quality Tapas and carefully selected Spanish wines for a truly authentic taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Dublin City.

1 St. Andrew’s Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 4799 www.salamanca.ie

Brasco’s

Acapulco Mexican Restaurant

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This lively Mexican Restaurant offers the very best traditional Mexican cuisine, with sizzling fajitas, burritos, tacos and, best of all their famous deep fried icecream!

This family run restaurant caters to all possible tastes, whether carnivorous, coeliac or vegetarian. Their own in house butcher provides them with meats, game and poultry, they have fresh fish and a wide selection of dishes made from locally sourced vegetables.

And you can finish it all off with their homemade desserts.

7 S George’s St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 1085

80 Aungier St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 475 7511

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Brasco’s offer a new dining experience. Situated right on the end of Skerries Pier, Brasco’s serve modern European dishes with a wonderful flair. Diners can choose from delicious starters such as Deep Fried Brie, Smoked Salmon Crostini or Brasco’s Style Meatballs before tucking into mouth watering mains that include Wicklow Lamb Shank, Dover Sole or Pan Fried Duck. For those who fancy a bit of lunch, they also have a daytime Deli with a range of great options to choose from.

Harbour Road, Skerries Tel: 01 849 4388 www.brascosrestaurantdublin.com

Discover a wildly romantic, luxurious coastal Inn Discover a wildly romantic, luxury coastal Inn The Strand Inn on Dunmore East Beach exudes charm and seaside fun with all the style and comfort of a boutique hotel. Owned by the Foyle family, this 15-bedroom Inn is rich in heritage and is located overlooking a glorious sandy beach and Hook Head.

We look forward to welcoming you to the home of lingering breakfasts, long lunches and lazy suppers. Sheltering on a cliff overlooking Dunmore East beach, the Strand Inn is a friendly place for all seasons - blustery and wild, romantic and surprising, sunny and warm - all the elements that ensure seaside fun. The young are welcomed with their very own bucket and spades, for days to be spent hitting the rock pools and surrounding waters.

Enjoy a glass of something chilled on the terrace to kick start a relaxing stay in Waterford, full of luxuries and simple pleasures.

Absolute comfort and contemporary seaside chic, the sea facing, en-suite rooms offer a fresh and light barefoot beach ambience, with crisp bed linen, bespoke fabrics and all the elements expected of a special bolt hole. Sunbathe on a private terrace overlooking the ever changing

coastal views and then dine in the fabled Strand Inn restaurant.

The kitchen’s mantra is freshness and seasonality, underpinned by a deep rooted respect for the surrounding waters and pastures. Look forward to superb Irish beef, lobster and line caught seafood.

Beamed ceilings, original stone walls, planked floors, books and board games all await you in the bar and drawing room. A welcoming stove and the lure of a proper pint makes it feel special and secluded here. You cannot imagine the sunrises or sunsets until you get here. Never more than a window away from a fabulous view of Dunmore East, a few days here, even just a night, and you will feel good all over.

PERFECT FOR INTIMATE WEDDINGS For your Wedding or Special Celebration why not have the ultimate treat, The Strand Inn can be exclusively yours for up to 150 guests.

The essence of understated elegance. Pictureperfect for the most intimate and memorable weddings celebrations. The Foyle family look forward to welcoming you.

The Strand Inn • Dunmore East • Co. Waterford • P: 00 353 (0)51 383174 • F:00 353 ( 0) 51 383756 • E. thestrandinn@mail.com www.thestrandinn.com 18

WATERFORD

Welcome to Munster Munster is the most southerly of the four provinces of Ireland and stretches from Tipperary in the South Midlands to Waterford in the South East, and from Clare, Limerick and Kerry down to Cork in the South.The entire area is famed for Irish traditional music, song and dance. There are many ancient castles and monasteries in the province, and coupled with the vast green countryside and its three cities (Limerick, Cork and Waterford) Munster is a must see destination for tourists.

Fota Wildlife Park

Bunratty Castle Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times.

Travelling down the coast, Limerick is the next port of call which this year has been designated as Ireland’s first City of Culture.

From theatres to outdoor music events, museums to festivals, Limerick has an eclectic mix of sights and sounds to suit all tastes.

Limerick County Limerick also incorporates the Foynes Estuary with its world famous Foynes Flying Boat Museum. The museum tells the story of the Pan Am Clipper aircraft which brought commercial flights from America to our shores, landing in the estuary itself. It includes the only full-scale model of a Boeing B-314 Flying Boat anywhere in the world.

The Rose of Tralee is the most famous Festival in Kerry and this internationally acclaimed festival comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect from a truly Irish experience.

The festival celebrates its 55th year this year and commences with the International Rose Ball on the 15th of August before culminating with the selection of the 2014 Rose of Tralee in the magnificent dome four days later. There is a packed programme of events during the week for all to enjoy.

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One of Munster’s most famous landmarks the Rock of Cashel, in County Tipperary is the historical seat of the Kings of Munster. The outcrop on which the Castle and grounds stand is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Munster. The spectacular group of medieval buildings are set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale and include the 12th century round tower, the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 13th century Gothic cathedral, the 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.

Tel: 062 61437 Email: rockofcashel@opw.ie County Cork is well worth the drive as it has sandy beaches, the wonderful Blarney Castle, Foto Wildlife Park and golf course, wonderful coastlines and a city nightlife to rival any of that in Europe. Travel from east to west or north to south in this sprawling county and there is a view, an historical point of interest or an adventure to explore.

Finally at the extreme South East of the island of Ireland is Waterford. Waterford is the capital of the ‘Sunny South East of Ireland’

Blarney Castle

and Ireland’s oldest city. The city and county is famous throughout the world as the home of Waterford Crystal. A visit to the House of Crystal visitor centre includes an opportunity to choose from the world’s largest selection of Waterford Crystal. The factory tour offers first hand access to all areas of traditional crystal production.

County Waterford offers a dazzling 147 kilometres coastline, with 49 beaches, beautiful river valleys, lakes and two dramatic ranges of very accessible mountains.

&

Independent Bottler of the year

2014

A wonder-workshopping, super-soldering, creative-crafting space for all ages.

Contact us at: info@makeshop.ie makeshop.ie facebook.com/WeAreMakeshop twitter.com/WeAreMakeshop MAKESHOP Trinity College Dublin Lincoln Place Dublin 2 Mon–Fri: 11:00 –18:00 Sat: 10:00 – 18:00

Ireland’s Whiskey Experts!

27-28 Dawson Street, Dublin 2.

Ph: +353 (0) 1 675 9744 INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING @Celticwhiskey or @Winesonthegreen or www.celticwhiskeyshop.com SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Waterford HARVEST FESTIVAL

W

aterford’s Food Heroes will be celebrated at the 7th annual Waterford Harvest Festival, which runs from 11th to 13th of September.

The city’s main thoroughfares will be transformed into a smorgasboard of flavours, aromas and heritage where visitors can enjoy festival markets, harvest kitchens, wine appreciation classes, junior food craft classes, celebrity cooking demonstrations and a whole lot more.

From farmers and growers, to restaurateurs, small producers and market leaders, Waterford has built a reputation as one of the country’s most innovative food producing regions and Festival Chair, Paul Nolan, believes that Food Heroes is an appropriate theme for this year’s festival.

“Waterford is enjoying a resurgent food movement and that is down to those who grow, cultivate, produce, create, serve and champion great local food,” he said. “We want to give these heroes the opportunity to showcase what they do best and what better way than at the Waterford Harvest Festival.”

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Those heroes will be given ample opportunity with a range of great events over the weekend, including the Festival Market on the Mall, Enterprising Food Market, Harvest Kitchen, the Oyster Festival, the Viking Rocks Craft Beer Festival, Trad Craft Corner, Farm to Fork, Picnic ‘n’ Play and the Big Taste in John Robert’s Square. There will also be many chances to sample the famous local delicacy, the

Blaa, which has recently been awarded the coveted Protected Geographical Indication status.

This year’s festival promises to be a heady mix of sights, sounds and tastes, with cookery demonstrations, foodie films, tastings and workshops turning Waterford City into a huge street party that is not to be missed. www.waterfordharvestfestival.ie

Ballina FOOD FLEADH

T

he second Ballina Food Fleadh, which takes place on 26th and 27th of September, brings together leading artisan food producers and internationally renowned chefs. Mayo has seen a surge in modern and traditional cooking in recent years and the event organisers promise an even bigger and better programme after the success of the inaugural event last year.

Market Square is the place to be on Saturday 26th of September with a host of delightful culinary events to enjoy.

Visitors can enjoy cookery demonstrations, delicious food and a wide range of entertainment. There’s even a chance for the kids to learn some new skills with kids cookery tutorials - who knows, maybe the next Jamie Oliver or Gordon Ramsey will take their first tentative cooking steps in Ballina.

The day will be rounded off with a special celebrity cook-off before it’s off to the banks of the River Moy for Sunday’s big event. Ballina has long been known as the Salmon Capital of Ireland and this will be celebrated with a ‘river to plate’

themed cook, with sumptuous food prepared by distinguished chefs as well as the best in local music and entertainment.

So head West this September to the lovely town of Ballina. Your taste buds will thank you for taking the journey. www.mayonorth.ie

Kenmare Antiques

A wonderful place to pick up unique items from times past!

14 Henry Street, Kenmare, Co. Kerry 064 6642788, 086 3150923 www.kenmareantiques.com kenmare.antiques@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Pubs in Munster Jack Meades (under the bridge) Set on 5 acres of impeccably kept lawns, this sprawling complex boasts a number of bars.

The old world bar it has dates back to 1705, whilst its lime kiln and ice house were built around 1860. But there is also a modern bar, and an extensive beer garden looking down over the gardens and streams. And good quality food is served here throughout the day.

Dunmore Rd, Waterford Tel: 051 850 950

The Bierhaus

There are over 220 different beers to choose from here, including 6 rotating guest draught taps and a cask. So whether you are looking for a bottle or draught, an international or an Irish beer, there’s a reasonably good chance you’ll find it here. And they spend as much time on getting the atmosphere right as they do on choosing their beers.

An Brog

An Brog has been attending to fans of alternative and indie music for over 20 years now, and they’ve a constantly evolving roster of Djs and live bands catering to all and every musical taste. And best of all, they are open til 2 in the morning, seven days a week.

72-73 Oliver Plunkett St, Cork Tel: 021 427 0074

Buckley’s Bar

The oak panelled walls and turf fire are the perfect accompaniment to the many musicians who drop in here for the impromptu sessions that seem to be forever going on here. Both bar and hotel have been welcoming visitors since it opened in 1926. And many people either begin their trip around the kingdom there, or base themselves there for its duration.

The Arbutus Hotel, College St, Killarney, Co Kerry.

Tel: 064 663 1037

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Dick Mack’s

Named after the leather craftsman, this small and gloriously “busy” pub still sells hand made leather ware inside at the shop to one side. Its walls are drowned in archaic photographs, and outside there’s a star studded pavement where the likes of Robert Mitchum, Sean Connery and Julia Roberts have left their mark. For many, many people, this is what they imagine when they conjure up the image of an Irish pub.

Greene St, Dingle, Co Kerry Tel: 066 915 1960

Pope’s Quay, Cork Tel: 021 455 1648

Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant Dolan’s is made up of three venues, two outdoor areas, a traditional Irish pub and a restaurant. So there’s music here every day of the week, and they’ll serve you your breakfast, lunch and dinner as you require. Some of the many guests who’ve enjoyed their hospitality include Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand, Sharon Shannon and Imelda May. 3-4 Dock Rd, Limerick Tel: 061 314 483 (ext 1)

Recommended Restaurants in Munster The Strand Inn

Tel: 051 878203 www.waterfordcastleresort.com/munsterroom-restaurant

Out of the Blue Overlooking Hook Head, The Strand Inn is the perfect place to enjoy lingering breakfasts, relax over a long lunch or enjoy intimate, romantic suppers. Diners can look forward to the finest Irish beef, lobster and line caught seafood in a luxurious setting, characterised by beamed ceilings, original stone walls and planked floors.

Dunmore East, Co.Waterford.

Tel: 051 383 174 www.thestrandinn.com

The Cliff Restaurant

The Cliff Restaurant is a new addition to The Strand Inn. The Cliff is a relaxed, casual affair serving brunch from 1pm, and is open for food until 9pm. The Cliff contains a bar and two dining rooms. Downstairs is kid friendly, while upstairs is kid free making it the perfect place for both a family occasion or an evening meal with friends. The menu is wide ranging and includes pizzas, pastas, great salads and burgers, as well as delicious steaks.

Dunmore East, Co.Waterford Tel: 051 383 839

The Munster Room Restaurant

Waterford Castle, The Island, Co. Waterford

2 George’s St., Waterford. Tel: 051 875 645 www.labohemerestaurant.ie

An Canteen

They serve only the freshest, most succulent fish and shellfish here, which they have delivered every day, literally, from the sea outside their front door. And if there’s no fish on a particular day, then they won’t open the restaurant. A certain Mr. Paul Hewson, aka Bono is a fan. So book early to avoid disappointment.

Small quaint front room restaurant with locally sourced high quality ingredients making this little gem a must visit when in Dingle.

Dingle Harbour. Tel: 066 915 0811

Dykgate St., Dingle. Tel: 086 660 3778

Milesian

The Smugglers Inn

Greg O’Mahonny took over as head chef here in 2010 after spells at some of the best restaurants in Spain and Dublin, including the Mugaritz in San Sebastian and L’Ecrivain in Dublin. And he takes the very best of local Kerry produce and gives them some wonderfully sophisticated flavours.

The Smugglers Inn is a family run restaurant that is ideal for casual lunch, fine dining or that special occasion. The restaurant has been praised by gastronomic writers from all over the world and is a Bord Failte award winner.

It’s not hard to see why. The Smugglers Inn pride itself on serving fresh local produce, from seafood to organic vegetables. Add in the spectacular views and friendly service and you have the perfect dining experience.

Mail St., Castlegregory, Co Kerry Tel: 087 979 4337

La Bohéme Restaurant & Wine Bar The Munster Room Restaurant at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort was awarded 2AA Rosettes in 2001 and currently continues this elite standard further confirmed with multiple awards and its review in the 2015 Michelin Guide. With its warm ambience, wonderful oak paneled walls, ornate ceiling, and further complemented by an extensive wine cellar and exciting seasonal menus it’s easy to see why it’s such a winning choice. Using the finest local produce, gifted head chef Michael Thomas and his culinary team continually create dishes with intense flavors that will tantalize and satisfy every food lover’s palate and create a truly memorable fine dining experience.

fine dining and wine bar with bistro menu options, qualifies La Boheme as a hidden gem in the heart of Waterford City.

Tues - Sat 5:30pm until late (Open bank holiday Sundays)

La Boheme offers a unique experience for lovers of fine dining, with its location in the basement of one of Waterford’s foremost prestigious buildings. Head Chef Eric Theze uses fresh locally sourced produce, providing guests with exquisitely presented delectable dishes. Christine ensures that all are greeted with a warm welcome, with the belief in treating each guest as if they are being welcomed into their own home. A blend of

Cliff Road, Waterville, Co. Kerry Tel: 066 9474330 www.thesmugglersinn.ie

The Lobster

Whether you’re looking for lunch, a casual dinner or just a quiet pint, the friendly staff at The Lobster are sure to look after your every need. Situated in the seaside town of Waterville, it’s no surprise that The Lobster serve some of the best seafood in Kerry and their beef and Guinness stew is also spoken of very highly by all who have sampled it.

Waterville, Co. Kerry. Tel: 066 9474629 SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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An Canteen RESTAURANT NIALL Ó’CONCHÚIR INTERVIEW

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here’s an old Irish saying on the signs outside An Canteen Restaurant in Dingle. It reads ‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhairimid’ and means ‘In each other’s shadows, we’ll survive’. It’s a maxim that brothers Niall and Brian Ó’Conchúir have been determined to adhere to since opening the restaurant in 2008. As Ireland slumped into recession that year, Niall and Brian decided to create something and help their own community. “We decided, because of the recession, that we’d try and support as many small little businesses as we could,” Niall says of their decision to open a restaurant that focuses on hearty, comforting, locally sourced food.

It certainly has been a community effort. A friend of Niall’s, who became unemployed around the same time as the restaurant was opening, now uses his land to grow produce that is used in An Canteen. “He has three polytunnels and a half acre of land, just growing salads and strawberries and some of the vegetables,” says Niall.

The meat and fish is sourced locally too.

“All the fish comes in directly off the boats or off the local mongers,” says Niall. “The lamb then is sourced mainly off our own farm but if not off our own farm, I source everything through Jerry Kennedy the butcher in Dingle. He’s an award winning butcher in Dingle so he supplies me with the majority of my meats.”

Visitors to An Canteen can enjoy delicious, slow-cooked food, such as braised lamb, confit pork, or their most popular dish, the 16 hour braised beef. “I cook it in a West Kerry Porter from the West Kerry Brewery and it is an extremely tender piece of meat,” says Niall, and he’ confident that, “quality-wise, it will beat your steak any day of the week.” These delicious meals are complemented by the extensive range of 36 craft beers that are on offer, with many of them coming from local breweries, such as the West Kerry Brewery.

“It’s bringing back the tradition of the old way of putting everything in the pot, putting it on the stove and going off to work and coming home and the dinner is

ready,” Niall explains, summing up the ethos of the restaurant. It’s a refreshingly simple ethos and one that has seen An Canteen go from strength to strength.

If you’re in Dingle, make sure you pay them a visit. Niall cooks, Brian takes care of the front of house and both are always eager to come and get feedback from diners. Both are native Irish speakers, so you might even learn an Irish phrase or two. That’s a unique combination of delicious, hearty food and language lessons that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. www.ancanteen.com

tickets on sale now dublintheatrefestival.com | +353 1 677 8899 |

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@DubTheatreFest DublinTheatreFestival

DESIGN HEROES Exhibition

MIROSLAV HAVEL (1922 –2008) CHIEF DESIGNER AT WATERFORD CRYSTAL

W

aterford Central Library will host a very special exhibition from 7th to 19th of September.

Design Heroes celebrates the work of Miroslav Havel, Waterford Crystal’s most famous designer. The exhibition will feature Havel’s design drawings and original works, which helped develop the world-leading Waterford Crystal brand that we see today. Havel was the first employee of Waterford Crystal, having come to Ireland in 1947 from Czechoslovakia. He adapted and built on the original Penrose designs for stemware and other table ornaments and his work included the design of the classic Lismore, Colleen and Kildare patterns that are still in production today.

This exhibition reveals his extraordinary skill in designing, and shows, for the first time, personal glasswork from the family archives. Visitors can view a large number of original drawings,

sketches and notes, photographs and original engraved pieces gathered from private collections that have never been publicly displayed before. It will also include the working drawings of the development of the brand and packaging of the famous Seahorse logo, as well a series of lectures on the history of glassmaking in Waterford.

The exhibition traces the incredible versatility of Miroslav Havel’s design work, with his legacy and influence still evident on the current production at the House of Waterford Crystal today. For anyone with an interest in this iconic brand, this is an exhibition that is not to be missed.

Waterford City Library, Lady Lane, Waterford City www.waterfordcity.ie

Explore Munster

Cliffs of Moher

Stretching for eight kilometres along the coastline and standing at 214 metres at their highest point, the Cliffs of Moher give the visitor a panoramic view out onto the Atlantic Ocean. It is said that on a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and Galway bay, over the twelve pins and the Blasket Islands off the coast of Kerry. When there you really should ascend O’Briens Tower which has been used as a viewing point for centuries past.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting visitors from all over the world ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland’s greatest treasures.

Aside from being an impressive example of a medieval castle, this is probably because of the famous stone that can be found at the top of the tower. People from all over the world have climbed up there to kiss it in the hope of acquiring the gift of the gab.

Which, needless to say, they duly receive.

Tel: 021 438 5252

The Hunt Museum

The Hunt Museum has artefacts from Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Olmec civilisation. There is also an important collection of Irish archaeological material ranging from Neolithic flints, Bronze Age material, and Christian art.

One of the strengths of the collection is the medieval material, which include statues in stone and wood, painted panels, jewellery, enamels, ivories, ceramics, crystal and crucifixes. Plus work from Picasso, Renoir, Roderic O’Conor, Jack B. Yeats, Robert Fagan and Henry Moore.

Tel: 061 312 833 www.huntmuseum.com

The Burren

The Burren, from the Gaelic word Boireann is an area of limestone rock covering imposing majestic mountains, and tranquil valleys with gently meandering streams.

With its innate sense of spiritual peace, extraordinary array of flora and wildlife, and megalithic tombs and monuments older than Egypt’s pyramids, the Burren creates a tapestry of colour and a seductively magical aura which few people leave without wanting to experience again.

To begin to discover the secrets of the Burren, a walk through the Burren Centre Exhibition is essential.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry ( Irish: Mórchuaird Chiarraí) is not a ring in the conventional sense but a 179-km-long circular tourist route in County Kerry. Clockwise from Killarney it follows the N71 to Kenmare, then the N70 around the Iveragh Peninsula to Killorglin, passing through Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, and Glenbeigh, before returning to Killarney via the N72.

The scenery along this route is spectacular to behold and the route takes you through the Gap of Dunloe, the Bog Village, past Rossbeigh Beach, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, The Blue Pool, Ross Castle, the Ogham Stones, and many more visitor attractions.

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times.

Browse the castle and marvel at the finest collection of medieval furniture in the country which brings to life a vital part of our Medieval past. You can explore at your own leisure or join in a guided tour with the experienced guides. At night time the castle is the impressive setting for the medieval castle banquets which are held all year round.

Established in 1952 Kneisel Jewellers is a family business spanning three generations and boasting an excellent reputation in the retail of high quality jewellery and watches.

The staff, including a Goldsmith and Gemmologist, works as a highly experienced team, offering our own design service, hand-crafted inhouse and appraisals on selected items.

Kneisel Jewellers, John Robert Square, Waterford.

Tel: 051 875 033 Email: kneiseljewellers@eircom.net

Cobh BLUES FESTIVAL The beautiful town of Cobh in Co. Cork will become a haven for the blues from 18th to 20th September for the 9th annual Cobh Blues Festival. A host of national and international musicians will play in a range of indoor and outdoor venues, including many of the town’s pubs and hotels, as well as the bandstand in the promenade by the waterfront; the perfect open-air setting for some acoustic blues. The promenade will also host a Family Fun afternoon on Saturday 19th of September at 2.30pm, with a range of events to keep the kids entertained and music provided by the Cobh Blues Club along with some special guests.

O

ne of Ireland’s greatest ever athletes will also be celebrated during the festival. A bronze statue of Cobh native Sonia O’Sullivan will be unveiled at 3.00pm on Sunday 20th of September. As a winner of a gold medal in the 5000m at the 1995 World Athletics Championships, silver medals in the 5000m at 36

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

the 2000 Olympic Games and the 1500m at the 1993 World Championship, three European Championship gold medals and two World Cross-Country Championship gold medals, the people of Cobh are very proud to say she is one of their own.

Some of the bands set to play at the festival include Led-Z Presence and The Back Doors (a Doors tribute band) in The Well House bar, Jerry Quigley and the Shinkickers in Kellys Bar, Cobh Blues Club, Street Talk, Joe O Callaghan & The Roosters, Dr. Dec & The Side Effect and The Vipers.

Concerts are on day and night, ensuring that all age groups are

catered for. Also appearing over the weekend will be local hero Jamie Stanton, who was a finalist on the Voice of Ireland.

As ever, the Midnight Blues sessions in the Bellavista Hotel are sure to be one of the highlights of the weekend. This year Susan Tomelty & Pat Farrell will be performing on the Friday night from 11:30pm, and Will Killeen filling the Saturday night from the same time.

With over 100 hours of free music, lovers of the blues are in for a treat at this year’s Cobh Blues Festival. www.cobhbluesfestival.com

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TASTE OF West Cork

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rom the Beara Peninsula to Bandon, the 12th A Taste of West Cork Festival unites 32 towns and villages and eight islands in a celebration of food from the 4th to the 13th of September. The impressive line-up of almost 140 events includes cookery workshops, formal and informal dinners, interactive food demonstrations, two conferences, awards ceremonies, historical events and farm visits all showcasing the best of West Cork food produce.

Michelin chefs, activity organisers and a massive team of dedicated volunteers will bring visitors on a culinary journey through a range of events that the whole family can enjoy, such as the ‘Tee Off & Taster Teaser’, ‘A Taste of Turkey’, ‘Summer Senses’, ‘Seafood & Craft Beer Pairings’ or the fantastic ‘West Cork Cast, Catch & Cook Experience’.

“West Cork has long held a reputation for excellence in food production and preparation and is recognised as a top foodie destination in its own right,” said Minister Simon Coveney at the launch of this year’s event. “A Taste of West Cork

Food Festival is quite unique in that it brings together all these towns, villages and islands – all united in their quest to bring business into the area and proudly showcase their products and services to visitors from Ireland and all over the world.”

A Taste of West Cork Food Festival is the host for Belling Forum and the Belling West Cork Artisan Food Awards.

A shortlist of finalists from over 60 Artisan Food Producers will be selected and showcased at the prestigious Belling Awards dinner on Saturday 12th of September at Baltimore Yacht Club. There will be three awards up for grabs on the

night; The Originals, The Newcomers and The Student Bursary. All three awards acknowledge the effort, passion and hard work that food producers put into crafting their unique products.

The Festival will close with the amazing Festival Finale Sunday Street Market in Skibbereen on Sunday 13th of September.

There will be a state of the art food tent with every food stall providing tastings, children’s entertainment, live music and traditional and artisan craft exhibitions. The perfect way to round off your visit to the beautiful area of West Cork. www.atasteofwestcork.com

Language. Culture. Our Business.

French Courses for Adults, Teenagers, Children & Toddlers

Autumn Term 21 September - 14 November 2015

The French Language & Cultural Centre in Dublin 1 Kildare Street, Dublin 2 / www.alliance-francaise.ie

NEW ROSS Piano festival

N

Ross in County Wexford becomes the home of the piano this month for the 10th annual New Ross Piano Festival, which takes place from 24th to 27th of September. This excellent festival is a chance to get up close and personal with some of the best international piano players around, as well as maybe having a go yourself. The festival is high on quality but also very friendly and informal, making the piano accessible to all.

The opening concert on Friday in the Parish Church of St Mary and St Michael is sure to be a spectacular affair. The RTE Concert Orchestra will play three piano concertos (Beethoven No 3, Mendelssohn No 1 and Scriabin) with three different pianists, including Cedric Tiberghien, Alexei Grynyuk and the festival’s Artistic Director

Finghin Collins. This is the first of seven classical concerts featuring Cedric, Alexei, Finghin and also Olga Scheps and Daria van den Bercken.

Cedric Tiberghien will also teach a masterclass for third level students during the festival and there will be opportunities for primary and secondary school students to meet pianists and learn from them.

If you’re a visitor to the festival and fancy trotting out a tune or two, why not head to one of the Play Me pianos which can be found in the library, some supermarkets and the Dunbrody Visitor Centre. These pianos are available to anyone who fancies playing them and they will also be used for free jazz piano sessions over the weekend, hosted by Jim Doherty and Colm ‘Stride’ O’Brien.

With a host of other solo and concert

performances that cover a wide range of musical styles, including the wonderful Fidelio Trio, New Ross Piano Festival caters for all lovers of the piano, regardless of genre, and encourages visitors to get involved in this joyous celebration of music.

Booking at St Michael’s Theatre Tel: 00 353 51 421255 www.newrosspianofestival.com Photos clockwise from top: Playing on the Dunbrody Famine Ship; Sa Chen rehearsing in St Mary’s Church ; Colm O’Brien about to play Scott Joplin; Finghin Collins stopping traffic.

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A

Dingle TRADFEST

ll roads lead to Dingle for lovers of traditional music this September. The fifth annual Dingle Tradfest takes place from 10th to 13th September with a series of concerts, themed session trails, busking competitions and outdoor events, including a mountain hike and session on Cnoc a’ Cairn to be enjoyed. Dingle Tradfest promotes traditional music in an innovative way and is well worth a visit for those with an interest in Irish traditional music.

The creativity of young traditional musicians is also celebrated during the festival, with a host of up and coming Irish acts set to play, including Officially Trapped and Seven Glens. There will also be appearances by Damien Mullane & Siobhan Mason and Darragh Curtin.

Visitors will get the opportunity to see Danny Diamond and Conor Caldwell’s archival film, The Long Road to Glenties, which will be shown during the festival. The film and presentation documents American folk hero Pete Seeger’s trip to Donegal to meet fiddle player Johnny Doherty. Doherty was a travelling fiddle player who developed his own dynamic approach that marks him out as one of the greats of Irish traditional music. Seeger met Doherty in a caravan just outside the market town of Glenties and spent the day filming and interviewing Doherty with the help of his friends Malachy McCloskey and the English folk-music collector Peter Kennedy. The film footage sheds a light on the unique bond that formed between these two musicians. www.dingletradfest.com

French Seafood Restaurant Seaside Views Outdoor Terrace Menu Du Jour A La Carte Available 12am to 9.30pm ventryskipper@hotmail.com www.theskipperventry.com Ventry Village Dingle Peninsula Co Kerry +353 (0)66 91 59 853 , +353 (0)85 27 87 958 40

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

MILESIAN GARDEN Delicatessen/ Coffeehouse

NOW OPEN!!

The Milesians head chef Greg O Mahony is delighted to be at the helm for another season. This will be Greg’s 10th Summer at the helm of this fantastic eatery. Greg brings his passion and knowledge of food to the Milesian. During the Winter Greg fine tunes his skills by working in some of the finest restaurant’s including Dublin’s L’ecrevain, San Sebastian’s Mugaritz and arguably Ireland’s best restaurant, the Michelin starred Chapter One.

Choose from our Extensive A La Carte Menu

or try our Early Bird Menu 5pm - 6.30pm

2 Courses x17 / 3 Courses x20 ...a Real Treat!

“Five Star Menu at Three Star Prices!”

“Definitely one of Kerry’s best kept secrets every summer!”

Open 7 days

Welcome to Connaught

Ancient stone walls in the Aran Islands

The province of Connaught lies in the West of Ireland with its coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. The counties of Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, Galway and Roscommon make up this geographically diverse region with the Atlantic Ocean to its westerly boundary, and the midlands of Roscommon to the East. It is the least populated with a population of just over 400,000.

Historically, Connaught has retained its rich Gaelic heritage and today still has communities where the Irish language only is spoken amongst them. But English is the primary second language. These regions are collectively called the Gaeltacht. The remote and beautiful Aran Islands off the mainland of County Galway are also part of the Gaeltacht.

The primary business centre of Connaught,

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and the most densely populated area is the thriving city of Galway to the south of the province. Although Sligo City, Carrick on Shannon, and Boyle are all fine business and shopping centres in their own right.

Connaught has some of the most scenic and unspoilt countryside to be found in Ireland, including the spectacular mountainous landscape of Connemara, the lock gates and river banks of the Shannon Waterway, the famed Galway Bay and the historic glens of County Leitrim. Couple these with the beautiful Ashford Castle in Mayo near to Cong where the film The Quiet Man was filmed, and the natural serenity of Lough Key Forest Park in Roscommon, and a tour of this region is a must for all.

For those interested in a religious experience

Mayo is famed for Knock Shrine where on the 21st August, 1879, at about 8 o’clock, Our Lady, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist are reputed to have appeared. The apparition was seen by fifteen people whose ages ranged from six years to seventy-five and included men, women and children. The shrine has become so popular in modern times that the Ireland West International Airport was built especially in 1985 to cater for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and visitors to Connaught.

The county also features the pilgrimage site known as Croagh Patrick, which overlooks Clew Bay in County Mayo. This is considered the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition of pilgrimage to this holy mountain stretches back over 5,000 years from the Stone Age to the present day without interruption. Croagh Patrick is renowned today for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honour of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. It was on the summit of the mountain that Saint Patrick is said to have fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the custom of trekking up the mountain has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the picturesque town of Westport, and its conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside with magnificent views of Clew Bay beneath.

So, whether it’s water activities on the Atlantic coastline, cruising on the Shannon Waterway, religious pilgrimages, chilling out amongst an unspoilt landscape or driving along roads where motoring is still a pleasure, Connaught has it all.

Explore Connaught

Kylemore Abbey

Few places on earth have the tranquillity and beauty of Kylemore Abbey and its majestic walled garden. The castle was bought by the Benedictine nuns in 1920.

The Victorian walled garden was reopened in 1999 and won the prestigious Europa Nostra Award in 2002.The garden comprises of roughly 6 acres and is divided in two by a natural mountain stream. The eastern half comprises of the flower or pleasure garden, glass houses and gardeners’ houses. While the kitchen garden makes up the other half of the garden and is predominantly given over to the growing of food. This is a gem and should definitely be at the top of any visitors list.

Glencar Waterfall

Glencar Waterfall is situated near Glencar Lake, 11 kilometres west of Manorhamilton, County Leitrim. It is particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. As you reach Glencar which straddles the border between counties Sligo and Leitrim with its dramatic steep cliffs, you will notice a series of waterfalls cascading from the heights.

Glencar waterfall is perhaps the most dramatic, descending from a 50ft rocky headland into a deep pool below in a haze of white spray. A paved path to the viewing area provides a wonderful vantage point from which to view the waterfall which is particularly spectacular during wet conditions.

Inishbofin Island

Inishbofin (island of the white cow) is situated seven miles off the Galway coastline and is an extremely popular tourist attraction.The island is 5.7km by 4km, and has three official looped walks of varying difficulties, each offering spectacular views of the island’s wild Atlantic scenery. The island also has several safe, award winning sandy beaches, and its clear waters make swimming, snorkelling and diving a joy. Two of the beaches on Inishbofin have been awarded the ‘Green Coast Award’, prized for their exceptional water quality and their natural, unspoilt environment.

Croagh Patrick

Connemara

Mullaghmore

Mullaghmore is one of the surfing capitals of the Irish Atlantic coastline, and is recognised as one of the top surfing destinations in the world. Indeed, on 8 March 2012, surfers and windsurfers from all over the world rode waves up to 15 metres (49 ft) high off Mullaghmore Head.

The area is also safe for bathing, and has all the modern facilities that you could wish for to make your stay enjoyable. And it is overlooked by the majestic Ben Bulbin mountain.

Connemara is one of God’s gifts to this world with unspoilt natural beauty, rolling hills, leafy glens and crystal clear mountain streams all overlooked by towering majestic mountains. Travel from the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the North through lake-rich Roundstone Bog, to the golden beaches reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean. This wondrous landscape is bounded on the West, South and North by the Atlantic Ocean. Connemara’s land boundary with the rest of County Galway is marked by the Invermore River which flows into the north of Kilkieran Bay.

Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the picturesque town of Westport, and its conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. You get spectacular views of Clew Bay and the surrounding Mayo countryside from all stages as you climb.

Widely considered the holiest mountain in Ireland, pilgrimages date all the way back to the time of the pagans, when people are thought to have gathered here to celebrate the beginning of harvest season. It was on the summit of this mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the custom has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. On the last day in July 25,000 pilgrims climb it, and over a million people visit Croagh Patrick every year.

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Recommended Pubs in Connaught Tigh Neachtain (Naughtons)

Just across the road from Galway’s justly celebrated Druid Theatre, the Neachtain family have been running this pub here since 1894. And the artsy crowd that congregate here are as likely to be treated to a live jazz trio as they are to the best in Irish trad.

17 Cross st, Galway Tel: 091 568 820

Furey’s Pub

The Quays

Furey’s is located in the centre of Sligo, and is your no nonsense, strictly Irish trad music only, Irish pub. And they are as keen on real beer as they are on serious music, offering up an impressive choice craft beers.

Bridge St, Sligo Tel: 087 958 3080 Don’t be put off by the reams of tourists that flock here all year round, there’s a reason that this pub enjoys such a lofty reputation. It looks and feels exactly like an Irish pub should. And be sure to check out the back of the pub which has been decked out with stained glass and wooden pews borrowed from a Medieval French church!

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Bosh Bar and Restaurant Whether you are looking for a bit of good quality food, hoping to catch some live music, or just want to watch the match, this is the place you’re looking for when you find yourself in Castlebar.

11 Quay St, Galway Tel: 091 568 347

Linenhall St., Castlebar, Co Mayo Tel: 094 925 0534

Roísín Dubh

Matt Malloy’s

It might have changed hands a few years ago, but the Roísín Dubh is still the premier music venue in the West. In the past they played host to Ray Davies, The New York Dolls and Townes Van Zandt and, more recently the XX, DJ Shadow and Dinosaur Jr. The only difference is, they’ve got a beer garden on the roof now!

This is exactly the kind of pub you’d expect the flute player with the Chieftains to have opened. And when he’s not on tour with them, you can expect to see Matt Malloy here in person, joining in on the sessions that take place within.

Lower Dominick St., Galway Tel: 091 586 540

Bridge St., Westport Tel: 098 26655

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Recommended Restaurants in Connaught Kai Café

An Port Mór Restaurant

Roasted pig cheeks with black pudding, and apple and vanilla sauce is just one of this award winning restaurant’s specialities. One of the finest restaurants in the West.

1 Brewery Place, Bridge St, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 26730

The Cottage Restaurant

Head chef Sham Hanifa’s sauces are so well regarded, you can buy jars of them to take away with you after your meal. Originally from Malaysia, he’s been here in Leitrim for over 14 years and applies his culinary skills to the local Irish produce that are native to the West.

Jamestown, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071 962 5933

Ashford Castle

Dating all the way back to 1228, this is one of the most imposing castles on the island. And where better to dine than in the George V dining room, built specially by the Guinness family when they hosted the Prince of Wales in 1906.

Cong, Co. Mayo Tel: 094 954 6003 David and Jessica Murphy’s restaurant in the heart of Galway has justly won a mountain of awards over the last couple of years, including Restaurant of the Year in 2012. Of the many, many who sing its praises, John McKenna wrote, “It’s vital food, packed with good energy, and it lifts you up to eat it because it’s so simple and elemental.”

Sea Road, Galway City.

Tel: 091 526 003

Eala Bhán

Upstairs @ West Restaurant

Situated in the luxury 4 star hotel The Twelve in Barna, minutes away from the city centre, this is one of Galway’s best kept secrets and is well worth a visit.

The Twelve, Barna, Galway City Tel: 091 597 000

Waterfront House Restaurant

Ireland’s largest stockist of Designer Sunglasses If it’s fresh seafood or a prime steak you’re looking for, this is the place for you. Situated in the heart of Sligo this restaurant is warmly recommended by one and all, including Lucinda O’Sullivan and Georgina Campbell.

Rockwood Parade, Sligo Town Tel: 071 914 5823

Half way between Athlone and Roscommon, and a quarter of an hour’s drive from either, Aidan Murray has been head chef here for over 20 years. Superior bistro food.

The Waterfront House Restaurant boasts one of the most outstanding sea views in Ireland. You can wine, dine and relax as you peer out over the 5km beach overlooking Killala Bay. Since it opened in 2011 the Seaview Restaurant and Wine Bar have become popular with locals and visitors alike. Fresh Seafood is a speciality.

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 666 1255

Enniscrone, County Sligo Tel: 096 37120

The Yew Tree Restaurant

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Welcome to Ulster

Marble Arch Caves The Ancient Irish province of Ulster, made up of 9 counties, was partitioned in 1921 and six of the counties in it now make up Northern Ireland. These are Fermanagh, Antrim, Down, Derry/Londonderry, Armagh, and Tyrone.

The other three counties are Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan in the Republic of Ireland.

County Fermanagh has over 300 square miles of water, 365 islands, breathtaking scenery, the mystical Marble Arch Caves Geo Park, world class fishing and more historic monuments than you could shake a stick at. In short, Fermanagh is a Lakeland Paradise.

County Donegal is in the northwest of the

Malin Head Republic of Ireland. The name “Donegal” comes from the Irish, meaning “the fort of the foreigners”. The county consists chiefly of low mountains, with a deeply indented coastline forming natural loughs, of which Lough Swilly is the most notable. The famous mountains or 46

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‘Hills of Donegal’ consist of two major ranges, the Derryveagh Mountains in the north and the Bluestack Mountains in the south, with Mount Errigal at 751 metres the highest peak.

The Slieve League cliffs are the second highest sea cliffs in Europe, while Donegal’s Malin Head is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland.

the new Titanic Quarter and the Odyssey Arena to name but a few. This vibrant city has a culture all of its own and its restaurants, theatres and nightlife are amazingly good value.

Giants Causeway

County Antrim with its beautiful coast road and famous glens is the most north easterly county on the island. On a worldwide scale Antrim’s most famous attraction is the Giants Causeway. However the renowned ‘Glens of Antrim’, the Bushmills Distillery and Carrickfergus Castle are well worth visiting as well.

Belfast City too has many things to see including the grandeur of the City Hall,

Belfast City Hall

THE GOBBINS

E

xcite your senses at the reimagined Gobbins Cliff Path. The stunning coastal cliff path walk, in Islandmagee, re-opened this week to much critical acclaim from early visitors.

Following a £7.5 million investment, The Gobbins is set to give visitors the chance to uncover the once hidden wonder of the Antrim coast and indulge in an exhilarating cliff path walk. Comprising of suspension tubular bridges, caves, steps, and tunnels carved through the spectacular rock face, The Gobbins is a reimagined treasure that has brought what was once a thriving 1900’s hotspot into the 21st century. The Gobbins attraction aims to retrieve its title as Northern Ireland’s premier visitor attraction as in its heyday it was more popular than the Giant’s Causeway.

Along the trail, visitors will enjoy spectacular views of the natural landscape, get up close to a diverse range of wildlife and gain privileged access to Northern Ireland’s only mainland colony of Puffins, alongside various other bird species.

As well as the geological interests, The

Gobbins Cliff Path boasts tremendous history and heritage.

The Gobbins is a truly amazing experience and has preserved its original charm to offer the same spellbinding appeal that it did in its prime.

Many new additions to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s attraction bring it into the modern day, including a stateof-the-art Visitor Centre with a café, an Interpretation/Exhibition space, a shop for branded memorabilia and local crafts, as well as a Tourist Information point.

The cliff path walk requires a reasonable level of fitness and there is also a height restriction in place. Pre-booking of the tour is essential. Call the Visitor Centre on 028 9337 2318 to book a tour. Online booking will open later this month.

Tours take place daily and depart on the hour from 10am until 3pm is essential.

Tickets cost £8.50 per person, £23 for family tickets and are free for registered carers. www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

Excite your senses at Northern Ireland’s most spectacular coastal walk

Pre-book your tour of The Gobbins by telephone

+44 (0) 28 9337 2318 Follow us on

www.thegobbinscliffpath.com SEPTEMBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Pubs in Ulster The Crown Liquor Saloon

Located in Belfast’s Cathedral district, very unusually this pub is owned by the Belfast Unemployment Resource Centre, which was opened by local poet, socialist and Freeman of the City, John Hewitt. Hence the name. They’ve an extensive range of craft beers, both on tap and in bottles. And if that’s not enough, they even have a genuine gin palace!

Which includes locally made Shortcross Gin. 51 Donegall St., Belfast Tel: 028 9023 3768

White’s Tavern

Dating all the way back to 1630, this is the oldest tavern in Belfast, and one of the oldest anywhere on these islands. You can warm yourself by the fire downstairs where you’ll find the original pub, whilst upstairs they’ve opened a second bar where more livelier fare goes down.

2-4 Winecellar Entry, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3080

Kelly’s Cellars Now owned by the National trust, this is one of the most justly famous pubs to be found anywhere in Britain or Ireland, with its mixture of oak panelling, leather chairs and its exquisite, ornate Victorian tiling. And, just as you’d expect, they’ve a wonderful selection of real ales and home made food.

46 Great Victoria St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3187

This is the oldest pub proper in Belfast, dating back to 1720. Stone floors, white washed walls, and traditional Irish music rings through its low ceilinged rooms. It’s like finding a country pub in the middle of the city.

30-32 Bank St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 6058

The Duke Of York

The John Hewitt

One of the liveliest pubs in town, its walls are busy with paraphernalia and whatnots, and the place is hopping with (mostly) young people who fill the place up all weekend and most of the week. And if you are looking to treat yourself to a sneaky, antique whiskey, look no further.

7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 1062

Peadar O’Donnell’s

There are three bars to choose from here at this famous Derry pub, and music to suit any and all tastes. You can move from an impromptu session that might have materialised magically in the corner of the traditional bar downstairs, to a gig proper upstairs in the Gweedore.

Before coming back downstairs to what they swear is the best pint in Derry.

59-63 Waterloo St., Derry Tel: 028 7126 7295 48

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Explore Ulster

The Old Bushmills Distillery

Belleek Pottery

Titanic Belfast Since opening in March 2012 Titanic Belfast has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, with over a million visitors through its doors in its first year. Housed in an iconic, six storey building, it’s located in the heart of Belfast, right next to the site where the famous ship was built.

Once you enter the building proper, you’re introduced to the building’s giant atrium surrounded by the four “ships”, which act as the beginning of the Titanic experience.

Your journey will then take you through the building’s nine galleries, telling the story of the Titanic from its conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through its construction and launch, to its famous maiden voyage and tragic end.

Tel: 028 9076 6386

In 1608, King James I granted Sir Thomas Phillipps a license to distil whiskey, and Bushmills became the first distillery in the world to begin officially producing it.

Bushmills is the only distillery in Ireland to make triple-distilled malt whiskey. This is at the heart of all Bushmills whiskeys, whether Bushmills or Black Bush, and it is this that gives them their unique combination of smoothness and richness.

Today, over 120,00 visitors come to the Old Distillery every year to discover more about how it is all done, and to see for themselves where the magic happens.

Tel: 028 2073 3218

Ulster American Folk Park

Florence Court

Situated 5 miles outside of Omagh on the road to Strabane, the museum is your chance to mix family fun with a fascinating exploration of our shared histories.

Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish emigration at the museum that brings it to life. Follow the emigrant trail as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier. Meet an array of costumed characters on your way with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share. You can also avail of the facilities at the residential centre and museum restaurant.

Museum: +44 (0) 28 8224 3292 Residential centre: +44 (0)28 8224 0918

Florence Court is the former home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen. The three storey Georgian mansion contains fine plasterwork and 18th century Irish furniture and also offers extensive gardens, outdoor trails and a woodland children’s play area. Every aspect of life in this classical Irish House, with its fine interiors and exquisite decoration, is brought to life on guided tours. Outside, visitors can discover the working estate including a sawmill, forge and carpenters shop, ice house, the historic rose garden and the mother of all Irish Yews. The Stables tearoom and Coach House gift shop are also onsite. The forest park has 10 miles of trails to enjoy on foot, by bike or on horseback.

Tel: 028 6634 9001

The Giant’s Causeway The Giant’s Causeway stretches for around five kilometres along the Antrim coast.

Legend has it that it was built by Finn MacCool so that he could get across to Scotland to take on a giant who lived there.

Visitors flock here from all over the world to marvel at one of Europe’s most magnificent coastlines and its unique rock formations.

In 1986 the Giant’s Causeway Visitors centre opened, after the World Heritage Conventions added it to its list of sites which are of exceptional interest and universal value. The National Trust oversees the Causeway and provides the half million tourists who go there every year with all the information that they need.

When you step into the world of Belleek Pottery you enter one of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most fascinating attractions.

Visitors can take a personally guided tour of the factory and see how the techniques developed by the very first Belleek craftsmen 158 years ago are still followed today. An audio visual presentation informs visitors of the rich history of the pottery from its beginnings right the way through to present day, while the Belleek Museum offers a display of pottery through the ages.

Visitors can enjoy a little retail therapy in the Belleek Pottery showroom and no visit is complete without taking a little time out at the Belleek Pottery restaurant to enjoy some well deserved refreshments from the savoury and sweet menu served.

Tel: +44(0) 28 6865 9300 Email: visitorcentre@belleek.ie Facebook.com/belleekpottery

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Recommended Restaurants in Ulster Ox

Having won the Best Newcomer Award in 2013, Ox took Best Restaurant, Best Chef and Best Wine Experience in Antrim for 2014.

Chic, smart and very good.

The Ginger Bistro

Coco

1 Oxford St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 4121

55 Degrees North Located in Belfast’s historic Linenhall Street just behind City Hall, this is one of the best dining experiences you will find here in the city centre in Belfast. Its chic boutique surroundings make it very much the place to see and be seen.

This family run business has been open since 2005. And this stylish restaurant has been receiving plaudits ever since, both for the quality of its food, and the spectacular views of the Atlantic that it offers.

1 Causeway St, Portrush, Co Antrim Tel: 0044 28 7082 2811

The ginger in question is owner chef Simon McCance, and since relocating here closer to the centre his reputation for producing quality food at surprisingly reasonable prices has got even stronger.

7-8 Hope St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9024 4421

Deane’s Restaurant

7-11 Linenhall St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 1150

Shu

They serve deliberately simple, Frenchinfluenced food here using only the best seasonal ingredients, and all served at a reasonable price in an elegant location. And you can have a drink in the cocktail bar in the basement while you are waiting for your table.

253 Lisburn Rd, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9038 1655

Vanilla Restaurant

Local man Darren Ireland opened this smart new establishment here in 2009, and it’s one of the best quality bistros on the East coast.

Telfords Restaurant

Overlooking the river Lagan and situated in a maritime building that dates back to 1843, Telfords operates on three levels and is in walking distance from the Waterfront Hall, the Odyssey complex and the Ulster Hall.

67 Main St, Newcastle Tel: 0044 28 4372 2268

Lough Erne Resort

5 Donegall Quay, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 4000

Sun Kee Restaurant

One of the best Chinese restaurants in Belfast, the Lo family have been producing impressively adventurous and authentic Chinese cuisine here for years.

42-7 Donegall Pass, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 2016 Michael Deane trained at London’s prestigious Claridges and since returning to Belfast he has opened up a number of top quality restaurants across the city. And losing the Michelin star he had in 2011 has he says liberated him, allowing him to concentrate on the food without having to worry about critics.

36-40 Howard St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9033 1134

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Sakura

In the city’s busy Botanic Avenue, this is one of the city’s few authentic sushi bars, but they also serve a variety of fusion dishes if sushi is not your thing. A superior Japanese restaurant.

82 Botanic Av, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 9590

Speranza Restaurant

This 5 star hotel just outside the town of Enniskillen is quite simply one of the most spectacularly situated hotel resorts you will find anywhere in Europe.

Lusty Beg

This island spa is set on 75 acres in the heart of the lakes of Fermanagh, and where better to unwind than in its award winning restaurant.

Hand made oven baked pizzas are one of the specialities here, but there is a wide choice of all types of Italian food on offer here in one of Belfast’s finest Italian restaurants.

Belleek Rd, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6632 3230

Boa Island, Kesh, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6863 3300

16-9 Shaftesbury Av, Belfast Tel: 044 28 9023 0213

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Blarney Castle & Gardens Renowned for bestowing the gift of eloquence Take the time to enjoy our magical CASTLE GARDENS

Open all year round 5 miles from Cork Open Monday- Sunday 9-6 www.blarneycastle.ie info@blarneycastle.ie