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‘Monsters, Misfits and Mayhem’ will descend on Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this October Bank Holiday Weekend (October 25th-27th) as the County Clare visitor attraction is transformed into a haunted Halloween village. The traditions and superstitions of ‘Samhain’ will be on display in Bunratty with Halloween games, ghostly characters, witchcraft, a Bed of Nails, tarot reading, street entertainment, and Haunted Train rides past ghosts, grim reapers, and zombies that will appear from the shadows throughout the 26-acre folk park. New for 2025 - The Child Catcher and Maudie the Good Witch Beware… the Child Catcher is Coming to Town! Can you really trust the Child Catcher ?? Step into the courtyard and find out…. From the shadowy corners of your childhood nightmares and the cobwebbed pages of old fairy tales, creeps a figure most foul — The Child Catcher! With a nose for mischief and a knack for sniffing out fun, this sinister sweets-slinger lures little ones with promises of lollipops… and all-day play! But beware — what lurks behind his colourful façade ??!! Step into the magical world of our Grandmother Witch - What sweet-natured tricks does she have up her sleeve? Tucked away in the Loop Head Farmhouse, where the smoke smells faintly of lavender and mischief, lives Maudie — reputed to be the sister of the legendary Biddy Early, (the infamous Clare witch ) and a gentler kind of witch according to most who knew her ! With silver hair pinned under her bonnet and eyes that twinkle like starlight caught in teacups, Maudie is the village's sweet old enchantress — a healer, a storyteller, and a keeper of curious cures. With a cackle more cheerful than creepy, Maudie enchants young hearts not with spells of control, but with wonder, wisdom, and a touch of wild magic. Her cauldron bubbles, her herbs hang in fragrant bunches, and her old black cat (named Treacle, of course) watches it all with one gleaming eye from a hidden corner ….so you rarely see him!! Adult visitors will be invited to step back in time at a Victorian-era parlour séance where the secrets of the past will be unveiled as the spirits of the departed are summoned. The Wicked Wake will be hosted in The Shannon Farmhouse where the resident MacNamara family will mourn the loss of their beloved Mickey, whose ghostly presence suggests he has unfinished business in the land of the living.  Experience Spooky Séance The Red Devil Dare to Face the Inferno? Beware the Red Devil. A creature of legend, his fiery presence is a force to be reckoned with. Whether stalking the shadows, growling his defiance, or radiating an eerie glow, he leaves an indelible mark on all who cross his path. The Séance Unveil the Secrets of the Past: Step back in time to a 19th-century parlor séance in Mac’s Dining room. Summon the spirits of the departed and experience the thrill of the unknown. (For adults only) Hallow Traditions Return... The Wicked Wake Experience a chilling Irish tradition this Halloween at the Shannon Farmhouse. Join the MacNamara family as they mourn the loss of their beloved Mickey. However, this wake is far from ordinary. Rumour has it that Mickey's spirit has unfinished business, and his ghostly presence may surprise you.  The Talking Head If the wake doesn't send shivers down your spine, venture next door to the Mountain Farmhouse to encounter the Talking Head. Is it alive? Is it dead? Approach at your own peril, for the consequences may haunt you forever. Tarot Readers Prepare to look into the crystal ball and have your future told by our Bunratty Tarot Reader. Will your future look bright, or will you leave with questions. Pop into Mac's Pub's breakfast Room to unveil the mysteries that lurk in the cards - if you dare! Additional Details Monsters, Misfits and Mayhem at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will take place Saturday October 25th to Monday October 27th. There will be 2 time slots per day - 10.30am to 1.30pm and 2.00pm to 5.00pm. They recommend you arrive before your time slot to ensure enjoy you have ample time to enjoy all the delights and frights on offer. Visit  www.bunrattycastle.ie  for booking details.

Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival, returns this Bank Holiday Weekend ready to thrill Dubliners and visitors alike with four days and nights of  deadlyadventures , including a f iery spectacle, theatrical terrors, immersive art, cinematic treats and free events in the city . From Friday 31st to Monday 3rd November, the city will become a haven for the curious and the brave.  A Free Spectacle at Dublin Castle with Fiery Experiments and Monster Mayhem A fiery spectacle awaits at  Frank & McStein’s Monster Laboratory ,  where the historic Dublin Castle becomes the setting for science gone mad. Across three unforgettable nights, families are invited to witness the wild experiments of Professors Frank and McStein as they attempt to bring the most terrifying creature ever to life in their MONSTER Lab (Ministry Of Nonsensical Science and Terrifying Experimental Research).  Guided by diabolical professors Frank and McStein and their eminent colleagues and their team of Igors, kids will make their way through the fire-powered and interactive stations, earning power-up tokens to feed into the MONSTER-O-METER. From Friday 31 October to Monday 3 November , the veil lifts for four days and nights of deadly adventures in Dublin. From a spectacular Hallowe’en Weekend Macnas parade to haunted screenings to late-night cabaret to candlelit choirs, Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival 2025 promises an intoxicating mix of spectacle, sound and story in venues and public spaces all over the city.   Macnas Parade  On Sunday 2 November, world-renowned spectacle makers Macnas return to Dublin’s streets on an entirely new route ,with another magical and unforgettable parade: An Treun: The Summoning of the Lost , a brand-new procession weaving through the North East Inner City passing elegant Georgian facades as dusk descends on Hallowe’en Weekend. Inspired by Gibbet Hill , the long-lost tale by Dracula author Bram Stoker , this spellbinding new work channels Macnas’ signature blend of storytelling, live music, giant puppetry and otherworldly enchantment. Directed by Louise Lowe and designed by Owen Boss , the visionary team behind ANU Productions , this incredible brand-new spectacle explores how our culture, memory and climate intertwine and asks what it means to hold on to what we’re losing. For the first time, Macnas will, in collaboration with the NEIC (Dublin City Council’s North East Inner City Initiative), work with a group of 16 young community members from the NEIC who will be trained by Macnas to perform at their parades in Galway and Dublin.   Speaking on the launch of the festival, Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam said:   “At Halloween, a spell is cast over Dublin. Shadows stretch, stories awaken, and the city itself becomes a theatre of the gothic. The Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival is where Dublin honours its most famous son by unleashing a carnival of imagination: parades that stir the soul, music that haunts the night, and performances that set hearts racing. No city embraces the dark quite like Dublin, and no festival brings it to life quite like this one.”   Highlights    A major highlight of the programme is the screening of Kwaidan , Lafcadio Hearn’s iconic collection of ghost stories adapted for the screen by director Masaki Kobayashi , accompanied by a newly-commissioned live musical score composed and performed by Matthew Nolan and Seán Mac Erlaine, with Japanese artist and musician Tomoko Sauvage . Irish actor Conor Lovett (Gare St. Lazare, Ireland) will blend Irish and Japanese traditions in performing a live, English-language Benshi narration (an integral part of early Japanese silent cinema), directed by Irish Times Irish Theatre Award Winning Director Judy Hegarty Lovett (Gare St. Lazare, Ireland). A household name in Japan, Lafcadio Hearn, also known as Koizumi Yakumo , was an Irish-Greek writer, translator and teacher who introduced the culture and literature of Japan to the Western world. This event is part funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and will premiere in Osaka, Japan in early October as part of the Irish programme at World Expo 2025.    Following the sold-out successes of Dracula: A Journey into Darkness and Dracula: Lucy’s Passion , director Joan Sheehy’s Dracula: The Hunt brings to life the novel’s climactic final ten chapters in a rehearsed staged reading at the Abbey Theatre. This tale of horror, revenge, passion and pursuit will be vividly performed by Barry McGovern, Killian Coyle, Aidan Crowe, Clare Monnelly, Seamus Moran and Ben Waddell , accompanied by Tom Lane’s haunting soundscape and Suzie Cummins’s dramatic lighting design.   In Songs of the Spirits: East Meets West , sacred choral traditions intertwine as Schola Hyberniae , Ireland’s acclaimed early music ensemble, explores ancient music honouring the dead from both Ireland and Japan. Gregorian chant, rare Irish manuscript music and Japanese ritual melodies blend in a transcendent concert at St Ann’s Church.   Speaking about this year’s festivals, Co-Directors Maria Schweppe and Tom Lawlor said:   “This year’s festival conjures up an immersive world of gothic imagination across Dublin, from world-class parades to once-off performances, intimate storytelling salons to fiendishly-fun comedy, with plenty of free family fun. We invite everyone to step into the shadows and experience the city as Bram Stoker might have imagined it: thrilling, mysterious and alive with intrigue.”     Theatre & Comedy    For the brave and the bold, an evening of grisly storytelling awaits at Blind Fear , devised and performed by artists with sight loss. From a cursed rural village willing to do anything to win the county hurling final, to a mysterious antique shop where a weary health worker’s retail therapy becomes a nightmare; these chilling tales are not for the faint of heart. Descend into darkness for this blood-curdling new show from Sightless Cinema and writer/director Hugh Hick, blending immersive audio and live performance in a richly-layered audio world. Blindfolds will be provided to heighten your audio senses.   Comedy horror takes centre stage with Will Seaward’s Pointy Tales of Fangs and Blood , a fiendishly silly gothic horror storytelling show, rising from the grave each night of the festival. Expect coffins, cloaks, hypnotic glares, serrated teeth and scary wooden stakes. A cross between Brian Blessed, Oscar Wilde and a crazed Victorian music hall MC, Will has appeared on BBC 2, Radio 4 and many others. He has also appeared in ‘Best Show’ lists in the Guardian, The Times, The Sunday Times and The Independent on Sunday.   Music    This year’s night-time strand, Night Bites , includes a feast of after dark experiences blending music, performance, film, poetry and cabaret, in association with the Night-Time Economy Advisor. SCANRA: Samhain at The Cellar returns with an evening of myth, music and mayhem led by a powerhouse line-up of female and non-binary artists. Poetry Brothel: Monto by Lamplight presents an immersive cabaret of poetry, burlesque and seduction inspired by the shadowy backstreets of old Monto; Seo Linn: Cultural Revolution in Victorian Ireland brings Seo Linn’s bold, modern take on traditional Irish music to a powerful, all-Irish language event that also explores the cultural resurgence of language, identity and music among a new generation   Succumb to the shadowy world of Vampyr With Reimagined Live Score at Light House Cinema. Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1932 gothic masterpiece is brought to life with a new live score by Juno Cheetal and Eimear Reidy, fusing cello, electronics and choir to heighten the surreal horror of this silent classic.     Free Family Fun   The city’s gothic fun park, Stokerland , returns to St. Patrick’s Park with two full days of free family entertainment beneath the shadow of the cathedral. Expect a monstrous mix of circus, street theatre, music and mayhem with walkabout acts, magic shows, fortune tellers, storytelling, art workshops and curious characters at every turn. A Relaxed Session will take place on Sunday 2 November for those who benefit from a gentler festival environment.   Families can also enjoy Making Faces: Mask Making at the Museum , a drop-in mask-making workshop at the National Museum of Ireland, inspired by the museum’s spooky Halloween trail.   A firm family favourite returns as Dracula’s Disco once again transforms The Round Room at the Mansion House into a monster mash of music and movement. With spooky tunes, eerie lighting and Dracula’s favourite DJ Donal Dineen on the decks, young ghouls can boogie the day away.    An annual favourite, Spooky Stories at Marsh’s Library invites guests to wander the darkened galleries where books of witchcraft and heresy are to be found. This free, eerie experience is sure to send shivers down your spine, just as it did for a young Bram Stoker who visited the library many times.   Spoken Word and Stoker In-Depth   Seanchoíche returns to the festival with a specially-curated night of live storytelling on the theme of fear at Seanchoíche: Stories From The Shadows At Bolands Mills. Known for its intimate and authentic atmosphere, Seanchoíche gathers strangers to share true stories without notes, with humour, vulnerability and heart.   An Evening of Ancient Legends, Mystic Charms and Superstitions of Ireland invites audiences into the Merrion Square home of Lady Jane Wilde for a night of folklore, charm and haunting superstition, as storyteller Emily Collins revives tales from Wilde’s seminal 1888 collection.   Step inside Dublin’s weirdest new attraction for an evening of unhinged storytelling, surreal performance and unsettling encounters in the dark corners of the Museum of Curiosities at Wunderkammer . Wander freely through its cramped, winding rooms, where every creaking floorboard echoes a Victorian sideshow. Downstairs, try your luck at oddball games, decipher devilish mysteries, or sit for a tarot reading if you’re brave enough. Upstairs, local storytellers, musicians and raucous mischief-makers conjure gothic tales and murky scenes of bizarre horror.   Finding Gibbet Hill: A Remarkable Discovery, One Year On recounts the discovery of a lost Stoker short story and the subsequent creation of the Charlotte Stoker Fund. This discussion by Brian Cleary, who discovered the long lost story at the National Library of Ireland, marks the first anniversary of its publication, with special guests Paul Murray and Paul McKinley .   In Stoker’s Shadow: The Bram Stoker Paper Competition Final sees new writing inspired by Bram Stoker brought to life in a public reading at Trinity College, where Stoker himself once studied. The event features shortlisted writers from a new literary competition by the university’s Bram Stoker Club.    Ghosts of the Revolution at the GPO Museum delves into the spectral side of Irish political history, featuring talks on haunted independence fighters, Republican mystics and supernatural folklore, with harpist Rachel Duffy summoning the spirits in between talks.   Walking Tours    Those who prefer their thrills on foot can join one of four specially curated walking tours taking place across the city. In Stoker’s Footsteps: A National Library Walking Tour invites audiences to explore the gothic past of Bram Stoker’s Dublin and the hidden histories surrounding the National Library, guided by NLI experts.    Historian, author and host of the ever-popular Three Castles Burning podcast, Donal Fallon leads a specially-commissioned walking tour of one of Dublin’s most fascinating square miles: Mount Jerome Cemetery , eternal home to dearly departed souls, memorialised by one of the finest collections of Victorian tombs, vaults and crypts in Ireland.   Original Dublin Walking Tours will also lead people on four specially-devised tours of Dublin relating to Stoker and Dublin’s darker past. Dark Musical Dublin explores the gruesome side of Irish balladry. The Dark Side of Irish Mythology and Folklore reveals the country’s more sinister stories. The Haunted Dublin Walking Tour lifts the veil on grave robbers, satanic rituals and ghostly alleyways. Bram Stoker’s Dublin Walking Tour follows in the author’s footsteps, revealing the sites that shaped his legendary imagination.   At the National Museum of Ireland, ‘A world full of miseries, and woes, and troubles’: Life, Disease and Death in Collins Barracks returns to explore the 300-year history of Collins Barracks through the lens of death, disease and daily life in one of Europe’s oldest military barracks.    Dublin City Council Bram Stoker Festival is produced and presented by Schweppe Curtis Nunn Ltd.  For more information, visit  www.bramstokerfestival.com  and follow the festival on social media using #BramStokerFestival.

Looking to enjoy an Aperol on a sunny patio? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the best Italian dining spots in Dublin, perfect for lazy summer days and balmy nights! 1. Aperitivo Location: Nassau Street, Dublin 2 Located in the heart of Dublin city centre right off the corner of Grafton Street, Aperitivo  brings a modern twist to classic Italian dining. This chic spot is all about the aperitivo  experience with elegant cocktails, delicious small plates, and a buzz similar to the likes of an Italian piazza. Their Aperol Spritz is a fan favourite, and the Arancini Bolognese? Incredible. The restaurant has a cosy interior and comfortable terrace, making it the perfect destination for an autumn evening catch-up or a stylish date night. 2. Manifesto Location: 208 Rathmines Rd Lower, Dublin 6 Manifesto is a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast. Known for their award-winning pizzas and a wine list that could make any sommelier swoon, Manifesto is the ideal spot! Their heated outdoor seating area is perfect for sipping on a cocktail! 2. Pinocchio Location: Pudding Row, 1, Essex St W, Dublin1 Pinocchio is the perfect blend of authentic Italian flavours and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their pasta dishes are crafted to perfection, and their tiramisu is the stuff of legends. The interior is spacious, and they also have a heated terrace outside, so you can squeeze the most out of those late autumn evenings. 3. Mamma Mia Deli Café Bar Location: 2 Grattan St, Dublin 2 If you find yourself strolling around the streets of Ballsbridge, make sure to drop by Mamma Mia Deli Café Bar. This charming spot offers a delightful range of Italian delicacies, from freshly made paninis to pastries. Their Aperol Spritz is the perfect companion to a lazy afternoon spent people-watching. 4. Terra Madre Location: 13A Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin 1 Terra Madre is a hidden gem tucked away on Bachelor’s Walk, that promises an authentic Italian dining experience. Their menu is small but mighty, with each dish showcasing the best of Italian food traditions. The intimate setting and riverside location make it a perfect spot for a romantic evening! 5. I Monelli Location: 1 Portobello Rd, Portobello, Dublin 8 I Monelli offers a true taste of Italy in the heart of Dublin. Renowned for their exquisite seafood dishes and house-made pastas, I Monelli is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a true Italian feast. Once again an Aperol Spritz here is the perfect way to start your meal on a high note. 6. Osteria Lucio Location: The Malting Tower, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2 Osteria Lucio is where Italian tradition meets contemporary flair. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Ross Lewis, this restaurant promises a dining experience that is both innovative and rooted in classic Italian flavours. The stylish outdoor seating area is an ideal spot to unwind with a glass of Prosecco and some antipasti. Bonus – Paolo Tullio’s Pick : Rosa Madre Location: 7 Crow St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 For those who cherish the late, great Paolo Tullio’s recommendations, we can’t overlook Rosa Madre in Temple Bar. This seafood-centric Italian spot is beloved by many and continues to uphold the high standards set by Tullio himself. Their seafood linguine and terrace are simply irresistible.

Boo! Halloween is just around the corner, and if you like to leave things a little late – don’t worry! We’ve got a list of the top spots you can visit to get your costume in Galway, Dublin, and Cork! Galway 2. The Joke Shop One of Galway’s most iconic spots for costumes and accessories, The Joke Shop on William Street is a Halloween favorite for locals. This store has been in business for years, and has a fantastic range of costumes, wigs, masks, and hilarious accessories. Whether you want to go full-on spooky or add a touch of humour to your Halloween look, The Joke Shop has you covered. What’s on offer: A variety of Halloween costumes for adults and children, from the spooky to the funny Masks, wigs, and other accessories to complete your outfit Prank items and novelty props to make your Halloween extra fun Location : 40 William Street, Galway Pricing : Costumes range from €20-€60, with accessories and masks starting from €5. Dublin 1. Fun Place If you’re in Dublin and you’re looking for the best place to get your Halloween costume, look no further than Fun Place. This iconic store in Blanchardstown has been a go-to for costumes and accessories for years. It has a huge variety of options and a quirky atmosphere, so you’re sure to find something that suits your Halloween style. What’s on offer: Classic horror costumes: think witches, vampires, and ghosts Movie-inspired outfits (hello, Barbie and Ken costumes!) Themed accessories and prosthetics Location : Unit 126, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, Dublin 15 Pricing : Costumes range from €30-€90 depending on the complexity. 2. Fancy Dress Warehouse (The Party Shop) Located in Tallaght, Fancy Dress Warehouse (The Party Shop) is another fantastic option for anyone in search of a top-notch Halloween costume. This store is packed with costumes for every age group, style, and budget. What’s on offer: A wide variety of costumes, including witches, zombies, superheroes, and more Plenty of accessories like wigs, masks, and face paints Halloween decorations and party supplies to complete your event Location : The Square Industrial Complex, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Pricing : Adult costumes range from €20-€80, while kids’ costumes start at around €15. Cork 4. The Party Company If you’re in search of something unique or need party supplies in addition to costumes, The Party Company in Kinsale Commercial Centre is your one-stop-shop. They offer a great selection of Halloween costumes along with themed decorations and accessories. What’s on offer: Costumes for kids, adults, and groups with themes ranging from horror to superheroes Accessories like wigs, masks, and Halloween-themed props Party supplies, including balloons and decorations to complete your event Location : Unit 14A, Kinsale Commercial Centre, Kinsale Road, Cork Pricing : Costumes range from €20-€70, with accessories starting from €5. What are you waiting for? Grab your broomstick and get shopping!

Introduction: Why Explore Ireland by Train? Ireland’s charm lies not just in its lush, rolling landscapes and vibrant towns—but also in how easily you can explore them by train. Managed primarily by Iarnród Éireann / Irish Rail , the Irish rail network connects the country’s most iconic cities and regions in comfort and style. Whether you’re a digital nomad craving productivity with a view, a backpacker seeking simplicity, or a family eager to avoid rental car hassles, Irish train travel  offers: Scenic journeys  through green countryside, coasts, and rural villages Relaxing travel  with spacious seating and onboard Wi-Fi Eco-friendly mobility  with excellent regional coverage No car required  — ideal for international visitors and stress-free travel In this guide, we explore Ireland’s three main railway hubs: Dublin, Cork , and Galway —each offering its own gateway to unforgettable adventures. Dublin: The Beating Heart of Ireland’s Rail Network Main Stations Dublin Heuston Station  The main departure point for trains heading west and south . It’s a bustling, modern station with regular intercity services. Dublin Connolly Station Serving the north and east , including the DART commuter line and the international route to Belfast. Key Train Routes from Dublin Dublin → Cork  High-speed InterCity trains run frequently (up to every hour), making it one of the busiest and fastest routes. Dublin → Galway  A favorite among tourists. The route is particularly breathtaking at sunrise , as it crosses the heart of Ireland. Dublin → Belfast  A cross-border link into Northern Ireland , operated in partnership with Translink . Passport-free and seamless. Dublin → Limerick, Waterford, Sligo, and more Numerous regional trains connect Dublin with Ireland’s other scenic towns and cultural hubs. Travel Tip Staying in Dublin but want to see Ireland? Use the capital as your central base  for scenic day trips without the need to rent a car. Cork: Gateway to the Southwest Main Route Cork → Dublin  Trains depart at least once an hour . The journey takes around 2.5 hours , and Cork's trains are known for being reliable and punctual. Secondary Lines Cork → Cobh  A stunning coastal line  that glides along Cork Harbour. Perfect for photography lovers. Cork → Mallow / Tralee  Ideal for those heading into West Cork  or exploring inland heritage towns. Station Highlight: Kent Station Cork’s Kent Station  is not only functional but beautiful, with its historic glass roof  and central location. It’s well-connected to the local bus system and serves as the ideal rail entry point to the south. Tourist Value Cork is a springboard to Kinsale , Clonakilty , and the Wild Atlantic Way . Trains + short bus transfers make this route effortless and car-free. Galway: The Vibrant Capital of the West Main Route Galway → Dublin Modern trains depart multiple times daily, with a journey time of roughly 2 hours 30 minutes . Ideal for weekend trips. Tourism Tip From Galway, you can easily connect to: Connemara National Park Cliffs of Moher  (via coach) Aran Islands  (via ferry from Rossaveal, reachable by shuttle bus) Unique Atmosphere Galway is known for its bohemian vibe , buzzing street performers, and youthful energy. The city’s central station, Ceannt Station , is just a short walk from the Latin Quarter and the River Corrib. Comparison & Practical Travel Tips Train Comparison Table Route Duration Frequency Scenic Value Wi-Fi Reservation Dublin → Cork ~2h30 High Medium Yes Recommended Dublin → Galway ~2h30 Medium High Yes Recommended Cork → Cobh ~25 min Frequent Very High No Not needed Tickets and Budget Tips Book early online  via Irish Rail’s website or app to get the lowest fares Use Tourist Rail Passes  like: Interrail Ireland Pass Irish Explorer Pass  (available for non-EU visitors) Off-peak travel  is cheaper and less crowded Accessibility and Comfort Free Wi-Fi  on all intercity routes Bike spaces  (reserve in advance) Family-friendly carriages Accessibility for PRM passengers : Elevators, wide platforms, priority seating Conclusion: The Joy of Rail Travel in Ireland Train travel in Ireland is more than a means of transport—it’s a window into the soul of the island. From Galway Bay’s soft light  to Cork Harbour’s glimmering tides , each journey offers a relaxed, scenic, and authentic experience . For visitors eager to explore without the stress of driving, Ireland’s railways are a smart, sustainable, and memorable  alternative. Hop aboard — and let the Irish rails carry you to stories worth telling.

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 10th and Sunday the 12th of September across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from the Dublin Theatre Festival to Oktoberfest Belfast and much, much more. Dublin Theatre Festival, Dublin - 25.09-12.10 Lights, camera… curtain! The Dublin Theatre Festival is back from September 25th to October 12th for another season of gripping performances and unforgettable stage moments. Read more here. Dublin Festival of History, Dublin - 26.09-12.10 The Dublin Festival of History will run from 26 September to 12 October 2025, with our Big Weekend at the Round Room at the Mansion House, from Saturday 27 September to Sunday 28 September. Read more here. Baboró International Arts Festival for Children, Galway - 10.10-19.10 Get ready to take centre stage at the Baboró International Arts Festival for Children in Galway, on from October 10th-19th! Families, children, and art lovers of all ages are invited to dive into an exciting world of theater, music, dance, and visual arts designed especially for young audiences. If your little ones are budding artists or simply eager to experience the joy of live performances, Baboró promises an unforgettable programme for everyone! Read more here. Oktoberfest Belfast, Belfast - 25.09-25.10 Belfast is set to raise its steins high this autumn as Oktoberfest makes its long-awaited return to Custom House Square on 25th September 2025. Promising to be “back and bigger than ever,” the festival will transform the heart of the city into a lively Bavarian beer hall every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until 25th October. Read more here.

Have you ever dreamt of spending a night or two in an enchanting Hobbit house? Well, now you can. These are some of Ireland’s quirkiest Hobbit-inspired stays, where you can escape reality for a while. Glamping Under the Stars, Portlaoise, County Laois Glamping Under the Stars in Portlaoise, County Laois offers a huge range of glamping options for a family getaway. The Hobbit Houses are just one of the many kinds of accommodation, and they’re just as magical as they sound. The houses are in the ‘Mountain Under the Stars’ site, resting at the foot of Cullenagh Mountain. Each house sleeps a family of up to six and has all the necessities to make your stay memorable. With a private bathroom, garden, picnic bench and chimney stove, you can really live like a Hobbit in this lovely self-catering spot. Wildflower Glamping, County Cavan The Hobbit Hut at Wildflower Glamping in County Cavan offer the most marvellous break away from reality. Sleeping up to five people, the hut is perfect for a group trip. The charming little home is kitted out with all you need for your glamping experience. With an electric stove, an outdoor picnic table and a private cooking and storage shed, you’ll have all the essentials for a home-cooked meal away from home. Cosy up and enjoy this unique experience as you live out your storybook fantasy. Mayo Glamping, Castlebar, County Mayo Visit the enchanting earth covered houses at the Mayo Glamping site. There are a number of options; so you can select the Hobbit House that best suits you. These deceptively spacious little huts offer the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. You’ll be treated to a comfortable and unique glamping experience, complete with a communal kitchen, toilets and showers. This site also has its own hot tub which is available on request, so you can really relax while you take some time away. The Hobbit House, Drumkeeran, County Leitrim This is another magical escape also available to book on Airbnb. The Hobbit House is built into the land in Drumkeeran, County Leitrim. It is surrounded by the beautiful Pink Apple Orchard with views of Lough Allen and sleeps up to five people. It is ideal for a unique group getaway. You’ll have your own private eco toilet and hot shower. As well as access to communal facilities that include, kitchen, outdoor seating area, fire pit and barbecue. If you’re bringing the little ones, they’ll love the play area, outdoor blackboards and live willow teepee. It really is the ultimate fairytale getaway. What are you waiting for? Ireland’s most enchanting Hobbit Houses are ready for you to enjoy!

This mid-term break, why not swap pumpkin patches and cinema trips for a stay in a 400-year-old real-life haunted castle? Ballygally Castle, perched dramatically on the Antrim Coast and long-regarded as one of Ireland’s most haunted buildings, is offering a Halloween experience with a difference. Step inside its historic walls on Sunday 26th October for the Trick-or-Treat Castle Retreat, an overnight package designed for couples, and thrill-seekers alike. On arrival, guests will enjoy the Castle’s famous Halloween themed buffet, brimming with devilish delights (served between 12.30pm and 2.30pm). After feasting, check in for a night within the Castle’s storied walls, where centuries-old tales of spirits and hauntings linger in the corridors. The next morning, a hearty full Irish breakfast will ensure you’re fortified before heading back to the land of the living. Or for families, avail of some excellent rates during the October mid-term break. A family room from October 24th starts from €242 for 2 Adults and 2 children, including breakfast. Ballygally Castle’s ghostly reputation is legendary. Guests can explore the Castle’s turret room, said to be haunted by resident ghost Lady Isabella Shaw, whose tragic story dates back to the 17th century. With its mix of haunted history, coastal beauty, and festive fun, Ballygally Castle is the ultimate destination for a Halloween break with atmosphere. The Trick-or-Treat Castle Retreat package from €213 for one guest / €287 for two guests sharing. This includes: Entry to the Halloween themed Buffet, Sunday 26th October (12.30pm – 2.30pm) Luxurious overnight accommodation in Ballygally Castle Full Irish breakfast Complimentary car parking

From luxury barges and canal-side cottages to heritage university quarters and countryside retreats, Kildare is offering a fresh take on the staycation. The county’s alternative accommodation options provide visitors with more than just a bed — they offer experiences rich in character, history, and local charm. Stay Barrow Blueway – Monasterevin Set in lovingly restored 150-year-old stables, Stay Barrow Blueway provides self-contained luxury apartments nestled along the tranquil Barrow Blueway. Guests can walk, cycle, or kayak in the “Venice of Ireland,” with nearby attractions including Moore Abbey Woods and the Irish National Stud & Gardens. More info: https://staybarrowblueway.ie/ Roisin Dubh Barge – Sallins For a stay that gently rocks you to sleep, the Roisin Dubh houseboat offers 5-star self-catering accommodation moored on the Grand Canal. Ideal for couples or families, it’s within walking distance of Lock13 Brewery, canal barge cruises, and the Greenway walking route. Booking: https://www.booking.com/hotel/ie/roisin-dubh-houseboat.html Castlestone Holiday Homes – Naas Set on a working family farm, these stylish homes combine heritage charm with modern comforts. Just minutes from Naas town, visitors can enjoy local markets, hiking trails, horse racing, and scenic drives through the Blessington Lakes area. Details: https://www.castlestoneholiday.com/ Robertstown Holiday Village Overlooking the peaceful Grand Canal, these self-catering cottages are perfect for families or friends seeking a rural escape. Guests can fish, walk or cycle the towpaths, and explore nearby nature centres and bogland heritage trails. See more: https://www.robertstownholidayvillage.com/ Maynooth Campus Accommodation Available in summer months, Maynooth University’s historic campus offers guests the chance to stay in academic quarters surrounded by history. Just steps from Maynooth Castle and Carton House, and with easy access to Dublin by train, it’s ideal for a short break or city-fringe retreat. Info: https://maynoothcampus.com/bedrooms Accommodation & Camping – Athy From family-run guesthouses to camping and caravanning sites, Athy is a welcoming base for exploring south Kildare. Visitors can enjoy river cruises, heritage trails, local festivals, and trips to the Shackleton Museum (opening Autumn 2025) or Castlecomer Discovery Park. Find options: https://www.accommodationathy.com/

Why not try a sustainable, cheaper travel choice this year with a glamorous, wholesome trip to the Northern Ireland countryside?  You don’t need to take a flight to escape your everyday routine. Take the stress out of travelling and book an experience in a woodland, lakeside or countryside glamping location.  Going camping does not mean you have to forfeit your comforts, such as WIFI, network connection and a comfortable bed. Today’s campsites are more equipped than ever. Many offer electric hook–ups, showers and some even come with a private hot tub. Here are a few to consider for a holiday this summer: Carrickreagh Bay, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh  Overlooking the renowned Lough Erne, simply walk down to Carrickreagh Jetty to enjoy the serene beauty of the water. Just a short walk away is direct access to the Ely Lodge Forest, which is a 250-hectare forest. These unique pods cater for up to four people with prices starting at €188 approx.. This includes a comfy double bed and hotel-quality bed linen included, plus integrated bunkbeds tucked away, ideal for tweens or teens, see here. Castle Ward, Strangford, County Down  Try a spot of glamping at one of the award-winning camping pods in Strangford. Located in a quiet corner of the Castle Ward estate, you can pitch a tent, hire a caravan or enjoy a tranquil night under the stars in the family or premier glamping pods. From the park, enjoy spectacular views over Strangford Lough and stroll along the many walking trials that surrounded the area. You are sure to experience a wholesome stay as some of the most ancient woodlands hug your surroundings. You can pitch a tent at Castle Word for as little as €30 approx., see here . Benone Getaways – Glamping Village, Limavady, County Derry   The site is six glamping pods, five luxury and one exclusive pod with its own private area and hot tub. All pods have access to a unique firepit and BBQ cabin that can be used by guests to cook a meal or enjoy a glass of wine around the fire. Set in a stunning location only a couple of minutes’ walk away from a seven- mile blue flagged beach. The location has scenic views of Binevenagh Mountain and the Hills of Donegal with prices starting at €230, see here .  For more information, and to help you build your perfect glamping inspired itinerary, visit here .

oTreehouse stays were once the preserve of childhood imagination; now they’re among Ireland’s most coveted staycation boltholes. Below are five of the best that are open and taking bookings in 2025 ! 1. The Hideaway, Dromquinna Manor — Kenmare, Co. Kerry From its private, gated board-walk you step into a canvas pavilion on a wooded cliff above Kenmare Bay. Inside, antiques and a wilderness kingsize bed; outside, the tide! Think of it less as glamping and more as a romantic retreat that simply happens to have canvas walls. The Hideaway has a two-night minimum stay -the first night is priced at €350, additional nights €250  and include a hamper breakfast and complimentary Prosecco. Book: dromquinnamanor.com/the-hideaway 2. Treehouse Dome, Fernwood — Clifden, Co. Galway Five metres up in native woodland, Fernwood’s geodesic dome pairs Connemara wildness with boutique comforts, including a super-king bed, wood-burning stove, rain shower and a private lakeside sauna for post-hike perfection. By day you’re on the Sky Road, by night the Milky Way crawls across the domed ceiling! The Airbnb listing shows from €355 per night  in summer 2025; direct bookings often run 20% cheaper. Book: fernwood.eco 3. Couples’ Treehouse, Teapot Lane Glamping — Tawley, Co. Leitrim Cross a timber bridge into lantern-lit branches where a pot-belly stove keeps the king-bed cabin toasty year-round. A compost loo hides off the balcony, with a hot outdoor shower just under. The Atlantic is ten minutes away, but most guests never leave the hammock. Starts from €390 for a two-night stay  (€195 per night) with 5% off if you linger longer. Adults only, pets welcome by prior arrangement. Book: glampingireland.ie/accommodation/the-treehouse 4. Grove House Treehouses — Skibbereen, West Cork Three cedar-clad pods sit in the treetops of a Victorian estate, each with outdoor hot-tub, spiral stairs and a porthole window that frames the stars. By day you’re minutes from Atlantic coves and by night it’s you, the owls and a glass of something cold in the tub. Prices start at €199 mid-week and €239 at weekends ; weekly lets from €1,350 in high season. Book: cottagesforcouples.ie 5. Bubble Domes, Finn Lough Forest Hideaway — Co. Fermanagh Strictly speaking these are clear-skinned domes rather than tree-houses, but you float in the canopy all the same, and if your travel partner or kids have a fear of heights this is the perfect compromise. Transparent walls give 180-degree views of oak branches by day and stars by night. Morning begins with a breakfast hamper and ends, perhaps, in the lakeside spa’s sauna barrels. Rates range from €345 to €740 per night  depending on dome category, breakfast and kayaks included. Book : finnlough.com . At Travel2Ireland we work hard to find the best deals for things to do around the country -   use this   Booking.com  affiliate link to secure your dream adventure, at no extra cost to you!

This Halloween, dive into a world of spooky fun with the Waterford Suir Valley Railway’s Spooky Express, then get cosy in a cabin at Mount Congreve Gardens! Mount Congreve Gardens and Waterford Suir Valley Railway are joining forces to offer a great-value stay that promises adventure, exploration, and memories that will last long after autumn ends. Here’s what awaits you: All Aboard the Spooky Express: Your Halloween adventure begins at Kilmeadan Station, where you’ll buy your tickets in the charming converted Irish Rail carriage. Get ready to meet some kooky, creepy characters who are eager to welcome you to the spooky festivities on the platform. A Journey Through the Unknown: Once the whistle blows, set off on an unforgettable trip through the enchanting countryside and along the picturesque River Suir, reaching as far as Carriganore. Keep your eyes peeled for spine-tingling scenes and surprises along the way! Spooky Scenes and Family Fun: As you travel at a leisurely 17 km/h, enjoy the spooky scenery that bring Halloween magic to life. Our partially open carriages add an extra layer of excitement, but remember to dress warmly—it can get chilly! Comfort and Refreshments: For those who prefer indoor comfort, we have two fully enclosed carriages. And when you return to Kilmeadan Station, you can warm up and enjoy some tasty treats and hot beverages at our Whistlestop Café. There’s ALSO plenty for kids to discover at Mount Congreve. Let them roam the woodlands, explore winding paths, and play freely at Monty’s Lawn in the impressive Woodland Playground. From climbing towers and adventure tunnels to swings and hammocks tucked among the trees, it’s a natural playground that brings imaginations to life. Staycation For those who don’t want the day to end, Mount Congreve now offers eco-family cabins set in the heart of the gardens. With a double bed, a children’s bunk room, a private hot tub, and complimentary adult bikes for exploring the Waterford Greenway, a two-night stay from €435 is a great way to turn a fun day trip into a full-on family escape. Plus, the gardens are just 10 minutes from Waterford City, and are open all year, offering not only expansive gardens and play areas but also The Stables Café and Foxford Shop, ideal for a staycation during which you can mix relaxing, browsign and good food together. Railway & Ticket Information The Waterford Suir Valley Railway operates hourly departures from 11 am to 4 pm Monday to Saturday, and from 12 noon to 5 pm on Sundays. Tickets start from €12.50 for adults, €6 for children, and family passes begin at €28 for two adults and one child. So if you’re looking for a day out with a difference, packed with value, fresh air, and fun for all ages, this is your ticket to an autumn well spent. Visit www.mountcongreve.com and www.wsvrailway.ie for more information and booking.