This coming weekend, all Oyster and Guinness enthusiasts  are in for an absolute treat! From this Friday 28th at 7pm, to Sunday 2nd of March , The Howth Guinness Oyster and Music Festival  is taking place in over 7 locations over the picturesque town of Howth. This festival truly is a celebration of everything that makes Howth special . Nestled in the heart of the fishing village, it's a perfect blend of culinary indulgence and world-class music, all to be enjoyed among Howth's warm community. Visitors can enjoy the freshest local oysters paired with a pint of Guinness, while live music  creates a lively backdrop. It's a feast for the senses! What's on? Key events Dublin Oyster Championship : 12 contestants will compete for a chance to go to the National Championships in Galway. Oyster Shucking Master Class : Limited places are available for this great master class with Oyster expert and chef Sarah Browne of Oysome. Roaming Shuckers : Roaming Oyster Shuckers will be popping up all around the festival selling Oysters. Where to Attend? Key Venues The Abbey Tavern (Festival Headliner Venue):  The Abbey Tavern is a world famous 16th century tavern , built to host all of the headline ticketed shows for 2025. The Harbour Bar: The Harbour Bar is the oldest pub in the village . It's run by friendly local businessman Daragh Heagney and well-known for its excellent pints and a cozy beer garden with a stage. O’Connells:  O'Connells is widely known as having the best chicken wings in Dublin  so settle down with a pint of beer and some wings at their outdoor seating area facing The East Pier Stage which is right outside the door... McNeills: McNeills of Howth is run by the Olin family who have a great tradition of running music pubs . Hidden down the back is a great little venue with a big stage where some great nights have been had down the years. Summit Inn:  Serving delicious food all day with spectacular views , The Summit Inn is worth a visit. It has ample parking or you can get the bus to the front door. The Bloody Stream: A great place for food, drink and parties but it also boasts a very cool purpose built outdoor stage named after local legend Phil Lynott. You can step off the DART straight into the venue. Findlaters : Last but not least, Wrights Findlaters. Overlooking the harbour, this is the Festival's more refined venue . Serving delicious food all day, it will be followed by live bands on Friday and Saturday night. The crowd that go there are always up for a party so expect dancing and singing . Whether you’re there for the seafood , the music, or just the experience, the Howth Guinness Oyster and Music Festival offers something for everyone.

The Guinness Storehouse,  the World’s Leading Beer Tour Visitor Experience, is introducing a new tour, the ‘Home of Guinness Experience’, which brings longtime enthusiasts and those new to the world of Guinness even closer to the brand! The new; ‘Home of Guinness Experience’ offers visitors the opportunity to book a fully guided tour where they will be accompanied by a dedicated member of the Guinness Storehouse visitor experience team as they discover and delve deeper into the origins, history and innovation of Guinness throughout seven floors. The guided tour is paired with a lesson at the Guinness Academy where visitors can learn the legendary six-step ritual by pouring their own pint, earning their very own certificate before finishing up with a creamy pint overlooking the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Having welcomed 25 million visitors through its doors since 2000, the Guinness Storehouse continues to bring new immersive experiences, engaging storytelling and rich history to domestic and international guests. This year, the Guinness Storehouse is set to write a bold new chapter in its extraordinary journey, through Alive in 25, an exciting year-long campaign that sets to celebrate even more cultural events and community initiatives. Additional Information The ‘Home of Guinness Experience’ runs Monday – Thursday inclusive until Wednesday the 30th of April, with time slots available at 11am or 1pm with a maximum of 12 people per tour. Tickets are priced at €48 per person are now live on the   Guinness Storehouse website . Strictly over 18’s only.

Global pop sensation Natasha Bedingfield is set to bring her electrifying live show to The Iveagh Gardens, Dublin on July 18th, with tickets on sale from Friday the 21st of February at 10am through   Ticketmaster. Natasha Bedingfield With a career spanning over two decades, Bedingfield has firmly established herself as one of the most iconic voices in pop music. Her debut album Unwritten  (2004) catapulted her to international stardom, earning Grammy nominations and producing timeless hits like These Words , Soulmate , and the now-generation-defining Unwritten . Most recently, Unwritten  has seen a massive resurgence, becoming a viral sensation following its prominent feature in the hit rom-com Anyone But You . The song’s uplifting message and infectious melody have sparked a new wave of love from fans worldwide, proving that some songs never fade—they just find new life with each generation. Fresh off a show-stopping performance at All Together Now , where she delivered an electrifying set that had festival-goers singing every word, Bedingfield continues to prove why she’s one of pop’s most enduring and dynamic performers. With her powerhouse vocals, undeniable stage presence, and a catalog of anthems that have soundtracked countless moments, her Iveagh Gardens  show is set to be a summer highlight. Get ready to dance, sing, and relive the magic of Natasha Bedingfield—this is one you won’t want to miss! Tickets Tickets are €44.20 on sale from 10am Friday Feb 21st through Ticketmaster.ie

With its stunning coastline, charming towns and picturesque countryside, this hidden gem, only two hours from Dublin, and all within an hour of Belfast, offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Located just minutes from Belfast city, you’ll discover a world apart! Slow down the pace and relaaaaaax. Explore the outdoors Take advantage of the great outdoors by venturing from the water's edge to the rolling hills, where every turn reveals breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems. From the seaside village of   Groomsport , home to   Cockle Row Cottages , built in circa 1600, to the unique coffee shops and independent shops of Bangor, Northern Ireland’s newest city, Ards and North Down has outdoor escapes to suit all tastes. Enjoy peaceful walks along the scenic coastal paths, where you can breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the spectacular views of the shoreline, or, for a more adventurous experience, book a guided paddle along the calm waters of Strangford Lough. A rich history Myths, legends and folklore – you’ll find it all in Ards and North Down. From ancient sites and monuments to charming villages, there’s a wealth of stories to uncover. Visit Greyabbey, where you can explore the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and learn about the region's heritage or take a walk through the thriving town of   Newtownards , which boasts a rich history including its famous market and iconic landmark   Scrabo Tower . Enjoy the walk from Killynether Wood to Scrabo Hill to take in panoramic views across Strangford Lough. As you dive into Ards and North Down’s past, you’ll encounter fascinating local tales, taking you back to the early Viking settlers, rich Christian heritage, and local links to Belfast’s   renowned shipbuilding history. Mouth-watering local meals No visit to Ards and North Down would be complete without sampling the incredible local food and drink. The area is known for its delicious dishes, from fresh seafood sourced directly from the coast to farm-to-table experiences that highlight the region's award-winning produce... Local markets showcase a variety of artisan products, including cheeses, preserves and baked goods. For an enjoyable dining experience, consider visiting one of the coastal restaurants that offer beautiful views and delicious menus, including pan-seared scallops, traditional Irish stew, and a selection of locally brewed craft beers and fine wines. And don’t forget to try some of the finest and freshest seafood, including the delicious   Portavogie  Prawns and   Strangford Lough  Langoustines! Discover delicious treats in the many local eateries in the picturesque coastal town of   Donagahdee . After lunch take a stroll to the lighthouse where you will even be able to see Scotland on a clear day. Overnight stays From quaint B&Bs to boutique hotels, there’s somewhere to stay to suit all budgets in Ards and North Down. Treat yourself to a spa break at   Culloden Estate and Spa  in Cultra,   Clandeboye Lodge Hotel  in Bangor, or   The Old Inn , Crawfordsburn. All these special locations are filled with character, cosy firelit corners, and elegant interiors, wherever you choose, a perfect escape and a warm welcome awaits you on your next rural retreat. Or, how about a water’s edge spot stay such as   Brent Cove  near Newtownards with stunning views across Strangford Lough with the Mourne Mountains in the distance or a cosy B&B like  The Studio, Helen’s Bay  – a modern, beautiful cottage located just five minutes from sandy beaches and walking trails. Great attractions and lots to do! You will be spoilt for choice with places to explore. This region is home to a great variety of places to visit including 2 of Northern Ireland’s top 10 attractions.   Pickie FunPark  in the   City of Bangor  offers kids’ rides, traditional seaside fun, and the famous pedal swans.  National Trust Mount Stewart  is a stunning example of an Irish demesne including a stunning 19th century mansion house and unique world-class gardens. While here, a trip to Cultra just outside Belfast is also a must. Here you will find not one but two fascinating museums. Visit the   Ulster Folk Museum  to learn about how people lived here over 100 years ago and then just across the road, discover the fascinating history of invention here at the   Ulster Transport Museum . From road bike racing heritage to a back to the future experience with the iconic Delorian car, there is so much to see and do. Join the nearby   North Down Coastal Path  to explore a beautiful water’s edge views and coastal towns along the route. It is time to enjoy a relaxing short break and create your own adventure in Ards and North Down. Unwind, recharge, and start planning your escape today at   visitardsandnorthdown.com

Lights, camera, action!   The Dublin International Film Festival   (DIFF) is rolling out the red carpet from February 20th to March 2nd with a lineup of 80 films—including 10 world premieres and 55 short films! What's On at DIFF 2025? DIFF 2025 is pulling out all the stops with a range  of screenings, events, and special guests. Here's a taste of what's in store: Premieres : Expect red-carpet appearances from the likes of Ralph Fiennes, Jessica Lange, Ed Harris, Ben Foster, Fiona Shaw, and even the iconic Twiggy. Lange and Harris will be honored with the prestigious Volta Award for their outstanding contributions to cinema. Irish Cinema Spotlight : Homegrown talent takes center stage with world premieres such as "Fran The Man," a football comedy featuring Ardal O’Hanlon, and "Ready or Not," a 90s coming-of-age story directed by Claire Frances Byrne and penned by Senator Lynn Ruane. Global LGBTQ+ Narratives : DIFF continues its commitment to diverse storytelling with films like "Never Stop the Action," an experimental journey through New York by Paul Rowley. Industry Insights : Aspiring filmmakers can look forward to masterclasses and panel discussions featuring industry luminaries. Highlights include a session with Swiss director Alexandre O. Philippe on the art of documentary filmmaking and a talk with Oscar-winning filmmaker Melanie Miller. Short Film Showcases : Dive into a curated selection of short films, from compelling dramas to innovative animations, highlighting the creativity and passion driving Irish and international cinema. Additional Information The festival will run from February 20th to March 2nd, with screenings and events hosted across various venues in Dublin, including the Light House Cinema, the Irish Film Institute (IFI), the Complex in Smithfield, and the Pavilion Theatre in Dún Laoghaire. In terms of tickets, DIFF offers a range of passes and bundles to suit every film lover, starting at € 50. For detailed pricing and to purchase tickets,   visit the official DIFF website here. See you at the movies!

You walk into the Merchant Hotel in Belfast, take a seat at the bar, and order a cocktail that costs more than your last holiday. No, this isn’t a joke—this is the Midleton Forêt de Tronçais cocktail, a €1,200 drink that is as posh as it sounds. The question is—what exactly makes it worth the price of a second-hand car? Let’s dive in. What’s in This Wallet-Busting Wonder? If you’re expecting gold flakes and unicorn tears, think again. This cocktail is all about rare Irish whiskey —specifically, Midleton Forêt de Tronçais , a ridiculously fancy whiskey that comes from the masters at Midleton Distillery. A bottle of this stuff will set you back about €4,800, so a single measure in your glass is already worth more than your monthly grocery bill. But the Merchant’s mixologists didn’t stop there. To balance out the whiskey’s rich, oaky magic, they added: Antica Formula Vermouth  – a top-tier Italian classic Dubonnet  – a fortified wine with a royal reputation (literally, it was Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite) The result? A boozy, velvety dream in a glass , designed to make you feel an old-money vibe, if only for a few sips. Who’s Behind This Madness? The brains behind this creation are Aaron Dugan  (the Merchant Hotel’s general manager) and Emily Doherty . Their goal? To create a "once-in-a-lifetime" drinking experience —because let’s be honest, most of us aren’t exactly throwing down €1,200 on cocktails every weekend. And if you’re in the mood to splash out even more, the Merchant’s new cocktail menu has an entire “ultra-premium”  selection, featuring other rare whiskey-based drinks. Prices start at €942  (bargain?), and you’ll find gems from Midleton, Macallan, and Michter’s. The Merchant’s History with Crazy Expensive Cocktails Believe it or not, this isn’t the Merchant Hotel’s first rodeo when it comes to ridiculously-priced drinks . Back in 2007, they landed in the Guinness Book of Records  for the world’s most expensive cocktail—a £750 Mai Tai . It held the record for a while, but these days, there are drinks in Dubai that cost more than a house deposit, so they had to step up their game.   Should You Try It? Look, if you have €1,200 lying around , love whiskey, and want a story that will outshine anything  your friends have ever posted on Instagram, then sure—go for it. But if spending that kind of money on a drink makes your bank account cry , maybe just grab a regular whiskey and admire this one from afar. Either way, the Merchant Hotel remains THE  place in Belfast for a bit of fancy cocktail action, whether you’re a millionaire or just someone who appreciates a well-made Old Fashioned. So, what do you think? Are you tempted to try the €1,200 cocktail experience , or are you happy sipping your Guinness and calling it a day?

Step into the heart of a high-stakes trial with The Jury Experience  in Dublin. In this live theatre show, YOU are the jury—the power to deliver justice is entirely in your hands. You’ll examine every piece of the puzzle, from witness testimonies to forensic data, and ultimately decide: guilty or innocent? The Jury Experience You’ve been called for jury duty. Step into the heart of a high-stakes trial that will challenge your beliefs about guilt, innocence, and the true meaning of justice. The Jury Experience takes live theatre to the next level, as the audience becomes part of the show. As a member of the jury, you’ll analyse witness testimonies, cross-examinations, and forensic evidence in your search for the truth. Every word matters. Every detail counts. And at the end, you must cast the vote that will determine the fate of the accused. Will justice be served? Well, that’s up to you! Highlights Enjoy a live theatre courtroom drama where YOU decide the final verdict Dissect witness testimonies, unpack evidence, and weigh every argument Watch riveting performances from live actors playing various characters Face complex moral dilemmas that challenge your convictions The final decision is yours: will the accused be set free or found guilty? General Info There are plenty of dates available -   check them out here.  The event takes place at the O'Reilly Theatre in Dublin, and the show lasts an hour. For more information on the experience,   check out this FAQ. Tickets range from €26-€47, and they're selling fast, so get booking here!

The February Bank Holiday is nearly upon us, and what better way to celebrate St. Brigid’s Day than with a long weekend escape? We’ve rounded up some fantastic destinations for a rejuvenating break, with options for every budget! 1. Kildare Start your weekend by visiting the birthplace of St. Brigid herself! What to Do:     – Visit St. Brigid’s Cathedral and St. Brigid’s Well for a reflective and historic experience.     – Explore the Irish National Stud and Gardens (€15 adult entry).     – Take the St. Brigid’s Trail, a self-guided walk that connects key landmarks related to the saint.   Where to Stay:     – Silken Thomas Hotel (from €100 per night): A charming spot in the heart of Kildare Town.   – The K Club (from €360 per night): A luxurious countryside retreat offering golf and spa facilities. 2. Westport, County Mayo   For both adventure and relaxation, head to Westport on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.   What to Do:     – Climb Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain (free, but guided hikes cost €25 per person).     – Stroll along Westport House and Gardens (€13.50 adult entry) and enjoy the grounds.     – Take a walk or bike ride along the Great Western Greenway.   Where to Stay:     – The Wyatt Hotel (from €140 per night): A family-run hotel in the heart of Westport town.   – Westport Coast Hotel (from €180 per night): A waterside option with a spa for ultimate relaxation.  3. Kilkenny Kilkenny is the perfect spot for culture lovers looking for a relaxing weekend.   What to Do:     – Tour Kilkenny Castle (€8 adult entry) and its beautiful parklands.     – Visit St. Canice’s Cathedral (€4.50 adult entry) and climb the round tower for panoramic views.     – Explore the Medieval Mile Museum (€12 adult entry) to discover Kilkenny’s past.   Where to Stay:     – Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel (from €130 per night): A chic hotel with a central location.   – L yrath Estate Hotel (from €240 per night): A luxurious countryside retreat with fine dining and a spa. 4. Donegal Donegal is ideal for a peaceful escape this February Bank Holiday Weekend, with plenty to see and do. What to Do:     – Hike in Glenveagh National Park, a stunning landscape with free entry.     – Explore the Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe (free).     – Visit Donegal Castle (€5 adult entry)  Where to Stay:     – The Mill Park Hotel (from €130 per night): A cosy, family-friendly option in Donegal Town.   – Harvey’s Point (from €250 per night): A luxury lakeside retreat with fine dining. 5. Dingle, County Kerry The charming town of Dingle is a top choice for foodies and nature lovers.   What to Do:     – Drive or cycle along the Slea Head Drive for gorgeous coastal views.     – Sample fresh seafood at Dingle’s renowned restaurants, like Out of the Blue.     – Visit Dingle Distillery (€18 adult tour) and enjoy a whiskey or gin tasting.   Where to Stay:     – Dingle Skellig Hotel (from €160 per night): A family-friendly hotel with a view.      – Greenmount House (from €140 per night): A charming B&B with excellent service. 6. Galway City For those looking for a lively weekend, Galway delivers with a mix of culture, food, and entertainment.   What to Do:     – Explore the city’s Latin Quarter, where cobblestone streets are lined with pubs and shops.     – Visit the Galway City Museum, which offers free entry and a deep dive into local history.     – Stroll along Salthill Promenade. Where to Stay:     – The Hardiman (from €190 per night): A historic hotel overlooking Eyre Square.     – Snoozles Hostel (from €35 per night for dorm beds): A budget-friendly option with a great location.    Practical Tips for Your St. Brigid’s Weekend Getaway   Getting Around: Public transport options include trains and buses, but car rental is ideal for exploring remote areas. Lucky for you, we’ve got an exclusive 15% off discount for you from CARHIRE.ie ! Book your car through this link by the 31st of January to enjoy 15% off for travel between January and March in 2025 . It’s the perfect way to make the best of the Bank Holiday! Budget-Friendly Meals: Many destinations offer casual eateries or pubs with great meal deals (around €10–€15 per person).   Weather: Be prepared for winter’s unpredictability with layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes.   Where will you go this St. Brigid’s Day?

Now is a good time to showcase some of the free experiences our country has to offer. Glencar Waterfall, Co. Leitrim A 15-meter-high rock facing waterfall through a lush forest in Co. Leitrim. Explore a woodland that inspired WB Yeat’s poem ‘The Stolen Child’ and let the stunning scenery surrounding inspire you. Entry to Glencar Waterfall is free and there is even a short 1km long walk for keen hikers and a playground to keep the kids entertained. Botanic Gardens , Co. Belfast Botanic Gardens is a gorgeous public garden in Belfast. Covering 28 acres, the gardens are popular with office workers, students and tourists. They are located on Stranmillis Road in Queen’s Quarter. You can walk through the Palm House, a greenhouse hosting tropical plants and hanging baskets, or the Tropical Ravine, which has some of the oldest orchids, banana plants and seed plants. A stunning walk for a sunny evening. Phoenix Park, Co. Dublin The Phoenix Park is the largest enclosed urban park in Europe and contains several stately homes, including the official residence of the President of Ireland, Áras an Uachtaráin, Farmleigh House and the US Ambassador’s residence. The Park is also home to the Dublin Zoo and the Victorian People’s Flower Gardens. If you are lucky you might catch some of the famous deer who have made the park their home. Forty Foot, Co. Dublin The Forty Foot, a historic bathing pool on a promontory on the southern tip of Dublin Bay. Dubliners come here all year round to swim in the Irish sea with friends and family. Having been to the Forty Foot many a time myself, I strongly recommend a visit out to Sandycove for your own leap into the famous Irish swimming hole. Banna Strand, Co. Kerry Banna Strand, also known as Banna Beach, is situated in Ballyheigue Bay. Atlantic Ocean beach extending from Ballyheigue Beach at the Blackrock in the North to Barrow Beach at its southern edge, located in County Kerry. Banna Strand has a lot to offer with many lovely restaurants around as well as a prime spot for surfing. National Library of Ireland, Co. Dublin The National Library of Ireland is the Republic of Ireland’s national library located in Dublin. The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht is the member of the Government of Ireland responsible for the library. If you have some Irish roots there is staff on hand available to help you trace your ancestors during the week completely free of charge which is an awesome experience to have for nothing. Highly recommend this. The Museum of Style Icons, Co. Kildare Having studied fashion, this is quite an unreal find for any fashion-conscious person. Absolutely free to roam by yourself or you can pay for a guided tour, this will certainly be one that I will be attending soon. The Museum houses fashion collections and artifacts which once belonged to some of the greatest style icons of modern times such as Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Princess Grace, Princess Diana, the Beatles and many more. Owned by Newbridge Silver who curated the collection. National Gallery of Ireland, Co. Dublin The National Gallery of Ireland houses the national collection of Irish and European art. It is in the centre of Dublin with one entrance on Merrion Square, beside Leinster House, and another on Clare Street. Entry to the Gallery is free. The gallery holds a world-class selection of art, so if you are an art enthusiast, it’s a must for you to visit. Achill Island, Co. Mayo Achill Island is Irelands largest island. It is accessible for everybody as there is bridge across to the Island. It is absolutely free to enter the island. It boasts some beautiful scenery. With the likes of Silvermore, a deserted village on the island and Keem Bay, A selection of high cliffs, there is more than enough to enjoy on Achill Island. Trá an Dóilín, Co. Galway Last but certainly not least, if you are looking for something undeniably traditional to Irish culture Trá an Dóilín located in the Irish-speaking region (Gaeltacht) of Connemara is a very popular beach in Ireland which you can go and enjoy for free. Well known for its clear water and fine golden sand. A perfect spot for some sunbathing and some sea swimming on a fine day. If you get a bit thirsty, there’s a pub nearby too. #ITTNIreland #ITTNSwitchedon

This week I was in Fermanagh for a short visit to preview the Festival Lough Erne that is taking place all this week and over the weekend. The highlight of the visit was a feast in the forest of Castle Caldwell, the home of the minerals used to make Belleek China. The town of Belleek is nearby and has a beautiful visitor centre for the rare China.  Though the castle is now an ivy-covered ruin, the grounds provide lots of walking and hiking trails. After a walk with two local guides, we arrived at a magical glade in the forest to the tinkling of a gentleman harpist.    Here a table made from the trunk of a tree was festooned and garlanded in moss and trailing ivy leaves. Platters made from slices of fallen trees were our placemats for an extraordinary dinner.  This was the setting of Wilde Dining with Festival Lough Erne one of the events being showcased for this week.  Candlelight, crystal glasses, linen napkins, bonfires and twinkling fairy lights were the accompaniments to provide a stunning meal by celebrity chef Paula McIntyre. She cooked some of the food offsite and finished it on the wood fire.  The ingredients used were from food producers in Ulster. They included Fermanagh Sika venison, pork and black pudding from O’Dohertys of Enniskillen, Ballylisk cheese, Boatyard gin in the raspberry truffles, and apples from her own garden. See menu .  It was a fantastic experience to sit in a forest glade, eating beautiful food. The weather was lovely, dry and cool and no midges. There was a lot of chatter and laughter; sitting out under fairy lights in a forest will bring out the excited child in anyone.   After dinner there was a cocktail from the local gin distillery, the Boatyard Distillery based at Tullybay Marina. Three of the guests took part in a blind tasting of the botanicals that go into making the Boatyard Gin.   The meal event was organised by local designer and stylist Cathy McGovern, and no detail was left undone. There were Portaloos hidden among the trees, too. This event was quite an achievement when you are a business woman with two young children. At the end of the evening Cathy and her husband Geoff entertained us with music and guitar-playing. Another string to Cathy’s bow, is that she is a fine singer too.  The Feast in the Forest will be recreated next weekend, see details here .  The Lakelands of Fermanagh are aptly named as more than a third of the landmass of the county is covered in water. There are 154 islands to explore in this green county. Set in the north west midlands of Ireland, Fermanagh has developed tourism around its natural resources.  Here you will find lakes and rivers stocked with wild trout, salmon and pike. On Monday morning we watched enthralled from our fishing boat as a fisherman caught an eight-kilo pike nearby.  Soon after he caught yet another one, maybe not as big, but still substantial.    It was a sunny autumn morning on Lower Lough Erne where we were trying our hand at fishing, a first for me and my two friends. Though the ghillie told us women were often lucky at fishing, we caught naught. Just as well, I probably would have screamed with fright. We stayed in Dulrush Lodge five minutes from Belleek and next door to Castle Caldwell. Though primarily a fishing venue with its own harbour and boats Dulrush has great facilities for all kinds of trips to Fermanagh.    Women will love the outdoor hot tubs, there are three big ones. There is a outdoor lane swimming pool, sauna and steam room, and lovely grounds to explore. Dulrush is also a working farm and loved by families, see website here .

Embark on the self-guided Irish Camino from Limerick to Killaloe and discover our little island’s most spectacular religious landmarks. The pilgrimage is roughly 25 kilometers in length and takes around five hours to complete. It passes through a section of the Lough Derg Way and it can be accessed through the following trailheads: Limerick City Limerick City is located approximately 25km from Shannon Airport and 37km from Ennis. This trailhead is located at Arthur’s Quay in Limerick City Centre. Clonlara Clonlara is located on the R463, approximately 10km from Limerick City. This trailhead is located in the centre of the village. Killaloe/Ballina Killaloe/Ballina is located on the R463 and is 28km from Limerick City. This trailhead is located at the Riverside Car Park on the Killaloe side of the River Shannon and is situated close to the Tourist Information Office. The pilgrimage passes through major landmarks of christianity, including Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Ardcloony Burial Ground and Saint Flannan’s Cathedral. It is advised that pilgrims wear appropriate walking shoes and bring waterproof clothing.

Bray is a coastal town in north County Wicklow, Ireland. It is situated about 20 km south of Dublin city centre on the east coast. It has a population of 32,600 making it the ninth-largest urban area within Ireland. History Bray’s earliest history is shrouded in the mists of time, there are traces of Bronze age settlements in the area. There is also evidence of visits to Bray by Romans, possibly from Britain. The history of the town is also intertwined with the history of the Brabazon Family of Killruddery, Edward Baron Ardee was granted Killruddery by James lst in 1619. However, the development of the town today is largely attributed to William Dargan a railway entrepreneur in the 19th Century. Thanks to the arrival of the railway in 1834, the bustling town developed as a popular seaside resort and became known as the “Brighton of Ireland”. Bray was regarded as one of the most popular seaside resorts in Ireland for a long time. It was also popular with visitors from Wales and England due to the ferry services to nearby Dun Laoghaire. The town of Bray is beginning to shake off the past and Wicklow Council have been make big improvements to the amenities. Roads along the Esplanade have been narrowed to provide space for pedestrians and outdoor dining. Enhanced landscaping and seating provides more outdoor facilities for visitors to this traditional seaside town. Work is moving ahead on Bray Central, a new leisure and dining area in the town centre. It will have a stylish Stella Cinema, and ten-lane bowling alley. Restaurants opening in Bray Central will include Elephant & Castle and Wowburger, both of the Pressup Group stable. Bray South Promenade Beach The beach is on the seafront of Bray Town and is a 10-minute walk from Bray Main Street and two minutes from Bray Dart Train Station. It stretches between Bray Head to the South and Bray Harbour to the North. The designated Blue Flag area makes up the Southern half and is 1,000m long. The first 20 metres of beach seaward is shingle and steep sloping. Closer to the water’s edge, the beach is gently sloping with sand and pebbles. It is a popular spot for swimming. Things to Do Sea Life The National Sea Life Centre is one of Ireland’s largest Marine and Freshwater Zoos and the only aquarium on the East Coast of Ireland. The aquarium on the Seafront in Bray is a perfect family fun day out! Sea Life centre is completely indoors making it a perfect all-weather activity. Having responsibility for the welfare and well-being of over 1,100 underwater creatures. The team at SEA LIFE is passionate about promoting and advancing the cause of the creatures of our oceans and rivers and their habitats. They engage in advocacy for conservation legislation, campaign for sustainable fishery policies, the breeding of endangered species, and cooperation with other like-minded organisations. With 30 displays, a kids quiz trail, a colouring table, an indoor play area for younger children, and hourly public feeds of the animals, you won’t get bored. Tickets can be booked on line here . Killruddery House and Gardens Killruddery House is a large country house on the southern outskirts of Bray in County Wicklow, Ireland, approximately 20 km south of Dublin. The present structure is a south-facing multi-bay mansion, originally dating from the 17th century, but remodelled and extended in 1820 in the Elizabethan style. Killruddery is a great location and spot for a family day out when visiting Bray. With its extensive land and beautiful scenery, it is ideal for a picnic on a nice day. The Cliff Walk There is a dedicated walk from Bray to Greystones south of the town. The walk hugs the coast above the railway line and provides far reaching views of Dublin Bay. It takes about 90 minutes to get to Greystones. Where to Eat and Drink Harbour Bar Hailed as scruffy, wild and elegant, The Harbour Bar is a true destination pub with unmatched character. A décor is a mix of curios and mementoes collected over its one and a half-century history. Established in 1872, as bar and undertakers and owned by the O’Toole family from 1932, The Harbour Bar changed hands when the Duggan family took over in 2013 with a pledge to preserve its unique character, honour its heritage and keep its appeal for music lovers from home and away. Originally a terrace of fisherman’s houses, each of the many rooms makes The Harbour Bar a wonderland to wander through. Each offers something different for however visitors want to soak up the atmosphere. Butler & Barry A Gastrobar, unlike any other, Butler & Barry will leave you wanting more. From the most enviable location on the east coast, its guests enjoy exceptional food and drinks served with stunning ocean views. The bar is run by highly skilled and well-trained drink experts. Their team has a massive love and passion for supplying mouthwatering drinks to customers. Creating gobsmacking cocktails, martinis, margaritas and more with their flavour of interest, passion and experience. You won’t be let down by the team. Pink Salt, Main Street The aim of Pink Salt Restaurant is to offer a new kind of dining experience and hospitality. They are sure that you will feel the authentic Indian food taste and quality. Pink Salt follow the traditional way of cooking, and carefully choosing and handling the ingredients. Their team is committed to introducing new dishes from time to time. The Award-winning chef is ready to cook the dishes the way you like. Fish and Chips No visit to Bray would be complete with out the traditional seaside fish and chips. There is nothing like the smell of sea air laced with tang of chip shop vinegar. Pick up a portion of fish and chips in the Seaside Fast Food chipper or Cassoni’s Takeaway. Ice Cream Parlours And a visit to the seaside would not be the same without having an ice-cream and in Bray you will be spoiled for choice. It is not just the usual 99s, but there are also lots of different flavours from Teddy’s, Maud’s, Rainbows and traditional Italian ices from Ginos. Where to Stay Firefly Hotel The first automatic hotel accommodation of its kind in Ireland, Firefly Hotel is the no-delay place to stay to make the most of even the shortest getaway break. Without staff on-site, this innovative secure self-check-in ensures efficiency, with no waiting in queues to collect or drop off keys. I stayed in Firefly this past weekend and it was quite unusual not to be greeted by a member of staff. It felt more like an AirBnB rental for the weekend. Before I arrived, a text message with the code for the main door and lockbox at the entrance arrived with details of where to find the keycard for the room. The hotel has a unique interior, with unusual lights on the wall, many pieces of art are dotted through the halls there are plenty of plants. It was a notably modern and warm environment I was staying on the top floor where the bigger rooms are and mine was huge. The king bed was comfortable and had nice quality linens. This room was a triple with a single bed and there were tea and coffee facilities included. There was no restaurant but as Firefly is located next to all the amenities of Bray, there’s no shortage of places to eat and drink. My overall experience in Firefly felt warm and different. It’s definitely a comfortable hotel with a unique twist and I would recommend trying it on your next visit to Bray. Prices are from €109 per night at weekends and from €80 per night midweek. Book here . The Martello Hotel This hotel on Bray Esplanade has breathtaking views across the Irish Sea and sits at the foot of Bray Head. It offers an unmatched combination of gastropub dining and comfortable accommodation in a cheerful and vibrant setting.  The Martello Hotel Bray has 25 en-suite hotel bedrooms and 19 self-catering apartments. It is just a few minutes walk from the DART station, and 30 minutes from Dublin City Centre.