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Armagh City will once again come alive this November as costumed characters; festive markets and a dazzling lightshow bring the annual Georgian Festival to life. Taking place Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 November, the event offers a glimpse into 18th-century life while marking the start of the Christmas season. Over the course of four days the city will celebrate its rich Georgian heritage through immersive history, live performances, artisan markets, music, family entertainment and atmospheric lightshows some of the city’s most iconic Georgian sites, from the Archbishop’s Palace to No. 5 Vicars' Hill. Visitors are invited to step back more than 250 years ago and experience Christmas as it might have been in the time of Archbishop Richard Robinson, the visionary who shaped much of the city’s Georgian character. Unlike typical Christmas markets and fairs, the festival places history centre stage, as Shelia Rooney, who returns this year as one of the festival’s living history characters, explains. She said, “Playing a Georgian character might seem like a peculiar job, but it’s endlessly fun. I’ve been bringing Georgian characters to life in Armagh for over two decades, and every year still feels magical. The Georgian Festival invites visitors to step directly into the world of 18th century Armagh - a city transformed into one of culture, learning, and architectural beauty. From the elegant Mall to the Observatory and the stunning Robinson Library, you can see how Georgian ideals shaped our streets and our stories. Experiencing the festival is more than seeing history - its stepping into it, meeting its characters, exploring its fashions, and discovering the eccentricities of the people who built this city." New this year is the Northern Ireland Opera, presenting a Georgian -themed performance in the intimate Primate’s Chapel. Audiences will be transported back to the elegance of the era through arias, duets, and songs, accompanied by period-inspired staging, costumes, and refreshments - offering a rare chance to experience the music of Georgian Armagh in its original style Food lovers can enjoy the new Georgian Gourmet Food Tour, a multi-sensory journey through the refined tastes of the era. Georgian Day itself – which falls on Saturday 29 November – is a highlight of the weekend. With over 100 artisan stalls, it’s the largest festive artisan market in Northern Ireland, featuring street musicians, costumed characters, chestnut sellers, and children’s entertainment. Visitors can meet the Gentry, cheeky urchins, and gin-soaked ladies as they wander the cobbled streets, before gathering for the evening’s Georgian lightshow at the Market House, an iconic spectacle now synonymous with the festival. This year, the celebrations extend into Sunday, with a selection of artisan stalls and festive attractions returning, giving visitors even more time to soak up the Georgian charm. Lord Mayor of Armagh , Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said, “Returning each year, the Georgian Festival feels like welcoming old friends back into the city. Armagh , with its outstanding Georgian architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for visitors to experience the atmosphere of the 18th century. The festival not only highlights our vibrant food producers and creative talent - from living history performers to skilled artisans - but also plays a vital role in supporting the local economy and community wellbeing. “As a cornerstone of the Borough’s events calendar, the festival continues to evolve, offering new experiences that keep people coming back - from family-friendly events, such as the lightshow, to interactive experiences like mock trials at Armagh Courthouse, Georgian art history sessions, hands-on bell ringing workshops, and whimsical walking tours like the ‘Not So Gorgeous Georgian s’,  which offer a playful glimpse into the more unusual and amusing aspects of 18th-century Armagh .” With its mix of history, atmosphere, and family-friendly fun, Armagh ’s Georgian Festival stands out among festive events across the UK and Ireland. Visitors not only get to browse markets and sip mulled wine, but also uncover the stories, buildings, and traditions that make Armagh unique. Many events are free to attend, while others are ticketed with limited availability. For full programme details and booking information, visit: www.visitarmagh.com/ georgian festival

Travel2Ireland is giving away 2 tickets to the Samhain Festival of Food & Culture - an unmissable celebration of seasonal food, live music, and Irish storytelling. All you need to do is find the secret password hidden in this article and DM it to our Instagram page - the first message we get wins the tickets! Taking place in the Boyne Valley from the 6th-9th of November , the festival brings together some of Ireland’s most exciting chefs, food producers, writers and (password: pumpkin cheese) artists for a weekend packed with tastings, demos, talks and performances that explore the ancient roots of Samhain - the original Irish festival marking the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. We’re giving one lucky winner two tickets to experience it all. To enter, simply head over to our Instagram page and DM us the secret password . The first message we receive with the correct phrase will win the pair of tickets, so be quick!

Looking to enjoy a cocktail with a plateful of some creamy pasty? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the best Italian dining spots in Dublin, perfect for cosy autumn evenings. 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 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 lover. 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! 3. Pinocchio Location: Pudding Row, 1, Essex St W, Dublin1 Pinocchio has some delicious 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. 4. 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 has pleny Italian delicacies, from freshly made paninis to pastries. Their Aperol Spritz is the perfect companion to a lazy afternoon spent people-watching. 5. Terra Madre Location: 13A Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin 1 Terra Madre is one of those hidden gems tucked away on Bachelor’s Walk. 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! 6. 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. 7. 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.

Looking to find one-of-a-kind pieces in Dublin for Christmas gifting? The city’s vintage and flea markets are perfect for finding something special! Here are some of the best spots to shop this festive season. 1. Dublin Flea Market Location: The Digital Hub, Thomas Street Opening Hours: Last Sunday of every month, 11 AM – 5 PM Website: Dublin Flea Market The Dublin Flea Market is the granddaddy of all flea markets in the city! Held on the last Sunday of each month, this market is a must-visit for anyone with a penchant for pre-loved goods. Located in the Digital Hub, you’ll find over 60 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and accessories to retro homewares and vinyl records. The market’s also has live music and food stalls with delicious street eats. Entry is free, so you can spend your euros on something special. 2. The Ha’penny Flea Market Location: The Grand Social, Liffey Street Lower Opening Hours: Every Saturday, 12 PM – 6 PM Website: The Ha’penny Flea Market Named after the iconic Ha’penny Bridge, this flea market is housed in The Grand Social, a trendy venue. Open every Saturday, The Ha’penny Flea Market is perfect for those looking for vintage fashion, quirky knick-knacks, and handmade crafts. Being indoors, it makes it the perfect place to shop when the weather just isn’t the best. 3. Dublin Vintage Factory Location: 9 Ormond Quay Upper Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM; Sunday, 12 PM – 6 PM Website: Dublin Vintage Factory For vintage lovers who want to shop all week long, Dublin Vintage Factory is a top choice. This store operates more like a market, with a selection of vintage clothing and accessories from the 80s and 90s. With a focus on sustainable fashion, you can shop guilt-free knowing you’re giving these items a second life. Prices are based on weight, making it a fun and affordable way to find the perfect selection of gifts, or to update your wardrobe. 4. Blackrock Market Location: 19A Main Street, Blackrock Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM – 5:30 PM; Bank Holiday Mondays, 11 AM – 5:30 PM Website: Blackrock Market A short trip from the city center, Blackrock Market is one of Dublin’s oldest and most beloved markets. Open every weekend, it has a mix of antiques, vintage clothing, artisan foods, and more. With over 30 years of history, this market has a charming feel that makes it fantastic to explore. You’re sure to find something that catches your eye. 5. St. Anne’s Park Red Stables Market Location:  St. Anne’s Park, Raheny Opening Hours:  Saturdays, 10 AM – 4 PM Website: St. Anne’s Park Red Stables Market Located in St. Anne’s Park, the Red Stables Market is a weekend market that has plenty of artisan foods, handmade crafts, and vintage items. The Red Stables building itself is a beautiful piece of history, and the market adds to its charm with stalls offering everything from vintage clothes to antique books. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely Saturday stroll, where you can find something special while enjoying the park! Grab your tote bag and happy hunting!

Forget the winter blues – why not try an escape room?! These rooms put teamwork, problem-solving, and time management skills to the ultimate test, with immersive themes, exciting storylines, and adrenaline-pumping puzzles, perfect for brightening up dark winter evenings. Here are the best escape rooms Dublin has to offer! If you’ve never been to an escape room before, here’s a breakdown of how it works. You and your team will be “locked” in a themed room, where you’ll need to find clues, solve puzzles, and piece together a story. All while the clock ticks down! Each room usually lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, so be prepared for a fast-paced, high-stakes adventure. This means that Escape Rooms are the perfect wintertime activity – indoors, engaging and involving lots (trust us, lots) of teamwork! Escape Dublin One of the most well-loved escape rooms in the city, Escape Dublin provides a heart-pounding adventure with a selection of intriguing scenarios. Players have 60 minutes to work together and solve the puzzles to escape the room before time runs out. Some of the standout rooms include: The Da Vinci Room : Put on your thinking cap as you decipher cryptic messages and intricate puzzles inspired by the genius himself, Leonardo Da Vinci. The Sherlock Holmes Room : Step into Sherlock’s shoes and use your detective skills to solve the mystery before time runs out. Witchcraft and Wizardry : A magical adventure for fans of sorcery and spells. Will you be able to solve the enchantments? Where : 6 Whitefriars, Aungier Street, Dublin 2 Price : Prices start from €29 per person, with group discounts available. GoQuest GoQuest takes the concept of escape rooms and expands it into a multi-room experience. It’s perfect for those who prefer more action-packed, fast-paced challenges. GoQuest has 28 unique challenge rooms , which combine mental, physical, and skill-based tasks, allowing players to choose their adventure as they progress. Unlike traditional escape rooms, GoQuest isn’t limited to one scenario—you’ll be able to tackle multiple challenges in a set amount of time, each with different themes and objectives. Ideal for families, corporate team-building, or groups of friends, this is a must-visit spot for those looking for a competitive edge. Where : Unit 6, Finglas Business Park, Jamestown Road, Dublin 11 Price : Adults from €26, Students and Children from €18 Incognito Escape Room Incognito Escape Room promises an immersive and intense experience in the heart of Dublin. Their themes are darker and more mysterious, making them a great option for players who love suspense and intrigue. The Cabin in the Woods : You’re stuck in a remote cabin, and something isn’t quite right. Will you uncover the dark secrets and escape in time? The Butcher’s Basement : A truly chilling experience. You’re trapped in the lair of a deranged butcher - can you escape before becoming the next victim? Incognito’s rooms are known for their top-tier set design, creating a hyper-realistic atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re in a movie. Where : 4 Bridgefoot St, Usher’s Quay, Dublin 8 Price : From €20 per person, with team packages available Clockwork Door Escape Room Clockwork Door combines the fun of escape room challenges with a cosy “pay-as-you-stay” concept. It’s not just an escape room venue but also a creative social space. In addition to escaping, you can grab a coffee or play board games with friends in the Time Room. Their escape room, The Outbreak , is a popular pick where you and your group are tasked with stopping a dangerous virus from spreading in a high-stakes lab scenario. The venue’s relaxed vibe makes it great for groups who want a less intense but still exciting escape room experience. Where : 51 Wellington Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 Price : Entry is free, but pay €4 for every 30 minutes spent. Escape Boats Escape Boats are based on a barge in Grand Canal Dock, in Dublin City. Enjoy a challenging and immersive environment as your team attempt to escape the boat by solving puzzles, cracking codes, uncovering mysteries and escaping the perils of the Zorg Ella barge. Escape Boats consists of two games, SOS for two to six players or Convicts for two to ten players. Games are suitable for families, friends, visitors, hen and stag parties, or corporate clients. Where: Charlotte Quay, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2, Price: Starts at €25 per person with group discounts available. Dublin’s escape rooms are perfect for winter season activities, when the weather might not be the best, you can still have fun from the inside – from birthday parties, team-building events, to just a fun way to spend time with friends. They challenge your intellect, communication, and creativity, all while creating some great memories!

Looking for the perfect excuse for a night out in Dublin? Travel2Ireland is giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a tapas night for two, complete with a bottle of wine, at The Port House, one of Dublin’s best spots for authentic Spanish food. This is your chance to experience The Port House’s signature tapas menu - Gambas as Pil Pil, Chorizo al Vino, Paella, paired with a glass (or two) of wine in one of locations across Dublin. How to Enter Taking part is easy! Simply: 1️⃣ Follow   @travel2ireland  on Instagram 2️⃣ Like  the competition post 3️⃣ Tag a friend  you’d love to share tapas with For a bonus entry , share the post to your story and tag @travel2ireland for extra chances to win! The winner will be announced on 10th November , so make sure you’ve entered before then. As always, remember that all Travel2Ireland competitions are run exclusively from our official Instagram page . We’lll never ask for payment or personal information, so beware of any other pages claiming otherwise. Good luck, and get ready for a delicious Dublin night out!

Coming into the colder months, treat yourself to a stay at the 5 star luxurious Dunluce Lodge Spa. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, at Portrush in Co Antrim, The Spa at Dunluce Lodge offers a dynamic treatment and wellness menu designed to restore balance to the body, skin, and psyche. Members of the public and guests, alike, can expect an intimate space where the expert team will offer purposeful yet deeply restorative spa rituals in four treatment rooms with names that have been inspired by the natural landscape of the Causeway Coast . For the products that will be used throughout, Dunluce Lodge has partnered with Irish science-based health and beauty brand Seabody, which harnesses bioactive compounds from seaweed to support skin health and holistic wellness. Treatments featuring globally recognised brands KLORIS, with its ethically sourced CBD, and the multi-award-winning skincare brand Natura Bissé will also be available. Following their treatment, guests will be invited to the relaxation space where breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean ensure it is the perfect spot to meditate and reenergise. Outside of the spa’s walls, guests staying at Dunluce Lodge will also be able to enjoy a selection of specially curated wellness experiences including sound healing, sunrise and sunset beach walks and personalised private and group movement sessions. Stephen Meldrum, General Manager, Dunluce Lodge said: “When Dunluce Lodge opens its doors, it will deliver an unrivalled, refined experience that builds on Northern Ireland’s world-renowned reputation for sincere hospitality. “This hotel is intrinsically linked to its surroundings and our spa is no different. It will feature the best in Irish health and beauty products, treatments and highly skilled local practitioners. “The Spa at Dunluce Lodge is the perfect place to relax and unwind.  Locals and visitors alike will find soothing therapies inspired by the sea and the stunning landscapes that surround the hotel.” With 35 luxury suites across Dunluce Lodge and its private annex, The Stookan, guests enjoying its impeccable Irish hospitality will have the definitive five-star experience on the Causeway Coast. Dunluce Lodge is operated by the global full-service hotel management company,  Valor Hospitality Partners , in partnership with the US based  Links Collection .

It’s cosy season, which can only mean one thing…the return of the beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)! Here’s a roundup of the best spots in Dublin to indulge in this seasonal treat. 1. Lotts & Co Locations : Terenure, Beggars Bush, Clontarf Lotts & Co has become a go-to spot for both gourmet shopping and coffee lovers alike. Their Pumpkin Spice Latte, made with Cloud Picker espresso and a delicious blend of autumnal spices, is the perfect way to warm up as you browse their selection of fine cheeses, wines, and deli goods. Each location is ready to deliver those cosy, pumpkin-flavoured vibes, making it a perfect stop for an elevated PSL experience. 2. Butlers Chocolates Locations : Multiple across Dublin Known for its luxurious hot chocolates and tempting sweets, Butlers Chocolates has jumped on the PSL bandwagon. With multiple locations spread throughout Dublin, it’s easy to get your hands on one of their delicious Pumpkin Spice Lattes. Whether you’re shopping or on your way to work, you’re never too far from a Butlers café, making it a convenient option to grab your autumnal pick-me-up. 3. Copper + Straw Location : Arran Quay Copper + Straw is the place to go if you’re looking for a more artisanal approach to your Pumpkin Spice Latte. Their version skips the standard syrup in favour of real pumpkin puree, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger, a truly handcrafted take on the classic PSL. With a creamy texture and just the right amount of spice, this PSL is sure to make you feel like autumn has arrived in full swing. 4. Grounded Location : Clonskeagh Grounded Café has earned a reputation for serving up some of the best independent coffee in Dublin, and their Pumpkin Spice Latte is no exception. This dog-friendly spot adds a bit of autumn magic to your coffee cup, complete with charming latte art that will make your PSL Instagram-worthy. Pop in for a cosy coffee date or grab one to-go as you enjoy the brisk autumn air in Clonskeagh. 5. Phoenix Café Location : Phoenix Park What better way to enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte than after a refreshing walk in one of Dublin’s most iconic parks? Phoenix Café, nestled in Phoenix Park, offers the perfect spot to sip on a PSL surrounded by nature. Take in the beautiful autumn foliage as you enjoy this seasonal treat, it’s the perfect way to round off a day spent outdoors. 6. Cake Café Location : Pleasants Place Hidden away in Dublin 8, Cake Café is a charming little spot to enjoy your first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious bakes, Cake Café pairs their PSL with a cosy vibe that’s perfect for autumn. If you want to kickstart your autumn mood with a treat, this is the place to be. If you’re in Dublin this autumn, these cafés are serving up some of the best Pumpkin Spice Lattes around. But remember, PSL season doesn’t last forever, so make sure to indulge before the gingerbread lattes take over!

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 31st and Sunday the 2nd of November across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from Oktoberfest Belfast to Pumpkins after Dark and much, much more. Spooky Fun, Wicked Walk & More at Jurassic Newpark, Kilkenny - 25.10-2.11 Gather your little monsters for truly magical Halloween fun at Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, where worlds collide as you trail from a den of deadly dinosaurs, to a world of wonderful wizarding, and all the spooky stops in between! Returning from Saturday 25th October- Sunday 2nd November. Read more here. Halloween Farm Spooktacular at Kildare Farm Foods, Kildare - 25.10-31.10 This October, Kildare Farm Foods invites families to swap city streets for a day of country at its Halloween Farm Spooktacular. Located in Rathmuck, only a short drive from Kildare Village, the farm transforms into a patchwork of pumpkins, hay bales, and twinkling decorations, where kids can run free and adults can indulge in their own Gilmore Girls moment. Read more here. Halloween at EPIC, Dublin - 1.10-2.11 This October exciting Halloween-themed events are taking place at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – perfect for families and those curious about Irish culture and the origins of Halloween. Read more here. Nightmare Realm, Dublin - 01.10-02.11 As darker evenings creep in, shadows and demons begin to stir—Halloween is here, and with it, The Nightmare Realm, Europe’s most awarded Halloween attraction.  Returning for 2025, this year’s production is its most ambitious yet, set in an all-new, expanded home at Royal Liver Retail Park, Inchicore, Dublin. Read more here. Pumpkins After Dark, Dublin - 03.10-31.10 Join Newbridge House and Farm, Donabate, for Pumpkins After Dark – Ireland’s newest and most enchanting outdoor Halloween event! Featuring over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins, this magical, family-friendly experience will captivate visitors of all ages. Read more here.

Dublin Zoo is delighted to announce the return of its award-winning night-time spectacular, Wild Lights, with an all-new theme: The Wild Kaleidoscope . This winter, Dublin Zoo will shimmer into life with a breath taking festival of colour and light, where every step reveals something new. For the first time, Wild Lights will be divided into 13 kaleidoscopic zones, each with endless opportunities for exploration. Dedicated themed colour zones will showcase a ‘hues who’ of animals, celebrating the dazzling beauty of colour in nature. From proud peacocks to shimmering sea creatures, animals of one and many colours will leave visitors in awe. Like the turning glass of a kaleidoscope, no two visits will be the same, with magical surprises and radiant creatures hiding, glowing and dazzling in their illuminated ‘habitats’. The Winter Glow Village Fuel your journey through Wild Lights at the brand-new Winter Glow Village, a festive food market brimming with seasonal delights. A first for Wild Lights, it’s the perfect place to snack on freshly baked pizza, warm up with a steaming mulled wine, or enjoy golden crêpes and fluffy waffles under the stars, surrounded by a glowing backdrop of enchanting lanterns. A Truly Immersive Experience To make the festival even more special, Dublin Zoo has introduced new photo opportunities to capture memories that last a lifetime. Guests will also learn incredible facts about the animals featured in The Wild Kaleidoscope . As they move through each zone, they’ll discover the wonders of colour in nature – from why flamingos are pink to how stripes, spots or camouflage can be vital survival tools. Santa’s Grotto at Wild Lights For the first time ever, from 22nd November to 23rd December, families can step into the magic of Santa’s Grotto during Wild Lights evenings. Little ones will meet Santa in his sparkling grotto and make cherished Christmas memories. Winter Bundle tickets are limited and selling fast – book early to avoid disappointment. Spectacular Grand Finale This year’s dazzling event will culminate with the tallest lantern ever featured at Wild Lights, and one of the largest of its kind in Europe. A breath taking finale, it will be the glowing highlight of an unforgettable evening. Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, said: “Wild Lights is one of the highlights of the year for Dublin Zoo, and this year’s theme, The Wild Kaleidoscope , celebrates the incredible diversity and beauty of colour in nature. For animals, colour is so much more than meets the eye – it’s a method of communication and a vital survival tool for many species around the world. Through The Wild Kaleidoscope , we want to help visitors see the world as animals do and discover how colour shapes life itself. This year’s Wild Lights promises to be one of our most spectacular yet. Visitors will enjoy brand-new experiences including the Winter Glow Village, Santa’s Grotto, and the chance to win a magical family holiday to Lapland. The team at Dublin Zoo is incredibly excited to welcome guests of all ages for a truly reimagined Wild Lights experience in 2025.” Opening Times Wild Lights will run on selected nights from 5pm – 9pm, 6th November 2025 to 31st January 2026 (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day). For more details on Dublin Zoo’s Wild Lights – The Wild Kaleidoscope, see here .

This October, Kildare Farm Foods invites families to swap city streets for a day of country at its Halloween Farm Spooktacular. Located in Rathmuck, only a short drive from Kildare Village, the farm transforms into a patchwork of pumpkins, hay bales, and twinkling decorations, where kids can run free and adults can indulge in their own Gilmore Girls moment. The Spooktacular has become one of Kildare’s most anticipated autumn events, and it’s easy to see why. Visitors board the Ghostly Train to journey through the farm, passing fields dotted with pumpkins and friendly scarecrows keeping watch. The Enchanted Scarecrow Woodland is fantastic for a walk, while the brand-new Maze in the Maize  offers a fun challenge for anyone who dares to find their way out of the towering corn. Younger guests will be drawn to the indoor areas too, especially the Halloween-themed rollercoaster experience and a round of Crazy Golf at “Indian Creek,” which keeps the fun going even if the weather turns damp. For those who like their festivities a little more hands-on, the pumpkin patch itself is the centrepiece. Families can wander the fields to pick their perfect pumpkin to take home and carve. Of course, no Halloween celebration would be complete without fancy dress, and the farm’s costume competition adds an extra bit of excitement, with the best-dressed visitors in the running for a family pass to Santa’s Christmas Adventure . Entry to the Open Farm itself remains free, but tickets to the Spooktacular activities are booked in advance online, ensuring plenty of space for everyone. The Tractor Café serves up hot food and homemade treats (note that picnics aren’t permitted), and the Farm Shop is open throughout the day, offering local produce, gifts, and seasonal decorations. While most areas are accessible, the woodland walk may not be suitable for buggies or wheelchairs due to uneven terrain, something to keep in mind before your visit. Running from the 25th to 31st of October , the event captures everything people love about this time of year - for more information and to book, visit kildarefarmfoods.com. Tickets are €15pp.

If your idea of a getaway includes fine food, deep-tissue massages, and a round of golf surrounded by gentle countryside, then you’ll feel right at home at Knightsbrook. This trim (no pun intended) resort on the edge of Trim town in County Meath is where laid-back luxury meets good old-fashioned Irish hospitality, giving it all the right ingredients for a restful and well-fed escape. Luxurious Accommodations Knightsbrook has five distinct accommodation options, each designed to provide the utmost comfort - and elegance! Every room has en suite bathrooms, complimentary robes, flat-screen televisions, 24-hour room service, same-day laundry services, and broadband connections.  Dining at Knightsbrook  The resort has four unique dining venues: Rococo Restaurant : An upscale venue offering a fusion of Irish and international cuisine, perfect for fine dining experiences. The Terrace Lounge : Ideal for afternoon tea with panoramic views of the resort's grounds. Swifts Bar : A lively spot serving light meals like soups and salads, perfect for casual gatherings. Gulliver's Lounge : Perfect for after-dinner cocktails or a relaxing drink post-golf. As a plus, each venue emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients! What more could you want as a foodie? Championship Golf Course For golf lovers, Knightsbrook has an 18-hole championship course designed by the late Ryder Cup legend, Christy O’Connor Jnr. The course challenges players with undulating fairways, strategic water features, and impeccably maintained greens. The River Spa After a day on the greens or exploring the local area, The River Spa is the perfect place to unwind. Combining holistic practices with advanced treatments, the spa has a range of services designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. From therapeutic massages to revitalizing facials, guests can indulge in a truly pampering experience.  Exploring Trim and Beyond Beyond the resort's extensive amenities, the surrounding area has plenty to see and do: Trim Castle : A stone's throw from the resort, this iconic Norman castle is the largest of its kind in Ireland. Film fans might recognize it from the movie "Braveheart." Hill of Tara : A short drive away, this ancient ceremonial site was historically the inauguration place of the High Kings of Ireland, making it a must-visit for a kick of history. Boyne Valley : Often referred to as Ireland's ancient capital, the Boyne Valley is home to neolithic passage tombs older than the Egyptian pyramids! Room Rates and Booking Knightsbrook Hotel offers a variety of packages to suit different preferences: Golf Packages : Starting from €105.00 per person sharing. Spa Breaks : From €205.00 for a total stay. Special Offers : Such as the "Break at the Brook" from €179.00 for a total stay. For the most current rates and special offers, it's recommended to visit the official   Knightsbrook Hotel website .