The world’s best cider? Look no further than Armagh. The finest apples, grown, pressed and fermented the natural way with no additives, colouring or, indeed, anything but pure apples. And the apple juice is world famous too! So, why not go on an orchard tour this autumn? Among the leading lights in the amazing Armagh cider renaissance of recent years have been Helen and Philip Troughton from Ballinteggart House, outside Portadown. The Troughton family have been growing apples there for four generations since 1898 but the house, which dates to the 1700s, already had orchards when the Troughtons arrived. Over the generations the existing orchards were extended until today there are 100 acres of them, 80 acres of which are in production. It was Philip’s father, ‘TG’, who first thought of setting up a cider business at the farm. However, although he bought some equipment, he found he was too busy selling his Bramley apples to the retail trade and a large commercial cider maker to follow his dream. It would be his son Philip and Helen who took the first steps into cider making. Surely, they believed, there was a market for small scale, chemical and additive free cider and apple juice, made with apples from their own orchards in the traditional way. There was.  Helen and Philip’s Armagh Cider Company is now a byword for excellence, as modern tastes demand the purity and quality only a traditional cider maker can supply. Others followed and now Armagh has several acclaimed cider companies. The apple season begins around the end of April, when the beautiful rolling countryside of Armagh is transformed by acres of intense pink apple blossom (with little patches of white and red from the cider and eating apples). The apples, which begin to grow after the blossom fades, are harvested between September and November. Then they are hand pressed, with yeast added, and left to ferment. By May or June they are ready to be bottled. Nothing but pure apple juice is used in the Armagh Cider Company cider, which proudly bears the PGI logo. Not only do they produce many different kinds of cider, but each one is a different mix of apples – different formulations of Bramley, cider apples and traditional eating apples long gone from our shops (Helen and Philip grow over 30 varieties). They add a slight touch of Bramley to the mix of eating apples that compose their delicious apple juice. Visitors can experience this cycle first-hand on orchard tours and open farm days , where you can stroll among the trees, sample apples straight from the branches, taste the ciders, and even try your hand at pressing juice. Ballinteggart House also plays a central role in the Armagh Food & Cider Festival each September , when the orchards open up as part of a wider countywide celebration of local produce. For more information on orchard tours and more, visit visitballinteggart.com .

Killarney is one of Ireland’s top destinations for short breaks throughout the year, but autumn is one of the best times to go. The national park’s woodlands are filled with colour, the weather remains relatively mild, and the slower pace of tourism makes for a more relaxed stay. For those looking to enjoy nature, recharge, and experience the outdoors in comfort, a two-day autumn escape in Killarney is an ideal choice. Where to Stay - Cahernane House Hotel Located on the edge of Killarney National Park, Cahernane House Hotel  is a convenient base with both comfort and character. This four-star property is set in a restored manor house dating back to the 19th century. It includes rooms in the original house as well as more modern options in the garden wing and coach house. The hotel features the Herbert Restaurant, which focuses on seasonal Irish produce, and a relaxed Cellar Bar for casual dining. With easy access to the park and quiet surroundings, it’s well suited for a restful short break in nature. Guests can also enjoy complimentary bicycle use, afternoon tea, or simply explore the grounds. Forest Walk - The Blue Pool Nature Trail For a short and scenic walk through woodland, the Blue Pool Nature Trail  is one of the best autumn routes in the Killarney area. Located between Muckross and Dinis Cottage, the walk is part of Killarney National Park and is open to the public year-round. The looped trail takes 1.5 to 2 hours and is mostly flat, making it suitable for all levels of walkers. The route winds through mixed forest with autumn foliage and leads to the Blue Pool, a clear, spring-fed pond. The area is known for native wildlife such as red squirrels and sika deer, especially active in the early morning or late afternoon. The trail can be accessed from the main Muckross Road, with several entry points offering parking. Additional Information Killarney is accessible by train from Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, with the station located close to the town centre. It is also reachable by car via the N22 from Cork or N21 from Limerick. Rates at Cahernane House and Hotel start from approximately €180 per night for a double room including breakfast. Prices may vary between weekdays and weekends. For the blue pool trail, there is no charge to access the trail or park facilities.

Located in the north of County Clare, near the village of Corofin, the five-century-old Gaelic tower house of Ballyportry Castle is a rare and memorable stay - especially in autumn. Originally built in the late 15th century, Ballyportry Castle retains its full tower-house form and is one of the finest surviving examples of a medieval Gaelic stronghold in Ireland. It is offered as an exclusive-let accommodation for up to eight guests, meaning you’ll have the entire castle to yourselves. Why Autumn Is the Ideal Time Autumn brings a special mood to Ballyportry and the surrounding region. The limestone pavements of the Burren take on classic autumnal tons, while the castle tower presents as the perfect vantage point for viewing some pretty stunning sunrises and sunsets. The colder evenings also lend themselves perfectly to gathering in the Great Hall by the open hearth. From the battlements, you’ll catch views of rolling mist, cattle grazing on the pastures beyond the bawn wall, and lakes visible in the distance. Even better - no crowds. You'll find that the sense of exclusivity deepens! What to Expect Situated a short drive from Corofin, you’ll pass through the old bawn gate into the castle courtyard, step inside the wooden door, and begin climbing the spiral staircase. Be aware -the historic stairs are beautiful but may not suit very young children or those with limited mobility. The tower stands over six floors. At the top is the Great Hall, with exposed oak trusses, an open fireplace, and a full kitchen. The bedrooms are spread over the upper floors, offering privacy and character on every level. Under-floor heating and a log-burner keep the castle warm even as winter rolls in, while comfortable and thick bedding is also provided to keep everyone cosy. Autumn Activities & Surroundings Explore the Burren : Use the castle as your base to explore this extraordinary limestone landscape.. See the coast : Within 30 minutes by car you can reach the Atlantic coastline. Village Life & Local Food : The nearby village of Corofin offers a warm welcome, with traditional pubs and local produce available. Castle Evenings : Back at Ballyportry, light the turf or log fire, play music, or enjoy a quiet evening of reading and conversation. Booking It's worth onoting that a minimum of three nights is required, and early booking is recommended. Autumn weekends are particularly popular. Additional details worth noting: Suitability : The narrow spiral staircase and tower layout make the castle less suitable for very young children or guests with mobility concerns. Food & Supplies : The castle has two well-equipped kitchens, but you may wish to stock up in advance. Some guests arrange for groceries to be delivered or for local catering to prepare a meal on the first night. Digital Detox : Wi-Fi and phone coverage can be limited, so it’s the perfect excuse to disconnect and enjoy the stillness. For more information and to book, visit discoverireland.ie .

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a cheesemaker? Or maybe you just want to sit back with a glorious cheese board and pretend you know your Brie from your Blue? Either way, Galway Cheese has something special for you! From a hands-on cheesemaking adventure to a relaxed "Cheese and Chats" tasting session, it's time to get up close and personal with some of Ireland’s finest cheeses. Cheese and Chats If you love cheese but prefer minimal effort, Cheese and Chats  is for you. You get your very own cheese board—loaded with Galway Cheese’s award-winning creations AND a surprise guest appearance from another top Irish cheese. It’s like a celebrity cameo, but edible. Oh, and did we mention you can bring your own wine or beer? That’s right—your favorite bottle and a pile of top-tier cheese. Absolute bliss. But it's not just about eating. Head Cheesemaker Larry will tell you all about cheese - you’ll learn what makes each cheese special, how it’s made, and why it tastes so good. Questions are highly encouraged, so feel free to ask Larry anything—from the science of cheese aging to whether he’s ever eaten an entire wheel in one sitting (no judgment here). Event Details Location:  The Cheese Shed  at Galway Cheese HQ Duration:  About 2 hours—just enough time to fall in love with cheese all over again Price:  €35 per person, but if you’re rolling with a smaller gang (less than 6 people), the minimum charge is €210 Capacity:  Up to 30 people—great for groups, terrible if you’re hoping to keep all the cheese to yourself Age Limit:  Strictly 18+—because cheese is serious business (and also, the wine) Private Bookings:  Want the whole cheese shed to yourself? Private events can be arranged! Perfect For ✔ Cheese lovers (duh) ✔ Wine and beer enthusiasts who appreciate a good pairing ✔ Hen parties that prefer Brie over bars ✔ Team-building events that don't involve awkward trust falls ✔ Reconnecting with friends and family (because nothing says love like sharing cheese) ✔ Anyone who believes cheese should have its own food group A Day with the Cheesemaker Now, for those of you who dream of rolling up your sleeves and actually making cheese—this is your moment. Galway Cheese’s A Day with the Cheesemaker  workshop is an all-day, hands-on dive into the art of cheesemaking. This isn’t a passive experience where you just nod along and pretend to understand pH levels—nope, you’re in the thick of it, stirring, cutting curds, and getting your hands delightfully dairy-covered. The day kicks off at 9.30am (yes, in the morning, but don’t worry—there’s tea, coffee, and homemade scones to wake you up). By 10am, you’ll be elbow-deep in the cheesemaking process, guided by Larry, who knows his way around a cheese vat better than most of us know our own kitchens. Around 1pm, there’s a well-earned break for a light lunch before you return to finish crafting your very own semi-soft or Tomme-style cheese. Now, here’s the best part: once your cheese has matured, Galway Cheese will ship you an entire wheel of the very cheese you made. That’s right—your own  cheese, made with your  own hands, to impress your friends and family. Event Details Location:  The official cheesemaking room at Galway Cheese HQ Duration:  Full day from 10am-4pm (with a lunch break at 1pm) Price:  €175 per person (maximum of 3 participants per session—so it’s a VIP cheese-making experience) Booking:  Can’t make the listed dates? Reach out to Galway Cheese and they might be able to sort you out Perfect For ✔ Cheese lovers who want to get hands-on ✔ Day-trippers looking for the ultimate Irish cheese experience ✔ Foodies who have a Pinterest board dedicated to cheese ✔ People who love to brag about making things from scratch Get Yourself to Galway Cheese! This is the ultimate experience for anyone who loves cheese—or just loves a good time! For more info or to book your spot, head over to   Galway Cheese’s official events page .

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 7th and Sunday the 9th of November across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from the Samhain Festival of Food & Culture in Meath to the Dublin Gallery Weekend and much, much more. Samhain Festival of Food & Culture, Meath - 06.11-09.11 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 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. Read more here. Cork International Film Festival, Cork - 06.11-16.11 Cork International Film Festival presents Ireland’s most exciting, diverse, and ambitious annual film festival, connecting and stimulating audiences and artists through a carefully curated selection of the best films, to create a unique shared cultural experience, rooted in Cork, open to the world. Read more here. Dublin Gallery Weekend, Dublin - 06.11-09.11 A citywide takeover of contemporary art with 60+ free events: exhibitions, studio tours, late openings, talks and pop-ups across 40 galleries and spaces. Read more here.

What better way to spend the festive season than in a castle? We’ve got two fantastic wintertime offers from Ballygally Castle and the Culloden Estate & Spa to get you in the Christmas spirit! Christmas at Ballygally Castle, Northern Ireland This festive season,  Ballygally Castle  is offering a wide selection of events and dining experiences for their guests. Christmas menus are carefully curated for festive get togethers and are available for Christmas and Boxing Day lunches. Available on Sundays throughout December, guests can enjoy buffet lunches with an extra special serving of Christmas magic at the  Santa Sunday Buffet Lunches  or indulge in the many festive afternoon tea offerings throughout the season. Additionally, guests have a chance to be creative and take part in a festive wreath making workshop, led by celebrity florist, David McConkey. For guests wishing to spend their holiday at the hotel, their  Christmastime Escapes packages are available on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing day, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy Christmas without any added stress. The hotel is one of the largest on the spectacular  Causeway Coastal Route . The castle dates back to 1625 and is unique in that it is the only 17th Century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland today. It is ideally situated near the Norman –  Carrickfergus Castle  and  Carnfunnock Country Park , a 191-hectare park located between Drains Bay and Ballygally perfectly suited for a stroll through the blooming flowers. Ballygally Castle offers Superior Rooms from €180 per night on a B&B basis. For more information on the Christmastime Escape packages visit: www.ballygallycastlehotel.com/christmas/christmas-breaks Christmas at Culloden Estate & Spa, Northern Ireland This Christmas,  Culloden Estate & Spa  invites guests to experience their festive events and dining experiences. To start the season, guests are invited to the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event held in the grounds of the estate beside the  Cultra Inn  where festivities can then continue with the  festive dining offer  available at their esteemed hotel restaurant,  Vespers . Available on Sundays throughout December, guests can savour the Christmas magic with the  Santa Sunday Lunches  or indulge in the numerous  festive afternoon tea offerings  throughout the season. On the first Sunday and Monday of December, guests have a chance to be creative and take part in a festive wreath making workshop, led by celebrity florist, David McConkey. This workshop caters to all skill levels, making it an enjoyable afternoon for all.  For those looking to spend their holidays at the hotel, the  Christmas Eve Palace Escape  (2 nights) is the perfect holiday retreat with an exciting itinerary on offer including carol singing, a 7-course tasting menu, a Christmas lunch and a Boxing Day breakfast. The five-star hotel stands on the forested slopes of the Holywood hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the glorious County Antrim coastline. Part of the  Hastings Hotels Group , the Culloden is the most prestigious luxury five-star hotel in Northern Ireland. Standing in twelve acres of beautiful secluded gardens and woodland. Suites at Culloden Estate & Spa https://www.cullodenestateandspa.com/ start from €940 per night and Garden Rooms from €320 per night, including breakfast. For more information on the Christmas offers visit: www.cullodenestateandspa.com/christmas

Pop the top, crank the radio, and settle in for movie magic on wheels - Retro Drive-In Movies treats you to Ireland’s ultimate open-air cinema experience! Giant LED screens, FM-radio sound blasting direct to your car stereo, and cinema under the Irish sky. Perfect for a family outing, romantic date night, or dog-friendly adventure, here's everything you need to know! What’s On at the Event Here’s everything you can enjoy at a drive-in screening: Blockbuster films in full HD, shown on mobile LED screens the size of two double-decker buses FM radio audio stream, where you can adjust volume in your car for perfect sound quality via Retro’s own radio station Street food stalls on site: burgers, pizzas, doughnuts, coffees, chips & dips and popcorn available to purchase Encore Drive-In Nights - concert films and music specials that recreate live-gig vibes in your car Bring your dog! Well-behaved, leashed pooches are very welcome Themed events and seasonal films, e.g. Christmas favourites like Home Alone , Elf , The Polar Express , plus cheeky picks like Die Hard Additional Information Events take place at Glenroe Farm in Wicklow. Shows typically run year-round, with summer pop-ups during select months. Schedule Highlights : Elf - December 6th Home Alone - December 6th Home Alone 2 - December 7th Love Actually - December 7th Ticketing & Entry : Online tickets only from RetroDriveIn.ie . Print or show email confirmation and bring ID if needed. Gates open about 40–55 minutes before showtime; free parking in allocated spots on a first-come, first-served basis Make sure your car stereo is in working order as it's essential for the FM audio feed. We also recommend arriving early to get the best spot. Staff will guide you into position so everyone has a clear view of the screen. Afterwards, stweards will help the cars queue efficiently, so you can expect to be back on the road within 8-10 minutes after the end credits roll. Pricing Family tickets generally around €30 – €31 per car, covering all passengers in your vehicle No alcohol permitted at screenings, keeping things family-friendly and straightforward Retro Drive-In Movies brings a nostalgic twist to modern entertainment, displaying big-screen blockbusters from the comfort and intimacy of your car. With family-friendly pricing, pet-friendly policies, seasonal themes and sometimes sing-along spectacles, it’s a truly immersive experience! Visit the official site Retro Drive-In Movies  for tantalising upcoming listings, tickets, and showtimes. Get ready for a car-cinema adventure you won't forget!

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!