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 .

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this Bank Holiday weekend, between Friday the 24th and Sunday the 27th of September across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from Oktoberfest Belfast to Pumpkins after Dark and much, much more. 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. Oktoberfest Belfast, Belfast - 25.09-25.10 Belfast is set to raise its steins high this autumn as Oktoberfest makes its long-awaited return to Custom House Square on 25th September 2025. Promising to be “back and bigger than ever,” the festival will transform the heart of the city into a lively Bavarian beer hall every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until 25th October. Read more here. 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. 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.

Every garden has its secrets, and on Halloween night, the shadows of Mount Congreve Gardens will come alive with Poison & Petals: A Halloween Garden Tour.  As dusk falls on Friday, 31 October 2025, visitors are invited to step off the familiar paths and into the darker side of nature. For sixty minutes, an expert guide will lead you through groves and glades where beauty conceals danger, where ancient folklore clings to twisted roots, and where poisonous plants tell stories far older than the walls of the estate. This is a walk that reveals the truth every gardener knows in their bones: not all that grows should be touched. Mount Congreve is celebrated around the world as a sanctuary of colour and splendour, but beneath its blossoms lies a heritage steeped in mystery. The gardens stretch across seventy acres of woodland, winding paths and many rare plants. While in spring and summer they are places of vibrancy and light, on All Hallows’ Eve their mood shifts. The same petals that once dazzled in daylight now hint at stories of superstition and folklore. Timed to begin at 17:33, as the last light fades, the tour promises an atmosphere heavy with suspense. Guests will need sturdy shoes and a readiness to walk into the gathering dark, guided only by stories and shadows. Tickets are €15 per adult for non-members and €10 for members and residents. Poison & Petals is not for the faint-hearted. This is an adults-only encounter with the untamed, unsettling side of the natural world, where the line between beauty and danger is as fine as the edge of a leaf. Booking is essential, and spaces are expected to fill quickly. Reserve your place now at www.mountcongreve.com

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. Get ready for a spellbinding Halloween midterm at Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny! From Saturday, 25th October to Sunday, 2nd November 2025, go on a magical journey where dinosaurs, wizards, and ghouls collide in a fun-filled, spooky ‘Wicked Walk’ adventure through the hotel’s renowned family attraction, Jurassic Newpark. On the walk, you’ll experience fun, thrills and chills as dinosaurs come back to life, ghouls appear around every corner, and magical moments await in the brand-new wizard’s sanctorium. This enchanting event is open to all, not just hotel guests, though those staying at the hotel get complimentary access. This Halloween, Jurassic Newpark is continuing last years addition – a world of wizardry where your young witches and wizards can brew potions, cast spells, and meet familiar magical characters. It’s an immersive experience that will leave little ones buzzing with excitement. The Jurassic Newpark Wicked Walk is packed with other spooky fun, including: Ghoulish Face Painting: Become your favourite spooky character. Terrific Treats Station: Decorate and devour your own chocolate apples. Halloween Fun & Games: Enjoy plenty of tricks and treats for the whole family. Beyond the Wicked Walk, families can: Explore the enchanted fairy trail, wildlife farm, and adventure playground. Embark on a dino dig to unearth hidden bones and fossils—but beware of cursed relics! Take a ride on the magical Newpark Express train. The entire park will be seasonally decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs, bats, and skeletons, offering an interactive Halloween experience for the whole family. Be sure to get into the ‘spirit’ by dressing up in a spooky costume or your favourite dinosaur outfit! With more of a spooky than scary feel, the Halloween festivities at The Newpark Hotel are suitable for children under the age of 11, and remember, this is an outdoor event so bring waterproof and warm clothes. Keep the family fueled all day and ‘trick-or-treat’ yourselves to spooky snacks from the Snack Shack. The fun at Jurassic Newpark doesn’t stop there! Burn off some energy at the air covered inflatable adventure park called Jurassic Bounce for only an additional cost of €3 per child (for 30 minute session). Plan Your Visit A day trip to Jurassic Newpark is a must this Halloween midterm. It’s a chance for families to enjoy a wickedly fun day out with plenty of activities and interactive experiences. Running from Saturday 25th October – Sunday 2nd November 2025, pre-book your visit online at jurassicnewpark.com. Tickets are limited, so be sure to secure your spot early! For tickets and more information, visit  www.jurassicnewpark.com  or follow on @JurassicNewpark social media to stay updated on the spooky fun

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. Discover a Magical Halloween Wonderland Explore a mesmerizing, one-kilometer illuminated pumpkin pathway filled with intricately carved sculptures and dazzling displays. Encounter classic Halloween characters, fairies, dragons, movie heroes, and beloved pop culture icons, all enhanced by immersive music, captivating sound effects, and mesmerizing visuals. Event Highlights Live Pumpkin Carving Demonstrations : Witness talented artists creating spectacular pumpkin art right before your eyes. Autumn Treats & Sweets : Indulge in delicious seasonal snacks and sweets that capture the spirit of Halloween. Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities : Capture unforgettable memories at our picturesque displays. Our Intern’s Experience Travel2Ireland’s intern, Aya, recently visited Pumpkins After Dark  and described it as “absolutely incredible.” From the moment she entered the trail at Newbridge House and Farm, she loved the artistry, atmosphere, and attention to detail. “It honestly felt like stepping into a Halloween fairytale,” Aya shared. “Every pumpkin was so carefully carved and lit, from the dragons to the fairies, you could tell how much love went into creating each display. The music and sound effects made it feel so immersive, and it was such a joy to see families and friends wandering around, just smiling and soaking it all in.” Her glowing review captures exactly what makes Pumpkins After Dark  a must-see! Food & Drinks Enjoy a delicious selection of food and drinks at Pumpkins After Dark, Ireland’s spectacular Halloween event at Newbridge House and Farm. Indulge in freshly made wood-fired pizza, BBQ favourites, and sweet treats including crêpes and ice cream – perfect for visitors of all ages. Warm up with freshly brewed coffee or tea, or unwind with a drink from our fully licensed bar offering a range of alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, the food and drink experience adds even more magic to your Pumpkins After Dark adventure. Event Dates Pumpkins After Dark will run on select dates from October 3rd to 31st, 2025 . Make Pumpkins After Dark your newest autumn tradition – book your tickets early and experience the magic! For any queries please email ireland@lanternevents.ca Event Accessibility Pumpkins After Dark is designed to be accessible for everyone. The event terrain includes paved pathways, grassy areas, and loose gravel with slight inclines and uneven surfaces. Wheelchair users may require assistance. Getting Here – Public Transport and Parking Getting to Pumpkins After Dark at Newbridge House and Farm is easy and convenient. We highly recommend using public transport, with several excellent options available. Public Transport The DART train to Donabate Station is the most direct route – just a 10-minute walk brings you to the event entrance.The Go-Ahead Ireland Bus 33B also stops directly outside Newbridge House, making it a hassle-free choice for families and groups Shuttle Bus – The Pumpkins Express Hop aboard The Pumpkins Express Shuttle , a convenient coach service running between Donabate Train Station and the event. Location: Donabate side of the Train Station, in the car park Cost: €1 per person (each way) Schedule: Continuous loop throughout the evening, departing as soon as full This is a great option for visitors arriving by train who prefer not to walk to the venue. Car Park If you’re arriving by car, limited on-site parking is available for €5 per vehicle .Please note that parking tickets must be pre-booked online – they will not be available at the gate.Booking in advance ensures smooth entry and helps avoid delays.

This October, Dublin Zoo invites you to a unique Halloween experience where the wild world meets wicked fun. Deep within the zoo grounds, their Haunted House is opening its creaky doors for an exclusive pumpkin-making workshop designed for the most adventurous young visitors. Let your little creatures get hands-on as they transform a humble pumpkin into a spooky work of art. They’ll leave with not only magical memories but also their very own fang-tastic creation to proudly display. Event details Dates: 25th, 26th & 27th October 2025 Times: 10.15am to 11.00am / 11.15am to 12.00am / 12.15m to 1.00pm / 1.15pm to 2.00pm Session length: 45 minutes Capacity: 20 kids per session Age restriction: the workshop is for children only and suitable for those aged 4yrs – 8yrs (decorating pumpkins) and 9yrs – 14yrs (carving pumpkins) All guests must pre-book a ticket to gain access to the event space, adult tickets include day entry (free of charge for annual pass holders). Due to the nature of the event children under 4yrs will not be able to participate. This event is part of Dublin Zoo's Junior Halloween workshop lineup, with events that are perfect for children aged 6-12 years and a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the animals at Dublin Zoo through fun and educational activities. Children encouraged to dress up in their Halloween costume! Read more about the workshops here.