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This Halloween, Mount Congreve Gardens in Waterford invites families to step into a realm of myth and magic with its brand-new Guardians of the Gardens: Interactive Dragon Trail, running from Friday, the 24th to Monday, the 27th of October. With final entry at 5 pm every day, this fully outdoor experience brings twelve giant animatronic dragons to life across the estate’s historic woodlands, lawns, and garden paths.  As the sun sets, Mount Congreve transforms into an atmospheric and immersive dragon realm: glowing eyes, smoke curling through the air, haunting roars, and lifelike movements greet visitors around every bend. Some creatures stand over five metres tall, towering above the trails to create spectacular photo opportunities.  Families will be armed with a Guardians’ Trail Map to guide them on a magical journey full of puzzles, mythical lore, and hidden secrets. The trail experience is designed to blend storytelling with exploration, combining interactive props and soundscapes that engage visitors of all ages.  In addition to the main trail, there are several optional spine-tingling extras. A Halloween Dragon Portrait upgrade allows guests to capture their adventure in a special portrait. For younger children, the Little Dragon’s Play Zone (1–3 years) provides toddler-specific playtime, and the Kids Dragon Bounce (4–11 years) gives older children a space to enjoy inflatables, explore, and play.  Admission for the dragon trail is priced at €17.50 per entrant. Optional extras include the toddler play zone, kids bounce zone and dragon portrait print.  Visitors are reminded that “Guardians of the Gardens” takes place entirely outdoors, so appropriate clothing for autumn weather is strongly recommended.  This event builds on Mount Congreve’s commitment to engaging family-friendly garden experiences and takes the estate’s storied landscapes into new imaginative territory. Tickets are available now, and visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their chosen time slot. For more information and booking details, visit www.mountcongreve.com

The Dingle Food Festival 2025 is serving up flavour, fun, and sustainability in the heart of Kerry this October 3rd–5th. Taking place from Friday 3rd to Sunday the 5th of October in Dingle County Kerry, food lovers are in for a treat as local food is celebrated at the hero of this year’s festival. Zero Waste will once again be a key driver of the 2025 Food Festival, as Dingle continues on its mission to be the first Irish “Zero Landfill Waste” festival. Showcasing the Flavours of the Peninsula Over the weekend the Bia Dingle Showcase, in the centre of the town, will highlight the local food of the Dingle Peninsula as festival goers can meet local producers and literally taste the peninsula! Festivities kick off Friday night with Ceiliúradh Bídh Chorca Dhuibhne. This ticketed event is a harvest celebration of the naturally produced food & drink from the Dingle Peninsula, intertwined with local music, song, food and drink to celebrate the food traditions of Corca Dhuibhne. Learn from Culinary Stars Masterclasses invite visitors to learn from the best! and include, Cork based Chef Takashi – who was awarded a prestigious Michelin Star in his first year after opening Ichigo Ichie, Asia Mahealani McDonagh, the first ever Irish Pâtisserie Champion and the owner of Mahealani Pastries in Galway and Dingles very own Peter White, founding member and former president of the Irish Whiskey Society. Sustainability at the Heart of the Festival The Dingle Food Festival, with the help of the local community sustainability group Transition Corca Dhuibhne, is continuing on its mission to be Zero-Waste to landfill. Festival goers are encouraged to bring their own bowl, cutlery and cup to help in the effort of reducing the huge waste that is being created by the festival. Rinse stations and waste segregation bins will be provided. There will be stainless steel bowls available to rent and return and also festival packs on sale consisting of a bamboo bowl and cutlery set. Taste trail and market outlets will only be serving food onto reusable tableware, with the main aim being to reduce the amount of disposable packaging over the weekend. Taste Trail of Festival Delights Highlights of this year’s festival include the much loved Taste Trail, where festival goers purchase a book of taste tickets and get to sample food delights throughout the picturesque town. Along with the numerous masterclasses and workshops, there will be over 70 market stalls, street entertainment, live music and kids activities… there really is something for everyone! Tickets for all masterclass and workshops can be purchased from dinglefood.com

There are walks that sharpen the senses and others that soften them; Ballybunion’s cliff path somehow manages both. Above the roar of the Atlantic, the trail heads past ancient stone, blowholes, and hidden coves. In September, when the summer rush loosens, it’s at its best. The Cliff Walk Ballybunion sits on County Kerry’s north coast, where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic. The cliff walk is a short, signposted loop that begins near Ballybunion Castle (the 16th-century ruin that watches over town). From there, it follows the clifftop above the town’s strands, traditionally called the Ladies’ and Men’s Beaches, before heading west toward blowholes and viewpoints over the iconic sea arch known as Virgin Rock and the secluded crescent of Nun’s Beach (best admired from above; access is typically restricted due to safety and erosion). Town info & seasonal updates: ballybunion.ie County overview & inspiration: discoverireland.ie/kerry Highlights along the way Ballybunion Castle:  Ruins of the town’s former tower house, used historically as a residence and coastal lookout. Ladies’ & Men’s Beaches:  Paired strands historically designated for men and women; today both are open to all, but the names remain. Views to Virgin Rock & Nun’s Beach:  Lookouts to Virgin Rock (a natural sea arch) and Nun’s Beach (a small cove beneath the cliffs) - access to the cove is typically restricted for safety. Birdlife:  Regular sightings include kittiwake, fulmar, gannet. The cliffs provide nesting/roosting habitat, with seasonal passage in early autumn. Distance & time:  Allow 45–75 minutes for the main loop, longer if you’re a stop-and-stare type (you will be). Paths are generally obvious but keep well back from edges in windy weather, and wear proper footwear, autumn grass can be slick after rain. A September wander We recommend going for golden hour, and building your day around the tide. Clifftop views are unaffected, but if you want to go barefoot on the main beach after your loop, a falling tide is best. Check the forecast first at met.ie . Make sure to pack windproof layers as early autumn can be a bit gusty, and definitely mind the margins - the signage and fences are there for a reason. The hike is dog-friendly, but make sure to keep your dogs on a short lead. . Practicalities Start/parking:  The simplest start is beside the castle/green above the Ladies’ Beach; there’s public parking in town within a short walk of the trailhead. Terrain:  A mix of paved path and compacted earth. After rain, expect puddles and slick grass. Facilities:  Toilets and food options are in town near the beach car parks; hours can be shorter midweek in September. Dogs:  Welcome on-lead . Cliffs, birds, and grazing animals make for unpredictable distractions. Make a day of it Loop Head Lighthouse (Clare):  Across the Shannon, but within striking distance if you combine with the Tarbert–Killimer ferry. Big skies, bigger horizons. Lighthouse info: loopheadlighthouse.ie Ferry timetables: shannonferries.com Listowel (15–20 minutes inland):  Bookish, market-town charm with a castle, cafés, and shops to browse if the weather turns. Surf lesson or sea dip:  Ballybunion is surf-mad. If conditions are good, you’ll find reputable schools operating year-round. September is a fabulous time to head on this walk, with fewer crowds and milder weather - head prepared but above all, enjoy the views!

What better way to embrace autumn than with a visit to a pumpkin patch? Perfect for families, friends, or even a solo stroll, pumpkin patches have become a beloved fall activity across Ireland. Whether you’re picking the perfect pumpkin for carving, enjoying a farm-fresh treat, or snapping that ideal Instagram shot, here’s your guide to the best pumpkin patches to visit this season. Joe’s Farm Crisps Pumpkin Patch – Killeagh, County Cork Cork’s favourite crisp producer, Joe’s Farm Crisps, goes all out for the pumpkin season. Set on their working farm, their pumpkin patch is a wonderful place to spend an autumn afternoon. Known for growing everything from potatoes to pumpkins, this family-run farm turns into a Halloween hotspot come October. Pick-your-own pumpkins, including a wide range of varieties (from large carving pumpkins to mini gourds)   Tractor rides around the farm   A chance to learn how Joe’s Farm Crisps are made (and sample some tasty crisps while you’re at it!)   A pumpkin-themed photo area—great for capturing those picture-perfect autumn moments   Hot drinks and locally made snacks available at the farm’s café Open from mid-October 2024, Joe’s Farm Crisps Pumpkin Patch is located at Mount Uniacke, Killeagh, Co. Cork. Entry is approximately €6 per person, and pumpkins are priced based on size. Streamvale Open Farm Pumpkin Patch – Belfast Streamvale Open Farm, just outside Belfast, offers a magical experience with its pumpkin patch, from picking pumpkins to petting farm animals. This farm has become a go-to for families looking to create unforgettable memories in the lead-up to Halloween. A huge selection of pumpkins to choose from   Pumpkin carving stations on-site, so you can leave the mess behind!   Tractor rides through the farm’s beautiful fields   Petting zoo, where you can meet everything from baby chicks to cuddly bunnies   Special Halloween events, including haunted hayrides and spooky storytelling Streamvale Farm’s pumpkin patch is open from the first week of October until Halloween. You’ll find them at 38 Ballyhanwood Road, Belfast, BT5 7SN. Entry costs £7–£10, with additional charges for the Halloween-themed activities. Pumpkins are priced separately. Clonfert Pet Farm Pumpkin Patch – Kildare Clonfert Pet Farm, located in Kildare, is one of Ireland’s best gems when it comes to Halloween fun. Their annual pumpkin patch has become a favourite for locals and visitors, perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable day out for all ages. Beyond pumpkins, Clonfert Pet Farm is home to a variety of animals, making it a fantastic destination for families. A large pumpkin field with plenty of choice! Face painting and pumpkin carving stations   Bouncy castles and an outdoor play area for children   A petting zoo, with friendly animals ranging from llamas to miniature horses   Seasonal snacks and hot drinks available at their farm café Clonfert Pet Farm, located near Maynooth, Co. Kildare, is open for pumpkin picking from early October 2024. Tickets are priced at €7 per person, and pumpkins are sold separately. Kids’ activities may have additional costs. K2Alpacas Pumpkin Patch – County Wicklow A truly unique Halloween experience awaits you at K2Alpacas in County Wicklow, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin while hanging out with friendly alpacas! This farm has fully embraced the pumpkin craze, and accompanied by a whole bunch of alpacas, it’s a great place for a family day out! A pumpkin patch with a wide selection of pumpkins for carving or cooking   Guided walks with alpacas through the farm’s beautiful fields   Alpaca petting and feeding experiences   A small farm shop selling alpaca-themed gifts and seasonal treats   Warm beverages and snacks to enjoy as you take in the autumnal views K2Alpacas, located in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, is open for pumpkin picking throughout October. Entry prices vary but typically range from €10–€12 per person, which includes the alpaca experience. Pumpkins are an additional cost. Make sure to plan ahead, as these spots can fill up fast during peak weekends—and don’t forget to check the official websites for ticket info, opening dates, and additional details.

The 2025 Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival is set to be the best one yet, with a fantastic array of food, drink, music and community events – there’s sure to be something for everyone. This year, the ever-popular festival will run from Friday 3rd October through to Sunday 5th October, continuing to embrace local heritage, while underlining the Borough’s reputation as a food and drink destination of outstanding quality. Visitors can look forward to sampling some of the best artisan produce the Borough has to offer with the annual festival hosted in the heart of the charming village of Bushmills. This year will see an array of salmon & whiskey products on offer across the long weekend, with visitors having opportunities to sample products alongside live cookery demonstrations from social media sensation The Hungry Hooker and celebrity chef Suzie-Lee! Visitors will experience the warm hospitality Bushmills has to offer, with a side serving of whiskey - if you enjoy ‘a wee dram’ as the festival continues to provide a platform for exciting food and drink producers in the local area and beyond. On Friday 3rd October, diners will have a choice of delicious menus, brought to you by three of the village’s top restaurants. The popular Bushmills ‘Supper Club’ experience is designed to captivate the taste buds, with delicious drinks and sumptuous dishes created collaboratively by Tartine and renowned Slemish Market Chef Rob Curley. The Bistro at the Courthouse have very special evening planned to start the festivities (pre booking advised). The bespoke menu will focus on food and drink produce from the Causeway Coast and Glens. As a special treat, local storyteller Colin Irwin will entertain with tidbits about whiskey between courses, and musician Anna Brolly will be singing for the guests. The Bushmills Inn will also be showcasing their ‘Innkeepers Menu’ – a 3-course dinner with the dishes inspired by salmon & whiskey, with the option to add on their specially crafted festival cocktail or a Bushmills Whiskey Flight. On Saturday 4th October, Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market will set up in the side car park near Therapy Style with street food and craft stalls. They will also host ‘Meet the Maker’ sessions held in Bushmills VIC from 11am - 4pm. While on Sunday 5th October, the full market also moves onto main street, as the village closes to traffic and becomes a hub of activity set against a backdrop of live music adding to the festival atmosphere. The world-famous Bushmills Distillery will be open all weekend, hosting tours and whiskey tasting. Enjoy a walking tour through the working core of the world’s oldest licensed distillery, then taste for yourself the culmination of more than 400 years of expertise and innovation. The popular ‘Whiskey Hub’ returns to Main Street Carpark on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October. On Saturday, a newly added feature of the Whiskey Hub for 2025 invites visitors to hear about the history of Bushmills Distillery, the oldest whiskey distillery in the world, along with the chance to see products made from old whiskey barrels. For whiskey enthusiasts who would love to sample a wee dram, on Sunday, distillers from across the island of Ireland will offer visitors a chance to sample a range of exciting and interesting blends of whiskeys. Over the three days, Council’s VIC team will showcase a selection of products recently awarded ‘Food & Drink Producer Award Winners of 2025’ from 10am – 5pm daily, including opportunities to sample some for yourself! For those of you with green fingers, The Community Garden will host various activities throughout the day in conjunction with Council’s Biodiversity Officer. Tartine’s Salmon and Chowder Shack will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 11am – 5pm. Serving award winning seafood chowder and delicious Salmon bites. Ewings famous smoked salmon will also be available to purchase. ‘The Crumble Cart’ at Tartine will serve warm apple crumble made with local apples and served with whiskey custard to go. The recently restored Courthouse Shared Space Creative Hub, Bushmills, will present an interesting and varied programme of events across the weekend, welcoming visitors to see its historic transformation into a shared space and creative hub for the community. In the Bistro, talented local chefs and producers will also be demonstrating how to use salmon, whiskey and accompanying products to elevate and enhance meals at home. Come along and get a tip or two! A fantastic programme of live music and entertainment will be available across the village all weekend, with lots of fun activities for the kids. On Sunday, Millennium Park will have a host of fishing activities for both young and old, experienced or novice, such as fly casting and fly tying. Come and have a go, see if you can hook something! There will also be quiet time sessions for individuals with additional needs on Sunday from 11am – 12noon. For those interested in the history of the village, the Inland Fisheries Salmon Station will return for 2025 opening on Friday and Saturday for pre-booked tours. To book your place visit: https://bit.ly/3IfLLGs . Local resident Antony Macnaghten invites visitors to join his Heritage Walking Tour on Friday and Saturday from 1pm & 3pm. (booking via Bushmills VIC). For more information and for the full event programme visit: www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com

It's time for our weekend roundup! Here's what's on this weekend, between Friday the 19th and Sunday the 21st of September across Ireland. We've got a great lineup of things to do, from the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to Culture Night and much, much more. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Lisdoonvarna - 1.09-30.09 Europe's biggest singles festival takes place every September in the small village of Lisdoonvarna on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. The month-long Irish festival attracts people from all over the world looking for Love, fun and a bit of 'craic'. The festival is over 165 years old and couldn't be more different from online dating services. Read more here. Culture Night, All across Ireland - 19.09 Culture Night (Oíche Chultúir) is Ireland’s biggest evening of free arts and culture, and it’s back on Friday, 19 September 2025 . For one night only, hundreds of museums, theatres, galleries, libraries, studios, historic houses, and cultural institutions across the country will open their doors late, inviting the public inside at no cost. Read more here. Clifden Arts Festival, Galway - 17.09-28.09 The longest-running community arts festival in Ireland, Clifden Community Arts Festival, now heading into its 48th year, will take place from September 17-28 and yet again promises to have something to excite everyone in the 2025 programme. Read more here. Vantastival, Drogheda - 19.09-21.09 Vantastival rolls back into Louth this weekend with three days of live music, campervan culture, and family-friendly fun. Alongside a stellar Irish line-up, including Susan O’Neill, Junior Brother, and Gemma Hayes, festivalgoers can expect food stalls, craft workshops, and plenty of space for families to enjoy. A celebration of creativity on wheels, it’s one of Ireland’s quirkiest late-summer festivals. Read more here.

Waterford has officially gone to the dogs – in the very best way. The county has unveiled its brand-new Pawsport , an imaginative stamp-collecting travel guide celebrating the region’s most dog-friendly destinations. Designed for four-legged adventurers and their humans, it’s an invitation to explore Ireland’s oldest city and its stunning countryside, taking in scenic walks, heritage attractions, delicious dining spots, and welcoming accommodation – all with tails wagging. From sandy paws on wide Atlantic beaches to cosy cafés where dogs are treated like family, the Pawsport is filled with pup-approved stops. Simply pick up your guide, set off to the featured locations, and collect stamps along the way – the ulti-mutt keepsake for every canine explorer. Outdoor Adventures & Trails Adventures begin on the celebrated Waterford Greenway, a 46-kilometre traffic-free trail stretching from the Viking City through Mount Congreve Gardens, Kilmacthomas and onwards to Dungarvan. This historic route crosses eleven bridges, three viaducts, and even a 400-metre tunnel, with sweeping views of the Comeragh Mountains and Dungarvan Bay. Nearby Bunmahon offers a warm welcome at the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark café or The Engine House Pub and Café, where local produce pairs perfectly with a dog by your side. Closer to the city, the Anne Valley Walk offers a peaceful woodland path just outside the city, and the Copper Coast’s dramatic cliffs and coves are perfect for brisk coastal strolls. Those seeking manicured beauty can wander the Lismore Castle Gardens or the lush wetlands walk at Mount Congreve Gardens. Even in the heart of the city, the leafy lanes of the People’s Park provide a green retreat where dogs on leads are welcome. Heritage & Unique Experiences Heritage lovers can step back in time aboard the Waterford Suir Valley Railway, a scenic heritage train from Kilmeaden to Bilberry where leashed dogs enjoy riverside views, historic lime kilns, and castle ruins. On the water, Southeast Charters and Osprey Viking Tours offer dog-friendly voyages along the River Suir, while the Epic Walking Tour brings paws and people together on a guided journey through Waterford’s medieval streets. Dog-Friendly Dining When it’s time to refuel, Waterford’s dog-friendly dining scene is brimming with flavour. The Cliff House Hotel pairs fine dining with sweeping sea views, or 360 Cookhouse in Dungarvan is a favourite stop for Greenway explorers. In the city, the Stableyard Foodhall serves artisan delights with a side of canine hospitality. In picturesque Dunmore East, the Splash Cafe at Dunmore Adventure Centre overlooking all the harbour activities is dog-friendly with an elevated outdoor deck to enjoy a vista of the nearby coves; ideal for dog owners; inside, you’ll also spot a Polaroid gallery wall of all doggie visitors.  Pet-Friendly Stays  After a day of exploring, there’s no shortage of pet-friendly places to stay. Ardmore Glamping Pods and countryside-chic Comeragh Pods offer cosy, under-the-stars escapes. The Mount Congreve Garden Lodges provide luxury self-catering right beside the famous gardens, with one lodge featuring its own dedicated dog room for four-legged VIPs. Waterford Castle Lodges, Faithlegg House Hotel, and The Park Hotel Dungarvan also extend a warm welcome to canine guests, many for a small additional charge. Your Ticket to Tail-Wagging Fun Whether it’s chasing waves, uncovering history, or curling up somewhere cosy, the Waterford Pawsport ensures every dog has its day. Collect stamps from participating attractions, trails, and eateries to create a unique memento of your shared adventures. Get your paws on one today and start exploring the region’s most pup-friendly experiences. Pick up your Pawsport at the Waterford Tourism Office at Bishop’s Palace or at any participating location; for more information and to plan your paw-fect getaway, visitwaterford.com .

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 . Oktoberfest Belfast has long been a seasonal favourite, combining the best of German tradition with Northern Ireland’s warm hospitality. Guests can look forward to long tables, flowing steins of authentic German beer, hearty Bavarian cuisine, and plenty of atmosphere. From bratwurst to pretzels, schnitzels to sauerkraut, it’s a feast as much as it is a party. The festival also boasts a programme of live music and entertainment  throughout its run. The full line-up of performers is set to be announced closer to the opening date. Tickets and Entry Entry to Oktoberfest Belfast is straightforward – there’s no need to pre-book , as tickets are purchased on arrival. General admission is £10/ €12 , while students enjoy free entry on Thursdays  with a valid Student ID. If you’re keen on free admission, don your Lederhosen or Dirndl (Heidi dress)  – traditional Bavarian attire is rewarded with free entry at the door. Opening Hours Thursdays & Fridays:  5pm – 11:30pm Saturdays:  3pm – 11:30pm With a month-long celebration of German beer, music, and food, Oktoberfest Belfast 2025 is shaping up to be one of the city’s most exciting autumn highlights. For more information, visit oktoberfestbelfast.com.

When it comes to exploring Dublin, location is everything. Stay at The Trinity City Hotel   and you’ll find yourself perfectly placed between the city’s historic heart and its most exciting streets. With cultural landmarks, nightlife, and shopping just a short walk away, this is a base that makes every visit effortless. Trinity College – 6 minutes’ walk Step outside The Trinity City Hotel  and within six minutes you can be standing inside the grounds of Trinity College , Dublin’s most famous university. Founded in 1592, the campus is a living piece of the city’s history, with stunning classical architecture and cobbled squares. At its heart lies the Book of Kells , a ninth-century illuminated manuscript that draws visitors from around the world. The intricate artwork of this medieval masterpiece offers a rare look into Ireland’s monastic past. Just upstairs, the Long Room library  stretches nearly 65 metres, lined with oak shelves and more than 200,000 of the library’s oldest books.  For many, Trinity College is the perfect first chapter in discovering Dublin, and from The Trinity City Hotel, it’s practically on your doorstep. Temple Bar – 10 minutes’ walk From the hotel it’s just a ten-minute stroll to Temple Bar , where narrow cobblestone streets give way to galleries, independent shops, and the city’s liveliest pubs. By day, the quarter is alive with markets and performers; by night, it becomes Dublin’s epicentre of music and conversation. And when the party winds down, the comfort of The Trinity City Hotel  is just a short walk away, perfectly placed for a restful night’s sleep. Grafton Street – 12 minutes’ walk For shopping, The Trinity City Hotel is just twelve minutes on foot from Grafton Street . Dublin’s premier shopping district combines international names with Irish boutiques, with performers lining the street. At the southern end, you’ll find the St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, beautifully Victorian in design with lots of unique stores and places to eat. St Stephen’s Green – 12 minutes’ walk In the opposite direction, just beyond Grafton Street , lies St Stephen’s Green , Dublin’s most famous park. A 12-minute walk from the hotel, this Victorian garden is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Winding paths lead past fountains, sculptures, and colourful flowerbeds, while benches invite you to pause and watch Dublin unfold around you. It’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors - to drink coffee, enjoy a walk, feed the ducks or just take a break between shopping and sightseeing. Plus, with its proximity to The Trinity City Hotel - who could resist a visit? The Spire & O’Connell Street – 15 minutes’ walk Head north from The Trinity City Hotel  and within fifteen minutes you’ll reach O’Connell Street , Dublin’s boulevard lined with monuments, shops, and history. Rising from its centre is The Spire , a 120-metre stainless steel needle that has become one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. Sleek and modern, it stands close to and in contrast of the historic General Post Office, a building forever tied to the story of Ireland’s independence, where gunshot holes from the 1916 Rising are still visible on its walls.  Your Stay Staying at The Trinity City Hotel  places you within walking distance of Dublin’s most recognisable landmarks and experiences. In less than a quarter of an hour, you can move from Trinity College to Temple Bar, from the shopfronts of Grafton Street to St Stephen’s Green, or further north to O’Connell Street and the Spire. It is this balance, between history and modernity, energy and calm, that defines the hotel’s setting. The central location does more than shorten walking times; it allows guests to experience Dublin as it unfolds. Mornings can begin with coffee in the park or a visit to the Long Room, afternoons with shopping or galleries, and evenings with music and conversation just across the river. At the end of it all, returning to The Trinity City Hotel feels as though the city continues through its doors. Current Offers The Trinity City Hotel currently has some incredible deals to help you get the most out of your central Dublin stay: be sure to book direct to enjoy that glass of Prosecco on arrival! Embrace Autumn & Save 20% This incredible offer includes overnight accommodation with their best available rate at a 20% discount and access to the Trinty College Fitness Centre’s gym and pool facilities only three minutes away, which boasts a 25-metre pool and gym! Offer can be booked up to 7 days before the date of arrival. No cancellation or change of date allowed. Don’t miss out - book here ! For business or leisure, first-time visitors or those returning to familiar streets, the hotel’s position in Dublin 2 ensures every stay is shaped by the best of the city, placed quite literally at your feet.

With the autumn's darker evenings setting the scene, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is inviting guests to step into a world of intrigue, deception and indulgence. The brand new afternoon tea experience, Betrayal at the Castle, inspired by the popular programme, takes place in one of the hotel’s most atmospheric and storied spaces, the perfect setting to share secrets, sip cocktails, and uncover plots. Running every Saturday throughout October, this unique experience blends the elegance of a classic afternoon tea with the suspense of a thrilling mystery. Guests will enjoy a carefully crafted menu with playful, themed names such as The Poisoned Tart and Truth Serum Cocktails , while attempting to solve riddles and decode clues, all while sitting amongst the (potentially) deceitful.  Nestled in the heart of south Dublin, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1740. With its historic interiors, candlelit corners, and timeless charm, the hotel sets the perfect scene for an afternoon of secrets and suspense. With waiters in cloaks, a dedicated photo station complete with robes and a themed backdrop, Betrayal at the Castle promises picture-perfect moments, cryptic riddles, and plenty of twists along the way - just keep an eye on who’s really telling the truth. Commenting on the launch, Co-Directors of Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Mark and Joseph Scott-Lennon said: “We are always looking for new ways to surprise and delight our guests. Betrayal at the Castle brings together two things people love: a great mystery and great food. The hotel’s atmosphere is unlike anywhere else - think candlelit charm, a sense of old world drama and more which makes it the perfect setting to lose yourself in a little intrigue this autumn.” Priced at €35 per person, with themed cocktails available at an additional cost, whether you are a Traitors fan or a sleuth at heart, this is an experience not to be missed. To book the Betrayal at the Castle Experience, contact info@fitzpatrickcastle.com or call (01) 230 5400

Next week, Ireland raises a glass to one of its most iconic sons: Arthur Guinness! Born in County Kildare in 1725, the brewer behind the black pint would be celebrating his 300th birthday on the 24th of September, a fine excuse, if ever one were needed, to savour a properly poured pint and trace the story that began along the Liffey and changed the taste of Dublin forever.  And if you can’t be there in person, there’s a wonderfully Irish workaround. The Kildare Amateur Radio Club invites anyone who cannot visit Arthur’s birthplace to meet them on the airwaves. To mark the tercentenary, the club will activate special event station EI0K  across various HF bands from 19–21 September 2025 , issuing commemorative QSL cards and inviting contacts from around the world. The Classic Toast - Have the Pint! If you’re celebrating in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse  remains the definitive stage for the birthday toast. Over seven floors, you’ll walk through the grain-to-glass story before emerging in the Gravity Bar with a sweep of city skyline and a pint included in standard admission. Pre-booking is essential at this time of year.  Prefer something a little different? The nearby Open Gate Brewery  is the brand’s experimental taproom with small-batch pours and limited releases. Follow in Arthur’s footsteps in Kildare To really root the celebration in place, head west for Arthur’s Way , a gentle 16 km  heritage trail that links Arthur’s childhood in Celbridge with his early brewing in Leixlip and, finally, his resting place at Oughterard. It’s a nice walk beside canal and village. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the statue of Arthur in Celbridge - an unmissable nod to the town’s most famous son and a neat photo-op to mark the 300th! Can’t get to Dublin or Kildare? Meet the Kildare Amateur Radio Club on the Airwaves! If this birthday finds you beyond Ireland’s shores - or simply beyond the pub - the Kildare Amateur Radio Club  has made space for you, literally, on the air with a special event station EI0K  live from the 19th-21st of September . During the event, club members will operate on various HF bands, inviting amateur radio enthusiasts from around the world to connect, exchange greetings, and join in recognising one of Ireland’s most iconic figures. Special QSL cards will be issued to participating stations, making the celebration an engaging experience for both operators and collectors, and strengthening the sense of community in the global amateur radio network. For more information on the event, visit kildarearc.com. Celebrate Arthur Guinness’s 300th birthday in every way that suits you - raise a pint at the Guinness Storehouse or Open Gate Brewery, wander the heritage trail of Arthur’s Way in Kildare, or join the Kildare Amateur Radio Club as they bring the celebration to the airwaves.  From local to global, a toast, a walk, or a call on the air connects everyone to the legacy of Ireland’s most famous brewer. Sláinte to a life that continues to inspire celebration, creativity, and connection.

The countdown is on for one of Ireland’s most exciting music gatherings as the Limerick Jazz Festival returns from Wednesday 24th to Sunday 28th September 2025 . Now in its fourteenth year, the festival continues to bring the very best of Irish and international talent to the city, filling venues with rhythm, melody, and improvisation. This year’s programme is notable for its strong focus on the voice, with an impressive line-up of singers headlining the bill. At the Belltable, renowned UK vocalist Ian Shaw will present When Bowie Met Joni: The Songs of David Bowie and Joni Mitchell , a performance that promises both nostalgia and reinvention. Also from the UK, Brigitte Beraha will appear at the People’s Museum of Limerick, joined by acclaimed guitarist Ant Law for an intimate evening of music. Closer to home, Dolan’s Pub will host an exciting series of concerts featuring Irish singers including Deborah Swiney (Memphis), long-time festival friend Nigel Mooney , Emilie Conway , and Dublin’s Cormac Kenevey . Instrumental jazz is equally well represented. Audiences can look forward to the high-energy fusion of Magical Dog , the return of the award-winning Julian Siegel Quartet from the UK, and the first Irish appearance by Greek vibraphonist Dimitris Angelakis and his quartet. A particularly special moment will be the homecoming of Rory Conneally , the teenage pianist who captured national attention last year when he won the 2024 Young Irish Jazz Musician competition at the University Concert Hall in UL. Alongside the main stage events, the festival will once again bring music into the heart of the city with its Jazz Trail , a series of free performances in venues including Steamboat Music and the George and Savoy Hotels. These pop-up gigs are a festival favourite, offering a chance for audiences to experience world-class jazz in more informal settings. Reflecting on this year’s programme, John Daly, Chair of Limerick Jazz Society , said: “We are delighted to announce a really wonderful programme for our 14th Limerick Jazz Festival. With fringe events popping up in even more venues across the city, we're reaching out to every music lover. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Arts Council and Limerick City and County Council for making this possible.” With an eclectic mix of headline concerts, free community events, and performances by both emerging and established talent, Limerick Jazz Festival 2025 is set to be a highlight of the cultural calendar. For full details and tickets, visit www.limerickjazz.com .