Ireland Holiday Planner 2010 by Bookletia

Holiday Planner 2010 Giant’s Causeway Walled City of Londonderry Derry Stroll around Slieve League Fermanagh Lakes

Indulge in homemade scones Royal Portrush Golf Club Armagh Planetarium

St Patrick’s Centre Walk in the Mountains of Mourne

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Lough Rynn Castle Enjoy the music in Galway Be inspired at Glendalough The Burren

Marvel at the views from the Cliffs of Moher

Relive a medieval banquet at Bunratty

Explore Rock of Cashel

Waterford Crystal

Relax on Tramore beach

Explore the Lakes of Killarney

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Browse Cork’s English Market

Visit discoverireland.com or call 0800 039 7000

DRIVE TO IRELAND FOR LESS. Low fares and a hassle free check in. Take the car, as much luggage as you like and travel to Dublin in as little as 1 hour and 49 minutes. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy going. Welcome aboard.

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Welcome to the island of Ireland! The island of Ireland is as much about the journey as it is about your final destination. Give your official itinerary the backseat for a while, and go with the flow of the people you meet and the places you visit, for a holiday you’ll remember long after you head home. Always at the ready with a smile and a tale to spin, the people of the island of Ireland will charm you with the warmth of their welcome and their unrivalled wit. Discover the magic of the land that greets you, rest assured that your holiday will be filled with craic (good fun) and adventure. Take heed of the locals’ recommendations, follow their unique train of thought, and discover exciting cities steeped in history and heritage, before venturing into the countryside for a taste of rural life. Explore quaint country villages, stroll across golden sands and rocky shorelines, and hike around lush green valleys, mountain peaks and glistening lakelands, before nestling down in the local pub for evenings filled with music, dance and the ancient art of conversation. People on the island of Ireland love to celebrate, so meandering your way to any one of our hundreds of events and festivals will make your voyage of discovery even more special. Add to this, incredible restaurants, cafés and pubs that serve up locally-sourced great food or shopping for cutting-edge fashion or traditional crafts, and you’ll have set the tone for the perfect holiday. Experience it all at your leisure – the island of Ireland offers an enriching, memorable experience. We invite you to go where Ireland takes you, picking up tips and suggestions from the local experts; after all, you will never get lost – you will just be on Irish time!

Niall Gibbons Chief Executive, Tourism Ireland

Contents Cities

Facts

Dublin

Belfast

Regions

General Information and Key Travel Facts

Travelling to Ireland by Air

Travelling to Ireland by Sea

Travelling Around Ireland

Northern Ireland

Things to See and Do

The West

Festivals and Events

The East

Where to Stay

The Lakelands

UK Tour Operators

Features

Map of Ireland

The Castles of Ireland

Gourmet Ireland

Following in your Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Footsteps

Inside Back Cover

CONTACT DETAILS Tel: 0800 039 7000

Web: www.discoverireland.com

Tourism Ireland is the marketing body for the island of Ireland, covering the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Tourism Ireland and its agents cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors and omissions but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Images used in this publication are sourced from the image banks of Tourism Ireland, Ashford Castle, FĂĄilte Ireland, Getty, iStockphoto, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Scenic Ireland, Stockbyte, Waterford Spraoi Festival, Chris Close, James Fennell, Tony Pleavin, Jonathan Hession, Chris Hill, Steffan Hill, Eoghan Kavanagh, Holger Leue, Gareth McCormack, Brian Morrison, Nutan, John Redmond and Geray Sweeney. Copy and design by Ashville Media Group.

Paper used in this publication is sourced from managed forests. When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

The Dark Hedges, Co. Antrim

Dublin

Centuries of rich history and a lively culture make Dublin, Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital city, a treat for any visitor. 6

Dublin

estled where the River Liffey feeds into the Irish Sea, Dublin has long been the cultural, economic and political heart of Ireland. With a rich past and a vibrant present, the city’s streets all lead to intriguing historical curiosities; Georgian Squares sit alongside contemporary buildings and trendy must-try restaurants blend with authentic pubs brimming with a distinctive atmosphere. The unique atmosphere and character of Dublin was recently heralded in a 2009 survey by Tripadvisor.com. Travellers overwhelmingly hailed Dubliners as the friendliest city-dwellers in Europe, and any conversation with locals will prove that true. Going out at night in the city centre is the best way to really appreciate the great atmosphere and the craic (good fun) that’s on offer.

Lunch at The Winding Stair Restaurant and Bookshop, Dublin

Bus tours are a great way to see a city and Dublin has some great tours to help you get your bearings. As an alternative, experience the real

● DUBLIN

heart of the city by spending a day meandering the streets, shopping for souvenirs, enjoying the street performers or taking a rest and an ice-cream by the lake in St Stephen’s Green. Ireland’s tradition of being a nation of scholars goes back over a thousand years and Dublin has nurtured many of Ireland’s most famous writers – George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde and James Joyce to name but a few. There is even a Bloomsday Festival in June to celebrate ‘Ulysses’, James Joyce’s famous work. A trip around literary Dublin to the birthplaces of these writers and a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum is an exploration of this unique aspect of Irish history. A visit to Dublin isn’t complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, a stroll around Trinity College or a drink in Temple Bar. But whatever you decide to do on your visit, make Dublin your own.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Dublin. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Dublin and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/dublin

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DUBLIN THINGS TO SEE AND DO

TRINITY COLLEGE & THE BOOK OF KELLS

Founded by Queen Elizabeth I of England in 1592, Trinity College has a rich academic tradition, beautiful buildings and a fascinating history. You can take a guided tour of the college which includes Trinity’s breathtaking Long Room – the main chamber of the Old Library which houses around 200,000 of the college’s oldest books. The ‘Book of Kells’, one of the most beautiful medieval Christian manuscripts ever produced, is on permanent exhibition in the college which also contains the ‘Book of Armagh’ and the ‘Book of Durrow’.

NATIONAL GALLERY OF IRELAND Situated off Merrion

Square, the National Gallery of Ireland is a treasure trove of beautiful paintings by Irish and international artists. Works from Carravagio’s ‘The Taking of Christ’ to modern masterpieces by Jack B. Yeats, Paul Henry and Louis le Brocquy are housed in exquisite surroundings, with free guided tours available. A packed calendar of fascinating exhibitions ensures that every visit has something new.

KILMAINHAM GAOL

Built in 1796, it is one of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe and gives an amazing glimpse into Ireland’s political history. Take a guided tour and discover the story of the heroic and tragic events in Ireland’s emergence as a modern nation from 1780s to the 1920s. There is a permanent exhibition in the gaol explaining the penal history and the prison’s restoration and other exhibitions are run throughout the year.

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE

It’s little wonder that the ‘black stuff’ has been an important part of Dublin life since Arthur Guinness founded his brewery at St James’s Gate in 1759. You can celebrate over 250 years of Guinness by visiting the Guinness Storehouse, discovering how it’s made, its history, learning how to pull the perfect pint, and even enjoying a pint while overlooking the city’s skyline in the unique Gravity Bar.

The historic Kilmainham Gaol

Did you know? Bloomsday Festival takes place on June 16th every year celebrating the work of James Joyce. Entertainment includes a series of talks, readings, walking tours and exhibitions. Georgian costume is optional!

DINE IN DUBLIN’S RESTAURANTS Dublin City

has a cosmopolitan and tantalising range of restaurants to tickle the fancy of visitors’ taste buds. From the rich delicacies of ‘Michelin starred’ restaurants, such as Derry Clarke’s ‘L’Ecrivain’ and Ross Lewis’ ‘Chapter One’ where a modern twist is given to traditional recipes, to gourmet bites at bistros

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and cafés. Dublin restaurants have much to offer all tastes and budgets.

PHOENIX PARK & DUBLIN ZOO The largest

enclosed urban park in Europe, Phoenix Park is a delightful spot to spend a relaxing day or take the kids for an adventure. Striking monuments from the Wellington Testimonial to the Papal Cross create a great backdrop for sports or a picnic, while the visitor centre at Ashtown Castle sheds light on the history and the wildlife of the park. Phoenix Park is home to Dublin Zoo, which opened in 1830 and is the oldest city zoo in the world.

WALKING TOURS From a

trek around Dublin’s historical and cultural sites to an enjoyable literary pub crawl, a walking tour will highlight the city’s best assets: the charm of Dubliners and the veritable goldmine of stories and revelations found on every street. A visit to any of Dublin’s tourist ofﬁces will give you all the information on the various walking tours available, including ‘iWalks’.

Meet Neil

ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL This celebration sparks a party among Irish communities around the world, and St Patrick’s Day in Ireland doesn’t disappoint. Dublin hosts a fantastic ﬁve-day St Patrick’s Festival from March 12th to 17th. The 2010 festival will include a funfair at Merrion Square, the spectacular annual parade and lots of fun events.

ENJOY DUBLIN PUBS It’s with good reason that

Irish pubs are popular the world over: their easygoing craic (good fun) and banter can’t be beaten, particularly in the truly authentic establishments of the capital – Keogh’s of South Anne Street or the Dawson Lounge, Ireland’s smallest pub. For an extra treat, steer towards the pubs where traditional Irish music is played. Many pubs in Temple Bar, Dublin’s cultural quarter, offer a great Dublin pub experience, particularly the Foggy Dew and the Porterhouse.

“Everyone seemed to know each other and before we knew it, we knew everyone too!”

CROKE PARK

Sample some real Irish culture on your visit by attending a hurling, camogie, or gaelic football match at Croke Park, Ireland’s national stadium for gaelic games. The magniﬁcent 82,300 seater stadium has an amazing atmosphere on match day. The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) Museum in Croke Park takes you on a fascinating tour of the GAA and its enormous contribution to Irish sporting, cultural and social life since its foundation in 1884.

Neil, who was born and reared in Dublin, has never strayed far from his roots and loves the atmosphere of his native city. Sometimes the most “ perfect weekend in Dublin can happen by accident. I like to get on my bike and cycle around until I find a nice place to have breakfast. Then I cycle to Phoenix Park, the largest urban park in Europe. It’s a great place to watch people going in and out of the zoo, trailing wild deer, or simply enjoying the park and its scenery. You never know what you will see – on one particular day I came across a battle re-enactment. On another day I saw a junior game of camogie (a traditional stick and ball game for ladies) and what a sight it was; I thought it was great to see an ancient game being played so passionately by children, although I don’t know if I could ever see my daughter playing it! Dublin has so much to offer, you’ve just got to come and see it.

”

For more in-depth information on Dublin and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com/dublin

Belfast

Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bustling capital offers unique experiences and irrepressible energy. 10

● BELFAST

Belfast

hether you’re seeking bright lights, sophisticated culture or a down-to-earth welcome, Belfast awaits all visitors. The city is easy to navigate around as it has distinctive ‘quarters’. The Cathedral Quarter is the cultural centre of the city, where many arts organisations have integrated among some of Belfast’s oldest streets and buildings. The annual arts festival in May is a great way to experience the cultural delights of this ‘quarter’ as it comes to life with street theatre, family entertainment, witty comedy shows, stunning visual art and lots of exciting live music performances.

St George’s Market, Belfast

The Queens Quarter is home to Queen’s University and a lively student population creates a bubbling atmosphere in the galleries, cinemas and chic coffee shops. For a different perspective, the Gaeltacht Quarter displays a more traditional culture where the Irish language is spoken and events and festivals are organised throughout the year.

Of course, Belfast is also renowned for its maritime heritage and for being the birthplace of arguably the most famous ship ever built – the Titanic. Take a tour around the shipyard of Harland & Wolff and the historical sites where the spectacular liner was designed and constructed. The city is a haven for shoppers with many traditional shopping streets, arcades and landmark centres where shoppers can pick up the latest fashions, antiques and specialist crafts. Key shopping areas include: Victoria Square, Lisburn Road, Royal Avenue and St George’s Market. You will find a warm welcome in Belfast as its people are known for their indomitable spirit and love of life. There is a great atmosphere around the streets and the city really comes into its own in the evenings with award-winning restaurants, bars and traditional pubs to enjoy. The charm and character of Belfast city and its people will have you planning your next visit before you leave.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Belfast. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Belfast and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/belfast

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Overlooking Belfast’s beautiful Botanic gardens, the Ulster Museum offers visitors a feast for the senses. It has long been one of Northern Ireland’s top attractions and offers a rich exploration of history, art and science through its numerous visually stunning galleries and outstanding exhibitions. Favourite exhibits include the famous ‘Takabuti’ Egyptian mummy, the renowned Belleek Collection, one of the ﬁnest porcelain collections in the world, and artefacts from the Spanish Armada galleass, ‘La Girona’, which foundered off the north Antrim coast in 1588.

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east Belfast is home to the government of Northern Ireland. The beautiful architecture of the building is reﬂective of a Greek classical tradition and measures exactly 365 feet wide, one foot for each day of the year. Highlights include the Great Hall, the Assembly Chamber and the Senate.

Stormont building

W5 W5 is Ireland’s award-

winning science and discovery centre at the Odyssey Complex in Belfast. It is home to 160 interactive exhibits providing lots of fun for visitors of all ages. Start, Go, See, and Do are the four areas of the centre where your imagination and creativity can run wild as you are encouraged to interact with and explore everything.

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Did you know? Princess Takabuti, the first mummy ever to be unravelled outside of Egypt, was revealed to a wide-eyed crowd in 1835 and now occupies pride of place at the centre of the Egyptian collection in the Ulster Museum.

BELFAST CASTLE & BELFAST ZOO

The historic Belfast Castle, built in 1870, is a magniﬁcent sandstone building on the slopes of Cave Hill. The Adventurous Playground, an informative visitor centre and the exquisite Cellar Restaurant mean that Belfast Castle provides a fun day out. The nearby Belfast Zoo, home to over 140 species, has protected threatened animals since 1933.

TITANIC MADE IN BELFAST FESTIVAL

Possibly the most famous ship of all time since tragically sinking on its maiden voyage in 1912, the Titanic is celebrated in the city of its birth every April. Exhibitions and tours, including a boat tour from the river, shed a light on the disaster, while also celebrating the skills of the Harland & Wolff workers that created the liner and Belfast’s rich industrial heritage.

“Everything was so close by, we just left the car and walked everywhere”

BELFAST WHEEL AT CITY HALL For a real sense of

atmosphere has attracted big names including Dizzy Gillespie, Ravi Shankar, Laurence Olivier and Jimi Hendrix and continues to attract the best acts in music, comedy and theatre to the city.

THINGS TO DO AFTER DARK Belfast’s trendy club

scene and top traditional bars make the city a night-time treat. The Cathedral Quarter boasts many clubs which offer a mixture of DJs and live entertainment to dance the night away. Kelly’s Cellars on Bank Street is one of Belfast’s oldest and best pubs and for the traditional, a visit to the Crown Liquor Saloon is a must. You’ll be transported back in time to Victorian Belfast as you enjoy a pint of Guinness in one of the famous ‘snugs’.

Belfast’s varied beauty, a view from above can’t be beaten. Just as well, then, that the Belfast Wheel at the historic City Hall lets you see the city from a height of over 200 feet! For some extra luxury, you can hop into a VIP gondola to enjoy the view with a splash of champagne, while a tour around the City Hall or a walk in the beautiful grounds is a great way to relax.

QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY & ULSTER BANK BELFAST FESTIVAL AT QUEENS Established

in 1845, Queen’s University is one of the oldest universities in Ireland and certainly one of the most beautiful: the striking main building, designed in the Tudor Gothic style, is a distinctive sight on the Belfast skyline. The Ulster Bank Belfast Festival’s unique, fun-ﬁlled

Queen’s University

Meet Ciara & Ricky Ciara and Ricky have lived in Belfast most of their lives and love recommending their favourite haunts to their friends and visitors to the city. I genuinely feel that Belfast “ has something for everybody

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ENJOY A MEAL IN ONE OF BELFAST’S RENOWNED RESTAURANTS Belfast’s restaurant

scene has never been livelier, with daring menus created by world-class chefs. Deane’s Restaurant and Bar is home to one of the ﬁnest, Michael Deane, who emphasises simple food cooked well. Another famous restaurant that champions Irish cuisine is Paul Rankin’s ‘Cayenne’ restaurant on Belfast’s Shaftesbury Square.

ULSTER FOLK & TRANSPORT MUSEUM,

CULTRA Set in 170 acres, the Folk

Museum houses over 50 exhibits, which illustrate the way of life and traditions of the people of the north of Ireland from the early 20th century. The site also houses the Transport Museum, displaying Ireland’s largest and most comprehensive transport collection, including horse drawn carts, motor cars, railway locomotives and aircraft.

and I know that you are going to have a great time when you come here. On Saturdays, St George’s Market is a great place where you can sample some of Belfast’s best food. Some stallholders have been here for years and years and take real pride in displaying their produce. I love it – it is one of my favourite places. All the vegetables and fish are sourced locally and there are also wonderful cake stalls to tempt you. Ciara

”

Belfast is surprisingly “ compact, in that you can get everywhere on foot. Right in the core of Belfast you will find traditional pubs, like Bittles and The Kitchen Bar, where you can enjoy a cheeky lunchtime pint and excellent food for quite reasonable prices. Ricky

”

To watch a video of Ciara and Ricky in Belfast go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on Belfast and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com/belfast

Northern Ireland

A diverse mix of cultures and traditions with inspiring natural beauty makes Northern Ireland an essential destination. 14

Northern Ireland

orthern Ireland has a charming character and culture all of its own. The many stunning landscapes merge with inviting towns and cities to welcome visitors to this beautiful region. Whether you’re enticed by its stories and history, lively atmosphere, the abundance of festivals and events or the untouched natural beauty, you’ll find all the ingredients here for a magical holiday. Indeed, the region boasts one of Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites at the legendary Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim. The columns of volcanic rock washed by the sea make for captivating views. The Giant’s Causeway is just one of the spectacular sites to encounter along the Causeway Coastal Route. Dare to walk across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, but be careful not to look down!

The Mourne Mountains, Co. Down

Derry mighty city From Londonderry’s walls – among the best preserved city walls in Europe – to the grandeur of Enniskillen Castle on Lough Erne and

the fascinating Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum, the towns and cities are great places to explore Northern Ireland’s rich heritage. Make the rejuvenated city of Belfast your starting point for a tour of this part of the island. Northern Ireland is packed with treats for the history buff. Delve into the past to discover living history at the Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone or explore the ancient prehistoric sites that dot the landscape such as Ballynoe Stone Circle in County Down. Alternatively you could undertake a pilgrimage into the Christian heritage of Ireland by following in the footsteps of St Patrick from where he established his first church in Downpatrick to the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland at Armagh. Good hospitality and a warm sense of humour are a big part of the Northern Irish character so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in one of the island’s most beautiful and interesting destinations.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Northern Ireland. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Northern Ireland and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/northernireland

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MOURNE MOUNTAINS, COUNTY DOWN The majestic

ULSTER AMERICAN FOLK PARK, COUNTY TYRONE

range of the Mourne Mountains is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis’ magical world of Narnia and it’s easy to see why: these peaks offer spectacular views of lush forests, valleys and the dramatic Down coastline. Around this rugged mountain region, you’ll also ﬁnd a range of activities to appreciate, from golf at Royal County Down to climbing, horse riding, watersports and coastal tours. The mix of adventure and untamed beauty amid the Mournes will inspire anyone.

The Ulster American Folk Park is an open-air museum that tells the story of countless emigrants who left Northern Ireland and travelled to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. Expertly reconstructed streets and buildings, costumed re-enactors and special exhibitions create a fantastic atmosphere of living history throughout the park. The Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival is held here every September and features some of the biggest names in American folk and home-grown talent.

THE WALLED CITY OF

Derry MEATHDERRY, LONDONDERRY

The mighty walls of this 1,450 year old city have never been breached and are still intact Dublin Airport has a well-deserved reputation for today. In this medieval city, you’ll fine whiskeys and the oldest licensed find Europe’s largest collection working distillery, at Bushmills, is a Naasof cannons and impressive Tullamore great place to find out about that Dun Laoghaire architecturalHarbour landmarks, tradition! Bushmills is devoted to Ytop-class single malt KILDARE L including St Columb’s producing FFA The distillery welcomes whiskey. Cathedral, Austin’s (the O visitors all year round, with a little world’s oldest independent Portlaoise taste on offer after the guided tour. department store) and the WICKLOW beautiful Victorian Guildhall; Wicklow S OI A L while the Tower Museum LADY OF THE LAKE Carlow sheds light on the ‘maiden’ FESTIVAL, COUNTY city’s history. FERMANAGH This Festival is

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based on the story of a mysterious woman said to glide over Lower Lough Erne, with her appearance a symbol of good times ahead. Now, every July, a ten-day festival takes place with drama, children’s Tipperary entertainment, fancy dress and a keenly fought ﬁshing competition.

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Did you know? The 18th century Ballycopeland Windmill in County Down is one of the few working windmills in Ireland. Strangely, Ireland is the only country in the world where windmills turn clockwise.

GIANT’S CAUSEWAY, COUNTY ANTRIM

The dramatic Giant’s Causeway, Ireland’s ﬁrst UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where legend says Finn McCool formed a path to Scotland with rock in order to ﬁght a giant. Scientists claim, meanwhile, that the 40,000 interlocking columns of basalt are the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Learn about both sides of this fascinating story at the nearby visitor centre. Regardless of its origins, the Giant’s Causeway is one of the most impressive sights in the world.

Meet Bobby & Carol Bobby and Carol love to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings of the Mournes. We live in the kingdom of the “ Mournes in County Down. We

Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim

9 , Co. Fermanagh

Marble Arch Caves

MARBLE ARCH CAVES & GEOPARK, FERMANAGH

Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is found among the rugged mountainous uplands and the picturesque lakes of County Fermanagh. Showcased in the world-famous Marble Arch Cave, the Geopark encompasses some of the ﬁnest natural landscapes of the region and offers a window into the area’s 650 million year past.

THE NORTHWEST 200

The International Northwest 200 is Ireland’s largest outdoor sporting event taking place in May each year. The week-long motorcycle event includes races with super-fast motorcycles around the scenic route, taking in the towns of Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine. The circuit is considered to be among the fastest in the world and you can be sure of breath-taking action from the world’s best motorcyclists.

“They wanted to know as much about our country as we did about Ireland!”

RATHLIN ISLAND, COUNTY ANTRIM

The wild landscape of Rathlin Island is home to a marvellous range of birds including kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars and pufﬁns, while seals are also known to visit the shores. April to August are the best times to spot wildlife, while the island’s quiet roads also provide perfect routes for walking and cycling. Along with a fascinating history of smugglers, inventors and kings Rathlin Island also boasts fantastic views of the Causeway Coast, the North Channel and the Scottish coastline and islands.

THE CITY OF TWO CATHEDRALS, ARMAGH Armagh is a city of many

legacies – as an ecclesiastical metropolis, the chosen centre of Christianity by Saint Patrick and one of the oldest cities in Ireland. St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral stands where Patrick built his original church, and less than a mile away the twin-spired St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral tops the skyline. Armagh is a city also famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture with many elegant buildings including the Georgian Mall, Archbishop’s Palace and the Observatory at the Planetarium.

have such beauty surrounding us all around the Mourne Mountains. It is a fantastic place for walks and strolls along mountain paths and forests; we have the sea and amazing views, and everything is in close proximity. We are so privileged to live here. It’s so peaceful and tranquil and the scenery is stunning. People come back here year after year. The Silent Valley is one of our favourite places to visit. Silent Valley has its name because there’s not a noise, not a sound in the place. The valley runs for three miles and at its base are two dams which provide clean drinking water for areas as far away as Belfast. There are loads of walks and paths here. You could walk for miles and miles. Carlingford Lough is also a fantastic place to visit; the scenery there is spectacular. We want you to come here and see these places for yourself.

”

To watch a video of Bobby and Carol in the Mournes go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on Northern Ireland and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /northernireland 17

The West

A true sense of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celtic heart and rugged natural beauty awaits visitors to the West. 18

The West

ou know you are in the West of Ireland when you are surrounded by rugged landscapes lined with stone walls; it is unmistakable and breathtaking. The West offers a real glimpse of traditional Irish culture – particularly in Cork, Donegal, Galway, and Kerry’s Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas where people still proudly speak Gaeilge (Irish). Take the time to visit one of the many islands just off the coast. Ferries depart to Clare Island off County Mayo or to the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and will transport you to communities with proud, distinctive traditions. If you enjoy the unique isolation on the islands, you can go further south to the UNESCO Heritage Site of the Skellig Islands off County Kerry, feasting your eyes on the ruins of an ancient monastic community.

The unique landscape of the Aran Islands

Wildlife lovers will also enjoy the Burren in County Clare, where this craggy limestone landscape is home to many rare species of ﬂora and fauna. But one

stop on your journey through Clare has to be the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. The dramatic views are unparalleled and a must-see for any visitor. With the Atlantic Ocean beating at its shores the West is an ideal playground for surfers especially in Clare, Donegal, Mayo and Sligo. Bundoran Beach in Donegal is one of the top five surfs in the world attracting thousands of watersport enthusiasts every year. A tour around the ‘Ring of Kerry’, one of the most scenic touring routes on the island, will convince any visitor that few places in the world can match County Kerry for natural beauty. The trendy and historic cities of Galway and Cork provide a ready welcome for all visitors and will draw you in before you know it. Indeed, amid all the sightseeing, it’s worth enjoying the warm hospitality found in all the villages, towns and cities throughout the West.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the West. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the West and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/west

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

D ON

DONEGAL Londonderry

ND LO

Derry City Airport

THE BURREN, COUNTY CLARE The landscape of The Burren is home to an incredible array of rare plants and animals. Arctic, Mediterranean and Alpine plants thrive side-by-side in this amazing limestone environment. Here you will also ﬁnd the intriguing Poulnabrone Larne Dolmen and the spectacular Ailwee Harbour Ballymena Cave. The cave was discovered by local herdsman Jack McGann in 1940. For the best in Clare-caught salmon, be Belfast Intl. sure to also Airport visit the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna. T AN

Donegal Airport

Donegal

George Best Belfast City Airport

Omagh

Belfast

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Ireland West Knock Airport

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Longford

Roscommon

Mullingar

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Tullamore

GALWAY

Inis Mór Inis Meáin

Portlaoise

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Tipperary

LK NY

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CK ERI

Kilkenny KI

Limerick

Waterford Kerry Co. Airport

Killarney

KERRY

WATERFORD CORK

THE RING OF KERRY & PUCK FAIR WICKLOW

Kerry is aWicklow county of breathtaking natural beauty,

particularly the famous ‘Ring of Kerry’ from Killarney around Carlow the Iveragh Peninsula. Whether you are travelling by foot,

Waterford Airport

Did you know? The Claddagh ring was WEXFORD designed by Galway man, Richard Joyce. Wexford In the 17th century, Joyce was exiled and made the ring especially for his Rosslare Harbour love which he gave to her when he returned home thirty years later.

Cork Cork Airport

THE WEST

much more than just an equestrian event. Every July, the hospitality, Dublin lively atmosphere and glamour draw thousands to Airport Ballybrit near Galway city – and, whether in search of a big win on the Dublin horses, the coveted ‘best dressed lady’ prize or simply a Naas Dun Laoghaire good celebration, the Galway races don’t disappoint! Harbour

Shannon Airport

THE GALWAY RACES The only seven-day horse MEATH racing meet in Ireland, these races have developed into

KILDARE

LY FA

Inis Oírr

Navan

DUBLIN

Galway Airport

Drogheda

F NG

Athlone

Aonghasa LO Fort on Inis Mór and the Old Lighthouse on Inis Oírr. Ferries areUTavailable from Galway and Doolin in County Clare.

Cavan

Carrick-on-Shannon

Castlebar

Newry MO scenery for yourself and experience the magniﬁcent views of NA GHthe Atlantic Ocean that surrounds the islands. There are AN incredible historical sites on each island, in particular Dún

te Wa

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no han

Hiring a bicycle is one of the best ways to explore the unspoiled

H AG

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SLIGO

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NA GH

Enniskillen

Sligo Airport

MAYO

ARANLisburn ISLANDS, GALWAY BAY A trip to Inis Mór, Armagh Inis Meáin or Inis Oírr, makes for a rewarding and relaxing N OWretained many traditional ways of life. visit. The communityDhas M AR

Sligo

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A jaunty cart ride in the Gap of Dunloe, Co. Kerry

You’ll be captivated by Connemara’s beautiful scenery and a rich craft tradition. Another tradition that is uniquely Irish and is widely practiced in the Gaeltacht is the enjoyment and participation in playing music, singing Irish ballads, and telling or listening to some of the famous Irish myths that made this land famous for storytelling.

7 The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare

bicycle or car, you are guaranteed some jaw-dropping views, particularly at the Gap of Dunloe and Derrynane House, once the home of legendary Irish patriot Daniel O’Connell. The friendly and welcoming character of Kerry people is well known. One of the oldest fairs in Ireland, the Puck Fair, held in August in Killorglin, features a traditional horse fair, a busking competition and believe it or not – the coronation of one lucky goat as ‘King Puck’!

GLENVEAGH NATIONAL PARK, COUNTY DONEGAL

Glenveagh National Park is nestled in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains in County Donegal. You can take a guided tour of the castle, walk in the gardens or wander through the fantastic scenery. There are also familythemed walks and treasure hunts. The park consists of 16,000 hectares of wilderness, lakes and mountains; with breath-taking scenery and various trails through hills, peatlands and forests.

THE CLIFFS OF MOHER, COUNTY CLARE

The reputation of this amazing natural wonder precedes itself the world over. The dramatic cliffs are 214m at the highest point and range for 8km over the Atlantic Ocean. Take a walk up to O’Brien’s Tower which stands on a headland and enjoy the views of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and The Twelve Pins mountain range.

Meet Padraic ANCIENT SITES The Céide Fields in north Mayo

provide a fascinating insight into the life of the first settlers. The Neolithic landscape is of world importance; the remains of stone field walls, houses and megalithic tombs have survived thousands of years, preserved in a blanket of peat. In the neighbouring county of Sligo is Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the largest of its kind in Ireland, with monuments from five and a half thousand to six and a half thousand years old.

SCENIC DRIVE IN WEST CORK Few spots in

Ireland reward the traveller with as many beautiful sights and fun experiences as west Cork. Essential stopovers on the itinerary are the medieval town of Kinsale and the ﬁshing ports of Skibbereen and Bantry. If you’re drawn to the past, make sure to take a detour to Blarney, where you can see the impressive castle and kiss the fabled Blarney stone.

CONNEMARA GAELTACHT, COUNTY GALWAY The

Gaeltacht regions, where Irish is the ﬁrst language of most locals, are known for their charming and easy-going atmosphere.

Yeats statue, Sligo

The Beara Penin

sula, west Cork

Padraic is a fisherman at heart and a true character of Connemara. Connemara is a magical “ place with its hills and valleys and beautiful coastlines. I was a lobster fisherman for about two years when I was sixteen. I love the sea; it is the closest thing to my heart. I have wonderful memories of those days. We all have a great connection with the sea here. What we have is the hidden Ireland. People never see these places; they think places like the coral strand in Carraroe in the heart of Connemara don’t exist. This is the jewel of Galway. There are only two coral strands on this island but Carraroe is the biggest and nicest one of all. It’s really beautiful. This beach is special because if you pick up a fist of coral sand and throw it over your right shoulder you will find riches and if you throw it over your left you will find love. But you can’t have the two. I have enough love so I throw it over my right one.

”

YEATS COUNTRY, COUNTY SLIGO

Sligo is called ‘Yeats country’ as the famous poet and writer William Butler Yeats spent his childhood in the county and adored its scenery. In recognition of this, the Yeats Society in Sligo runs a number of events celebrating and exploring his work, including summer and winter schools and an annual festival. You can also visit the peaceful grave of the Nobel Prize winner at Drumcliff Church, just north of Sligo town.

To watch a video of Padraic on a tour of the West go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on the West and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com/west

The East

From rural heartland and majestic mountains to coastal idylls, the Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s varied landscapes will surely take your breath away. 22

The East

t is in these eastern counties, close to Dublin, that you will find some of Ireland’s oldest heritage sites, including Tara and Newgrange in County Meath. The Hill of Tara was home to the High Kings of Ireland for over two thousand years. Newgrange, a Stone Age passage tomb, is a UNESCO world heritage site and a testament to the architectural ingenuity of Ireland’s prehistoric people. No picture can fully capture the majesty of this ancient site, so come prepared to be wowed!

Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow

County Kildare’s association with the sport of kings, horse racing, has long been an important part of life in the county. The Curragh and Punchestown Racecourses are ideal places to take in racing action at its best and with regular festivals you will be able to experience the sport and the festive Irish culture all in one. Ladies’ Day is always great fun!

For more relaxing pursuits consider a visit to the many spectacular gardens of this region. Altamont Gardens in Tullow, County Carlow and Heywood Gardens in County Laois are inspiring. The ‘garden of Ireland’ County Wicklow, boasts the prizewinning Mount Usher Gardens whilst the tranquil beauty of Powerscourt Estate coupled with the serene monastic settlement at Glendalough will make any visitor feel at ease. Each county in the East has a unique character and charm; a trip down through the welcoming towns of Kilkenny and Tipperary will lead on to the sunny south east where you’ll feel ready to lose yourself by the sea in the coastal counties of Wexford, Waterford and East Cork. No visit to this part of the country is complete without sampling some Wexford strawberries and some of the amazing produce from this bountiful region of Ireland.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the East. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the East and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/east

TYRONE

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Armagh Lisburn

Monaghan

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o port

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Carrick-on-Shannon

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Longford

Roscommon

Drogheda

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Athlone

Navan

Mullingar

Dublin Airport

Portlaoise

WICKLOW

Kilkenny

NY WATERFORD

Waterford Airport

WATERFORD SPRAOI FESTIVAL, COUNTY WATERFORD The annual Spraoi

Festival over the August bank holiday weekend ﬁlls the charming city of Waterford with colour and life. Diverse music, street art, children’s events and cutting-edge performances make for a festival that the whole family will enjoy. Spraoi’s informal and fun atmosphere attracts a range of performers from around the world.

POWERSCOURT ESTATE, COUNTY WICKLOW

The Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow contains some of the most breathtaking gardens in the country. Laid out in an Italianate design, echoing the terraces and formal features of Renaissance villas, the gardens attest to the artistry and vision of successive Viscounts and their architects. Away from the delicately tended beauty of the gardens, you can see the untamed power of Ireland’s largest waterfall. At over 121 metres in height, Powerscourt Waterfall is a dramatic sight and an excellent spot for a picnic.

Wexford

Waterford

WEXFORD

Tipperary

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Wicklow

the experience of these emigrants, boarding and exploring the Dunbrody, before meeting interpretive actors with meagre possessions and harrowing stories.

Dun Laoghaire Harbour

KILDARE

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i Festival

Dublin

Naas

LY FFA

Waterford Sprao

EATH WESTM

Tullamore

GALWAY

MEATH

DUBLIN

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Rosslare Harbour

K Cork Cork Airport

“I have so many stories and tales to share with friends back home”

THE EAST

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

DUNBRODY HERITAGE SHIP, COUNTY WEXFORD

The legacy and experience of millions of people who left Ireland is commemorated by the Dunbrody, a painstaking replica of the 19th Century emigrant ships that transported many across the Atlantic to America. Visitors can learn about the events that drove so many to leave before reliving

Kells High Cross, Co. Meath

FOLLOW THE HISTORICAL TRAIL IN COUNTY MEATH

Meath has long been known as the ‘royal county’, and its links with the rulers of ancient Ireland are strong. Breathing in the atmosphere at the Hill of Tara, where High Kings were once inaugurated, is a heady experience that’s only matched by a visit to the intriguing ancient site of Newgrange. A guided tour of Newgrange and the nearby tombs from the Brú na Bóinne visitor centre illuminates the skill that went into creating these dramatic ancient monuments. For a taste of medieval power, visit the striking Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland.

WATERFORD CRYSTAL CENTRE

Take a tour through the fascinating journey of the world famous Waterford Crystal and its heritage, from 1783 to the present day. Visitors to the centre will be able to see the skilled artisans in action demonstrating cutting and engraving, and even attend the Master Craftsman Workshop.

Did you know? The Gordon Bennett Cup Race came to Ireland in 1903. Some 1,500 visitors brought their cars with them to see the race in Counties Kildare and Laois. As the total number of cars in Ireland was around 300, it was the first time many Irish people saw a motor car!

VISIT THE SITE OF THE BATTLE OF THE BOYNE, COUNTY MEATH The Battle of the

Boyne, fought between the deposed King James II and William of Orange in 1690, changed the course of British and Irish history and the visitor centre lets you ﬁnd out just how with a video presentation and interesting exhibitions. Follow the specially-constructed walkways across the site of the decisive battle, reliving the dramatic events.

Having served as the seat of Munster kings for centuries before being given to the church, the site is infused with a deep sense of history.

IRISH NATIONAL STUD, JAPANESE & ST FIACHRA’S GARDENS, COUNTY KILDARE The home of

Ireland’s thoroughbred racehorses, the National Stud is a must-see destination for any lover of horses. Set within the grounds of the National Stud, the beautiful Japanese Gardens celebrate their centenary this year whilst St Fiachra’s Gardens, also on the site, are an oasis of woodland and lakes.

A DAY AT THE RACES

One of the most popular sports in Ireland, horse racing is strongly represented in the east of Ireland with race courses including Leopardstown south of Dublin and Fairyhouse, home of the Irish Grand National. For a more unique horse racing experience, take in the races on the beach at Laytown, County Meath in September – the only horse racing event under Jockey Club rules which runs on a beach.

ROCK OF CASHEL, COUNTY TIPPERARY This picturesque

site stands high over the Golden Vale near the historic town of Cashel.

The Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary

n Strand

The races at Laytow

CAT LAUGHS COMEDY FESTIVAL, COUNTY KILKENNY The Cat Laughs Comedy

Festival in Kilkenny is a celebration of Irish wit and humour. The best acts in worldwide stand-up comedy join with Ireland’s stars to create a festival of side-splitting proportions. Kilkenny city itself is characterised by its old buildings and winding streets and a visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without taking in the historical 12th century Kilkenny Castle.

Meet Mick Mick loves the Irish culture and history, and enjoys spending a day with his family in County Kilkenny. Kilkenny is the craft, cultural “ and heritage capital of Ireland. It’s a beautiful medieval city and the county has plenty of hidden gems. You just have to come and see them. The Great Hall in Kilkenny Castle is very impressive. There’s so much history in the room and it gives a real sense of what the city of Kilkenny is all about. Thomastown is a quaint medieval town in east Kilkenny surrounded by the Nore Valley. It is known for its streetscapes and is home to many musicians and painters. I’d say the population is two and a half thousand max yet it has its own arts college. There’s a huge artistic community and this gives it a bohemian feel and adds to the social scene. We had a festival here recently called the Lights Out Festival. All the pubs in the town turned off their lights and used candles for the night and then the music sessions kicked off.

”

To watch a video of Mick showing you around Kilkenny go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on the East and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com/east

The Lakelands

The Lakelands of Ireland are an idyllic haven for those seeking a more peaceful and tranquil holiday experience. 26

The Lakelands

n many ways, a visit to this part of Ireland reveals the nation’s modern heart. The Lakeland counties offer a mix of contemporary amenities, comforts and water borne activities, all contrasting with timeless aspects of Irish culture. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Lakelands is by following the Shannon waterway. Beginning at Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, through the ShannonErne Waterway and running all the way down to Limerick City and the Atlantic Ocean, the Shannon and its waterways are excellent for fishing and watersports. Hire a cruiser and travel along this picturesque route through the countryside, only pausing at lock gates or to picnic on the river banks; it’s an amazing way to spend time in the heart of Ireland.

Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

The people of Cavan are fond of saying that there is a lake in the county for every day of the year and if you don’t believe that, a drive through the

magnificent countryside with lakes and waterways all around you will prove it. Its lively towns are steeped in history and culture and a night’s stay will allow you to experience the local atmosphere and warm welcome. The Lakelands are also packed with opportunities to explore Irish history, from Christian heritage sites such as the monastery of Clonmacnoise on the banks of the Shannon, to the harrowing but compelling Famine Museum in the original stable yards of the Strokestown Park House in County Roscommon. To learn about the history of Irish whiskey and enjoy a sample of uisce beatha (water of life) take a detour up the Grand Canal to visit the original Tullamore Dew whiskey distillery at Tullamore in County Offaly. For an even more colourful view of local culture and history, few can match the people of the Lakelands for storytelling, insight, and a willingness to chat.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the Lakelands. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the Lakelands and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/lakelands

Harbour

Y RR

Donegal

Belfast Intl. Airport

Omagh

George Best Belfast City Airport

Belfast

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Ireland West Knock Airport

n-Er

nno

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CA VA y rwa N ate

Cavan

Carrick-on-Shannon

OM SC

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O GF

Roscommon

Athlone

Navan

Mullingar

EATH WESTM

Galway Galway Airport

Tullamore

GALWAY

LY FA F O

Portlaoise

CLARE

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Tipperary

“I have so much to remember from Ireland! I can’t wait to return for WEXFORDnew experiences”

RI ME

Kilkenny

Limerick

Waterford

THE CORK

WATERFORD

Waterford Airport

LAKELANDS

Cork

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Cork Airport

PATRICK KAVANAGH CENTRE, COUNTY MONAGHAN Patrick Kavanagh

was one of Ireland’s most gifted poets. The Patrick Kavanagh Centre at his birthplace in Iniskeen, County Monaghan, celebrates his work through exhibitions on local history and on Kavanagh, plus paintings and models illustrating his most famous work. The Centre also offers a unique performance tour of 28

‘Kavanagh Country’, featuring many local sites that appeared in his work and an abundance of stories and poems.

KING JOHN’S CASTLE, LIMERICK CITY

In the heart of the medieval city of Dublin Airport Limerick, King John’s 13th century Castle sits on ‘King’s Island’ overlooking the River Shannon. Naas The castle was almost destroyed in sieges including the Great Siege in 1642. The medieval KILDARE garrison, soldiers’ quarters and over 1,000 objects have been excavated from the site and houses believed to be Viking in origin were WICKLOW unearthed during earlier restoration.

Carlow

Ennis Shannon Airport

MEATH

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, Limerick city

King John’s Castle

RL OW

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Sligo Airport

AYO

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Sligo

Armagh

THE KINGFISHER TRAIL CYCLE ROUTE The Kingﬁsher

Trail, looping around lakes, islands and scenic parks, is a particularly enjoyable long-distance cycle route for exploring the scenic delights of the Lakelands. Cycling is the perfect way to see a country like Ireland and the Kingﬁsher Trail has routes through Fermanagh, Leitrim and surrounding counties.

STROKESTOWN PARK HOUSE, COUNTY ROSCOMMON Strokestown Park House, a restored

18th century mansion, allows visitors to peer into the lives of Ireland’s landed gentry – and an altogether different history. In the stables of the stately home, you’ll ﬁnd the Famine Museum casting an eye on the Great Famine of 1845 to 1850. With

Strokestown Park House, Co. Roscommon

original documents and images from the estate, the Museum hauntingly captures the lives of peasants during this landmark event in Irish history.

TULLAMORE DEW WHISKEY DISTILLERY, COUNTY OFFALY Tullamore Dew’s

old distillery has been transformed into a fascinating heritage centre, and a tour around the building which once buzzed with activity is a fantastic way to learn about the making and history of Irish whiskey.

Meet Irvine & Jonathon Father and son, Irvine and Jonathon, love to spend time on the lakes of Fermanagh. The countryside around here “ is completely unspoilt. It’s got

Try your hand at some watersports

the Lakelands’ waterways have numerous watersports activities on offer for visitors. Whether you want to get your feet wet or keep them dry, there is a variety of water pursuits from canoeing to jet-skiing and even wind-surﬁng.

Lower Lough Ern

e, Co. Fermanagh

Did you know? Leap Castle in County Offaly is one of Ireland’s most haunted castles. Many visitors have reportedly seen the ghost of a young girl thought to be the spirit of a daughter of a one-time owner of the castle.

CLONMACNOISE, COUNTY OFFALY Take time to visit

the monastery of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most prized ecclesiastical sites. Found on a bend on the River Shannon south of Athlone, the visitor will discover some of the most enchanting remains from Ireland’s ‘sacred’ past.

GO FISHING! Ireland’s

Lakelands are characterised by large river systems and hundreds of lakes; in fact, there are over 8,000 miles (12,900 km) of river, lake and canal bank for a keen ﬁsherman to explore.

WATERSPORTS Not surprising,

EMO COURT HOUSE, COUNTY LAOIS

Emo Court House is a neoclassical country villa set within landscaped gardens and parkland ﬁrst laid out in the 18th century. Containing formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks, the gardens are renowned for their collection of specimen trees and shrubs.

CRUISING THE WATERWAYS

A boating trip along the waterways of Ireland is a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Set a course to cruise the mighty River Shannon and follow the river from Athlone to its estuary at Limerick, one of the most scenic stretches of waterway in Ireland. Lough Erne in County Fermanagh is another waterway worth cruising. The Lough is split in two – an upper and lower lough – with the town of Enniskillen sitting between them and the River Erne connecting both.

history, tranquility and some of the most beautiful loughs in Ireland. I used to think that this place was Heaven, and I still do to this day. It’s a great place to visit. But the real way to discover the beauty of Fermanagh is by boat. I would say Lough Erne is the most beautiful place and I’ve been fishing around here for forty years. Devenish Island (an ancient monastic settlement contained in Lough Erne) is where education was kept alive by the monks in the Dark Ages. It’s a different world altogether with its ruins and old graveyards. I think it’s the most amazing place I’ve ever been – the history, the solitude; everything is here. There is one thing that you must bring when you come here – your fishing rod. The fishing is powerful here so make sure you come and do a bit of fishing and a bit of sightseeing because it really is a beautiful place.

”

To watch a video of Irvine and Jonathon on Lough Erne and Devenish Island go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on the Lakelands and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /lakelands 29

The Castles of Ireland

ll countries possess their treasures; Ireland takes you on a treasure trail of its gems – its castles. These impressive strongholds are living museums of Irish history, stretching back nearly a thousand years and bear witness to Ireland’s chequered history and rich heritage. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, County Clare is one of the most visited castles in Ireland. The castle contains an impressive collection of tapestries, paintings and 17th century furniture and at night is host to the world-famous medieval banquets where you can feast on rich foods and enjoy folk music. Kilkenny Castle, home of the Butler Family since 1391, is another castle that rates high on visitors’ lists. Tour through period rooms mapping its history and wander through the beautiful rose garden with 50 acres of charming grounds.

Dunluce Castle, Co. Antrim

In Northern Ireland there are castles in abundance. Dunluce Castle in County Antrim is an enchanting site surrounded by unsurpassed coastal scenery. It is one of the most extensive ruins of a medieval castle and is located spectacularly on the edge of a headland on the Causeway Coastal Route. Legends, ghosts, tall tales and history are all hidden in the time-darkened walls of this castle.

Blarney Castle, Co

. Cork

Carrickfergus Castle, also in County Antrim, is an unusually intact Norman structure. Built by John de Courcy, conqueror of east Ulster, in 1180 and garrisoned until 1928, it is a striking feature of the landscape. The castle has seen lots of sieges and battles in its years and represents over 800 years of military might. Today the castle can be enjoyed by visitors wanting to learn more about its history or just looking for a fun day out, in a unique setting.

The world famous Blarney Castle in County Cork was built by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac McCarthy, nearly 600 years ago and is a must see for first time visitors to Ireland who hope to win the gift of eloquence by kissing the Blarney Stone. Blarney Castle presents a fairytale picture; its tall towers are set within splendid gardens containing such romantically named landmarks as the Druid’s Altar, the Witch’s Kitchen and the Wishing Stairs, all of which add to the magic of the setting. Explore Ireland’s largest gardens and Historic Science Centre at Birr Castle Demesne, County Offaly. Birr Castle’s superb gardens, spread over 100 acres, are a real draw with one of the greatest displays of magnolias in the country. Flowers aside, the remains of a giant telescope, built in the mid 19th century, can be seen in the grounds. Many castles have been renovated and converted into lavish hotels including Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Dromoland Castle in County Clare, Castle Leslie in County Monaghan, and Lough Eske in County Donegal. Include an overnight stay and sleep in a bed fit for a king! Just be careful; some of Ireland’s castles are said to be haunted, so be sure to pick one with a friendly ghost, like Ballygally Castle in County Antrim. . Mayo

Ashford Castle, Co

Whichever castles you choose to explore during your holiday in Ireland, you are sure to fulfil a journey of adventure, history and striking beauty.

Gourmet Ireland

reland has a distinctive food culture inﬂuenced by geography, climate and the long history of the people that settled on this small, green, fertile island on Europe’s edge. The temperate climate inﬂuenced by the Gulf Stream allows year-round agricultural activity in lush pasture. Ireland has a reputation for the production of quality beef, lamb, dairy products and seafood, as well as iconic drinks brands. Building on this success is the emergence of artisan food producers, organic growers and natural cuisine. Much of the traditional Irish food was hearty and simple but today the cuisine is fresh, creative and tastefully presented. Embarking on a journey across Ireland, you will find artisan producers dotted around the countryside; a few stops on your trip at some of the many cheesemakers’ farms, cured meat producers, apple orchards used for brewing cider, blackcurrant farms, or salmon smokehouses will leave you with an insightful look at this rich food producing heritage. For example, in Wexford you can pick the finest punnet of strawberries you will ever taste, while in Cork you can meet cheesemakers and compare the best cheeses. In Armagh, there are vibrant orchards to ramble through, or the chance to catch fresh salmon in the rivers of Mayo. When it comes to the alcohol producing tradition, gentle, warming blends and delectable aged malt whiskeys from Bushmills and Jameson are part of Ireland’s heritage. Irish ciders such as Bulmers (Magners), and cream liqueurs, such as Baileys Irish Cream, are as familiar worldwide as they are at home. You’ll also be spoilt for real ales and beers from microbreweries at Hilden, Lisburn and the Porterhouse, Dublin, not forgetting the instantly recognisable Irish stout in the guise of Murphys, Beamish and Guinness. Seafood is very common in Irish cooking; Ireland is an island after all. Beautifully cooked mussels are a treat, however salmon, trout and haddock are commonplace. Prawns are a main feature on restaurant menus in Dublin while oysters go down a treat in Counties Clare, Galway and Down.

Food festivals are wonderful ways in which to experience Ireland’s vibrant food culture and to mingle with Irish people eager to praise locally grown, farmed and harvested foods. The world famous Oyster Festivals at Clarenbridge, County Galway and Hillsborough, County Down, usually held in September, celebrate the start of the season with competitions, oyster tastings (with the perfect accompaniment of a pint of Guinness) and much more besides. The Kinsale Gourmet Festival held in October of each year is always fun and is a celebration of all the fine foods that Kinsale has to offer. Festivals such as the Taste of Dublin (June), the Taste of Cork (June) and the Belfast Food and Drink Festival (September) are becoming increasingly popular. Those who are keen to recreate their favourite Irish dishes could sign up to one of many cooking courses during their holiday in Ireland. From baking the perfect apple tart in Belle Isle School of Cookery, County Fermanagh to learning how to make ﬂavoursome jams and chutney in Ballymaloe, County Cork, you can be guaranteed to instil a ﬂair for Irish cooking. If you are passionate about food you will adore the selection of food available in Ireland and with an increasing number of local farmers’ markets; the quality is there to be enjoyed. The farmers’ markets are also an ideal place to buy some edible souvenirs or to bring home a delicious taste of Ireland and to enjoy the local organic produce. No matter what part of Ireland you are visiting, a memorable food experience awaits you. For more information on food visit discoverireland.com/food

ENJOY A LITTLE PIECE OF IRELAND. Did you know that Kerrygold Butter is owned by Irish dairy farmers? So when you buy Kerrygold Butter you’re not only enjoying 100% pure butter but you’re also supporting the farmers too. www.kerrygold.co.uk

Fairways to Heaven Ireland boasts some of the world’s finest golf courses. Its signature lush greens and spectacular coastal views make a trip to one of these courses a pleasure. Whether you are an amateur or a pro, take advantage of the great facilities on offer around the country and come to Ireland to join in the fever and practise your swing...

Lough Erne Golf Resort

Druids Glen

The Faldo Championship Course, with superb all year round playing conditions, is an exciting challenge for all golfers. Set on a 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, the routing of the course has been planned carefully to take full advantage of the natural beauty and tranquility of the environment; this makes for fourteen holes where the waters of the Loughs come into play. Golf Carts and Clubs are available to hire. 120 Luxury rooms including 25, two and three bedroom Loughside Lodges; The Authentic Thai Spa; a variety of innovative Dining experiences; The Blaney Bar with an Exclusive Collection of 101 Irish Whiskies, combined with The Great Outdoors, makes Lough Erne Golf Resort one of the world’s most magical destinations. ‘Lough Erne Golf Resort, A Great Place to Stay, A Great Place to Play’ – Rory McIlroy. Lough Erne Golf Resort is proud to have Rory McIlory as its Touring Professional.

Druids Glen Golf Resort features two championship courses; Druids Glen and Druids Heath, as well as the 5 star Druids Glen Marriott Hotel. Druids Glen, known as ‘the Augusta of Europe’, held the Irish Open on four occasions from 19961999 and also played host to the inaugural Seve Trophy. The classic parkland course features many signature holes and provides golfers with a thrilling golf experience amidst a beautifully manicured landscape. Druids Heath with its unique links influences overlooks the Irish Sea, with the Wicklow Mountains providing its backdrop. This spectacular Heathland layout hosted the Irish PGA Championship in 2006. Druids Glen Golf Resort was given the honour of being voted European Golf Resort of the Year in 2005. With two world class championship courses, luxury accommodation, plus the authentic period style clubhouse, Druids Glen Golf Resort offers it all to the discerning golfer.

Lough Erne Golf Resort Belleek Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland, BT93 7ED Tel: +44 (0) 28 6632 3230 Email: info@loughernegolfresort.com Web: www.loughernegolfresort.com

Druids Glen Golf Resort Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0) 1 287 3600 / Fax: +353 (0) 1 287 3699 Email: info@druidsglen.ie Web:www.druidsglen.ie

The Island A classic championship links course, set in naturally rugged terrain, demands respect for the testing quality of its holes. Every shot is a challenge with 25 feet-high dunes & vaguely lunar crevasses running through the terrain & exceptional greens. The Island Golf Club is less than 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, yet the members have kept it a great secret since 1890. The Island has been described by visitors as ‘Once seen, never Forgotten’ Qualifying Course of the Open Championship 2005. The Island was ranked as no 26 in the “must play” Golf Courses in Golf World’s November 2005 issue. The Island Golf Club Corballis, Donabate, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0) 1 843 6205 / Fax: +353 (0) 1 843 6860 Email: cathy@theislandgolfclub.com Web: www.theislandgolfclub.com

Tralee Golf Club Built by Arnold Palmer, this stunning setting represents a true paradise for those willing to challenge what is widely acclaimed as one of the finest links courses in Ireland. It comes as no surprise to learn that it is due to the majestic beauty of this setting that Palmer chose it to be his first (and arguably finest) golf course in Europe. In addition to boasting a clear view of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole, Tralee Golf Club has a fully qualified resident professional, fully stocked pro-shop and a spacious and comfortable restaurant and bar. It has earned it’s reputation for having a friendly and relaxed atmosphere among members and guests alike. As all the caddies are also members it is not uncommon to find a caddie and guest sharing a pint and a couple of laughs in the comfort of the upstairs lounge after a round. A trip to south west Ireland for the accomplished golfer could not be complete without playing at this most precious and unpretentious wonderland. Tralee Golf Club, West Barrow, Ardfert, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 (0) 66 713 6379 Email: info@traleegolfclub.com Web: www.traleegolfclub.com

GOLFING ADVERTORIAL

Lahinch Golf Club Lahinch Golf Club is often referred to as the ‘St Andrews’ of Ireland because of its wonderful links course and its close proximity and interaction with the lively local village of Lahinch. Lahinch Golf Club, founded in 1892, offers two 18 hole championship golf courses – the Old Course, measuring 6950 yards and the Castle Course measuring 5556 yards. The links is situated on the Atlantic coast of County Clare, within one hour’s drive of Shannon and Galway airports. The Old Course at Lahinch is regarded as one of the finest links courses in the world and features in the top 20 golf courses of numerous golfing publications. There is always a warm welcome at Lahinch Golf Club and in the nearby village of Lahinch where a lively social scene and a fabulous surfing beach are also major attractions. Lahinch Golf Club provides an all round golfing experience with challenging golf, magnificent scenery and a great location. Lahinch Golf Club, Lahinch, Co. Clare. Tel: +353 (0) 65 708 1003 / Fax: +353 (0) 65 708 1592 Email: info@lahinchgolf.com www.lahinchgolf.com

Malone Golf Club “In any 19th-hole discussion attempting to determine the accolade of supreme inland course in Ireland, it is perfectly understandable that there will be a case for the claims of Malone Golf Club. Not much argument is really required for, truth to tell, the gently rolling summertime tapestry of mature wood, restful lake and blaze of flowers sets it quite apart.” John Redmond’s words in “Great Golf Courses of Ireland” encapsulate the attractions of this fine championship course, set in 330 acres of undulating wooded parkland just five miles from Belfast’s city centre. Relax in the comfort of the recently refurbished clubhouse and enjoy fine food and drink, friendly service and magnificent views while you reflect on a day well spent at the “Augusta of Northern Ireland”. Contact the professional: Michael McGee, by telephone (028) 9061 4917 or email: pro@malonegolfclub.co.uk. Malone Golf Club 240 Upper Malone Road, Dunmurry, Belfast BT17 9LB Tel: (028) 9061 2758 / Fax: (028) 9043 1394 Email: manager@malonegolfclub.co.uk Web: www.malonegolfclub.co.uk

Farnham Estate Situated amongst beautiful woodlands, lakes and meadows on the 1,300 acre Farnham Estate, the resort’s stunning Radisson SAS Hotel and amazing 40,000 sq ft Health Spa are but a few of its luxuries. New to the resort is a Jeff Howes designed golf course. The gentle but challenging journey on the front nine explores the undulating meadows of this magnificent estate while the back nine is a more vigorous test of golf, travelling through denser more rugged woodland. This is a wonderful test of golf and a beautiful journey with nature. Radisson SAS Farnham Estate Hotel Cavan, Co. Cavan. Tel: +353 (0) 49 437 7700 Email: info@farnhamestate.com www.farnhamestate.com

Woodbrook Golf Club Established in 1921 by Sir Stanley Cochrane as his private club, Woodbrook was first affiliated to the Golfing Union of Ireland in 1926. Sir Stanley had previously indulged his enthusiasm for cricket at Woodbrook, a fact that is still reflected in the pavilionstyle clubhouse and the cricket bell, which tolled the start and finish of play and now hangs in the bar. Perched on top of one hundred foot seacliffs, landscaped on all sides and steeped in history, Woodbrook offers a new challenge to today’s golfer. Woodbrook is unique in Irish Golf, with its heritage and tradition, ambience and atmosphere and the quality and layout of its course. Woodbrook Golf Club Dublin Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: +353 (0) 1 282 4799 Email: golf@woodbrook.ie Web: www.woodbrook.ie

Connemara, Co. Galway

Following in your Family’s Footsteps

esearching your family tree is a golden opportunity to embark on a journey of personal discovery while experiencing a place that was once close to your ancestor’s heart. Millions of people all over the world have Irish connections, many of whom are keen to explore their family history on a visit to the island. Mass emigration from Ireland began in the middle of the 18th century. Over a period of some fifty years a quarter of a million people left Ireland to settle in the New World. The main destination for these emigrants was North America but other destinations included Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand. The major period of mass emigration from Ireland was during the Great Famine, 1845-1852. Families and whole communities packed their belongings in search of a new life and many visitors tracing their Irish heritage discover that their ancestors were part of this Great Famine exodus. The Famine Museum in Strokestown Park House, County Roscommon takes visitors on a fascinating journey back in time to what was a traumatic period in the history of the island. For another perspective, the life on board an emigrant ship can be experienced at the Dunbrody Famine Ship exhibit in New Ross, County Wexford. The ‘Dunbrody’ is a reconstruction of an emigrant ship that carried the Irish to all corners of the world and a visit below decks vividly portrays the cramped conditions of the desperate sea voyage. Visitors to the ship can also access a database of emigrants compiled from ships passenger lists free of charge. There are numerous genealogy centres and services around the country which can help with any research you wish to undertake during your visit. For instance, the outdoor museum at the Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone, tells the story, through its 36

‘living history’ experience, of the many Ulster-Scots who emigrated from this province to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also includes an indoor ‘emigrants’ exhibition and a Centre for Migration Studies where you can find out more about what life was like at the time for the emigrants. At the National Archives on Bishop’s Street, Dublin, budding genealogists can check both the census returns from the start of the 20th century, or the surveys undertaken in the 1840s to the 1860s (called Griffith’s Valuation). The genealogy office at the National Library also offers expert advice and guests who stay at The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin can avail of an on-site genealogist who can assist guests to draw up practical research plans. Your journey into your family history could even take you to picturesque towns and scenic parts of the Irish countryside where your ancestors once lived. Records are available in the local authorities of many Irish towns and cities across the island. Cobh Heritage Centre has a record finder specifically designed for those with little knowledge of genealogy. In Belfast, the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) houses the official archive for Northern Ireland with records of historical, social, and cultural importance. These records will give you guidelines on how to find your family roots and provide an insight into the history of your family’s birthplace. If you follow your ancestral trail to Ireland you can combine the enjoyment of a holiday with a journey of personal discovery. Find your family roots, meet relatives you didn’t know you had and be open to see where Ireland takes you. See page 54 for more information.

USEFUL INFORMATION General Information and Key Travel Facts ..................................... 37 Travelling to Ireland by Air ......................... 43 Travelling to Ireland by Sea........................ 46 Travelling Around Ireland ........................... 49 Things to See and Do .................................. 54 Festivals and Events ..................................... 56 Where to Stay................................................. 58 UK Tour Operators .........................................61 Map of Ireland ..................Inside Back Cover

General Information and Key Travel Facts GEOGRAPHY, POPULATION AND DEMOGRAPHICS 486 kilometres (304 miles) long and 275 kilometres (172 miles) wide, the island of Ireland is divided into 4 historic provinces – Ulster, Munster, Leinster and Connacht – and 32 counties, of which 26 are in the Republic of Ireland and 6 in Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is a parliamentary democracy headed by the President of Ireland; Northern Ireland has its own regional/local government and is part of the United Kingdom. The population of the island is approximately 6 million with over 4.3 million living in the Republic of Ireland and 1.7 million in Northern Ireland. Over half the people on the island are under 30 years old and there is a rich diversity of ethnic groups and cultures. LANGUAGE Irish (Gaelic) and English are the official languages of the Republic of Ireland: street and road signs are all bilingual. In Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas, road signs may only be displayed in Irish and Irish is spoken daily though everyone speaks English. In Northern Ireland, English is the official language. The Irish language is also taught in many schools and summer schools. Ulster Scots, spoken in Northern Ireland, is on the increase and is being taught to those who are keen to explore another facet of their national identity. CLIMATE Ireland has a mild, temperate climate with summer temperatures generally ranging from 60°F/15°C to 70°F/20°C. Temperatures in spring and autumn are generally 50°F/10°C and in winter between 40°F/5°C and 46°F/8°C. Snow is rare but rain showers can occur at any time of the year. For up to the minute weather reports visit www.discoverireland.com/weather

e n e ui nc en rie g a xpe r e Fo d o fo

TIME ZONE Ireland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Clocks are put forward 1 hour mid-March and back 1 hour at the end of October. During Summer it stays light until as late as 2300hrs but by mid-December it can be dark by 1600hrs. PASSPORT/VISA REQUIREMENTS Whilst UK citizens do not require a passport or visa to enter Ireland, most carriers by air or sea require some form of photographic identity (ID), usually either a passport or driving licence. Visitors are advised to check which form of ID is required with the individual airline, ferry company, tour operator or travel agent before travelling. Non UK nationals must have a valid passport or national ID card as appropriate. EU nationals and travellers from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are simply required to show a passport. Visitors of all other nationalities should contact their local Irish Embassy/ Consulate prior to travelling to the Republic of Ireland and visitors to Northern Ireland should contact their local British Embassy, High Commission or Consular Office. EMBASSIES & CONSULATES REPUBLIC OF IRELAND For further information, contact the Department of Foreign Affairs Tel: +353 (0) 1 478 0822 or the Passport and Visa Office, Montpelier House, 106 Brompton Road, London SW3 1JJ. Tel: +44 (0) 20 7225 7700 For a list of Irish Embassies, visit www.dfa.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Further information is available from your local British Embassy or Consulate. For British details, contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at www.fco.gov.uk

Best places to STAY, EAT, COOK & Shop committed to using Irish local and artisan food produce

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General Information and Key Travel Facts CUSTOMS If you arrive by sea from the UK and have no goods to declare you may, unless challenged, exit the port directly without passing through Customs controls. If you arrive by air from the UK, you should pass through the Blue Channel. If you arrive on a flight which began outside the EU (e.g. New York – London – Dublin), you must, regardless of your nationality or country of residence, clear Customs by going through either the Green (Nothing to Declare) or Red (Dutiable Goods) Channel. Certain goods are prohibited or restricted to protect health and the environment. These include meat and poultry. For more information please visit www.revenue.ie in the Republic of Ireland or www.hmrc.gov.uk in Northern Ireland. MEDICAL Vaccines are neither compulsory nor necessary unless you are travelling from an infected country. British visitors to the Republic of Ireland are covered under an agreement with the Department of Health, but some form of identification or a European Health Insurance Card (which has replaced the E111 form) is necessary. British visitors to Northern Ireland require no documentation and will receive treatment as they would in Britain. Visitors from all other EU countries travelling to Ireland should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to departure. Visit www.ehic.org.uk for further information. For visitors from non-EU countries to Ireland, private medical insurance is highly recommended. VISITORS WITH A DISABILITY Ireland extends a warm welcome to visitors with disabilities. Many public places and visitor attractions are accessible to wheelchair users, and an increasing number of hotels and restaurants are well equipped to accommodate guests who have any kind of disability. Also, please check our Tour Operator listing (p61) for specific companies who will be able to assist you with planning your trip. Useful contacts include: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND National Disability Authority Tel: + 353 (0) 1 608 0400 www.nda.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Adapt NI Tel: +44 (0) 28 9023 1211 www.adaptni.org Disability Action Tel: +44 (0) 28 9029 7880 www.disabilityaction.org 38

SENIOR CITIZENS Men and women over the age of 65 are recognised as being Senior Citizens or Old Age Pensioners and enjoy a variety of discounts and privileges. STUDENTS Ireland is student friendly, with many attractions offering a reduced student rate/admission charge on presentation of a valid student ID card. PETS There are no restrictions on pet cats, dogs or ferrets being brought into Ireland from Britain or vice versa. Pets entering the UK from the EU can travel into Ireland without quarantine, provided they satisfy the requirements of the UK Pet Travel Scheme and are cleared on arrival in the UK. Tel: +44 (0) 870 241 1710 or visit www.defra.gov.uk for more information. Pets entering Ireland from countries other than the UK must comply with Ireland’s requirements under the EU Pet Passport System to avoid quarantine. For further information contact: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Tel: +353 (0) 1 607 2000 www.agriculture.gov.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: +44 (0) 28 9052 4999 www.dardni.gov.uk CURRENCY The euro is the currency of the Republic of Ireland. One euro () consists of 100 cent. Notes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Coins are 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1 and 2. In Northern Ireland, the currency is sterling. There are 100 pence to each pound sterling (£). Notes are £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100. Coins are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. BANKS Banking hours are generally 0930/1000– 1630hrs Monday – Friday. Some banks are open on Saturday in Northern Ireland. ATM (cash) machines are located at most banks and accept most credit and debit cards. CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS Any credit card that bears the Visa, Mastercard, or American Express ‘badge’ will be widely

accepted in Ireland. The primary debit card system in Ireland is called Laser and works in conjunction with Maestro cards, and are generally accepted at all locations that credit cards are accepted. Visitors with other cards should ask in advance or see if the card is on display where they wish to use it. The Chip and Pin system is in use in Ireland, so a signature is usually no longer acceptable. SHOPPING Shops are generally open Monday – Saturday 0900 – 1730/1800hrs with late night shopping until 2000hrs or 2100hrs on Thursdays at many large stores. Sunday opening hours are generally midday until 1700hrs or 1800hrs (1300 –1700hrs in Northern Ireland). TIPPING In restaurants, when a service charge is not included, 10-15% of the bill is appropriate. Taxi drivers are usually tipped by rounding up the fare to the nearest euro or pound and porters about 1.50 or £1 per bag. In pubs, tipping bar staff is at the customer’s discretion. VAT AND TAX REFUNDS United Kingdom residents, as part of the EU, are not entitled to any VAT or tax refunds. TELEPHONE Mobile Phones Only digital phones with GSM subscriptions and a roaming agreement will work on the island of Ireland. Visitors should consult with their supplier before leaving. Pay Phones Easy-to-use country calling cards are widely available at many outlets. REPUBLIC OF IRELAND If calling the Republic of Ireland from abroad, all telephone numbers must be prefixed with +353 (drop the first 0). www.goldenpages.ie

a FREE Self-Catering Holiday to Ireland! ! N I W IMAGINE IRELAND offers you the largest selection of self catering holiday cottages in Ireland. With over 1000 Irish holiday homes, all individually vetted and approved, in some of the most spectacular tourist destinations throughout the Emerald Isle you have plenty of choice. Thanks to IMAGINE IRELAND YOU COULD WIN A 7-NIGHT SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY IN IRELAND for up to 5 people sharing including ferry, worth up to £1,000!

Which of the following is one of Ireland’s best loved tourist destinations? Giant’s Road Giant’s Causeway Giant’s Footpath NAME:

To enter this great competition, simply log on to www.imagineireland.com/freeholidaycottages and answer the question or complete your details and send your entry in an envelope to Imagine Holidays, Embsay Mills, Embsay, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6QF. Tel: +44 (0)1756 703 194, www.imagineireland.com. Please add me to your Imagine Holidays special offers and deals alerts mailing list: Yes No

ADDRESS:

POSTCODE: TEL/MOBILE:

Please Note: competition closes 30 September 2010 and winners will be notiﬁed by post. Conditions apply, peak periods excluded, cash alternative not available, prizes are non-transferable, valid for new holidays only; prize based on 7 nights self catering accommodation with Imagine Ireland, maximum prize valued at £500 if accommodation only or £1000 if accommodation and ferry is required.

EMAIL:

Exhibition and Library Shop open seven days a week

Admission Times Monday to Saturday 09.30 to 17.00 Sunday (October to April) 12.00 to 16.30 Sunday (May to September) 09.30 to 16.30 Tel: 896 2320 | Fax: 896 2690 Email: bookofkells@tcd.ie | www.bookofkells.ie

Trinity College Library Dublin

Trinity College, Dublin

General Information and Key Travel Facts NORTHERN IRELAND If calling Northern Ireland from abroad, all telephone numbers must be prefixed with +44 (drop the first 0). www.yell.com EMAIL Internet cafés can be found in large towns and cities throughout the island of Ireland. Many libraries also have internet facilities, and most large cities have Wi-Fi hotspots. POSTAL SERVICES Post offices are generally open from 0900 –1730hrs, Monday to Friday. Main post offices also open on Saturday between 0900 –1230hrs in Northern Ireland and 0900 –1700hrs in the Republic of Ireland. Please note that exact opening hours vary depending on the size and location of the branch. POSTAL CHARGES The cost of posting a standard letter or postcard is: Destination ROI € Within Ireland 0.55c To Britain 0.82c To other countries within the EU 0.82c To countries outside the EU 0.82c

NI £ 0.39p 0.39p 0.56p 0.62p

Prices correct at time of going to print.

PERSONAL SAFETY Though the general level of personal safety is high, should you be unfortunate enough to be a victim of crime, contact: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Tourist Assistance Service (Mon-Fri), 1a Lower Grand Canal Street (Grattan Street Entrance), Dublin 2. Tel: +353 (0)1 661 0562

Email: info@itas.ie www.itas.ie Store Street Garda Station (Weekend & Public Holidays) Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0)1 666 8109 NORTHERN IRELAND Contact the local police station where support will be available. Tel: +44 (0)845 600 8000 Email: info@psni.pnn.police.uk www.psni.police.uk EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) Tel: 112 or 999 NORTHERN IRELAND Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) Tel: 999 ELECTRIC CURRENT The standard electricity supply on the island of Ireland is 230/240 volts AC (50 cycles), the same as in the UK. Visitors from elsewhere may require a transformer and plug adaptor (to convert 2-pin plugs to the standard 3-pin plugs) which can be bought at airports or electrical suppliers. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES The metric system has been adopted in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland but is not always enforced. For example, distance is measured in both miles and kilometres, drinks in pubs come in pints and petrol comes in litres, while food is sold in both pounds and kilograms. PUBS The legal drinking age is 18 years. Some pubs will insist patrons are over 21 years and

carry some form of identification. (Legislation in the Republic of Ireland stipulates that children under 18 years are not allowed in premises that serve alcohol after 2130hrs.) Pubs are open 7 days a week, usually from 1030hrs in the Republic of Ireland. Closing times vary through the week but usually range from 2330hrs, Monday – Thursday and from 0030hrs, Friday – Saturday. Sunday opening hours are 1230 – 2300hrs. Opening hours in Northern Ireland are, generally, 1130 – 2300hrs, Monday-Saturday and 1230 – 2200hrs, Sunday. Many pubs have extended opening hours, particularly at the weekend. All pubs in the Republic of Ireland are closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day, and no alcohol is sold. SMOKING RESTRICTIONS Smoking is not allowed in public areas and work places including, pubs, restaurants, hotels and taxis, in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. For further information on planning your holiday in Ireland, visit www.discoverireland.com/facts. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS New Year’s Day St Patrick’s Day Good Friday (NI only) Easter Monday May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday (NI only) June Bank Holiday (ROI only) July Holiday (NI only) Aug Bank Holiday (ROI only) Aug Bank Holiday (NI only) Oct Bank Holiday (ROI only) Christmas Day St Stephen’s Day (ROI) Boxing Day (NI)

1st Jan 17th Mar 2nd April 5th April 3rd May 31st May 7th June 12th July 2nd Aug 30th Aug 25th Oct 25th Dec 26th Dec 26th Dec

Good Friday is not an official public holiday in ROI, although most shops and businesses are closed.

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland • Affordable accomodation late May – September inclusive • Beside Temple Bar, College Green & Grafton Street • Surrounded by Theatres, Shops & Tourist Attractions • 800 rooms: single, twin, double, apartments • Standard and en-suite facilities • See the priceless Treasures in Trinity College

Over 1,000 inspected holiday cottages throughout Ireland

View from Blasket Islands back to Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

Imagine Ireland offers you the biggest selection of Irish self catering holiday homes. Let us help you plan your itinerary - why not spend one week at the Giant’s Causeway and the next at the Ring of Kerry? Imagine offers you a “home from home” Enjoy the freedom and independence of your holiday cottage, travel any day, stay any length from short breaks to our great “2 for the price of 1 offer”!

Imagine Holidays

For a holiday you’ll remember, at a price you won’t forget!

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Property 3834, County Wexford

For more details log onto

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(lines open 7 days Sunday to Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9am to 7pm).

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0870 876 7676

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Air France

0871 66 33 777

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0870 241 8202

www.airsouthwest.com

bmi

0870 607 0555

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bmibaby

0905 828 2828

www.bmibaby.com

British Airways

0844 493 0787

www.ba.com

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www.easyjet.com

flybe

0871 700 2000

www.flybe.com

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0871 226 1737

www.jet2.com

Manx2

0871 200 0440

www.manx2.com

Ryanair

0871 246 0000

www.ryanair.com

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ARRIVE

Aberdeen Birmingham Blackpool Bournemouth Bristol Cardiff Doncaster Sheffield Dundee East Midlands Nottingham Edinburgh Exeter Glasgow International Glasgow Prestwick Gloucester Guernsey Inverness Isle of Man Jersey

Dublin George Best Belfast City Belfast International City of Derry Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Shannon Waterford Belfast International Dublin George Best Belfast City Dublin Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Shannon Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City George Best Belfast City George Best Belfast City Belfast International Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Belfast International Cork Dublin Galway George Best Belfast City Shannon Dublin George Best Belfast City Belfast International City of Derry Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock City of Derry Donegal Dublin George Best Belfast City Shannon George Best Belfast City George Best Belfast City Dublin George Best Belfast City Belfast International Dublin George Best Belfast City Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City

Ryanair Flybe bmibaby Flybe, Ryanair Aer Lingus Aer Lingus, Ryanair Flybe bmibaby Ryanair Aer Arann Jet2.com, Manx2 Aer Arann Manx2 Ryanair Easyjet Aer Arann Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair bmibaby Aer Arann Aer Arann Flybe Flybe Flybe bmibaby Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Easyjet Aer Arann Aer Lingus, bmi, Ryanair Aer Arann Flybe Ryanair Flybe Flybe Easyjet Flybe Aer Lingus Flybe bmi Ryanair Aer Arann Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Manx2 Flybe Aer Arann Flybe Manx2 Aer Arann Manx2 Jet2.com Aer Arann Aer Lingus, Flybe Flybe

Leeds Bradford Belfast International Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Liverpool Belfast International City Of Derry Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock London City Dublin London Gatwick Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Shannon London Heathrow Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Shannon London Luton Belfast International City of Derry Dublin Galway Ireland West Knock Kerry Waterford London Stansted Belfast International City of Derry Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Kerry Shannon Manchester Belfast International Cork Dublin Galway George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Sligo Waterford Newcastle Belfast International Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City Cork Newquay Dublin Norwich George Best Belfast City Plymouth Cork Dublin Southampton Cork Dublin George Best Belfast City All information correct at time of going to press.

AIRLINE Jet2.com bmi, Ryanair Flybe Ryanair Easyjet Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Flybe, Ryanair Ryanair Air France (operated by CityJet) Easyjet Ryanair Aer Lingus, Ryanair, Flybe Aer Lingus Ryanair Aer Lingus Aer Lingus Aer Lingus, bmi bmi Aer Lingus Easyjet Ryanair Ryanair Aer Arann Ryanair Ryanair Aer Arann Easyjet Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair Ryanair bmibaby Aer Lingus, bmibaby Aer Lingus, Ryanair Aer Arann Flybe bmibaby (Summer season) Aer Arann Aer Arann Easyjet Jet2.com Aer Lingus, Ryanair Flybe Air Southwest Air Southwest Flybe Air Southwest Air Southwest Aer Arann Flybe Flybe

Travelling to Ireland by Sea The island of Ireland has 6 main ferryports – Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Larne and Rosslare. Below are some of the main routes from Britain to Ireland:

SEA ROUTES DEPART

ARRIVE

CARRIER

VESSEL

DURATION

Cairnryan

Larne

P&O Irish Sea

Fishguard

Rosslare

Stena Line

Fleetwood Holyhead

Larne Dublin

Stena Line Irish Ferries Irish Ferries Stena Line Stena Line Steam Packet Company Steam Packet Company P&O Irish Sea Norfolkline Norfolkline Irish Ferries Stena Line Stena Line Fastnet Line Ltd P&O Irish Sea

Express Superferry Stena Express Superferry Superferry Cruise Ferry Dublin Swift Superferry HSS Fast Craft Fastcraft Fastcraft Irish Sea Ferry Ferry Ferry Cruise Ferry HSS Fast Craft Superferry Cruise Ferry Fastcraft

1hr 1hr 45mins 2hrs 3hrs 30mins 8hrs 3hrs 15mins 1hr 49mins 3hrs 15mins 2hrs 2hrs 55mins 2hrs 55mins 7hrs 30mins 7hrs 8hrs 3hrs 45mins 2hrs 3hrs 10hrs 1hr 49mins

Liverpool Liverpool (Birkenhead) Pembroke Stranraer

Dun Laoghaire Belfast Dublin Dublin Dublin Belfast Rosslare Belfast

Swansea* ** Troon**

Cork Larne

Isle of Man

*Commencing 1st March 2010. **Mar-Oct. All information correct at time of going to press.

FERRY OPERATORS CONTACT DETAILS FERRY COMPANY

TELEPHONE

WEBSITE

Fastnet Line Ltd

0844 544 3323

www.fastnetline.com

Irish Ferries

08717 300 400

www.irishferries.com

Norfolkline

0844 499 0007

www.norfolkline.com

P&O Irish Sea

0871 66 44 999

www.poirishsea.com

Steam Packet Company 0871 222 1 333

www.steam-packet.com

Stena Line

www.stenaline.co.uk

08705 70 70 70

Go where the road takes you. Low fares and a hassle free check in. Take the car, as much luggage as you like and travel to Dublin in as little as 1 hour and 49 minutes. It’s easy going. Welcome aboard.

Book on-line today for our lowest fares or call 08717 300 400 46

With 3 convenient routes Troon - Larne Cairnryan - Larne Liverpool - Dublin

unbeatable

Troon Cairnryan Larne Dublin Liverpool

www.poirishsea.com 0871 66 44 777

The shortest, fastest crossings to Ireland.

www.poirishsea.com

0871 numbers charged at 10p per minute from a BT landline. Other networks and mobile charges may vary 24805_P&O_TI_HP_JUN09.indd 1

24/6/09 11:01:54

Dublin Pass...

accepted by over 30 of Dublin’s top visitor attractions!

Ireland’s National Marian Shrine

● FREE TRANSPORT from airport to city

Luxury Yacht Charter Ireland’s West Coast

Apparition Chapel, Knock Shrine

For full information on Knock Shrine and Pilgrimages to Knock please contact us: E-mail: PatLavelle@knock-shrine.ie Tel:

+353 94 9388100

Fax:

+353 94 9388295

Web:

www.knock-shrine.ie

• Bareboat & Skippered charter • Corporate entertainment & team building • Corporate training, RYA, ISA • Alternative accommodation (Galway Races, Oyster Festival - location speciﬁc) • Day trips to Kinvara and Ballyvaughan to sample the amazing sea food restaurants • Weekend adventures to Black Head, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and unspoilt Connemara • Training: Introduction to sailing, yacht master, sea survival. RYA approved

Contact: Tel +353 (0)87 244 7775 Email info@charterireland.ie

● FREE GUIDEBOOK & MAP ● GREAT SPECIAL OFFERS in restaurants,

shops, entertainment, tours & leisure venues Available for 1, 2, 3 and 6 day durations at our Tourist Information Offices on Suffolk Street, O’Connell Street, in Dublin Airport and Dun Laoghaire Ferry Terminal or from our website.

dublinpass.ie

Travelling Around Ireland REGIONAL AIRPORTS The following internal flights are available within Ireland: DEPART ARRIVE Belfast City Cork Cork Galway Donegal Ireland West Knock Dublin City of Derry Cork

AIRLINE Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann, Ryanair Donegal Aer Arann Galway Aer Arann Ireland West Knock Aer Arann Kerry Ryanair Shannon Aer Lingus Sligo Aer Arann

All information correct at time of going to press.

REGIONAL FLIGHTS ARE OPERATED BY AIRLINE

TELEPHONE

WEBSITE

Aer Arann

0870 876 7676

www.aerarann.com

Aer Lingus

0870 876 5000

www.aerlingus.com

Ryanair

0871 246 0000

www.ryanair.com

TRAVELLING FROM DUBLIN AND BELFAST AIRPORTS INTO CITY CENTRES DUBLIN Arriving in Dublin Airport, the options to get into the city centre are by bus or taxi. Buses and taxis are located just outside the arrivals hall. A taxi can cost between €15-25* depending on where you are travelling within the city. Dublin Airport is located on the north side of the city so fares to this part of Dublin will normally be cheaper than if you were taking a taxi to the south side. The direct buses to the city centre and bus and train stations are available from Dublin Bus Airlink, €6* single and €10* return. Children travel at half price. BELFAST Belfast International Airport – Airport Express 300 now operates a 24-hour service between the airport and Belfast city centre with buses departing regularly throughout the day, £7* single and £10* return. The bus leaves from the bus stop located opposite the terminal exit. Taxi fare to city centre is approximately £22*. George Best Belfast City Airport – Bus 600 into the city centre, runs on the hour and then every

20 mins, £1.50* single and £2.60* return. Taxi fare to the city is about £7*. Trains run from adjacent Sydenham to Belfast and beyond. *Prices are subject to change. For information on access to and from airports and ferryports throughout the island, log on to www.discoverireland.com. TAXIS There are metred taxis in Belfast, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Cork. In other areas, fares should be agreed beforehand. In Derry Belfast and Londonderry there are share-taxi services which operate like mini-buses. Taxis are usually found at ranks in central locations and do not usually cruise the streets. PUBLIC TRANSPORT The island of Ireland has a reasonably comprehensive public transport system using rail and bus services. The rail network serves many large towns and cities across the island, including the ferryports of Larne, Belfast, Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Cork and Rosslare. Bus services link to the rail system as well as providing access to ferryports and airports. Recent investment in

road and rail has provided more comfort for travellers, offered greater frequency of service, improved travel times and opened up new services, including the western rail link between Galway and Limerick. Rail and bus fares offer good value for the traveller with various discount tickets available offering unlimited travel on bus and rail services. The Dublin Bus 3-day Freedom Pass offers visitors unlimited travel on tour buses, airport links and regular bus services. Please check for offers when booking. REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Rail – Iarnród Éireann Tel: +353 (0) 1 836 6222 www.irishrail.ie Irish Bus – Bus Éireann Tel: + 353 (0) 1 836 6111 www.buseireann.ie Dublin Bus – Bus Átha Cliath Tel: +353 (0) 1 873 4222 www.dublinbus.ie The Dublin area is served by the ‘DART’ – Rapid Transit Rail – from Howth to Malahide in north Co. Dublin via Dun Laoghaire to Greystones in Co. Wicklow. The Dublin Luas tram system is a state-of-the-art Light Rail Transit (LRT) system connecting outlying suburbs to Dublin city centre with a high-capacity, high-frequency, high-speed service. When in the Republic of Ireland, call Luas on 1800 300 604 or visit www.luas.ie. If you do not have a validated bus ticket, you will need to keep in mind that Dublin Bus services require exact change to be given; notes will not be accepted. Bus/ rail/Luas travel tickets are available from most newsagents in Dublin city centre and the surrounding suburbs. New for 2010 is the Dublin Bike Sharing Scheme, www.dublinbikes.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Translink (Northern Ireland Railways, Ulsterbus, Metro – Belfast’s bus service) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9066 6630 or visit www.translink.co.uk Check for specially discounted fares when travelling by public transport. For instance, Freedom of Northern Ireland/Emerald Card/Irish Rover tickets offer unlimited bus/train travel for 3, 5, 8 or 15 days. The Enterprise is a fast, high-quality rail network linking the cities of Dublin and Belfast. The journey takes just under two hours and is probably the most comfortable way to travel between the two cities. Catch the Enterprise from Connolly Station in Dublin and Central Station in Belfast. NOSTALGIC RAILWAY JOURNEYS There is nothing quite so magical as a steam train chugging its way through breathtaking scenery. So for those interested in a nostalgic means of travel, the experience of taking a steam train journey along one of Ireland’s old heritage trails is not to be missed. Organised by the Railway 49

Travelling Around Ireland Preservation Society of Ireland, the trails go all over the country, each with their own particular theme. For example, the Strawberries and Cream day out on the Belfast to Dublin trail operates along the scenic route between the two cities. Another tempting journey is the Sea Breeze trail from Dublin to the popular coastal resort of Rosslare in County Wexford. Steam powered services are also run by local enthusiasts across the island during holidays. The Fintown Railway – known as the Mhuc Dubh (Black Pig) – in the heart of County Donegal operates along a 3-mile route through scenic hills and valleys. The Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills Railway runs a narrow gauge track along part of the old Giant’s Causeway Tramway from Bushmills, and the Irish Steam Preservation Society based in Stradbally, County Laois operates a 3ft narrow gauge railway for both vintage steam and diesel locomotives. For these and other steam train journeys, visit www.rpsi-online.org or www.heritagerailways.com INLAND FERRIES AND ISLAND BOAT SERVICES When visiting any of the offshore islands dotting the Irish coastline, check out island boat services well in advance – and check again just before travelling as changes in the weather may affect services. Regular island boat services operate to the Aran Islands off

the Galway coast, Rathlin Island off the North Antrim coast, Aranmore Island off Donegal, Clare Island off the Mayo coast and Sherkin and Cape Clear Island off the coast of west Cork. There are also several inland ferry services that ease travelling around Ireland and make the journey more interesting, such as the Strangford Lough Ferry at Portaferry, Co. Down, the ferry across the Shannon Estuary between Tarbert, Co. Kerry and Killimer, Co. Clare, and the ferry link between Greencastle, Co. Donegal, and Magilligan Point, Co. Derry Londonderry. DRIVING IN IRELAND Visitors to Ireland must bring a valid national driving licence with them, issued in the country of their permanent residence. Driving in Ireland is on the left of the road and seatbelts must be worn at all times, in the front and back of the vehicle. Drivers should note that they are obliged by law to carry their driving licence at all times when driving in the Republic of Ireland. Motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets. There are very strict laws on drinking and driving and the best advice is simply, “don’t drink and drive”. The measurement of speed limits on roads in the Republic of Ireland is kilometres per hour (km/h). Motorists are urged to remember the change of driving laws when crossing the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The measurement of speed

limits on roads in Northern Ireland is miles per hour (mph). In Northern Ireland, the speed limit is 30mph in built-up areas, 60mph on the open road and 70mph on motorways unless shown otherwise. In the Republic of Ireland, the speed limit is 120km/h on motorways, 100km/h on national roads and 80km/h on non-national roads. There is a good network of petrol stations throughout Ireland, selling unleaded petrol and diesel. Barrier-free tolling on certain motorways in the Republic of Ireland was introduced in September 2008 – visit www.eflow.ie for further information. CAR RENTAL Most of the major car rental companies have desks at airports, ferry terminals and cities across Ireland. Some companies do not rent cars to drivers under 21 years or over 70 years, but please check with your car rental company before making a booking. All drivers must hold valid licences. It is advisable to book in advance, especially if you are travelling during the high season, as it is generally cheaper. The majority of rental cars are standard shift but automatic cars are available, if booked in advance, for an additional charge. Child seats should also be booked in advance. For insurance reasons you should advise the car rental company if you intend travelling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The trade organisation for the car rental industry in the Republic of Ireland is the Car Rental Council – Tel: +353 (0) 1 676 1690 or visit www.carrentalcouncil.ie In Northern Ireland contact the British Vehicle and Leasing Association Tel: +44 (0) 1494 434747 or visit www.bvrla.co.uk

Be Our Guest in Ireland? If you are planning a break in Ireland, this year’s Be Our Guest Guide features close to 1,000 hotels and guesthouses, most of which can be booked online, with a great selection of Special Offers at www.irelandhotels.com.

One source Endless possibilities

Copies of the guide are available from your nearest Tourism Ireland Office or call 0800 039 7000

Ireland 2010

Fly into Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regional airports Regional airports provide the most convenient way to get to your Irish holiday destination

Connecting you to Galway City and County, idyllic Connemara and the Burren Carnmore, Co Galway tel: +353 (0)91 755569 email: info@galwayairport.com web: www.galwayairport.com

Situated in the heart of the Magical West of Ireland Charlestown, Co. Mayo tel: +353 (0)94 9368100 email: info@irelandwestairport.com web: www.irelandwestairport.com

Gateway to Kerryâ&#x20AC;Śand the Spectacular South West of Ireland Farranfore, Killarney, Co. Kerry tel: +353 (0)66 9764644 email: info@kerryairport.ie web: www.kerryairport.ie

A convenient, easygoing airport experience in the South East of Ireland Killowen, Co. Waterford tel: +353 (0)51 846 600 email: info@waterfordairport.ie web: www.waterfordairport.ie

THE CASTLEMARTYR RESORT is nestled in a 220 acre estate amid the picturesque woodlands of County Cork, 20 minutes from Cork International Airport. Castlemartyr Resort is a seventeenth century manor house that sits adjacent to the ruins of a storied 800-yearold Castle. Its 103 guestrooms and suites offer contemporary design seamlessly blended with old world elegance. Property enhancements include The Spa at Castlemartyr, a renowned inland links-style golf course, a private lake with swans and miles of unspoiled walking trails.

CASTLEMARTYR, COUNTY CORK For reservations call us at +800 61363636 or book online www.castlemartyrresort.ie

Travelling Around Ireland THE ROUTE MILEAGE PLANNER HELPS PLAN YOUR JOURNEY Roads in Ireland range from wide modern motorways to narrow country lanes. Driving in Ireland isn’t without its challenges but the rewards are great with scenic treasures around every corner.

Erne

non-

Shan

Ashbourne

o hl

227 141

99 62

252 157

lf Be

89 55

50 31

Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

k or

390 219 424 486 242 136 264 302 113 209 117 70 130 73

Inis Mór

ain ler

r er

nd Lo

428 266

128 183 180 151 402 79 114 112 94 250

e on

69 43

135 84

127 167 230 256 237 233 78 104 143 160 147 138

53 33

144 90

84 52

83 52

133 82

130 148 347 81 92 215

236 146

93 58

306 320 209 272 204 212 237 190 199 130 139 127 136 148

257 160

116 284 353 148 335 309 114 78 177 219 92 208 192 73

149 323 156 93 202 97 98 61

377 232 436 474 234 144 271 295

87 54

102 244 64 152

451 115 280 71

35 22

80 50

a nd

157 98

85 53

59 37

163 130 101 81

lw Ga

177 110

197 231 123 144

ill

isk

en ilk

172 107

188 196 117 122

115 71

29 18

158 98

59 36

152 361 142 94 224 88

157 98

105 65

24 15

112 70

158 98

32 20

224 246 251 211 139 153 156 131

151 94

156 91

151 104 94 64

113 70

98 61

ick

Lim

111 392 69 244

250 228 408 155 141 253 80 51

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this map, Tourism Ireland cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

170 337 319 499 106 209 198 310

270 121 323 367 105 328 296 193 242 248 104 168 75 201 228 65 204 184 123 150 154 65

ar ill

441 407 304 350 355 193 198 274 253 192 219 220 120 123

301 187

275 348 211 257 241 171 216 131 160 150

283 133 346 380 128 351 282 218 264 261 176 83 215 236 80 218 176 138 165 162

93 57

135 85

135 372 84 231

145 90

138 245 343 226 232 174 86 152 213 140 144 108

66 41

214 166 135 104

66 41

m co

98 62

25 15

158 264 247 149 169 98 164 153 94 105

286 201 330 382 208 397 391 153 245 315 274 178 130 205 237 129 247 243 101 153 196 170

117 206 192 336 135 73 128 119 209 84

59 37

155 96

M I LES KI LOM ETER S 52

ay erw Wat

sla

s Ro

320 154 234 199 96 146 85 53

a Sh

301 164 333 391 126 383 357 163 242 281 220 187 108 207 243 78 238 222 98 151 175 137

48 30

193 357 129 266 208 120 222 80 165 129

82 51

152 293 95 182

264 184 309 360 187 164 117 192 223 116

80 50

254 326 190 235 222 158 202 118 146 138

19 12

213 133

378 372 135 226 293 253 235 231 88 141 182 157

Sli

325 218 203 136

307 191

r rfo

at W 61 39

ex W

Please contact your local Tourism Ireland office to obtain a copy of ‘The long and winding roads of Ireland’ guide or go to www.discoverireland.com to download a digital brochure.

Things to See & Do ATTRACTIONS As there is so much to see and do in Ireland it helps to have as much information at your fingertips as possible. As well as checking the Tourism Ireland website, www.discoverireland. com, we also recommend you try the following contacts to find out more about the wonderful range of historic houses and gardens, museums, castles, galleries and beautiful countryside when putting together itineraries. ALL ISLAND Houses, Castles and Gardens of Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 1 288 9114 www.gardensireland.com Heritage Island Tel: +353 (0) 1 236 6890 www.heritageisland.com REPUBLIC OF IRELAND The Heritage Service Tel: +353 (0) 1 647 6000 www.heritageireland.ie Heritage Towns of Ireland www.heritagetowns.com National Museum of Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 1 677 7444 www.museum.ie NORTHERN IRELAND NI Environment Agency Tel: +44 (0) 845 302 0008 www.ni-environment.gov.uk The National Trust Tel: +44 (0) 844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk National Museums of Northern Ireland Tel: +44 (0) 28 9042 8428 www.nmni.com Northern Ireland Museums Council Tel: +44 (0) 289 055 0215 www.nimc.co.uk

ACTIVITIES The island of Ireland offers a wide range of world-class activities from golf and angling to horse riding and cruising. For more information on lots of things to see and do, visit www.discoverireland.com/activities. ANGLING With a huge variety of species of fish to be found in the large network of loughs, rivers and canals and surrounding sea; a superb infrastructure of angling centres and fishing boat operators, and the beauty of the surroundings, it’s not surprising that Ireland has become one of the world’s favourite 54

destinations for game, sea and coarse angling. For more information please visit www.discoverireland.com/angling. CRUISING & WATERSPORTS Ireland’s large network of lakes, rivers and canals is perfect for all kinds of relaxing cruising holidays. Family fun or the ultimate in romantic trips, nothing compares with boating over glorious waterways, passing some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery and stopping at lovely country pubs and restaurants along the way. The three main waterways for cruising are the River Shannon, the Grand Canal and the Erne Waterway System. At present, the most developed are the Shannon-Erne Waterway and lakes. Cabin cruisers can be hired ranging in size from 2 to 10 berths. Experience in handling a boat is helpful but not essential as training is provided. Surfing, rowing, sailing, sub aqua diving, canoeing, snorkelling or windsurfing – if you love watersports, Ireland is your perfect destination. For navigation advice & information contact: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND www.discoverireland.ie Waterways Ireland www.waterwaysireland.org Tel: +44 (0) 28 6632 3004 Inland Waterways Association of Ireland www.iwai.ie Tel: +44 (0) 28 3832 5329 For information on watersports contact: NORTHERN IRELAND Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure www.dcalni.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 8825 The Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN) www.countrysiderecreation.com Tel: +44 (0) 28 9030 3930 The Sports Council for Northern Ireland www.sportni.net Tel: +44 (0) 28 9038 1222 CYCLING A hugely popular sport in Ireland (which has produced several of the world’s leading cyclists), cycling is a marvellous way to tour the country. A number of companies provide guided and self-guided cycling tours and you can hire bicycles throughout Ireland. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/cycling

GAELIC GAMES/RUGBY/SOCCER The unique Gaelic sports of football and hurling are as exciting as any sport in the world to watch and can be seen at stadiums throughout Ireland as well as at Croke Park in Dublin, home of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). For further information: Tel: +353 (0) 1 836 3222 www.gaa.ie RUGBY All four provinces of Ireland have strong rugby teams and the national side, composed of players from all four provinces, is one of the best in the world. For further information: Tel: +353 (0) 1 647 3800 www.irishrugby.ie SOCCER Soccer is hugely popular throughout the island of Ireland. For further information contact the Football Association of Ireland (Republic of Ireland) Tel: +353 (0) 1 899 9500 www.fai.ie Irish Football Association (Northern Ireland) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9066 9458 www.irishfa.com GENEALOGY The following associations may be useful in assisting your search to trace your ancestors in Ireland. For details of tracing your ancestry in REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Genealogical Office (National Library) Tel: +353 (0) 1 603 0200 www.nli.ie The Association of Professional Genealogists in Ireland www.apgi.ie National Archives Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 1 407 2300 www.nationalarchives.ie For details of tracing your ancestry in NORTHERN IRELAND Association of Ulster Genealogists and Record Agents www.augra.com The Public Record Office Northern Ireland (PRONI) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 5905 www.proni.gov.uk General Register Office Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 2000 www.groni.gov.uk GOLF With over 400 courses around the island of Ireland, including over 30 per cent of the world’s natural links courses and championship parkland courses of the highest standards, Ireland is now

Birr Castle DEMESNE & Ireland’s Historic Science Centre

OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN

ALL-IN-ONE TICKET

3 days (72 hours) on:

The Award-Winning Gardens The ‘Great Telescope’ Ireland’s Historic Science Centre The Millennium Gardens Courtyard Café and Discovery Gift Shop Open every day of the year, Guided Tours available March-October 09.00-18.00 and November-February 12.00-16.00 Phone: 05791 20336 • Email: mail@birrcastle.com

www.birrcastle.com

� Airlink Express Bus to City � Dublin Bus Tour – Hop on - Hop off � All Dublin Bus Public Transport Give yourself the freedom to explore the treasures and sights of Dublin at your leisure. The 3-Day (72 hours) Freedom Ticket is the only ticket you will need to take care of all your Dublin sightseeing and transport needs.

Buy your ticket in Dublin Airport at: - Bus & Rail Desk. - Dublin Tourism. - Airlink bus stop vending machine.

Full Calendar of Events for 2010

w www.dublinsightseeing.ie

Located just 15 miles outside Dublin, the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School at Killeen Castle is the first Pelz School to open outside of the United States. Pelz, a former NASA scientist has coached many of the world’s top players including Phil Mickelson and has teamed up with Killeen Castle to build a world class, 11 acre teaching facility to simulate championship golf conditions. One day clinic and two and three day schools are available, which cater for golfers at all handicap levels. A hotel and transport package for students travelling from Great Britain is available. This includes Dublin Airport meet and greet service, accommodation in a deluxe king room with breakfast at a partner hotel 10 miles from the school, daily transfers to and from Killeen Castle and special rate and times for green fee play on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course. For further details log on to www.pelzgolf.com and look for the Killeen Castle Overseas Traveler Options.

Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co. Meath, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0) 1 689 3030 Web: www.killeencastle.com or www.pelzgolf.com

� � � �

Hop on - Hop off - Every 10 minutes Live and multilingual commentary Join along route - Pay Driver Free map and discount guide

The Dublin Bus tour lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, but your 24 hour ticket will allow you to hop on and off as often as you wish all day. There are 23 stops each located at the city’s major attractions.

Tickets from: - Dublin Bus, 59 Upr. O’Connell St., Dublin 1. - Dublin Tourism, Suffolk Street, Dublin 2. - Dublin Tourism, O’Connell Street, Dublin 1. - Directly from the tour driver. Tours start and end at 59 Upr. O’Connell St., Dublin 1.

Things to See & Do

one of the world’s leading golf destinations. For more information please visit www.discoverireland.com/golfing HORSE DRAWN CARAVANS The most colourful way to enjoy travelling in Ireland, this kind of holiday offers transport and accommodation, and allows you to tour the country at your own pace. Don’t forget that you will need to feed, groom and harness your horse! For more information visit www.irishhorsedrawncaravans.com HORSE RIDING & HORSE RACING Ireland is a beautiful country to explore on horseback and you’ll find a large network of friendly equestrian centres, some specialising in family holidays, offering all kinds of horse riding holidays. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/equestrian or Equestrian Holidays Ireland at www.ehi.ie. Horse racing is a passion in Ireland and you’ll find several of the world’s most exciting and atmospheric race courses here, from Punchestown and the Curragh in Co. Kildare to Down Royal in Co. Down and the famous Leopardstown and Fairyhouse courses. There are also a number of fabulous horse racing festivals to look out for, including those at Galway and Downpatrick. Not forgetting the unique Laytown Strand Races, the event run on 3 miles of golden stand is the only one of its kind in Europe, under the rules of racing. For further information and a full list of events, contact Horse Racing Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 45 455455, www.goracing.ie WALKING By spectacular coastline, dramatic mountain scenery, over wild moorland, or by tranquil lakes, walking in Ireland is a joy. Look out for a whole network of Waymarked Ways, walking holidays and special festivals throughout the year. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/walking 56

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS THEME

EVENT & LOCATION

DATE

TRADITIONAL

Temple Bar Trad Festival, Dublin

27-31 January

EQUESTRIAN

Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, Leopardstown

7 February

FILM

Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, Dublin City

18-28 February

MUSIC

Opera Ireland 2010 Spring Season, Dublin City

27 February – 7 March

FAMILY

St Patrick’s Day Festival – various venues throughout Ireland

12-17 March

ART

EV+A Exhibition of visual and art, Limerick City

13 March – 23 May

EQUESTRIAN

Powers Irish Grand National, Fairyhouse

5 April

ARTS

Cúirt International Festival of Literature, Galway City

20-25 April

ARTS

Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival Belfast

29 April – 9 May

OPERA

Summer Opera Festival, RDS, Dublin

May – June

GARDENS

Wicklow Gardens

May – August

SPORT

Belfast City Marathon

3 May

EQUESTRIAN

Downpatrick Festival

7 May

AGRICULTURAL

Balmoral Show, Belfast

12-14 May

MUSIC

Fleadh Nua, Ennis

23-31 May

FAMILY

World Street Performance Championships, Cork and Dublin

June

ARTS

Listowel Writers’ Week, Co. Kerry

2-6 June

COMEDY

Carlsberg Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, Kilkenny City

3-7 June

FAMILY

Bloom 2010, Phoenix Park

3-7 June (provisional)

FAMILY

Cork Midsummer Festival

12-27 June

FESTIVAL

Tralee Garden Festival, Kerry

19–21 June (provisional)

EQUESTRIAN

Irish Derby Festival, Curragh

25-27 June

FILM

22nd Galway Film Fleadh

July

FESTIVAL

Lady of the Lake Festival, Enniskillen

July

ARTS

Galway International Arts Festival

12–25 July

SPORT

Northern Ireland Milk Cup, Coleraine

25-30 July

EQUESTRIAN

Galway Festival

26-31 July

FAMILY

Waterford Spraoi Festival

30 July – 1 August

ARTS

Féile an Phobail Community Festival Belfast

31 July – 8 August (tbc)

EQUESTRIAN

Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show

4-8 August

ARTS

Kilkenny Arts Festival

6-15 August

FESTIVAL

Puck Fair Killorglin

10-12 August

MUSIC

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

15-22 August

FESTIVAL

Rose of Tralee International Festival Kerry

20-24 August (tbc)

FESTIVAL

Ould Lammas Fair, Ballycastle

30-31 August

SPORT

All Ireland Hurling Final, Dublin

September

SPORT

All Ireland Football Final, Dublin

September

FOOD

Hillsborough Oyster Festival

2-4 September (tbc)

MUSIC

Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival, Omagh

4-6 September (tbc)

ARTS

Dublin Fringe Festival

11-26 September

FOOD

Galway International Oyster Festival

23-26 September

THEATRE

Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival

30 September – 17 October

TRADITIONAL

Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Co. Clare

October

FILM

Corona Cork Film Festival

October

OPERA

Wexford Festival Opera

14-31 October (tbc)

ARTS

Belfast Festival at Queen’s

15-30 October (tbc)

JAZZ

Guinness Cork Jazz Festival

22-25 October (tbc)

SPORT

Dublin City Marathon

25 October

CINEMA

Derry Foyle Film Festival, Londonderry

November

EQUESTRIAN

Down Royal – Festival of Racing Lisburn

5–6 November

A detailed and up to the minute listing of Festivals & Events is available from www.discoverireland.com/festivals

Hostelling International Northern Ireland Tel: + 44 (0) 28 9032 4733 www.hini.org.uk

Where to Stay In a country where hospitality is second nature, Ireland has a wonderful range of places to stay from the friendliest Bed and Breakfasts in the world to 5-star hotels. Visit www.discoverireland.com/offers for thousands of offers on accommodation in Ireland and to check out a range of attractive inclusive packages available from many tour operators. You can find welcoming Bed and Breakfasts throughout Ireland, even in the most remote areas, with a friendly personal service and wonderful full Irish or Ulster Fry breakfasts. To feel part of the countryside, nothing compares with a Farmhouse holiday but book early as they are very popular – it’s a great way to get to know local people. Situated in lovely surroundings, Ireland’s elegant Country Houses offer a truly unique place to stay and often provide access to a variety of pursuits, from angling to country cooking courses. Book in advance if possible. Inexpensive and comfortable, Ireland’s large network of Hostels gives budget travellers great independence. Facilities vary so check in advance. Camping and Caravanning in Ireland’s 200 sites, usually near the most beautiful scenery, is another way to enjoy the countryside on a budget, while selfcatering holidays, in traditional Irish cottages or modern apartments and chalets can be enjoyed in villages, towns and cities. HOTELS & GUESTHOUSES The Irish Hotels Federation Tel: + 353 (0) 1 808 4419 www.irelandhotels.com Northern Ireland Hotels Federation Tel: +44 (0) 28 9077 6635 www.nihf.co.uk

Manor House Hotels and Irish Country Hotels Tel: + 353 (0) 1 295 8900 www.cmvhotels.com Ireland’s Blue Book Tel: + 353 (0) 1 676 9914 www.irelandsbluebook.com Good Food Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 53 915 8693 www.goodfoodireland.ie BED AND BREAKFASTS Town, Farm & Country Homes (TF&CH) trading under B&B Ireland Tel: + 353 (0) 71 982 2222 www.bandbireland.com The Friendly Homes of Ireland (Adams & Butler) Tel: + 353 (0) 1 288 9355 www.tourismresources.ie/fh Northern Ireland Bed & Breakfast Partnership Tel: +44 (0) 28 2177 1308

CAMPING & CARAVANNING Irish Caravan and Camping Council www.camping-ireland.ie British Holiday and Home Parks Association Tel: +44 (0) 1452 526911 www.bhhpa.org.uk SELF-CATERING REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Self-Catering Federation Tel: +353 (0) 818 300 186 www.iscf.ie NORTHERN IRELAND The Northern Ireland Self-Catering Holidays Association Tel: +44 (0) 28 9043 6632 www.nischa.com Visit www.discoverireland.com to find a comprehensive list of every registered accommodation unit on the island of Ireland, including hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, selfcatering, camping and caravanning.

COUNTRY HOUSES The Hidden Ireland Guide Tel: + 353 (0) 1 662 7166 www.hiddenireland.com HOSTELS An Óige – Irish Youth Hostel Association Tel: + 353 (0) 1 830 4555 www.irelandyha.org Independent Holiday Hostels Tel: + 353 (0) 1 836 4700 www.hostels-ireland.com Celtic Budget Accommodation Tel: + 353 (0) 1 855 0019 www.celtic-accommodation.ie

REGIONAL INFORMATION For further tourist information and useful addresses of regional tourism organisations visit: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND www.discoverireland.ie NORTHERN IRELAND www.discovernorthernireland.com

What a guidebook doesn’t tell you, she will… Stay at an Irish Home in the Town, on a Farm or in the Countryside and discover the things that only a local could know. Copies of our guide are available from Tourism Ireland on Tel: 0800 039 7000

Book online B&B Ireland Strip UK&US FA.indd 1

bandbireland.com 18/09/2009 11:23:38

We’ve got Dublin Covered from €

Think your kids are wild?

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Ballsbridge | Dublin Airport Leopardstown | Newlands Cross

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0845 234 59 59

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Roscommon

the adventure awaits...

Discover County Roscommon and experience a wonderful landscape rich in history and pagan myth, in grand houses, local heritage and the great outdoors. www.arignaminingexperience.ie

• Cruachan Aí Celtic Royal Site, Celtic Heritage, Exhibition, Guided Tours & Café • Arigna Mining Experience, Unique Underground Tour & Museum • King House Georgian Mansion, Galleries & Museum • Strokestown Park House, Gardens & Famine Museum • Lough Key Forest & Activity Park

www.strokestownpark.ie

www.cruachanai.com

www.loughkey.ie

www.kinghouse.ie

Explore one and get 20% off admission to the other 4!

Killarney - Ireland’s most beautiful destination

TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL

Marvel at the beauty of its breathtaking landscapes and explore its heritage including the world famous Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms and the wonderfully restored 14th century Ross Castle. Killarney National Park is an outdoor paradise with thousands of acres of mountains, lakes and oak woodlands for lovers of outdoor activity from leisurely strolls to challenging adventure. There are an incredible 43 Golf Courses within a two hour drive of Killarney. For top quality and choice in Accommodation & Hospitality, Spas, Dining, Evening Entertainment and Shopping. - Killarney has it all. In the heart of County Kerry, Killarney offers superb touring options and is the “perfect touring base” for Ireland southwest. For further information on where to stay and dine and, what to see and do in Killarney, log on to: www.killarney.ie

Two of Killarney’s Victorian Gems! The Malton Hotel

The Malton in Killarney has been welcoming visitors since 1854. It is truly the gracious ‘old lady’ of Irish hotels. Located in Killarney town yet on its own private grounds of six acres, this elegant Victorian-era hotel combines old-world charm with up-to-date luxury facilities. Great service comes easily with 155 years of experience, and the welcoming atmosphere creates an oasis of calm amid the bustle of Killarney. The Malton, Town Centre, Killarney, County Kerry Tel: + 353 64 6638000 Web: www.themalton.com Email: res@themalton.com

Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

Completed in 1843, Muckross House with its lakeshore gardens is Ireland’s most famous Victorian mansion - welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Now incorporating an award-winning folk museum (Muckross Traditional Farms), Muckross House is the focal point for Killarney National Park and the premier heritage attraction site in Ireland. Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms, The National Park, Killarney, County Kerry Tel: + 353 64 6670144 Web: www.muckross-house.ie

Luxury in the heart of Ireland’s magnificent Southwest Breathtaking views, World class service, Unrivalled complimentary leisure activities

An ideal base from which to explore famed Kerry beauty spots such as the nearby National Park, Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula Our hotels offer sheer comfort and exquisite cuisine. Whether enjoying the view from your balcony or relaxing in our spa, horse riding on our Haflinger ponies, playing tennis or fishing from our private pier you will feel truly at home in Ireland’s countryside.

E: hotelsales@killarneyhotels.ie I T: +353 64 66 71340 I W: www.killarneyhotels.ie

Ac co An m o g l nl Co ing y ac Cr h ui s Cu ing ltu Cy re/ cli He Di ng rita sa ge Eq bled ue Ga stri rd an Go ens lf Op er M a/M ot o us Se rin ic/L lf- g ite ra Se Cate ry ni r i or ng Sh C or itiz Sp t Br ens a ea ks W al ki W ng at e Ot rsp he or t r s

UK Tour Operators COMPANY

TELEPHONE

WEBSITE

Action Tours

01952 462 462

www.actiontours.co.uk

Andrew's of Tideswell Ltd

01298 871 222

www.andrews-of-tideswell.co.uk

Anglers World Holidays

01246 221 717

www.anglers-world.co.uk

Applesby Coach Holidays

01507 357 900

www.applebyscoaches.co.uk

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Bakers Dolphin

01934 415 000

www.bakersdolphin.com

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Barrhead Travel Ltd

01412 421 285

www.barrheadtravel.co.uk

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Best of Scotland Holidays

01333 360 395

www.best-of-scotland.co.uk

Bowen Travel

01827 300 000

www.bowenstravel.co

Boxwood Tours

01341 241 717

www.boxwoodtours.co.uk

Brightwater Holidays

01334 657 155

www.brightwaterholidays.com

British Airways Holidays

01293 722 169

www.baholidays.com

Caledonian Travel

0141 226 4976

www.caledoniantravel.com

Celtic Welcomes

0870 290 3030

www.celticwelcomes.com

Claddah Holidays

0121 200 3320

www.claddahtravel.co.uk

Cresta Holidays

08716 647 822

www.crestaholidays.co.uk

Crusader Holidays

01255 425 453

www.crusader-holidays.co.uk

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Tailormade tours

●

WW Package Holidays

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Specialist groups

● ●

David Palmer Coaches

01924 895 849

www.davidpalmercoaches.co.uk

●

David Urquhart Travel

0845 700 0400

www.davidurquhart.com

●

Days Away

01333 360 600

www.shortbreaks.co.uk

Diamond Holidays (Wales)

01792 543 800

www.diamondholidays.co.uk

Discover Travel & Tours

0870 290 1010

www.discovertravelandtours.co.uk

Driveline Golf

0870 330 1056

www.drivelinegolf.com

Dodds of Troon Ltd

01292 288 100

Easy Breaks

0131 561 1210

●

● ●

● ● Ad hoc groups

● ● ●

www.easy-breaks.com

●

Edwards Coach Holidays

01443 202 048

www.edwardscoaches.co.uk

●

Edwin Doran Sports Travel

0208 288 2950

www.edwindoran.co.uk

● ●

Rugby coach tours School sports rugby/hockey

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Eurolines

01582 724 440

www.eurolines.co.uk

Executive Golf & Leisure

01786 832 244

www.execgolf-leisure.com

Expedia Corporate Travel

02070 192 431

www.expedia.co.uk

Glenton Holidays

0800 242 424

www.glentonholidays.co.uk

Golfbreaks.com

0845 675 6005

www.golfbreaks.com

Golf Par Excellence

01737 211 818

www.golfparexcellence.com

Golf Scotland

01382 522 500

www.golfscotland.com

Grand UK Holidays

01603 619 933

www.grandukholidays.com

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Great Rail Journeys

01904 521 936

www.greatrail.com

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Greatdays Travel Group

0161 928 9286

www.greatdays.co.uk

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Gulliver Sports Travel

01684 293 175

www.gulliversports.co.uk

Harrison Holidays

01553 774 634

www.harrison-holidays.co.uk

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● Holiday website

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Harry Shaw City Cruiser

0247 645 5544

www.harryshaw.co.uk

0208 732 1220

www.hfholidays.co.uk

Hirwaun Travel

01685 811 261

www.cynonvalley.co.uk

Hotel Connect

0845 230 8888

www.hotelconnect.co.uk

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Hotel Connexions

01786 825 407

www.hotelconnexions.co.uk

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Hotel Direct

0800 633 8000

www.hoteldirect.co.uk

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Transport Escorted rail & coach holidays

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HF Holidays

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Themed & tailormade breaks Sport, rugby

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Hotels & More

0208 515 9820

www.hotels-more.com

In the Saddle – Holidays on Horseback

01299 272 977

www.inthesaddle.com

Independent Coach Travel

0207 538 4627

www.ictsqt.co.uk

Irish Ferries Holidays

0151 242 1715

www.irishferries.com

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King World Travel

01292 287 755

www.kingworldtravel.com

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Travel Agent

For a full and up-to-the minute list of UK Tour Operators visit www.discoverireland.com/touroperators

R A I LT O U R S IRELAND.COM

GREAT TOURS FROM DUBLIN 2010

DO A BIG CHUNK OF IRELAND IN ONE DAY OR MORE !

The Eco Friendly way - Without having to drive DAY TOURS • • • • • •

A perfect day with Cycling Safaris!

Cork & Blarney Castle Cliffs of Moher The Giant's Causeway The Ring of Kerry Connemara & Galway Bay The Aran Islands

2 DAY TOURS

• The West Coast Explorer • Cork, Blarney & The Ring of Kerry

BOOK TODAY - TRAVEL TOMORROW RESERVATIONS

3 DAY TOURS

• Cork, Blarney, The Ring of Kerry & Dingle Peninsula • Cork, Blarney, The Ring of Kerry & Cliffs of Moher • Cliffs, Connemara, Aran Islands

(ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

BOOK AND PAY ONLINE OR TEL: DUBLIN 353-1-856 0045 FAX: 353-1-856 0035 e-mail: info@railtoursireland.com

4 DAY TOURS

• The Grand Atlantic Tour • Cork, Kerry, Dingle & Cliffs

5 DAY TOUR

• The Royal Atlantic Tour

6 DAY TOUR

or in person at our desk at

Dublin Tourism Centre, Suffolk St, Dublin 2. or at Railtours House 16 Amiens Street, Dublin 1. (directly opposite Connolly Station)

• The All Ireland Tour

Railtours Ireland

See our full brochure at our website

www.railtoursireland.com

now available from

LONDON

in association with

(March-October) (Irish Rail)

‘Sine Metu’

Cycling Safaris www.jamesonwhiskey.com

VISIT

JAMESON DISTILLERY TOURS

IRELAND

DUBLIN

CORK

Open 7 days all year, offering Guided tours , Whiskey Tasting, Gift Shop, Restaurant and Bars. Irish Shindig Nights, April - October. full show package available, in the heart of Dublin City! Tour, 4 Course Dinner and Show The Old Jameson Distillery, Bow Street, Smithfield, Dublin 7. e: reservations@ojd.ie, t: 00353 (0)1 807 2355, f: 00353 0(1) 807 2369. The Jameson Experience , The Old Distillery, Midleton, Co.Cork. e:bookings@omd.ie, t: 00353 (0)21 461 3594, f: 00353 (0)21 461 3704.

192x127mm__landscape_Combined.indd 1

29/09/2009 11:02:12

Ac co An m o g l nl Co ing y ac Cr h ui s Cu ing ltu Cy re/ cli He Di ng rita sa ge Eq bled ue Ga stri rd an Go ens lf Op er M a/M ot o us Se rin ic/L lf- g ite ra Se Cate ry ni r o in Sh r C g or itiz Sp t Br ens a ea ks W al k W ing at e Ot rsp he or t r s

UK Tour Operators COMPANY

TELEFON

WEBSITE

Kings Angling and Activity Holidays

01708 453 043

www.kingsangling.co.uk

Kirker Holidays

0207 593 2281

www.kirkerholidays.com

Lastminute.com

0871 222 5969

www.lastminute.com

Leger Holidays

01709 833 836

www.leger.co.uk

Leisure Direction Travel Ltd

0844 576 5504

www.leisuredirection.co.uk

Links Golf St Andrews

01334 478 639

www.linksgolfstandrews.com

Martins World Holidays

01246 221 717

www.martins-world.co.uk

McKinlay Kidd Ltd

0844 804 0020

www.seeirelanddifferently.co.uk

National Holidays

0844 477 8000

www.nationalholidays.com

Newmarket Travel Service

020 8335 4400

www.newmarkettravel.co.uk

Norman Allen Group Travel

01432 277 666

www.group-travel.com

North British Tours

01461 337 799

www.northbritishtours.com

On Course Travel

01372 451 910

www.ireland-oncourse.co.uk

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Operation Europe

0207 566 5409

www.operationeurope.com

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Opodo

0871 352 5000

www.opodo.co.uk

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Osprey Holidays Ltd

0845 310 3031

www.osprey-holidays.co.uk

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Parrys International Tours

01922 414 576

www.parrys.info

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PerryGolf

01436 657 858

www.perrygolf.com

Ramblers Holidays Ltd

01707 331 133

www.ramblersholidays.co.uk

Saddle Skedaddle

0191 265 1110

www.skedaddle.co.uk

Saga Holidays Ltd

01303 771 111

www.saga.co.uk

Shearings Holidays

01942 824 824

www.shearings.com

Simply Groups

01943 605 999

www.simplygroups.co.uk

Skills Holidays

0115 977 7413

www.skillsholidays.co.uk

Stena Line Holidays

08705 747 474

www.stenaline.co.uk

Stewart Travel

01292 294 766

www.stewarttravel.co.uk

Stita Farm Tours

01242 515 712

www.stita.co.uk

Success Tours

01225 764 205

www.success-tours.co.uk

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● Trade Wholesaler

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www.ptstravel.co.uk

Personalised Travel Services Ltd

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Special Interest Groups

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Special Interest Groups

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Themed breaks

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City breaks, specialist packages

● ● ● ● ● ● Travel Agent Youth groups

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Superbreak

0871 221 2828

www.superbreak.com

Tangney Tours

01732 886 666

www.tangney-tours.com

Tayleur Mayde Golf Tours

0131 524 9554

www.tayleurmayde.com

Superbreak

0871 221 2828

www.superbreak.com

The Albatross Travel Group

01732 879 123

www.albatross-tours.com

The Camping & Caravanning Club

0247 647 5120

www.campingandcaravanningclub. co.uk

The Caravan Club

01342 326 944

www.caravanclub.co.uk

The Golf Holiday Company Ltd

08701 121 314

www.golfholidaycompany.com

The Tour Partnership

01993 851 515

www.tourpartnership.com

Thomas Cook Signature & Cresta Holidays

01733 416 344

www.thomascook.com

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Thomas Cook Signature Ltd

01733 416 344

www.tcsignature.com

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Thomson Cities and Short Breaks

0871 664 9680

www.thomsoncities.co.uk

Titan Travel Ltd

01293 455 345

www.titantravel.co.uk

Total Golf and Leisure

01244 677 400

www.totalgolf.co.uk

Tour Providers

01432 890 742

www.moreinterestingtours.com

Travco

0207 739 3333

www.travco.co.uk

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Travelling the Fairways

01334 460 789

www.ttfgolf.com

●

Wilkinson Golf & Leisure

01383 629 940

www.wilkinsongolf.com

Whytes Coaches Ltd

01651 862 211

www.whytes.co.uk

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● Pilgrimages

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Camping & caravanning

● City breaks, Fly Drive

● ● ● ●

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Sightseeing

● ●

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● ●

For a full and up-to-the minute list of UK Tour Operators visit www.discoverireland.com/touroperators

Advertisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Index A Aer Arann www.aerarann.com Arigna Mining Experience www.arignaminingexperience.ie B B&B Ireland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Town and Country Homes www.bandbireland.com Bewleys Hotels www.bewleyshotels.com Birr Castle Demesne www.birrcastle.com Bunratty Castle and Folk Park www.shannonheritage.com C Castlemartyr Resort www.castlemartyrresort.ie Charter Ireland www.charterireland.ie CIE Tours International www.cietours.com Cresta Holidays www.crestaholidays.co.uk/ireland Cruachan Ai Visitor Centre www.cruachanai.com Cycling Safaris www.cyclingsafaris.com D Druids Glen Golf Club www.druidsglen.ie Dublin Bus Tours www.dublinsightseeing.ie Dublin Tourism www.dublinpass.ie Dublin Zoo www.dublinzoo.ie F Fastnet Line www.fastnetline.com

45 59

58 59 55 42

J Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tours www.jamesonwhiskey.com

42 31 59 62

34 55

K Kerry Airport www.kerryairport.ie Kerrygold UK Ltd www.kerrygold.co.uk Kildare Village Chic Outlet Shopping Centre www.kildarevillage.com Killeen Castle www.killeencastle.com King House, Georgian Mansion, Galleries and Museum www.kinghouse.ie Knock Shrine www.knock-shrine.ie

51 33 57 55 59 48

48 59

L Lahinch Golf Club www.lahinchgolf.com Lough Erne Golf Resort www.loughernegolfresort.com Lough Key Forest and Activity Park www.loughkey.ie M Malone Golf Club www.malonegolfclub.co.uk Manor House Hotels www.manorhousehotels.com Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms www.muckross-house.ie N National Museum of Ireland www.museum.ie

Norfolkline Irish Sea Ferries 47 www.norfolkline.com Nova Car Hire Outside Back Cover www.novacarhire.com P P&O Irish Sea www.poirishsea.com R Radisson Blu www.radissonblu.co.uk Radisson SAS Farnham Estate Cavan www.farnhamestate.com Railtours www.railtoursireland.com Riverdance www.riverdance.com

64 35 62 53

G Galway Airport 51 www.galwayairport.com Go Ireland Outside Back Cover www.goireland.com Good Food Ireland 37 www.goodfoodireland.ie Guinness Storehouse Inside Back Cover www.guinness-storehouse.com H Heritage Ireland www.heritageireland.ie

I Ireland West Airport Knock 51 www.irelandwestairport.com Imagine Ireland 39 & 42 www.imagineireland.com Irish Car Rentals 45 www.irishcarrentals.com Irish Country Hotels 39 www.irishcountryhotels.com Irish Ferries Inside Front Cover & 46 www.irishferries.com Irish Hotels Federation 50 www.irelandhotels.com Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens 57 www.irish-national-stud.ie

35 34 59

35 39 60

S Select Hotels www.selecthotels.ie Silken Thomas Pubs www.silkenthomas.com South East Explorer www.southeastexplorer.com Strokestown Park House & Gardens www.strokestownpark.ie T The Europe Hotel & Resort www.killarneyhotels.ie The Island Golf Club www.theislandgolfclub.com The Malton Hotel www.themalton.com The Merry Ploughboy Pub www.mpbpub.com Thomas Cook UK Ltd www.crestaholidays.co.uk/ireland Thrifty Car Rental www.thrifty.ie Titan Travel Ltd www.titanhitours.co.uk Tralee Golf Club www.traleegolfclub.com Trinity College Accommodation www.tcd.ie/accommodation Trinity College Library www.bookofkells.ie W Waterford Airport Ltd www.waterfordairport.ie Woodbrook Golf Club www.woodbrook.ie

43 57 45 59

60 34 60 39 31 52 42 34 41 40

51 35

n-Ern

nno

Sha

rwa

te Wa

Ashbourne 2 3

Inis Mór Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

KEY TO SYMBOLS Train Route Ferry Airport Tourist Information Beach

Motorway Under Construction KILOMETRES

0 0

20 10

40 20

60 30

80km 50mls

MILES

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this map, Tourism Ireland cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Because of the small scale of this map, not all holiday centres can be shown. The information on this map is correct at the time of going to press. © October 2009 Tourism Ireland

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