Travel Ireland Magazine Volume 2 Issue 18

Travelireland Volume 2 Issue 18 October 2015

Galway Comedy Festival

KERRY FILM FESTIVAL

is sweet 16

Wordsmiths abound at the LINGO FESTIVAL

Cork Folk Festival Hard Working Class Heroes

magazine

The Gobbins new cliff walk

Vamping it up at the

Bram Stoker Festival Richard Harris Festival say no more!

Theatre Royal

the oldest theatre in the oldest city!

Lyric Theatre Belfast

Dancing at Lughnasa

by Brian Friel

Gaiety Theatre Oct 6 -11

‘A thoughtful, adept 25th-anniversary revival.’

The Irish Times

‘The cast works together brilliantly… the production is transformative’ ★★★★★ thepublicreviews.com

Proudly supported by

In association with the Lughnasa International Friel Festival.

Tickets from €15 on sale now dublintheatrefestival.com +353 1 677 8899

CONTENTS 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 23 24 25 26 28 30 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Welcome To Leinster Explore Leinster Lingo Festival Theatre Explore Leinster Bram Stoker Festival Back to our Past Leinster Pubs Leinster Restaurants Hard Working Class Heroes Baboró October Festival Listings Welcome To Munster Kerry Film Festival The Richard Harris International Film Festival Dingle Food Festival Munster Pubs Munster Restaurants Explore Munster Cork Folk Festival Theatre Royal Welcome to Connaught Vodafone Comedy Festival Explore Connaught Connaught Pubs Connaught Restaurants Welcome To Ulster Explore Ulster Belfast International Arts Festival The Gobbins Ulster Pubs Ulster Restaurants Rónán McLaughlin

Ellen Media Communications Ltd Father Matthew Hall Second Floor, 131 Church St, Dublin 7.

Tel: 01 561 2431 / 087 911 3732 www.travelirelandmagazine.com Travel Ireland Magazine @traveliremag

Welcome to our October issue.

Whether this is your first time visiting our shores, or you are returning once again to trace the steps of your distant ancestors, here at Travel Ireland we hope in some small way to be able to gently guide you as you plan your stay here. There’s so much to do and see all year round in Ireland and October is no exception. If you love film then you’ll love the Kerry Film Festival and the Richard Harris Film Festival. There will be some spooky goings on around Dublin at the Bram Stoker Festival and a chance to catch some wonderful artists at Hard Working Class Heroes and Lingo Festival. If you’re looking to trace your Irish roots then be sure to head to Back to Our Past. Whatever you end up doing, we at Travel Ireland wish you a hefty and heart-felt Céad míle fáilte.

Enjoy your stay.

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Published by Ellen Media Communications Ltd Publisher John Carey Features Writer Mark O’Brien Design & Art Direction Oonagh Dowling Credit Control Manager Nichola Thomas (nichola@ellenmediacom.ie) Advertising John Carey (john@ellenmediacom.ie, 01 561 2431, 087 911 3732) Aran Sheehan (aran@travelirelandmagazine.ie, 085 711 0826) Contributors: Adam Patterson Photography, Arran Henderson, John McCurdy, Paula Moore, Patrick O’Neill, Stephen Walker, Ivan Donoghue, Joleen Cronin Richard Eibrand, Padraig O’Donnell, Michael Mc Laughlin. Front cover photo courtesy of Rónán McLaughlin.

We wish to record our thanks to Paula Sneyd, Failte Ireland, The Office of Public Works and the National Monuments Service, Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. And to the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and The National Trust-Giants Causeway (NI), for their help and guidance in the production of this edition.

And to Paddy Donovan, Ed Reeve, Carr Cotter and Naessens, jonandlauren.wordpress.com and10bestpubsingalway.wordpress.com for the use of their images.

Ellen Media Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Ellen Media Communications Limited does not accept responsibility for any advertising content. All unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted or returned. No material may be used in whole or in part without the publishers prior consent. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all the events information or recommendations on this site, no responsibility will be accepted by Ellen Media Communications Ltd, its editorial team, designers, authors or agents acting on their behalf for alterations, errors or omissions which may occur.

OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Leinster - The East Coast Province Leinster is the most easterly of the four provinces of Ireland, and is the most populated with the city of Dublin at its heart. The province is made up of counties Dublin, Louth, Meath, Carlow, Kildare, Wicklow, Laois, Offaly, Longford, Westmeath, Kilkenny and Wexford. These counties have a host of historic monuments, a picture perfect coastline and cities and villages thronged with things to do and see.

County Dublin is the home to the capital city. Dublin is the administrative, cultural, and economic capital of the country. It is one of the most exciting places to visit with a thriving arts, musical and theatrical nightlife.

All roads lead to Saint Stephen’s Green in the very centre of the city. You’ll find it at the top of Grafton Street, with Trinity College down at the other end. And just around the corner you can stroll around the cultural quarter of Temple Bar between Dame Street and the river that, famously, divides the North and the South of the city.

If you want to escape to the country without

GPO, Dublin actually leaving the city, then you can head north to Howth Head, or south to the charming and culturally vibrant villages of Dalkey and Killiney. Half an hour on the DART train will take you from the centre of the city to what feels like the heart of the country.

County Meath formerly known as the Royal County is the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland who were based around the Hill of Tara. Meath is also one of the most archaeologically important counties on the island with its Neolithic sites at Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. These ancient religious sites (built before the Pyramids) have been excavated and restored in recent years making 4

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

Hill of Tara them some of the busiest visitors’ attractions in the country. The sites are all only less than an hour’s drive out of Dublin and are accessible through the Bru Na Boinne Visitors Centre.

The county also features the site of the Battle of the Boyne which was one of the great battles fought on Irish soil. For horse racing lovers, Meath has the wonderful Fairyhouse Racecourse, and there is also summertime horse racing on Laytown Beach.

County Wicklow has several world famous sites and attractions, from the Glendalough monastic settlement with its Abbey and Round Tower, to the fabulous Powerscourt House and Gardens. The Wicklow Hills rising majestically over the county and the seaside town of Bray are just some of its many attractions.

Offaly is situated in the centre of Ireland. Nestling between the Shannon River to the West and the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the East, Offaly is one of the lowest lying counties in the country.

Any visitor should travel along the Royal Canal where one can experience a peace and tranquillity little known in our busy world.

Kildare is the home of the National Stud, Newbridge Silverware and Maynooth College. Couple all these with Mondello Park motor racing, Naas horse racing course and Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park and there is something for everyone.

Westmeath is a county which has at its heart the town of Athlone which is exactly situated in the middle of Ireland. It is home to the RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival, the oldest pub in Ireland and some of the finest golfing, fishing and health spas on offer throughout the land.

Louth is known as “the wee county” as it is the smallest county in Ireland but what it lacks in land mass it makes up for in places to see.

It is the home of the Cooley Mountains, the

Boyne river which is famous for its salmon fishing and the beautiful Carlingford area. If it is a leisurely drive you seek Louth is the place to go. Carlow is where you will find three of Ireland’s key national walking routes – the South Leinster, the Barrow and the Wicklow Ways. Carlow is blessed with hundreds of miles of excellent and varied walking trails, and hosts a wonderful arts festival every June.

Laois is where you can try your hand at a range of activities from paintballing in the Stradbally Woods to western-style riding at Fossey Mountain, bowls at the only indoor

Kilkenny Castle bowls stadium in the Republic or tie a fly at the unique Irish Fly-fishing and Game shooting Museum .

Kilkenny City was voted Ireland’s Top Tourism Town for 2013 by Failte Ireland which is Ireland’s main tourism body. It was voted Cleanest Town in Ireland at end of 2013

by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), and has also been voted 9th friendliest city in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. The city was in addition voted Most Friendliest City in Europe. Couple all these awards with a huge countywide cultural heritage trail and it is a must see destination for any visitor.

Longford is situated in the basin of the River Shannon and the upper catchment area of the River Erne. It is ideally located in the heart of the Lakelands region within easy reach of many stunning and historic tourist attractions.

The county’s accessibility to many of Irelands main towns and cities make it a prime location as a holiday base.

Finally, Wexford is famous for its glorious sandy coastline and together with County Waterford is known as ‘The Sunny South East’.

You can also visit the oldest lighthouse in Europe which stands on the Hook Peninsula.

So now you know, whether you are a family group, a couple, or a single traveller, there is something for everyone in Leinster!

Dublin Airport Travel Services Airport Parking, Fast Track, Executive Lounges and more – save time and book all of your essential travel services in one easy step on dublinairport.com Dublin Airport offers all passengers unlimited free Wifi

Explore Leinster

The James Joyce Museum In 1904, James Joyce stayed in the Martello Tower in Sandycove as a guest of Oliver St. John Gogarty. Although his stay was short, the Martello Tower became the setting for the opening of Joyce’s masterpiece Ulysses. The Martello Tower is now the home of the James Joyce Museum, dedicated to the life and work of one of Ireland’s greatest writers. Open all year round with free admission, the James Joyce Museum has many first editions of Joyce’s work on display. Visitors can also view pictures inspired by Joyce and his work, photographs of the author, his family and his friends, and one of two plaster death masks made by the sculptor Paul Speck.

The James Joyce Museum is a must visit for lovers of literature. www.joycetower.ie

Glendalough

The Chester Beatty Library The only museum in Ireland to win ‘European Museum of the Year’ and described by the Lonely Planet as not just the best museum in Ireland, but one of the best in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library opens a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world.

Egyptian papyrus texts, beautifully illuminated copies of the Qur’an, the Bible, European medieval and renaissance manuscripts are among the many highlights that you’ll find on display here.

And be sure to avail of the excellent guided tours that the loquacious and extremely well-informed guides provide there, free of charge. They take place on Wednesdays at 1pm and on Sundays at 3pm and 4pm.

Opening hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm.

Tel: 01 407 0750

Kilmainham Gaol (Jail) Kilmainham Gaol may seem like an unusual place to spend a morning or afternoon but despite its sometimes grim past it makes for a fascinating visit. Built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol served as a prison for 128 years, and tours detail some of the most heroic and tragic events in Ireland’s emergence as a modern nation. The tour of the prison includes an audio-visual show.

Tickets are sold on a first come first served basis and cannot be booked in advance.

Tel: 01 453 5984

The Guinness Storehouse

Croke Park

This beautiful glacial valley in County Wicklow is renowned as the place where Cistercian monks settled in the sixth century, and the remains of the monastic priory including a round tower can still be seen today. Known locally as “the valley of the two lakes” , the locals also say it will still your mind, inspire your heart and fill your soul.

The early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the “Monastic City”. Tel: 0404 45325/45352.

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

Formerly known as the Hop Store, the Guinness Storehouse is laid out over seven floors surrounded by a glass atrium that rises up through its centre. You make your way up on a self-guided tour, where you learn all about the beer’s history, the central part that the Guinness family played in the development of the city, and of the world famous advertising campaigns that did so much to help promote it.

Tours are e16.50, which includes your pint of Guinness in The Gravity Bar on the 7th floor. Which might sound a bit steep for a self-guided tour, but it’s all beautifully laid out and the whole experience is richly rewarding. Tel: 01 408 4800.

Croke Park is the home of Ireland’s national games; Gaelic football and hurling. A tour of the stadium is a tour through Ireland’s rich history. The state of the art visitors experience offers a chance to visit team dressing rooms, go pitchside and take a seat in the VIP area.

The museum tells the story of Gaelic games from ancient times to the present day and offers visitors the chance to try out their own football and hurling skills.

If you’re feeling brave and have a head for heights, then why not take the incredible Skyline Tour? Visitors ascend a 44 metre walkway to take in panoramic views of the city from the top of the stadium and allows visitors to find out about key Dublin landmarks from five viewing platforms along the stadium. www.crokepark.ie www.skylinecrokepark.ie

GOURMET FRENCH CUISINE PRE-THEATRE & EARLY-BIRD DINING VEGETARIAN, COELIAC & GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS PRIVATE DINING ROOMS AVAILABLE

81 - 82 TALBOT STREET, DUBLIN 2 |TEL: 01 704 0126 |EMAIL: INFO@LEBONCRUBEEN.IE |WWW. LEBONCRUBEEN.IE

Celtic Lodge Guesthouse

In the Heart of Dublin City Centre

Celtic Lodge is located on Talbot Street in Dublin City Centre.

Recently refurbished throughout, the rooms are decorated in modern colours and fabrics with luxurious touches, to make your stay in Dublin as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

The Celtic Lodge Guesthouse is located just 5 minutes walk from both Connolly Train Station and Busáras, the main bus station in Dublin. Popular Dublin attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Book of Kells at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and the Old Jameson Distillery are also close by. Celtic Lodge offers quality Dublin accommodation at great rates and is an ideal choice for your stay in Dublin.

81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 . Tel: 01 878 8810 Email: info@celticlodge.ie www.celticlodge.ie

Dublin’s Finest Traditional Irish Pub Traditional Irish Music Every evening from 9pm. Come on in for a pint and the craic!

Come along and experience the authentic atmosphere found only at The Celt Bar, the traditional Irish pub in Dublin that’s as full of life as it always has been. Friendly faces, a classic bar menu, the finest selection of Irish whiskey’s, beers, ales and stouts, ciders and not to mention the goodness of real Guinness.

www.thecelt.ie

The Celt Bar 81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Lingo FESTIVAL

I

reland has produced some of the world’s greatest poets.

From Heaney, to Yeats, to Kavanagh, we have a proud poetic tradition. In recent years the Irish spoken word poetry scene has exploded and is growing all the time. This vibrant movement will be celebrated during the second Lingo Festival, which runs from 16 to 18 October. Almost 1000 punters flocked to four Dublin venues for last year’s inaugural festival and this year it promises to be even bigger, with a range of great events, such as spoken word theatre, poetry slams, youth workshops, poetry brunches and poetry bingo to enjoy. A host of Irish and international poets will perform at this year’s event, including the legendary Saul Williams.

Williams, a world renowned poet, rapper, actor and musician will make his first Irish appearance in ten years when he plays the The Button Factory on 18 October. He is one of the highest selling poets of all time, having published five books of poetry since gaining global fame at the turn of the century. He has collaborated with the likes of Rick Rubin, Nine Inch Nails and Allen Ginsberg and appeared in many films. Williams is currently preparing to launch his fifth album ‘Martyr Loser King’ a concept album about a Burundian miner-turned-hacker who starts a revolution from his computer.

Joining Saul Williams on the night will be John Cummins and Mark Grist. John Cummins was the poet laureate of last year’s festival and has been Leinster Poetry Slam Champion for the past three years, as well as the 2013/14 All-Ireland Poetry Slam Champion. Mark Grist is a poet and battle rapper from the UK who left his teaching job three years ago to pursue his love of words. He has since performed in far flung places like Singapore and made many appearances on BBC radio and television.

The Workman’s Club is the place to be on Saturday 17 October where Hollie McNish and Elaine Feeney will perform. Hollie McNish is an acclaimed UK spoken word artist whose online videos have repeatedly gone viral. Her poem Mathematics, about UK immigration, reached over a million views in one week alone.

Elaine Feeney is a fearless Irish poet who has published three collections of poetry and performed all over the world. She writes startling, provocative poetry that is both unflinching and witty.

With events in five venues around Dublin city, Lingo Festival is a weekend of words that is not to be missed by lovers of poetry.

It also tears down the barriers for those who feel that poetry is elitist or inaccessible.

Poetry is for everyone. Let Lingo show you how. www.lingofestival.com

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23—26 October 2015

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4 Days of Living Stories

4 Nights of Deadly Adventures

www.bramstokerfestival.com

Welcome to Zaragoza, where you’ll find deliciously fresh Mediterranean tapas served with the warmest Irish welcome.

A contemporary fusion of modern, authentic cuisine presented in a convivial atmosphere, Zaragoza is not just a place, it’s a destination.

South William Street, Dublin 2 Ph: 01 6794020 Opening hours: Monday - Sunday - 12noon - Midnight (last orders 11pm) OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Theatre The Abbey

Oedipus in a new version

by Wayne Jordan

Wayne Jordan’s new version of Oedipus invites us to confront vital questions of who we are and how we live together with his interpretation of Sophocles’ epic tragedy.

Featuring an original score by Tom Lane and a cast of 19 actors, including Barry John O’Connor as Oedipus, Peter Gowen as Tiresias and Mark Huberman as Creon.

24 September - 31 October Tel: 01 887 2200 Also in The Abbey this month Shibboleth (2 - 31 October) and The Abbey Theatre and Easter 1916 (6 October).

The Gate

A View From The Bridge

Set in Brooklyn in 1956, Longshoreman Eddie Carbone agrees to take in his wife’s Italian cousins, Marco and Rodolpho, who have arrived to work illegally. But trouble begins when his orphaned niece Catherine becomes attracted to the charming Rodolpho.

8 September - 24 October Tel: 01 874 4045 / 01 874 6042

National Concert Hall

The National Concert Hall is home to the RTE National Symphony Orchestra, Irish Baroque Orchestra, and the National Chamber Choir of Ireland.

Highlights this September include Paddy Cole Music Show (1 October), Albert Hammond in Concert (3 October), The Life and Songs of John McCormack (4 October), Moonlight and Chopin (9 October), La Boheme by Giacomo Puccini (17, 18, 20 October) and Glenn Miller Orchestra (24 October).

Tel: 01 417 0000 Or go to www.nch.ie

Bord Gais Energy Theatre The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Fifteen year old Christopher has an extraordinary brain – exceptional at maths but ill-equipped to deal with everyday life.

When he is suspected of killing Mrs Shears’ dog, it takes him on a journey that upturns his world. Based on the award winning novel by Mark Haddon, this Olivier Award-winning production stars Joshua Jenkins as Christopher along with Geraldine Alexander (Siobhan), Chris Ashby (alternate Christopher), Emmanuelle Cole (Punk Girl), Edward Grace (Mr Thompson), Gina Isaac ( Judy) and Stuart Laing (Ed).

6 - 10 October Tel: 01 677 7999 or visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie Also at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this month Menopause the Musical (13 - 14 October), Leo Sayer (16 October) and Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra (23 - 24 October)

Mermaid Arts Centre How To Keep An Alien

The Olympia Johnny Marr

Johnny Marr returns to Dublin for what is sure to be an amazing show. Originally a member of The Smiths, Marr has since played with a range of groups, including The Modest Mouse, The Cribs and Electronic. He’s now a successful solo artist, releasing his second solo album Playland to great acclaim last year.

18 October Tel: 01 679 3323 www.olympia.ie Also in the Olympia this month Bill Bailey Limboland (1 October), Mr Ireland 2015 (4 October), Keith Barry - Out of Control (16 October), Walking On Cars (20 October), The Drifters (24 October), Steve Earle & The Dukes (25 October) and Michael Palin Thirty Years Tour (29 October).

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1 October Tel: 01 2724043 or visit www. mermaidartscentre.ie Also at Mermaid Arts Centre this month Two Brothers: Vladimir & Anton Jablokov (3 October), Lynched (8 October), Johnny McEvoy (15 October), Phil Coulter - 50th Anniversary (30 October) and the Rocky Horror Picture Show (31 October).

The Gaiety

Dancing At Lughnasa

Dancing at Lughnasa tells the story of the five Mundy sisters and their brother Jack who returns home to Donegal in 1936 after 25 years away at the missions. Their nephew Michael tells the story of childhood in Ballybeg, where his aunts raised him and where once they danced a dance to the exciting, fleeting melody of the past.

6 - 11 October Tel: 0818 719 388

Theatre Royal, Waterford Les Miserables

The multi award winning South Eastern Theatre Group bring the stunning musical Les Miserables to the Theatre Royal for six performances only. With stunning stage sets that includes a revolving barricade, a full live orchestra and a hugely talented cast (this production is performed by students), Director David Hennessy and Musical Director David Hayes ( Riverdance, The Voice Of Ireland RTE, Late Late Show ) combine their talents for a night that will live long in the memory.

27 October - 1 November Saturday 31st October Matinee performance added due to phenomenal demand!

Also in the Theatre Royal this month; The New Triangle (7 October), Bell X1 Acoustic Tour (10 October), Ghost Story (15 October) and Jackula (23 October).

Tel: 051 874 402 www.theatreroyal.ie

Smock Alley Theatre

The True Story of Hansel and Gretel Rough Magic present a story about falling in love and proving it to the government. Sonya Kelly (The Wheelchair on my Face) is back with a tearfully funny and tender memoir about securing an Irish visa for her Australian partner. Her madcap odyssey takes her from the stony townlands of Offaly to the leafy depths of the Queensland bush. Succeeding will take an Olympian will and the heart of a whale, but above all else, paperwork. A hell of a lot of paperwork.

A deliciously dark musical fable from the creators of A Feast of Bones. Featuring live music and an original score, Theatre Lovett’s new play explores the darker colours of the rainbow in this bold retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairytale.

4 - 11 October Also in Smock Alley this month Postcards (5 - 10 October) and Show Me Love (4 - 11 October).

Tel: 01 677 0014 www.smockalley.com

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Explore Leinster

The War Memorial Gardens

Avondale House and Forest Park

The Old Jameson Distillery Experience the Old Jameson Distillery whiskey tour and let expert guides take you back in time as they lead you through the fascinating story of Jameson Irish Whiskey.

At the end of the tour, all visitors are rewarded with a complimentary dram of whiskey at the Jameson Bar and partake in a comparison whiskey tasting session where you will learn how to tell the differences between Scotch, Irish, and American whiskey. The tour finishes at the exclusive gift store where people may choose to buy a personalised bottle or a memento of their visit. Dublin is a city famous for its whiskey and a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery is essential for any person looking to explore, sightsee or even just enjoy themselves and have a drink.

Open Daily from 9am-6pm Tel: 01 8072348/ 2316

Cultural and Historical Walking Tours The streets of Dublin have been home to the Vikings, Normans, Elizabethans, Georgians and Victorians. What better way to explore its secret nooks and crannies than to take one of the many cultural and historical walking tours that the city has to offer.

At Dublin Decoded, Arran Henderson provides a wide range of fascinating insights into Dublin’s history, with particular emphasis on its art and architecture.

From “How To Read A Painting:symbols and meaning at the National Gallery” to Architecture of Georgian Splendour, and an historic Medieval Treasure Hunt.

Alternatively you can talk to him about designing your own tour.

See www.dublindecoded.com 12

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

When you are visiting IMMA in Kilmainham, you should walk on over to Islandbridge about half a kilometer further on. The gardens there are dedicated to the memory of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1st World War. The names of all the soldiers are contained in the beautifully illustrated Harry Clarke manuscripts in the granite bookrooms in the gardens.

Not merely a place of remembrance, they are also of great architectural interest and beauty. They are one of only four gardens in this country designed by the famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944).

The others being Heywood Gardens, Lambay Island and those in Howth Castle.

The sunken rose gardens, herbaceous borders and extensive tree planting on view here make it well worth that extra bit of a walk.

Open all year round. Tel: 01 475 7816

The National Museum of Ireland

The Museum is recognised as Ireland’s premier cultural institution and home to the greatest collections of Irish material heritage, culture and natural history in the world. Admission to the museum is free and there are numerous exhibitions, talks and tours.

Tel 01 677 7444

Avondale House was the birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (18461891), one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. Set in a magnificent forest park of over 500 acres, there are tree trails and walks ranging in duration from one to five hours.

Visitors are introduced to this wonderful historical house by a specially commissioned audio visual presentation.

Other facilities include a licensed café, bookshop, picnic areas, children’s play area, three orienteering courses (maps can be downloaded at www.coillteoutdoors.ie) and a large car/coach park.

Tel: 0404 46111 www.heritageisland.com

Gallery Zozimus

Gallery Zozimus, art gallery, in the centre of Dublin’s Arts and Antiques Quarter of Francis Street, is ideally situated in the centre of a triangle that comprises Christchurch, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Visitor Centre at the Guinness Hop Store.

They hold a collection of Paintings, Sculptures in Bronze, Ceramic, Glass and Wood, Photography and more recently have exhibited Street or Urban art.Their’s is the largest Ceramic Gallery in Dublin exhibiting over 75 artists work Their aim is to ensure that you have an exciting array of artworks to choose from so they have created this very special place where you can view a mix of contemporary and traditional works. Gallery Zozimus represents over 120 artists, some well established and some just starting out.

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10.00 – 5.30 Sunday by appointment.

Tel: 353 1 453 9057.

Email: info@galleryzozimus.ie www.galleryzozimus.ie Gallery Zozimus, 56 Francis St, Dublin 8

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Bram Stoker FESTIVAL

D

ublin city goes gloriously gothic from 23 to 26 October for the Bram Stoker Festival.

Landmarks and buildings across the city will light up in blood red while visitors are promised Four Days of Living Stories and Four Nights of Deadly Adventures.

“We are delighted to be celebrating the great Dublin author Bram Stoker and his famous novel Dracula,” said Lord Mayor of Dublin Críona Ní Dhálaigh at the launch of this year’s event. “This Festival is a celebration of the famous gothic novel and showcases the amazing cultural talent within Dublin today.”

It certainly will be a cultural celebration like no other, with some great artists set to open and close the festival. World renowned Irish street artist Maser will create an interactive installation in Smithfield, inspired by Stoker’s life and the themes of his famous novel. The local community will be encouraged to collaborate in its construction over seven days before the installation is opened to the public at twilight on 23 October. It will remain open for the duration of the festival and is sure to be a must-see event.

Closing the festival at twilight on 26 October will be Macnas. The Galway based street performers will bring a deadly adventure to life on the streets of Dublin with a breathtaking citywide procession.

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

The group’s spectacular shows have to be seen to be believed and will provide a fitting ending to what is sure to be a terrific four days.

During the festival, Stokerland will open its gates to families on 25 October.

This pop-up gothic theme park in Wolfe Tone Park is done in the style of a 1900 world fair. This family friendly fun-day offers children and adults complete gothic makeovers, tin-plate portraits in period dress, screenprinting with Damn Fine Print and Victorian goodies while they enjoy the macabre talents of world class street performers.

Also on Sunday 25 October, adults can partake in the deadliest adventure of them all, New Blood, which takes place at the Projects Arts Centre. New Blood is a progressive Halloween Party filled with bespoke cocktails, art installations, live electronic acts and DJs. Attendees will lose themselves in a futuristic vampire haven where excessive dress-up is essential for this raucous cacophony of mischief.

During the festival, the National Gallery of Ireland will host a series of talks on the life and work of Bram Stoker, Dylan Haskins and Lisa Hannigan will host a special live Bram Stoker edition of their popular podcast Soundings in St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Light House Cinema will have a Vampire Film Screening. Designers and illustrators Damn Fine Print will host

two events; the exhibition Dancing in The Moonlight: Dublin by Night and a special festival launch party at the Generator Hostel in Smithfield. Elsewhere Una Mullally and Vicky Curtis will host a bilingual storytelling evening, I Got the Seanchai, I Got the Secret and Hushed, an eerie nighttime vocal ensemble will perform at Marsh’s Library.

Dublin is sure to come alive in celebration of Bram Stoker this bank holiday weekend with fun for the whole family to enjoy. Be sure to look out for the special coven of vampires who will be let loose on the city during the festival and make sure to join in the fun by using the hashtag #BiteMeDublin on social media. www.bramstokerfestival.com

Visit the Book Of Kells in Trinity College and then take the two minute walk to visit us on Dawson Street.

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15

BACK TO

OUR PAST

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id you know that there are up to 70 million people with Irish heritage scattered across the globe? Of course you did.You’re reading a magazine about tourism in Ireland.You’re most likely one of those 70 million and one of the reasons you’re here is to trace those Irish roots. If that’s why you’re here then you really can’t afford to miss Back to Our Past, which takes place in the RDS in Dublin from 9 to 11 October.

The event is a genealogy and family/social history experience that has become hugely popular since it started six years ago.

A range of exhibitors will be on hand from Irish and overseas organisations to give advice and engage with different enquiries.

These include genealogical societies, data providers, record repositories, heritage magazines and heritage sites. This is a great opportunity to put your questions to the likes of the National Archives, Ancestry.com, AGI, Eneclann, FamilyTreeDNA and Findmypast.ie.

There will also be an extensive range of presentations over the course of the three days. All presentations are free to those attending Back To Our Past and should give great insight and tips into tracing those Irish roots.

The event isn’t just about tracing your roots though. It also offers a chance to have antiques valued for free by a man who knows a thing or two about the business. Eric Knowles, known to millions thanks to his appearances on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow will be in attendance to give valuations for small items and collectables as well as offering advice from photographs of bigger antiques. Who knows, maybe you have something priceless sitting at home gathering dust. This is your chance to find out for free.

Knowing your family history is also priceless and you’ll be well on your way to tracing those roots after a trip to Back To Our Past this month. www.backtoourpast.com

Photos clockwise from top: Eric Knowles; Consultations; Typical crowds at show.

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

& 236 Lower rathmines road, dubLin 6 teL: 01-4977057 Independent Bottler of the year

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21/05/2015 10:17

Recommended Pubs in Leinster The Porterhouse

The Gravediggers

There are three now here in town, but the one on Parliament Street is the best known. part of the increasingly popular micro brewery scene, the Porterhouse produces its own choice of stouts, lagers and craft beers, as well as a choice of others from home and abroad. And they usually have live music playing on the mezzanine.

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Temple Bar, 16-8 St,west, Dublin strolling into the celt is likeParliament taking a trip to the play boys2and chailĂ­nĂ­01 payfor attention Tel: 679 8847and dance along the way to the early light ÍœÍ•ÇŚÍœÍ– –ƒŽ„‘– •–”‡‡–ǥ †—„Ž‹Â? …‹–› …‡Â?–”‡ ™™™Ǥ–Š‡…‡Ž–Ǥ‹‡ –‡Žǣ ͔͕ ͛͜͜ ͚͙͙͜

The Celt

“John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, established in 1833 and still run by the Kavanagh Family today. One of Dublin’s finest bars and best pint of Plain. No music no TV, but fine pints and fine food served. Beside the old cemetery gate hence our local name The Gravediggers�

Johnnie Fox’s

1 Prospect Sq., Dublin 9. Tel: 01 8307978 Situated on Talbot Street in the heart of Dublin, The Celt Bar is always thronged with locals and visitors thanks to the authentic Irish experience that is on offer there. Visitors can sample the finest Irish whiskeys, beers, ales and stouts and enjoy live traditional music seven nights a week. The Celt also offer traditional Irish food seven days a week. The classic bar menu includes beer battered haddock and traditional beef and Guinness stew. There’s no better place to go to for the full Irish experience than The Celt Bar. 81 Talbot St, Dublin Tel: 01 878 8655 www.thecelt.ie

Grogan’s

This is the regular hang-out for Dublin’s finest writers and painters, or the great unwashed, and the walls inside are decked out with paintings and drawings which can, for a small sum, be purchased. Improbably, it is also part of one of the most fashionable mini crossroads in the city centre. And at weekends, the place is humming.

15 S William St., Dublin 2. Tel: 01 677 9320 18

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

Dice Bar

Situated on the corner of Benburb Street and Queen Street, near Smithfield Square, at Dice Bar they strive for three things – great drinks, great staff and great music. The welcoming staff offer a range of premium Irish whiskeys and if whiskey isn’t your thing then you have another great option. Dice Bar brew their own beers; the delicious Revolution Red and Augustine With so much choice and a relaxed setting, Dice Bar warrants many return visits.

Open from 3pm daily.

Set high up in the heart of the Dublin mountains, Fox’s is an institution. Superb food and a unique atmosphere, there’s Irish trad here every night, and at weekends in the afternoons as well. And there’s a shuttle bus that gets you there and back in 30 minutes for a fiver either way. But be sure to book, as it’s one of the most popular pubs in Leinster.

93-94 Benburb Street Tel: 01 633 3936 www.thatsitdublin.com

Glencullen, Co Dublin Tel: 01 295 5647

Recommended Pubs in Leinster 57 The Headline

Sin É

JJ Smyth’s

Sin É

Situated only a short walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral and Teeling Whiskey Distillery, 57 The Headline is the ideal spot to sample the best of Irish Craft Beers and Whiskeys.

With 24 taps dedicated to the best of Irish and International beers, you won’t be stuck for choice. They offer Beer tasting trays from 3 to 9 choices and 5 Whiskey trays. They also serve the best bar food in Dublin 8 and you won’t be paying city centre prices. Visit their website for all products, opening times and more.

Sin É on Ormond Quay is Dublin’s original late night alternative music venue. Whether it’s bluegrass, ska, alternative rock or open mic night’s that you’re looking for, Sin É caters for a range of eclectic tastes. The staff are warm and friendly and will serve you a range of incredible craft beers and cocktails at agreeable prices. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere and some of the best musicians in Dublin then Sin É is definitely the place to be.

Clanbrassil St. Lower, Dublin 8 Tel: 01 5320279 www.57theheadline.ie

14 -15 Ormond Quay Tel: 01 555 4036 & 01 555 4037

With live music six nights a week, JJ Smyth’s is the home of jazz and blues in Dublin. The family run pub is steeped in history and the welcoming atmosphere keeps the loyal regulars coming back for the finest service and some of the best music that Dublin has to offer. JJ’s started out as a family owned grocery store and public house in the 1730’s and is one of the city’s oldest continuous licensed premises.

It was also the birthplace of the famous Irish lyrical poet Thomas Moore, who was born there in 1779. If you love jazz and blues, then you’ll love JJ Smyth’s.

The Liquor Rooms

Doheny & Nesbitt’s

12 Aungier St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 475 2565

Situated under the Clarence Hotel on the quays, the Liquors Rooms offer up a heady mix of retro, vintage decor and a smart modern vibe that the too cool for school hipsters find hard to resist. Once you get in, it’s actually a lot bigger than it seems, and there are all sorts of nooks and crannies for you to get up to who knows what kind of mischief.

One of the oldest and more venerable pubs in Dublin, and traditionally the spot where politicians of old would juggle figures before swinging round the corner and into the Dail to present the next budget. It has now been extended both back and up, so that without sacrificing any of its illustrious history, it is now significantly roomier.

7 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2 Tel: 087 339 3688

5 Lower Baggot St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 676 2945

The Dingle Whiskey Bar

The Dingle Whiskey Bar is a delightful bar nestled beside Porterhouse Central on Nassau St. Walking into the bar, you are welcomed by a beautiful oak interior and a warm welcoming feel. The bar staff are very helpful, recommending many whiskeys and offering samples. The bar is full of culture and although it is a whiskey bar, it offers a range of drinks and cocktails made using their own Dingle Gin. The Dingle Whiskey Bar is simply a must do!

44 Nassau St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 4180

OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

19

Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Restaurant FortyOne

Frite Haus

Under the expert guidance of Graham Neville, Restaurant FortyOne has scooped numerous awards and flourished over the past three years. This is thanks to the superb experience that they offer, eschewing butter and sugar in favour of olive oil, vegetables and fruit juices that are sourced from the restaurant’s own garden. These unique ingredients are used to create fulsome, sumptuous courses, making Restaurant FortyOne the home of fine dining in Dublin.

Frite Haus offer a unique artisan fast food experience with care and attention given to every aspect of the menu. A relaxed Belgian style ‘Chip Shop’ restaurant, Frite Haus serve authentic Belgian fries with a range of craft sauces and delicious Jane Russell sausages. Jane Russell sausages use only prime fresh cuts of Irish pork, free from preservatives so you know that you are getting the finest, freshest meat.

They also serve a fantastic range of craft beers, including delicious Belgian Trappist Brewery beers. Frite Haus is the only choice for a fine dining experience at very reasonable prices.

41 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 662 0000 info@restaurantfortyone.ie www.restaurantfortyone.ie

87 Camden Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 4758948 www.frite-haus.com

Suesey Street

Le Bon Crubeen

Odessa Restaurant

The intimate and warm Odessa Restaurant is perfect for birthdays, weddings or an evening dinner. Diners can enjoy the great value Early Bird menu all night on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Choose from a range of great dishes, including Grilled Goat’s Cheese Bruschetta, Pea & Mint Risotto and CharGrilled Swordfish. Their famous Brunch Menu is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3.30pm and includes such delights as Eggs Benedict, Baked Ham with Poached Eggs and the traditional Irish Breakfast.

13 Dame Court, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6703080 www.odessa.ie

Café Topolis

This is one of the best value restaurants in Dublin with a brasserie menu to suit all tastes.

It won the Best Value Restaurant Dublin in “The Dubliner” Top 100 restaurants in 2012, having previously won the Irish Restaurant Awards’ Best Casual Dining Restaurant in Dublin in 2010. Value and quality.

81-2 Talbot St., Dublin 1 Tel: 01 704 1026 www.leboncrubeen.ie

Suesey Street is Dublin’s new social destination, promising good times in the bar, great food from the kitchen and a relaxed vibe on the outdoor terrace. Located on the corner of Fitzwilliam Place, it is a welcoming space full of atmosphere and comfort, offering an informal approach to drinking and dining.

The food is classed as modern Irish, changes with the season and is very creative - the flavours are awake and the customer is in for a real gourmet experience.

26 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 669 4600 www.sueseystreet.ie

Camden Kitchen

Mykonos Taverna

20

Situated on Parliament St, Café Topolis is one of the best Italian restaurants in town with an extensive menu offering superior Italian cuisine. Best of all, it’s one of the very few places where they cook their pizzas in the traditional wood fired oven.

37 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 670 4961

Corfu Greek Restaurant

Authentic Greek food in the heart of Dublin.

Mykonos Taverna offers traditional Greek dishes such as Moussaka, Kleftiko and Souvlaki at incredibly good prices. The staff are friendly and attentive and always on hand to cater to your every need, making Mykonos the go to place for Greek food in Dublin.

A culinary gem in the heart of Dublin, Camden Kitchen is the place to go to for lunch or dinner. Their menu changes daily to reflect the best seasonal ingredients available, meaning you know that you’ll be served fresh, seasonal food every time. Diners can choose from beautiful starters such as Irish Line Caught Mackerel, Connemara Crab Meat or Whipped Goats Cheese and then move on to delicious main courses, like Breckland Duck Leg, Irish Rib Eye Beef and Smoked Haddock Risotto, all served up in a wonderful cosy atmosphere by the friendly staff.

Corfu Greek Restaurant is a hidden gem situated on Parliament Street. Here, the friendly and attentive staff will serve you some of the finest Greek food at incredibly reasonable prices. Choose from a range of starters, such as calamari and dolmadakia, and then tuck into some delicious traditional Greek main courses, including moussaka, kleftiko and stifado, all washed down with a nice glass of wine from their varied wine list.

76 Dame Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 561 3745

3 Camden Market, Grantham Street, D8 Tel: 01 4760125 www.camdenkitchen.ie

12 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 675 0050

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

Recommended Restaurants in Leinster The Blind Pig

Whether it’s for an Italian coffee, a sweet or savoury snack or a full meal with wine, you can call in here for continental cuisine, exemplary service and great value.

Zaytoon

236 Rathmines Rd Lwr., Dublin 6.

Tel: 01 497 7057 www.kafka.ie

Peploe’s Want to know where to find the best cocktails in Dublin? We know the place but you have to keep it secret. The brainchild of award winning mixologist Paul Lambert and named after the police who turned a blind eye to speakeasies in the prohibition era in the US, The Blind Pig is Dublin’s best kept secret and the perfect place to go to enjoy the finest cocktails and the best food that Dublin has to offer. Originally a pop-up speakeasy bar, The Blind Pig is now in permanent residence and has developed a loyal fanbase thanks to the unique experience that this venue offers. So how do you find them?

Give them a call, book through their website, and await further instructions.

Tel: 085 874 7901 www.theblindpig.ie reservations@theblindpig.ie

Mexico to Rome

Peploe’s Wine Bistro is a chic and ambient restaurant located in the heart of Dublin City Centre. With it’s cosy lighting and comfortable spacious dining area, it is the perfect place to enjoy a fine meal in a relaxed atmosphere. All produce is sourced from only the best Irish suppliers and prepared to the highest standard.

Located opposite St Stephens Green, Peploe’s is the perfect place to visit for a glass of wine to greet the evening after a twilight stroll in the park.

Zaytoon gives you the chance to choose a healthy eating option and indulge in the guilty pleasure of treating yourself to a scrumptious kebab. More a casual diner than a fast food place, they offer the very best of Persian cuisine. And as well as the one in Temple Bar they’ve opened a second one at the top of Camden Street.

14/15 Parliament St., Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 3595 www.zaytoon.ie

ASADOR

16 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 676 3144 www.peploes.com

Zaragoza Located in the heart of Temple Bar, Mexico to Rome, Bandito’s Grill House offer a new twist on Mexican dishes such as sizzling Fajitas, their unique Burritos, Tacos, Chili Con Carne, and Tex-Mex Baby Back Ribs in a Southern Comfort BBQ Sauce. They also offer a range of European and Asian dishes. They boast one of the best value earlybird menus in Dublin at €13.50 for a starter and main course, while their lunch special of a starter, main course and a soft drink or a glass of wine for €9.95 is superb value.

23 East Essex Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 2727 www.mexicotorome.com

Kafka Restaurant

The Spanish city of Zaragoza is any food lover’s idea of paradise. Zaragoza have taken some local delicacies along with some of Spain’s authentic specialties to create a unique dining experience.... seasoned with a generous helping of the homegrown hospitality they are famous for. So come down, sit back and explore the tantalizing recipes created by their chef and enjoy with friends a glass or two of their exquisite handpicked wines.

Open Mon-Sun 12noon - Midnight (last orders) 18 William St., Dublin 2. Tel: 01 679 4020 www.zaragozadublin.com

‘ASADOR’ A Spanish word meaning barbecue, grill or spit. ASADOR Haddington Road opened its doors in November 2012 to great critical acclaim. The idea behind ASADOR is simple; take the best meats our fields can provide, the freshest seafood landed on our shores and cook this great Irish produce over a bespoke built 7 foot barbecue or ‘Asador’. ASADOR was the first restaurant operation to bring premium level barbecue to the Dublin dining scene. Customers flocked to sample signature dry-aged steaks, lobster, fish and game cooked in the most ancient of ways.

Guests can expect the best of old and new world wines, craft beers and of course a range of cocktails from the experienced team of mixologists - the perfect partner for premium barbecued food.

ASADOR, the balance of flames, flavour and food.

1 Victoria House, Haddington Rd, Dublin 4.

Tel: 01 254 5353 www.asador.ie OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Whitefriar Grill

Taco Taco

They pride themselves on putting brunch back on the menu, and in producing the best brunch in Dublin. But there’s a lot more than that going on at this superior smart casual restaurant. Their latest Ribs N Rump gives you a 14oz steak and a choice of ribs plus 2 sides for just g40 on Sunday nights.

Perfect for brunch or a casual evening meal, Taco Taco is sure to get your taste buds tingling. They have a range of specials on offer, such as Chargrilled Jerk Chicken for two with a range of sides for €29.95 on Sunday nights and Super Nacho Happy Hour from 5pm to 6.30pm from Monday to Sunday. While you’re there, make sure you sample some of their amazing cocktails, such as Whiskey Smash, Brunch Sour or Mojito.

16 Aungier St, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 475 9003 www.whitefriargrill.ie

14 Dame Court, Dublin 2 Tel: 083 449 9584 www.tacotacodublin.com

Thornton’s Restaurant

Super Miss Sue

This one star Michelin restaurant is, as they say, reassuringly expensive. Which is only as it should be as the man in charge is Ireland’s finest chef, Kevin Thornton. If you have any intention of cementing a relationship, or of instigating a new one, this is the place to take them.

Above the Fitzwilliam Hotel, Stephen’s Green. Tel: 01 478 7008

Acapulco Mexican Restaurant

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One of the few places to get really great fresh fish in the centre of town, and surprisingly affordable. You can treat yourself to a full meal in the restaurant proper, or a traditional fish and chips of exceptional quality in the diner next door.

Drury St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 679 9009

Darwin’s Restaurant

This lively Mexican Restaurant offers the very best traditional Mexican cuisine, with sizzling fajitas, burritos, tacos and, best of all their famous deep fried icecream!

This family run restaurant caters to all possible tastes, whether carnivorous, coeliac or vegetarian. Their own in house butcher provides them with meats, game and poultry, they have fresh fish and a wide selection of dishes made from locally sourced vegetables.

And you can finish it all off with their homemade desserts.

7 S George’s St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 1085

80 Aungier St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 475 7511

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

The Good World

There’s been a huge influx of Chinese in Dublin of late, and the choice of Chinese food in the city has improved no end. But this is still the best place to find dim sum. And significantly, most of the people you’ll find eating here are other Chinese diners.

18 S George’s St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 5373

Salamanca

Located on Andrews Street, near the new home of the Molly Malone statue, Salamanca was one of the first Tapas Bars in the city and remains one of the best. Their Tapas dishes are served by authentic Spanish chefs and they use only the finest quality fresh ingredients. Diners can choose from a wide range of quality Tapas and carefully selected Spanish wines for a truly authentic taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Dublin City.

1 St. Andrew’s Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 4799 www.salamanca.ie

Brasco’s

Brasco’s offer a new dining experience. Situated right on the end of Skerries Pier, Brasco’s serve modern European dishes with a wonderful flair. Diners can choose from delicious starters such as Deep Fried Brie, Smoked Salmon Crostini or Brasco’s Style Meatballs before tucking into mouth watering mains that include Wicklow Lamb Shank, Dover Sole or Pan Fried Duck. For those who fancy a bit of lunch, they also have a daytime Deli with a range of great options to choose from.

Harbour Road, Skerries Tel: 01 849 4388 www.brascosrestaurantdublin.com

HARD WORKING CLASS HEROES

W

ith 100 acts set to play over three days, the Hard Working Class Heroes festival and convention is the best place to discover new Irish music. The festival takes place in Dublin from 1st to 3rd October in venues across the city, including The Academy, The Grand Social, The Workman’s Club, The Mercantile and Bad Bobs. Since the festival launched thirteen years ago it has acted as a showcase for a plethora of acts that have gone on to national and international recognition, including Delorentos, The Coronas, Fight Like Apes,Villagers, Lisa O’Neill and 2013’s breakout star Hozier.

Over 500 bands applied through First Music Contact’s Breakingtunes.com website to play at this year’s festival, with the 100 winning acts chosen by a panel of top Irish and international industry professionals. Some of the brilliant and diverse acts chosen to play at this year’s event include Hare Squead, Elastic Sleep, Maud in Cahoots, Rósín O, New Valley Wolves, SlowPlaceLikeHome and Silences.

There will be invaluable advice on hand for these bands throughout the three day event, with a range of conferences, mentor sessions, band-tips and more. These sessions should prove invaluable to young bands starting out and also offer fans the chance to gain insight into the inner workings of the music industry.

The festival is sponsored by HMV, who have helped expand the panel of international delegates and will offer fans the chance to get up close and personal with some of the acts.

“We are delighted to be involved in such a crucial event for the domestic music scene,” said a spokesperson for HMV. “Over the weekend we aim to bring the vibrancy of the festival into our stores with a series of performances from the bands on the bill, giving fans a chance to meet and greet the acts.”

Music’s next big thing could be on your doorstep if you’re visiting Dublin this month. Make sure you don’t miss them before they go global by checking out the world class talent on show at this year’s Hard Working Class Heroes festival. www.hwch.net

BABORÓ

H

ead west to Galway to get all loved up at the 19th Baboró International Arts Festival for Children, Ireland’s flagship festival for children and their families.

Taking place from October 12 – 18, this seven day creative extravaganza offers a very special journey for the heart and soul.

Featuring work from Ireland and right across the globe, including Belgium, Canada, Italy, Scotland, Spain and Ukraine, programme highlights include the world premiere of CoisCéim’s The Wolf and Peter. This reimagining of Prokofiev’s ‘Peter and the Wolf ’ tells a timeless story of courage and imagination, now told through the eyes of the ‘Wolf ’, taking children and their families on a thrilling adventure with the classic characters Bird, Cat, Duck, Grandfather, Hunters and Peter.

Guess How Much I Love You is the

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2015

“IT’LL DO YOUR HEART GOOD”

stage adaptation of one of the world’s best-loved children’s stories of the same name. Written by Irish author Sam McBratney, and beautifully illustrated by Anita Jeram’s gentle watercolours, this award-winning classic has captured the hearts of children and adults worldwide and comes all the way from Canada’s Mermaid Theatre for this Irish premiere.

This year’s festival even has its very own Happy Heart Zone where children and adults enter an enchanted world and are guided by an artist through a journey of creative reuse using surprising and inspirational materials from the ‘Warehouse of Wonders’. Who knew it was so easy to make something from nothing? Experience the wonder of the cosmos in the Sky Dome where you can explore planets, moons, stars and galaxies and change your view of the night sky forever.

Up to Speed is a funny and touching

story about the power of friendship and the importance of being yourself, and for some hilarious interactions there’s Paper World with its crazy clowns and even crazier fun. For the enthusiastic readers, the Book Doctor will be on hand to write a prescription for their next read. There’s also a chance to get hands-on experience in making your very own stop motion movie using your favourite Lego character with Brick Flicks.

To top it all off, the festival will culminate with a disco in the iconic Seapoint Ballroom where families will be transported to the four corners of the globe on a non-stop musical and dance extravaganza. One thing’s for sure… it’ll do your heart good.

Baboró runs in various venues throughout Galway from October 12 – 18. www.baboro.ie

October Festival Listings Guinness Cork Jazz Festival

Westport Arts Festival

Hard Working Class Heroes

The Richard Harris International Film Festival

This internationally renowned festival features over 1,000 musicians in dozens of performances at 70 venues citywide.

23 - 25 October www.guinnessjazzfestival.com

100 up and coming artists play in venues across Dublin city (see page 23 for more details) 1 - 3 October www.hwch.net

Cork Folk Festival

An annual gathering of some of the finest folk/ traditional musicians from Ireland and abroad (see page 37 for more details) 1 - 4 October 2015 www.corkfolkfestival.com

Belfast International Arts Festival

A Belfast International Arts Festival - a month of art, theatre, music and film, turning Belfast into a culture vulture’s dream (see page 40 for more details).

9 October - 1 November www.belfastinternationalartsfestival.com

Sky Road TV & Film Festival

All aspects of Irish Film, Documentary, Shorts and New Media are covered at this Galway festival.

9 - 11 October www.skyroadfilmfestival.ie

Lingo Festival

The best Irish and international spoken word artists come to Dublin in October (see page 8 for more details) 16 - 18 October www.lingofestival.com

Dublin Theatre Festival

An exciting and innovative programme of music, visual arts, literature, theatre, dance and film.

30 September - 4 October www.westportartsfestival.com

A unique opportunity for Irish filmmakers working abroad to show their work in the hometown of an acting legend (see page 30 for more details).

23 - 25 October 2015

Kerry Film Festival

An internationally recognised short film festival which takes place across the County of Kerry (see page 28 for more details).

21 - 25 October www.kerryfilmfestival.com

Bram Stoker Festival

Red Line Book Festival

The best national and international contemporary writing of special significance to the Irish literary landscape are showcased in Tallaght, Dublin.

11 - 17 October 2015 www.redlinebookfestival.ie

Baboró International Arts Festival for Children

A week of fun from Irish and international acts for families this October in Galway (see page 24 for more details).

12 - 18 October 2015 www.baboro.ie

64th Wexford Festival Opera

One of the top three opera festivals in the World, presenting rarely performed operas to a world-class standard.

21 October - 1 November www.wexfordopera.com

Galway Comedy Festival Dublin city gets gloriously gothic in celebration of Bram Stoker and his most famous creation, Dracula (see page 14 for more details).

23 - 26 October 2015 www.bramstokerfestival.com

Wexford Fringe Festival

17 days of fantastic fringe events running alongside the famous Wexford Festival Opera and Wexford Spiegeltent Festival.

16 October - 1 November www.wexfordfringe.ie

Celebrating the very best national and international comedy in venues throughout the city (see page 40 for more details).

20 - 26 October www.vodafonecomedycarnival.com

Dingle Food Festival

Back To Our Past

A foodie and fun lover’s heaven with events farmers markets, craft beer festivals, cookery demonstrations and the delicious Taste Trail (see page 32 for more details).

2 - 4 October 2015 www.dinglefood.com

Dalkey Creates Writing Festival

A genealogy, family and social history event for people interested in tracing their Irish roots (see page 16 for more details) 16 - 18 October 2015

Guth Gafa Documentary Film Festival

Open to anyone who writes or wishes to write, the festival aims to inspire, motivate and nurture new writing 16 - 18 October www.dalkeycreates.com Classic plays by celebrated companies feature alongside work by exciting, emerging theatre makers from home and abroad in theatres across the city.

24 September - 11 October www.dublintheatrefestival.com

Cloughtoberfest

Annual festival of gypsy jazz and swing, bringing the spirit of Django Reinhardt to the heart of Ireland.

23 - 26 October www.cloughtoberfest.com

Independent documentary film festival, focusing on the latest award-winning Irish and international documentary films on a range of thought provoking subjects.

2 - 4 October www.guthgafa.com OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Welcome to Munster Munster is the most southerly of the four provinces of Ireland and stretches from Tipperary in the South Midlands to Waterford in the South East, and from Clare, Limerick and Kerry down to Cork in the South.The entire area is famed for Irish traditional music, song and dance. There are many ancient castles and monasteries in the province, and coupled with the vast green countryside and its three cities (Limerick, Cork and Waterford) Munster is a must see destination for tourists.

Fota Wildlife Park

Bunratty Castle Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times.

Travelling down the coast, Limerick is the next port of call which this year has been designated as Ireland’s first City of Culture.

From theatres to outdoor music events, museums to festivals, Limerick has an eclectic mix of sights and sounds to suit all tastes.

Limerick County Limerick also incorporates the Foynes Estuary with its world famous Foynes Flying Boat Museum. The museum tells the story of the Pan Am Clipper aircraft which brought commercial flights from America to our shores, landing in the estuary itself. It includes the only full-scale model of a Boeing B-314 Flying Boat anywhere in the world.

The Rose of Tralee is the most famous Festival in Kerry and this internationally acclaimed festival comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect from a truly Irish experience.

The festival celebrates its 55th year this year and commences with the International Rose Ball on the 15th of August before culminating with the selection of the 2014 Rose of Tralee in the magnificent dome four days later. There is a packed programme of events during the week for all to enjoy.

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One of Munster’s most famous landmarks the Rock of Cashel, in County Tipperary is the historical seat of the Kings of Munster. The outcrop on which the Castle and grounds stand is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Munster. The spectacular group of medieval buildings are set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale and include the 12th century round tower, the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 13th century Gothic cathedral, the 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.

Tel: 062 61437 Email: rockofcashel@opw.ie County Cork is well worth the drive as it has sandy beaches, the wonderful Blarney Castle, Foto Wildlife Park and golf course, wonderful coastlines and a city nightlife to rival any of that in Europe. Travel from east to west or north to south in this sprawling county and there is a view, an historical point of interest or an adventure to explore.

Finally at the extreme South East of the island of Ireland is Waterford. Waterford is the capital of the ‘Sunny South East of Ireland’

Blarney Castle

and Ireland’s oldest city. The city and county is famous throughout the world as the home of Waterford Crystal. A visit to the House of Crystal visitor centre includes an opportunity to choose from the world’s largest selection of Waterford Crystal. The factory tour offers first hand access to all areas of traditional crystal production.

County Waterford offers a dazzling 147 kilometres coastline, with 49 beaches, beautiful river valleys, lakes and two dramatic ranges of very accessible mountains.

A wonderful place to visit in Dingle, Co. Kerry

OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Kerry FILM FESTIVAL There are any number of film festivals in Ireland worth attending; some offer red carpet celebrity galas, others show new and independent films; Kerry Film Festival probably doesn’t need anything more than to live up to the promise of its name, Kerry after all is one of the most beautiful places in the country. However in recent years the festival has become the leading short film festival in the south of Ireland attracting some of the highest calibre emerging filmmakers from around the world.

T

he festival is not just for filmmakers though, running over five days at the end of October, Kerry Film Festival showcases great new international talent in its renowned shorts competition, presents a range of feature films from home and abroad, and has developed a unique film music slant that includes live film score performances. So there’s definitely something for all tastes.

This year Kerry Film Festival offers a number of highlights that make the Kingdom a great place to spend the October Bank Holiday weekend.

The film festival has set out its stall in recent years as a festival with a unique focus on film music, illustrating the importance of music in cinematic storytelling; and rightly so, after all, what would Jaws be without those two magnificently menacing notes!

Having hosted an improvised live score in 2013 and commissioned news scores for live performance at the 15th anniversary festival

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in 2014, KFF is going electronic in 2015. Renowned Parisian DJs Radiomentale will be at the festival this month with a special live DJ mix for silent film. Picture Buster Keaton’s iconic classic The General, with a DJ creating live electronic score, add in the glorious setting of St Mary’s Church in Killarney and you’ve got a great Friday night at Kerry Film Festival.

There are other great events ‘ex-cinema’ programmed over the five day festival. How about a Movie and Meal? Then sample one of the festival’s best-loved satellite events at the fabulous Sol y Sombra in Killorglin where you can enjoy an early bird tapas menu with a festival feature film served up just after dessert. Or if you’re looking for a family event then head for Siamsa Tire in Tralee on Sat 24th October for a film about the circus; there’ll even be circus acts ahead of the screening to get you and the kids into the swing of things.

Kerry is of course renowned for its scenery, and you’ll find this in

abundance both onscreen and off at Kerry Film Festival 2015. It has always been an attractive place for filmmaking; just think of those legendary scenes from Ryan’s Daughter and Far And Away. Even Harry Potter scenes were filmed there. Over the years the landscape has certainly ensured continued filmmaking activity, the most recent additions to the long list being The Lobster and Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Award winning and iconic films that will increase Kerry’s appeal as a place for film fans to visit, so what better place to have a film festival?

In fact this year Kerry Film Festival will launch its programme on October 8th at

a gala première of one of those recent offspring, The Lobster. Visiting the set wouldn’t be out of the question either as it was filmed on location at Parknasilla Resort and in Coillte’s Dromore Woods, near Sneem, and it’s not the first film to be filmed in the Coillte estate. Stretching across the whole island, Coillte’s twelve forest parks and one hundred and fifty recreation sites allow the public explore many of the places where film and television programmes have been filmed.

And they’re all free!

The scenery in Kerry being what it is, it’s hard not to be outdoors, so the organisers also offer a free Open Air Cinema on

both Friday and Saturday night during the festival.

Killarney is the host town of the festival and is within easy access of Kerry Airport.

As well as being a must see destination in its own right, Killarney is the gateway to some of the best scenery Ireland has to offer and if you want to combine the scenery with food and culture then Kerry Film Festival certainly provides a great reason to travel to Ireland’s Kingdom this October.

So why not join the mix of filmmakers, stars, and cinephiles for a première or party at Kerry Film Festival, with so much going on you can be guaranteed not just a great time but a culturally enriching experience too.

Kerry Film Festival takes place from 21st to 25th October. For full programme and event details see www.kerryfilmfestival.com Photos clockwise from top left: The Gift film still - Sean at Ladies View; Killarney Open Air Cinema - Muckross House; Killarney Open Air Cinema; KFF Awards.

OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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THE

RICHARD HARRIS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

R

ichard Harris was one of Ireland’s greatest actors. So it’s fitting that a festival that aims to encourage Irish filmmakers, actors and directors to return to Ireland to showcase their talents should bear his name and take place in his hometown of Limerick. The festival runs from 23 to 25 October and is fully supported by the Estate of Richard Harris, with a new contract recently signed that will see the festival run until at least 2020.

As well as film screenings, the festival also encompasses workshops, networking events, theatrical performances, poetry readings and a portrait competition. There will be at least three production companies in attendance over the weekend, looking to source cast and crew for movies that are set to be filmed in Ireland next year, making the festival not just a celebration of film but also a great chance for budding actors and directors to further their career.

The festival has had an impressive list of attendees since it started in 2013. Damien Harris, Jamie Harris, Jared and Allegra Harris, Noel Pearson, Ella Harris, Jack Reynor, Madeline Mulqueen and Gerry Stembridge all attended last year and are set to return for this year’s event.

The festival opens with the Gala Evening, which was hosted last year

by Allegra and Jared Harris. This is

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a great opportunity to mingle with the special guests in an easy-going and friendly atmosphere. The Networking Evening the following day also offers a great opportunity to meet industry professionals and share ideas.

There will be film screenings during the festival as well as a Richard Harris retrospective screening. Films will be screened in three categories; Short Film, Feature Film and Monologue Competition.

The One Minute Monologue Competition is run in association with the Limerick School of Acting and is an exciting addition to the festival, while the Short Film competition offers entrants the chance to screen their film to an international audience through the Newport Beach Film Festival Competition. The films that are shortlisted in this category will be shown at the Irish Spotlight during the 2016 edition of the prestigious Newport Beach Film Festival.

This year’s portrait competition looks ahead to next year’s festival.

The winning portrait of Richard Harris will be used for the 2016 edition of the Richard Harris Film Festival.

Whether you’re looking to further your film career or just wish to celebrate great new Irish talent and the wonderful legacy of Richard Harris, Limerick is the place to be this Bank Holiday weekend. www.richardharrisfilmfestival.com

TREAT SOMEONE TO A

SPECIAL NIGHT OUT A Victorian gem of a theatre hidden inside a beautiful Georgian building in the heart of Waterford Viking Triangle. Theatre Royal is Ireland’s oldest working theatre in continuous use. The building has undergone a complete renovation to bring it to state of the art comfort for a treat of a night out.

Groups can always be accommodated for interesting historical tours as well as discounted rates.

Contact the box office for details on all upcoming shows or look online on www.theatreroyal.ie.

The Mall Waterford | 051 874402 | www.theatreroyal.ie Advert 150x82_Layout 1 24/09/2015 11:03 Page 1

36th Corkst Folk Festival th 1 - 4 October 2015

Thurs 1st Oct Cork Opera House:

Peadar Ó Riada & Mo Ghille Mear

DERVISH

The PAV: Fri 2nd Oct Cork Opera House:

Jimmy MacCarthy Cork School of Music:

DANÚ

Sat 3rd Oct Cork School of Music:

‘A Tribute to Seamus Creagh’

Matt Cranitch & Jackie Daly, DONAL LUNNY & PADDY GLACKIN, Jimmy Crowley & many more

John Spillane Martin Simpson, Paddy Keenan, Greenshine, New Rope String Band Cyprus Avenue:

The Oliver Plunkett:

Sun 4th Oct The Oliver Plunkett:

The VOICE SQUAD Céilí Mór The PAV: Cherish the Ladies The Courtyard on Sober Lane:

www.corkfolkfestival.com

Tickets available at ProMusic & peoplesrepublicofcork.com (except Opera House events) OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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DINGLE food FESTIVAL

D

ingle was once cited as ‘The most beautiful place on earth’ by National Geographic and has previously been voted as Best Foodie Town in Ireland. This winning combination makes the Dingle Food Festival an unmissable event. The festival runs from 2 to 4 October, showcasing the region’s quality, locally produced food.

One of the highlights of the festival is the Taste Trail. Festival goers can buy taste tickets that allow them to sample local cuisine in locations that vary from pubs and galleries to shops and restaurants.

Dingle is renowned for its excellent restaurants and delicious seafood so this Taste Trail is sure to be a foodie’s dream.

Elsewhere, visitors can enjoy street entertainment, farmers markets, cookery demonstrations and workshops, a craft beer festival, wine tasting and kids events.

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There is sure to be fierce competition at the Culinary Pentathlon. Student culinary athletes from Cork, Galway/Mayo and defending champions Tralee will run and cycle through the town, searching for local ingredients. They must then prepare and serve a two course lunch for a panel of esteemed judges. The winners will receive a trophy, internships at some of Dingle’s top eateries and the all important bragging rights.

The Dingle Food Festival is home to the Blas na hÉireann Awards.

These National Food Awards highlight and celebrate the best of Irish food producers, with gold, silver and bronze medals awarded in over thirty categories.

With beautiful food in a beautiful setting, there is so much to enjoy at the Dingle Food Festival. www.dinglefood.com

Out of the Blue - Half Page.indd 1

24/04/2014 17:19:46

MILESIAN GARDEN Delicatessen/ Coffeehouse

NOW OPEN!!

The Milesians head chef Greg O Mahony is delighted to be at the helm for another season. This will be Greg’s 10th Summer at the helm of this fantastic eatery. Greg brings his passion and knowledge of food to the Milesian. During the Winter Greg fine tunes his skills by working in some of the finest restaurant’s including Dublin’s L’ecrevain, San Sebastian’s Mugaritz and arguably Ireland’s best restaurant, the Michelin starred Chapter One.

Choose from our Extensive A La Carte Menu

or try our Early Bird Menu 5pm - 6.30pm

2 Courses x17 / 3 Courses x20 ...a Real Treat!

“Five Star Menu at Three Star Prices!”

“Definitely one of Kerry’s best kept secrets every summer!”

Open 7 days

Recommended Pubs in Munster Jack Meades (under the bridge) Set on 5 acres of impeccably kept lawns, this sprawling complex boasts a number of bars.

The old world bar it has dates back to 1705, whilst its lime kiln and ice house were built around 1860. But there is also a modern bar, and an extensive beer garden looking down over the gardens and streams. And good quality food is served here throughout the day.

Dunmore Rd, Waterford Tel: 051 850 950

The Bierhaus

There are over 220 different beers to choose from here, including 6 rotating guest draught taps and a cask. So whether you are looking for a bottle or draught, an international or an Irish beer, there’s a reasonably good chance you’ll find it here. And they spend as much time on getting the atmosphere right as they do on choosing their beers.

An Brog

An Brog has been attending to fans of alternative and indie music for over 20 years now, and they’ve a constantly evolving roster of Djs and live bands catering to all and every musical taste. And best of all, they are open til 2 in the morning, seven days a week.

72-73 Oliver Plunkett St, Cork Tel: 021 427 0074

Buckley’s Bar

The oak panelled walls and turf fire are the perfect accompaniment to the many musicians who drop in here for the impromptu sessions that seem to be forever going on here. Both bar and hotel have been welcoming visitors since it opened in 1926. And many people either begin their trip around the kingdom there, or base themselves there for its duration.

The Arbutus Hotel, College St, Killarney, Co Kerry.

Tel: 064 663 1037

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Dick Mack’s

Named after the leather craftsman, this small and gloriously “busy” pub still sells hand made leather ware inside at the shop to one side. Its walls are drowned in archaic photographs, and outside there’s a star studded pavement where the likes of Robert Mitchum, Sean Connery and Julia Roberts have left their mark. For many, many people, this is what they imagine when they conjure up the image of an Irish pub.

Greene St, Dingle, Co Kerry Tel: 066 915 1960

Pope’s Quay, Cork Tel: 021 455 1648

Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant Dolan’s is made up of three venues, two outdoor areas, a traditional Irish pub and a restaurant. So there’s music here every day of the week, and they’ll serve you your breakfast, lunch and dinner as you require. Some of the many guests who’ve enjoyed their hospitality include Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand, Sharon Shannon and Imelda May. 3-4 Dock Rd, Limerick Tel: 061 314 483 (ext 1)

Recommended Restaurants in Munster The Strand Inn

Tel: 051 878203 www.waterfordcastleresort.com/munsterroom-restaurant

Out of the Blue

Overlooking Hook Head, The Strand Inn is the perfect place to enjoy lingering breakfasts, relax over a long lunch or enjoy intimate, romantic suppers. Diners can look forward to the finest Irish beef, lobster and line caught seafood in a luxurious setting, characterised by beamed ceilings, original stone walls and planked floors.

Dunmore East, Co.Waterford.

Tel: 051 383 174 www.thestrandinn.com

The Ventry Skipper

This little gem is just what the weary traveller needs after a day of sight seeing-with amazing views accompanied by great seafood and an extensive wine list you really cant go wrong.

Ventry, Co Kerry Tel: 066 915 9853

The Munster Room Restaurant

They serve only the freshest, most succulent fish and shellfish here, which they have delivered every day, literally, from the sea outside their front door. And if there’s no fish on a particular day, then they won’t open the restaurant. A certain Mr. Paul Hewson, aka Bono is a fan. So book early to avoid disappointment.

Small quaint front room restaurant with locally sourced high quality ingredients making this little gem a must visit when in Dingle.

Dingle Harbour. Tel: 066 915 0811

Dykgate St., Dingle. Tel: 086 660 3778

Milesian

The Smugglers Inn

Greg O’Mahonny took over as head chef here in 2010 after spells at some of the best restaurants in Spain and Dublin, including the Mugaritz in San Sebastian and L’Ecrivain in Dublin. And he takes the very best of local Kerry produce and gives them some wonderfully sophisticated flavours.

The Smugglers Inn is a family run restaurant that is ideal for casual lunch, fine dining or that special occasion. The restaurant has been praised by gastronomic writers from all over the world and is a Bord Failte award winner.

It’s not hard to see why. The Smugglers Inn pride itself on serving fresh local produce, from seafood to organic vegetables. Add in the spectacular views and friendly service and you have the perfect dining experience.

La Bohéme Restaurant & Wine Bar

Waterford Castle, The Island, Co. Waterford

2 George’s St., Waterford. Tel: 051 875 645 www.labohemerestaurant.ie

An Canteen

Mail St., Castlegregory, Co Kerry Tel: 087 979 4337

The Munster Room Restaurant at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort was awarded 2AA Rosettes in 2001 and currently continues this elite standard further confirmed with multiple awards and its review in the 2015 Michelin Guide. With its warm ambience, wonderful oak paneled walls, ornate ceiling, and further complemented by an extensive wine cellar and exciting seasonal menus it’s easy to see why it’s such a winning choice. Using the finest local produce, gifted head chef Michael Thomas and his culinary team continually create dishes with intense flavors that will tantalize and satisfy every food lover’s palate and create a truly memorable fine dining experience.

fine dining and wine bar with bistro menu options, qualifies La Boheme as a hidden gem in the heart of Waterford City.

Tues - Sat 5:30pm until late (Open bank holiday Sundays)

La Boheme offers a unique experience for lovers of fine dining, with its location in the basement of one of Waterford’s foremost prestigious buildings. Head Chef Eric Theze uses fresh locally sourced produce, providing guests with exquisitely presented delectable dishes. Christine ensures that all are greeted with a warm welcome, with the belief in treating each guest as if they are being welcomed into their own home. A blend of

Cliff Road, Waterville, Co. Kerry Tel: 066 9474330 www.thesmugglersinn.ie

The Lobster

Whether you’re looking for lunch, a casual dinner or just a quiet pint, the friendly staff at The Lobster are sure to look after your every need. Situated in the seaside town of Waterville, it’s no surprise that The Lobster serve some of the best seafood in Kerry and their beef and Guinness stew is also spoken of very highly by all who have sampled it.

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Explore Munster

Cliffs of Moher

Stretching for eight kilometres along the coastline and standing at 214 metres at their highest point, the Cliffs of Moher give the visitor a panoramic view out onto the Atlantic Ocean. It is said that on a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, over the twelve pins and the Blasket Islands off the coast of Kerry. When there you really should ascend O’Briens Tower which has been used as a viewing point for centuries past.

Blarney Castle

The Hunt Museum

The Hunt Museum has artefacts from Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Olmec civilisation. There is also an important collection of Irish archaeological material ranging from Neolithic flints, Bronze Age material, and Christian art.

One of the strengths of the collection is the medieval material, which include statues in stone and wood, painted panels, jewellery, enamels, ivories, ceramics, crystal and crucifixes. Plus work from Picasso, Renoir, Roderic O’Conor, Jack B. Yeats, Robert Fagan and Henry Moore.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry (Irish: Mórchuaird Chiarraí) is not a ring in the conventional sense but a 179-km-long circular tourist route in County Kerry. The scenery along this route is spectacular to behold and the route takes you through the Gap of Dunloe, the Bog Village, past Rossbeigh Beach, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, The Blue Pool, Ross Castle, the Ogham Stones, and many more visitor attractions.

Bunratty Castle

Tel: 061 312 833 www.huntmuseum.com

Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting visitors from all over the world ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. This is probably because of the famous stone you will see at the top of the tower. People from all over the world have climbed up there to kiss it in the hope of acquiring the gift of the gab.

Titanic Experience Cobh

Jameson Experience Cork

Tel: 021 438 5252

The Burren

The Burren, from the Gaelic word Boireann is an area of limestone rock covering imposing majestic mountains, and tranquil valleys with gently meandering streams.

With its innate sense of spiritual peace, extraordinary array of flora and wildlife, and megalithic tombs and monuments older than Egypt’s pyramids, the Burren creates a tapestry of colour and a seductively magical aura which few people leave without wanting to experience again.

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Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Browse the castle and marvel at the finest collection of medieval furniture in the country which brings to life a vital part of our Medieval past.

Titanic Experience Cobh is located in the original White Star Line Ticket Office in the centre of Cobh town (formerly known as Queenstown) the departure point for the final 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic. The visitor experience is presented in two parts. The first is an immersive audio visual tour retracing the steps of the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic from Queenstown on April 11th 1912.

The second part of the Titanic Experience examines how it all went wrong. The unbelievable and “almost” impossible sequence of events that occurred to cause Titanic to sink.

Join the whiskey Masters for a guided tour through the romantic past of Irish whiskey making. Learn about the Angels Share, Triple Distillation and above all the smooth taste of Jameson Irish Whiskey.

The Old Distillery stands on the banks of the Dungourney River in Midleton. It is a distillery steeped in history and provides both a cultural and educational experience.

www.titanicexperiencecobh.ie

www.bookings@jamesonwhiskey.com

Cork FOLK FESTIVAL

O

ver 200 national and international acts will perform in ten venues across the city during the Cork Folk Festival, which runs from 1 to 4 October.

One of the nation’s favourite festivals, the Cork Folk Festival is now in its 36th year and this year’s line-up is one of the best yet, with the cream of traditional music set to entertain visitors to the Rebel County.

This year’s festival will be headlined

by Jimmy McCarthy. A native of Cork, McCarthy is a songwriter of international renown, with some of his credits including The Contender, Bright Blue Rose, As I Leave Behind Neidin and Ride On. His show in the Cork Opera House promises a mix of old and new songs that will thrill his loyal following and no doubt secure some new fans.

Other solo artists set to perform at the festival include Paddy Keenan, Paddy Glackin and the legendary Donal Lunny. An influential performer and producer, Lunny is one of the most important figures in traditional Irish music and was a founder member of Planxty, the Bothy Band and Moving Hearts.

Some of the great groups that will be dropping in to Cork include Danú, Dervish (who recently released their new album The Thrush in the Storm) and Cherish The Ladies, an Irish-American supergroup consisting of Joanie Madden, Mary Coogan, Mirella Murray, Nollaig Casey, Kathleen Boyle and Deirdre Connolly. These Grammy nominated performers have been together since 1985 and are not to be missed.

Along with the range of amazing performances on offer, visitors can enjoy

a range of events during the festival.

There will be competitions for budding songwriters, as well as song classes, singers club events, a talk by Jimmy Crowley on his new book, ‘Songs from the Beautiful City’ and the launch of a new book by Seán Ó Sé, making the Cork Folk Festival offers a truly immersive traditional music experience. www.corkfolkfestival.com

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THEATRE ROYAL Waterford

I

t is fitting that Ireland’s oldest city is also the home of the oldest working theatre in continuous existence in the country. The Theatre Royal in Waterford first opened its doors in 1793 and “the people’s theatre” has been a hub for the city’s creative community ever since.

The theatre is located in the historic Viking Triangle area of the city. It was initially established as a Georgian playhouse before being adapted in the late nineteenth century into the Victorian gem that still stands today. The auditorium of the theatre is the site of the original Georgian playhouse, which was constructed as part of the Assembly Rooms by the architect John Roberts, and houses the smallest stage in Ireland. Although the stage is small, the names that have trod its boards over the years are huge.

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The famous D’Oyly Carte opera company, who specialised in Gilbert and Sullivan, played there regularly in the early twentieth century. E.F. Benson’s Shakespeare Company were also regular visitors as were the Elster Grimes, Moody Manners, Carl Rosa companies and when Buffalo Bill Cody Show came to town they reportedly shot the lights out at the end of the show.

After Ireland became an independent state, an increasing number of Irish touring companies played the Theatre Royal, including the companies of Lord Longford, Anew McMaster, Edwards and MacLiammoir and Louis D’Alton and the famous Abbey Theatre. The Nobel Prize winning playwright Harold Pinter acted with Anew McMaster in the theatre and later spoke very fondly of his time in Ireland.

In more recent times, the Waterford actress Anna Manahan appeared on the Theatre Royal stage to reprise her Tony Award winning role in The Beauty Queen of Leenane and the theatre always has a fantastic line-up of music and theatre. This month alone will see the likes of The New Triangle, Bell X1, Ghost Story, Jackula, Paul Durcan, John Banville, Raymond Chandler and the wonderful Les Miserables grace the fabled stage.

If you’re visiting Waterford you can’t afford to miss out on the mix of culture and history provided by the Theatre Royal.

The Mall, Co. Waterford Tel: 051 874402 tickets@theatreroyal.ie www.theatreroyal.ie

Welcome to Connaught

Ancient stone walls in the Aran Islands

The province of Connaught lies in the West of Ireland with its coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. The counties of Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, Galway and Roscommon make up this geographically diverse region with the Atlantic Ocean to its westerly boundary, and the midlands of Roscommon to the East. It is the least populated with a population of just over 400,000.

Historically, Connaught has retained its rich Gaelic heritage and today still has communities where the Irish language only is spoken amongst them. But English is the primary second language. These regions are collectively called the Gaeltacht. The remote and beautiful Aran Islands off the mainland of County Galway are also part of the Gaeltacht.

The primary business centre of Connaught,

The Claddagh by night

and the most densely populated area is the thriving city of Galway to the south of the province. Although Sligo City, Carrick on Shannon, and Boyle are all fine business and shopping centres in their own right.

Connaught has some of the most scenic and unspoilt countryside to be found in Ireland, including the spectacular mountainous landscape of Connemara, the lock gates and river banks of the Shannon Waterway, the famed Galway Bay and the historic glens of County Leitrim. Couple these with the beautiful Ashford Castle in Mayo near to Cong where the film The Quiet Man was filmed, and the natural serenity of Lough Key Forest Park in Roscommon, and a tour of this region is a must for all.

For those interested in a religious experience

Mayo is famed for Knock Shrine where on the 21st August, 1879, at about 8 o’clock, Our Lady, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist are reputed to have appeared. The apparition was seen by fifteen people whose ages ranged from six years to seventy-five and included men, women and children. The shrine has become so popular in modern times that the Ireland West International Airport was built especially in 1985 to cater for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and visitors to Connaught.

The county also features the pilgrimage site known as Croagh Patrick, which overlooks Clew Bay in County Mayo. This is considered the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition of pilgrimage to this holy mountain stretches back over 5,000 years from the Stone Age to the present day without interruption. Croagh Patrick is renowned today for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honour of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. It was on the summit of the mountain that Saint Patrick is said to have fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the custom of trekking up the mountain has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the picturesque town of Westport, and its conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside with magnificent views of Clew Bay beneath.

So, whether it’s water activities on the Atlantic coastline, cruising on the Shannon Waterway, religious pilgrimages, chilling out amongst an unspoilt landscape or driving along roads where motoring is still a pleasure, Connaught has it all.

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VODAFONE

Comedy Carnival GALWAY

G

alway was recently voted the friendliest city in the world, so you know you’re guaranteed a warm welcome when you visit the city for the Vodafone Comedy Carnival from 20th to 26th October.You’re guaranteed laughs too as the organisers have put together an absolutely stellar line-up that is sure to tickle even the most stoic of ribs.

“We have spent the last year tracking down and booking the very best comedians in the world,” said Festival Director Kevin Healy. “We went after the ones that make us laugh the hardest regardless of genre. That’s why we have such a wonderful spread of styles to celebrate our festival turning ten years old.”

There certainly is something for everyone at this year’s festival.

Huge international stars such as Rich Hall, Jason Manford and Nina Conti will appear alongside home grown heroes such as Jason Byrne, PJ Gallagher and rising star Al Porter.

If you’re after some thoughtful comedy then head to see Stewart Lee or Andrew Maxwell, while if it’s slightly misanthropic whimsy you’re after then look no further than the brilliant Dylan Moran. The Perrier Comedy Award winner and creator and star of the fantastic Black Books is one of the world’s greatest living stand-ups with an idiosyncratic style that has had audiences from Dublin to Sydney in stitches for twenty years.

There are plenty of other Irish stars to catch over the week of the festival, including Deirdre O’Kane, Patrick Kielty, Ardal O’Hanlon and Après Match, as well as a host of international talent. Phill Jupitus, Shappi Khorsandi, Mark Wilmot and Tanyalee Davis are just some of the big names who will be making appearances.

In true comedy club style, it’s not just the established acts who will be appearing as the festival is keen to promote up and coming local acts. Newcomers Steve Bennett, Comedy Cocktails Crew and Páraic Breathnach will be appearing during the week and are definitely all ones to watch for in the future.

The flagship venue for the festival will once again be the Spiegeltent which for the first time will be pitched in the iconic Eyre Square. The unique magical atmosphere of the Spiegeltent, pitched in the heart of this friendly city means that you’ll never be far from the action during a week that is sure to be full of laughter, craic and the finest comedy. www.vodafonecomedycarnival.com

Photos from top: Dylan Moran; Patrick Kielty.

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Explore Connaught

Kylemore Abbey

Few places on earth have the tranquillity and beauty of Kylemore Abbey and its majestic walled garden. The castle was bought by the Benedictine nuns in 1920.

The Victorian walled garden was reopened in 1999 and won the prestigious Europa Nostra Award in 2002.The garden comprises of roughly 6 acres and is divided in two by a natural mountain stream. The eastern half comprises of the flower or pleasure garden, glass houses and gardeners’ houses. While the kitchen garden makes up the other half of the garden and is predominantly given over to the growing of food. This is a gem and should definitely be at the top of any visitors list.

Glencar Waterfall

Glencar Waterfall is situated near Glencar Lake, 11 kilometres west of Manorhamilton, County Leitrim. It is particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. As you reach Glencar which straddles the border between counties Sligo and Leitrim with its dramatic steep cliffs, you will notice a series of waterfalls cascading from the heights.

Glencar waterfall is perhaps the most dramatic, descending from a 50ft rocky headland into a deep pool below in a haze of white spray. A paved path to the viewing area provides a wonderful vantage point from which to view the waterfall which is particularly spectacular during wet conditions.

Inishbofin Island

Inishbofin (island of the white cow) is situated seven miles off the Galway coastline and is an extremely popular tourist attraction.The island is 5.7km by 4km, and has three official looped walks of varying difficulties, each offering spectacular views of the island’s wild Atlantic scenery. The island also has several safe, award winning sandy beaches, and its clear waters make swimming, snorkelling and diving a joy. Two of the beaches on Inishbofin have been awarded the ‘Green Coast Award’, prized for their exceptional water quality and their natural, unspoilt environment.

Croagh Patrick

Connemara

Mullaghmore

Mullaghmore is one of the surfing capitals of the Irish Atlantic coastline, and is recognised as one of the top surfing destinations in the world. Indeed, on 8 March 2012, surfers and windsurfers from all over the world rode waves up to 15 metres (49 ft) high off Mullaghmore Head.

The area is also safe for bathing, and has all the modern facilities that you could wish for to make your stay enjoyable. And it is overlooked by the majestic Ben Bulbin mountain.

Connemara is one of God’s gifts to this world with unspoilt natural beauty, rolling hills, leafy glens and crystal clear mountain streams all overlooked by towering majestic mountains. Travel from the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the North through lake-rich Roundstone Bog, to the golden beaches reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean. This wondrous landscape is bounded on the West, South and North by the Atlantic Ocean. Connemara’s land boundary with the rest of County Galway is marked by the Invermore River which flows into the north of Kilkieran Bay.

Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the picturesque town of Westport, and its conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. You get spectacular views of Clew Bay and the surrounding Mayo countryside from all stages as you climb.

Widely considered the holiest mountain in Ireland, pilgrimages date all the way back to the time of the pagans, when people are thought to have gathered here to celebrate the beginning of harvest season. It was on the summit of this mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the custom has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. On the last day in July 25,000 pilgrims climb it, and over a million people visit Croagh Patrick every year.

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Recommended Pubs in Connaught Tigh Neachtain (Naughtons)

Just across the road from Galway’s justly celebrated Druid Theatre, the Neachtain family have been running this pub here since 1894. And the artsy crowd that congregate here are as likely to be treated to a live jazz trio as they are to the best in Irish trad.

17 Cross st, Galway Tel: 091 568 820

Furey’s Pub

The Quays

Furey’s is located in the centre of Sligo, and is your no nonsense, strictly Irish trad music only, Irish pub. And they are as keen on real beer as they are on serious music, offering up an impressive choice craft beers.

Bridge St, Sligo Tel: 087 958 3080 Don’t be put off by the reams of tourists that flock here all year round, there’s a reason that this pub enjoys such a lofty reputation. It looks and feels exactly like an Irish pub should. And be sure to check out the back of the pub which has been decked out with stained glass and wooden pews borrowed from a Medieval French church!

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Bosh Bar and Restaurant Whether you are looking for a bit of good quality food, hoping to catch some live music, or just want to watch the match, this is the place you’re looking for when you find yourself in Castlebar.

11 Quay St, Galway Tel: 091 568 347

Linenhall St., Castlebar, Co Mayo Tel: 094 925 0534

Roísín Dubh

Matt Malloy’s

It might have changed hands a few years ago, but the Roísín Dubh is still the premier music venue in the West. In the past they played host to Ray Davies, The New York Dolls and Townes Van Zandt and, more recently the XX, DJ Shadow and Dinosaur Jr. The only difference is, they’ve got a beer garden on the roof now!

This is exactly the kind of pub you’d expect the flute player with the Chieftains to have opened. And when he’s not on tour with them, you can expect to see Matt Malloy here in person, joining in on the sessions that take place within.

Lower Dominick St., Galway Tel: 091 586 540

Bridge St., Westport Tel: 098 26655

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Recommended Restaurants in Connaught Kai Café

An Port Mór Restaurant

Roasted pig cheeks with black pudding, and apple and vanilla sauce is just one of this award winning restaurant’s specialities. One of the finest restaurants in the West.

1 Brewery Place, Bridge St, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 26730

The Cottage Restaurant

Head chef Sham Hanifa’s sauces are so well regarded, you can buy jars of them to take away with you after your meal. Originally from Malaysia, he’s been here in Leitrim for over 14 years and applies his culinary skills to the local Irish produce that are native to the West.

Jamestown, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071 962 5933

Ashford Castle

Dating all the way back to 1228, this is one of the most imposing castles on the island. And where better to dine than in the George V dining room, built specially by the Guinness family when they hosted the Prince of Wales in 1906.

Cong, Co. Mayo Tel: 094 954 6003 David and Jessica Murphy’s restaurant in the heart of Galway has justly won a mountain of awards over the last couple of years, including Restaurant of the Year in 2012. Of the many, many who sing its praises, John McKenna wrote, “It’s vital food, packed with good energy, and it lifts you up to eat it because it’s so simple and elemental.”

Sea Road, Galway City.

Tel: 091 526 003

Eala Bhán

Upstairs @ West Restaurant

Situated in the luxury 4 star hotel The Twelve in Barna, minutes away from the city centre, this is one of Galway’s best kept secrets and is well worth a visit.

The Twelve, Barna, Galway City Tel: 091 597 000

Waterfront House Restaurant

Ireland’s largest stockist of Designer Sunglasses If it’s fresh seafood or a prime steak you’re looking for, this is the place for you. Situated in the heart of Sligo this restaurant is warmly recommended by one and all, including Lucinda O’Sullivan and Georgina Campbell.

Rockwood Parade, Sligo Town Tel: 071 914 5823

Half way between Athlone and Roscommon, and a quarter of an hour’s drive from either, Aidan Murray has been head chef here for over 20 years. Superior bistro food.

The Waterfront House Restaurant boasts one of the most outstanding sea views in Ireland. You can wine, dine and relax as you peer out over the 5km beach overlooking Killala Bay. Since it opened in 2011 the Seaview Restaurant and Wine Bar have become popular with locals and visitors alike. Fresh Seafood is a speciality.

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 666 1255

Enniscrone, County Sligo Tel: 096 37120

The Yew Tree Restaurant

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Welcome to Ulster

Marble Arch Caves The Ancient Irish province of Ulster, made up of 9 counties, was partitioned in 1921 and six of the counties in it now make up Northern Ireland. These are Fermanagh, Antrim, Down, Derry/Londonderry, Armagh, and Tyrone.

The other three counties are Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan in the Republic of Ireland.

County Fermanagh has over 300 square miles of water, 365 islands, breathtaking scenery, the mystical Marble Arch Caves Geo Park, world class fishing and more historic monuments than you could shake a stick at. In short, Fermanagh is a Lakeland Paradise.

County Donegal is in the northwest of the

Malin Head Republic of Ireland. The name “Donegal” comes from the Irish, meaning “the fort of the foreigners”. The county consists chiefly of low mountains, with a deeply indented coastline forming natural loughs, of which Lough Swilly is the most notable. The famous mountains or 44

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‘Hills of Donegal’ consist of two major ranges, the Derryveagh Mountains in the north and the Bluestack Mountains in the south, with Mount Errigal at 751 metres the highest peak.

The Slieve League cliffs are the second highest sea cliffs in Europe, while Donegal’s Malin Head is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland.

the new Titanic Quarter and the Odyssey Arena to name but a few. This vibrant city has a culture all of its own and its restaurants, theatres and nightlife are amazingly good value.

Giants Causeway

County Antrim with its beautiful coast road and famous glens is the most north easterly county on the island. On a worldwide scale Antrim’s most famous attraction is the Giants Causeway. However the renowned ‘Glens of Antrim’, the Bushmills Distillery and Carrickfergus Castle are well worth visiting as well.

Belfast City too has many things to see including the grandeur of the City Hall,

Belfast City Hall

Explore Ulster

The Old Bushmills Distillery

Belleek Pottery

Titanic Belfast Since opening in March 2012 Titanic Belfast has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, with over a million visitors through its doors in its first year. Housed in an iconic, six storey building, it’s located in the heart of Belfast, right next to the site where the famous ship was built.

Once you enter the building proper, you’re introduced to the building’s giant atrium surrounded by the four “ships”, which act as the beginning of the Titanic experience.

Your journey will then take you through the building’s nine galleries, telling the story of the Titanic from its conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through its construction and launch, to its famous maiden voyage and tragic end.

Tel: 028 9076 6386

In 1608, King James I granted Sir Thomas Phillipps a license to distil whiskey, and Bushmills became the first distillery in the world to begin officially producing it.

Bushmills is the only distillery in Ireland to make triple-distilled malt whiskey. This is at the heart of all Bushmills whiskeys, whether Bushmills or Black Bush, and it is this that gives them their unique combination of smoothness and richness.

Today, over 120,00 visitors come to the Old Distillery every year to discover more about how it is all done, and to see for themselves where the magic happens.

Tel: 028 2073 3218

Ulster American Folk Park

Florence Court

Situated 5 miles outside of Omagh on the road to Strabane, the museum is your chance to mix family fun with a fascinating exploration of our shared histories.

Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish emigration at the museum that brings it to life. Follow the emigrant trail as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier. Meet an array of costumed characters on your way with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share. You can also avail of the facilities at the residential centre and museum restaurant.

Museum: +44 (0) 28 8224 3292 Residential centre: +44 (0)28 8224 0918

Florence Court is the former home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen. The three storey Georgian mansion contains fine plasterwork and 18th century Irish furniture and also offers extensive gardens, outdoor trails and a woodland children’s play area. Every aspect of life in this classical Irish House, with its fine interiors and exquisite decoration, is brought to life on guided tours. Outside, visitors can discover the working estate including a sawmill, forge and carpenters shop, ice house, the historic rose garden and the mother of all Irish Yews. The Stables tearoom and Coach House gift shop are also onsite. The forest park has 10 miles of trails to enjoy on foot, by bike or on horseback.

Tel: 028 6634 9001

The Giant’s Causeway The Giant’s Causeway stretches for around five kilometres along the Antrim coast.

Legend has it that it was built by Finn MacCool so that he could get across to Scotland to take on a giant who lived there.

Visitors flock here from all over the world to marvel at one of Europe’s most magnificent coastlines and its unique rock formations.

In 1986 the Giant’s Causeway Visitors centre opened, after the World Heritage Conventions added it to its list of sites which are of exceptional interest and universal value. The National Trust oversees the Causeway and provides the half million tourists who go there every year with all the information that they need.

When you step into the world of Belleek Pottery you enter one of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most fascinating attractions.

Visitors can take a personally guided tour of the factory and see how the techniques developed by the very first Belleek craftsmen 158 years ago are still followed today. An audio visual presentation informs visitors of the rich history of the pottery from its beginnings right the way through to present day, while the Belleek Museum offers a display of pottery through the ages.

Visitors can enjoy a little retail therapy in the Belleek Pottery showroom and no visit is complete without taking a little time out at the Belleek Pottery restaurant to enjoy some well deserved refreshments from the savoury and sweet menu served.

Tel: +44(0) 28 6865 9300 Email: visitorcentre@belleek.ie Facebook.com/belleekpottery

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BELFAST INTERNATIONAL

Arts festival

W

ith 134 events over 24 days in 30 venues, Belfast comes alive this October for the Belfast International Arts Festival. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s festival, which encompasses theatre, dance, music and so much more.

This year’s artist in residence is Amanda Coogan. One of the most exciting contemporary visual artists practicing in the area of performance art today, Amanda is currently researching and developing a new work for the festival, provisionally titled ‘You Turn Me On, I’m A Radio’.

There will be some remarkable theatre to enjoy during the festival, including The Night Alive at the Lyric Theatre, The Curious Incident of The Dog In The Night-Time at the Grand Opera House and the UK and Ireland premiere of Hallo Downstairs at the MAC.

Music lovers can enjoy stellar acts such as Sharon Shannon, Andy Irvine, Bell X1, Georgie Fame and Father John Misty to name but a few.

Film is another important strand of the festival and this year sees the focus on Mexican film. The Queen’s Theatre will screen Northern Ireland premieres of Gueros and A Separate Wind, while there is also a chance to see Poison for Fairies and Mariá Candelaria.

Belfast will be where the culture vultures feast this October. www.belfastinternationalartsfestival.com

Enjoy a thrilling cliff edge experience at The Gobbins Pre-book your tour today by telephone Tel: 028 9337 2318 www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

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This project is part-financed by the European Union’s INTERREG IVA Cross-border Programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body

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THE GOBBINS D

iscover the scenic views and hidden wonders along the reimagined Gobbins Cliff path The stunning coastal cliff path walk, located in Islandmagee allows visitors to uncover the once hidden gem of the Antrim coast and indulge in an exhilarating cliff path walk. Comprising of suspension tubular bridges, caves, steps, and tunnels carved through the spectacular rock face, The Gobbins is a reimagined treasure that has brought what was once a thriving 1900’s hotspot into the 21st century.

The Gobbins was reinstated at a cost of £7.5 million with over half of the funding coming through the EU’s INTERREG IVA Programme, managed by the SEUPB and administered by the North East partnership. Larne Borough Council provided £2 million with further funding of £200,000 from the Ulster Garden Villages organisation.

Along the Gobbins cliff path, you will get up close to a diverse range of wildlife and gain privileged access to Northern Ireland’s only mainland colony of Puffins, alongside various other bird species. If you chose not to undertake the cliff path walk, you can discover the tremendous history and heritage of The Gobbins in the new state-of-the-art Visitor Centre. The Visitor centre is free to access and includes; a café, an Interpretation/Exhibition space, a shop for branded memorabilia and local crafts, as well as a Tourist Information point.

To pre-book a tour of the Gobbins, please call the Visitor centre on 028 9337 2318. Please be aware of all visitor guidelines around accessing the attraction to avoid disappointment. Tours take place daily and tickets cost £8.50 per person and £23 for family tickets.

For more information, please visit the official website: www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

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Recommended Pubs in Ulster The Crown Liquor Saloon

Located in Belfast’s Cathedral district, very unusually this pub is owned by the Belfast Unemployment Resource Centre, which was opened by local poet, socialist and Freeman of the City, John Hewitt. Hence the name. They’ve an extensive range of craft beers, both on tap and in bottles. And if that’s not enough, they even have a genuine gin palace!

Which includes locally made Shortcross Gin. 51 Donegall St., Belfast Tel: 028 9023 3768

White’s Tavern

Dating all the way back to 1630, this is the oldest tavern in Belfast, and one of the oldest anywhere on these islands. You can warm yourself by the fire downstairs where you’ll find the original pub, whilst upstairs they’ve opened a second bar where more livelier fare goes down.

2-4 Winecellar Entry, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3080

Kelly’s Cellars Now owned by the National trust, this is one of the most justly famous pubs to be found anywhere in Britain or Ireland, with its mixture of oak panelling, leather chairs and its exquisite, ornate Victorian tiling. And, just as you’d expect, they’ve a wonderful selection of real ales and home made food.

46 Great Victoria St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3187

This is the oldest pub proper in Belfast, dating back to 1720. Stone floors, white washed walls, and traditional Irish music rings through its low ceilinged rooms. It’s like finding a country pub in the middle of the city.

30-32 Bank St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 6058

The Duke Of York

The John Hewitt

One of the liveliest pubs in town, its walls are busy with paraphernalia and whatnots, and the place is hopping with (mostly) young people who fill the place up all weekend and most of the week. And if you are looking to treat yourself to a sneaky, antique whiskey, look no further.

7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 1062

Peadar O’Donnell’s

There are three bars to choose from here at this famous Derry pub, and music to suit any and all tastes. You can move from an impromptu session that might have materialised magically in the corner of the traditional bar downstairs, to a gig proper upstairs in the Gweedore.

Before coming back downstairs to what they swear is the best pint in Derry.

59-63 Waterloo St., Derry Tel: 028 7126 7295 48

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Recommended Restaurants in Ulster Ox

Having won the Best Newcomer Award in 2013, Ox took Best Restaurant, Best Chef and Best Wine Experience in Antrim for 2014.

Chic, smart and very good.

The Ginger Bistro

Coco

1 Oxford St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 4121

55 Degrees North Located in Belfast’s historic Linenhall Street just behind City Hall, this is one of the best dining experiences you will find here in the city centre in Belfast. Its chic boutique surroundings make it very much the place to see and be seen.

This family run business has been open since 2005. And this stylish restaurant has been receiving plaudits ever since, both for the quality of its food, and the spectacular views of the Atlantic that it offers.

1 Causeway St, Portrush, Co Antrim Tel: 0044 28 7082 2811

The ginger in question is owner chef Simon McCance, and since relocating here closer to the centre his reputation for producing quality food at surprisingly reasonable prices has got even stronger.

7-8 Hope St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9024 4421

Deane’s Restaurant

7-11 Linenhall St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 1150

Shu

They serve deliberately simple, Frenchinfluenced food here using only the best seasonal ingredients, and all served at a reasonable price in an elegant location. And you can have a drink in the cocktail bar in the basement while you are waiting for your table.

253 Lisburn Rd, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9038 1655

Vanilla Restaurant

Local man Darren Ireland opened this smart new establishment here in 2009, and it’s one of the best quality bistros on the East coast.

Telfords Restaurant

Overlooking the river Lagan and situated in a maritime building that dates back to 1843, Telfords operates on three levels and is in walking distance from the Waterfront Hall, the Odyssey complex and the Ulster Hall.

67 Main St, Newcastle Tel: 0044 28 4372 2268

Lough Erne Resort

5 Donegall Quay, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 4000

Sun Kee Restaurant

One of the best Chinese restaurants in Belfast, the Lo family have been producing impressively adventurous and authentic Chinese cuisine here for years.

42-7 Donegall Pass, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 2016 Michael Deane trained at London’s prestigious Claridges and since returning to Belfast he has opened up a number of top quality restaurants across the city. And losing the Michelin star he had in 2011 has he says liberated him, allowing him to concentrate on the food without having to worry about critics.

36-40 Howard St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9033 1134

Sakura

In the city’s busy Botanic Avenue, this is one of the city’s few authentic sushi bars, but they also serve a variety of fusion dishes if sushi is not your thing. A superior Japanese restaurant.

82 Botanic Av, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 9590

Speranza Restaurant

This 5 star hotel just outside the town of Enniskillen is quite simply one of the most spectacularly situated hotel resorts you will find anywhere in Europe.

Lusty Beg

This island spa is set on 75 acres in the heart of the lakes of Fermanagh, and where better to unwind than in its award winning restaurant.

Hand made oven baked pizzas are one of the specialities here, but there is a wide choice of all types of Italian food on offer here in one of Belfast’s finest Italian restaurants.

Belleek Rd, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6632 3230

Boa Island, Kesh, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6863 3300

16-9 Shaftesbury Av, Belfast Tel: 044 28 9023 0213 OCTOBER 2015 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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RÓNÁN MCLAUGHLIN PHOTOGRAPHER

I

didn’t set out to be a photographer, it kind of just happened,” says Rónán McLaughlin of a hobby that has won him acclaim and seen him printed in publications from the UK, the Netherlands, India and Australia as well as Ireland. Having initially started out photographing birds in his home 800 yards from the edge of Ireland, on Malin Head in Inishowen, Co. Donegal, Rónán’s work now includes landscapes, flora and spectacular images of the aurora and night sky and he has become somewhat of an unofficial ambassador for Inishowen tourism.

As a child, Rónán was a keen birdwatcher and used to sketch the rare birds that he saw around his home. As time went on he wanted to know more about these birds and found he had no way of recording them apart from his sketches so he gradually started investing in digital cameras to better capture images of the birds. This led to his photos being printed in many magazines and Rónán then decided to photograph other aspects of Inishowen, including the spectacular auroras, more commonly known as the Northern Lights.

It may surprise people that the Northern Lights can be seen in Ireland, but as Rónán says: “You don’t have to go to Iceland to see the aurora. You’ve actually as good a chance in Malin Head as you do in Iceland.”

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Having grown up in the area, and as a self-confessed weather anorak, Rónán has developed an innate knowledge of when the aurora will appear, allowing him to get amazing shots of the phenomenon that professionals haven’t been able to capture.

The photos he produces are simply stunning and showcase the beauty of Inishowen. With thirty to fifty thousand visitors per week to his Facebook page, Rónán certainly is doing his bit to promote tourism to the region but he is keen to stress that he would like to see the region remain as it is. “We want people to visit, we want people to appreciate it,” he says. “But appreciate it for what it is - a wild isolated location.”

It’s a wild, isolated location that is rich in wildlife and natural phenomena that can’t be seen anywhere else in Ireland. From basking sharks and dolphins, to the only lizards in Ireland and the incredible Northern Lights, the only place to see them is Malin Head and Rónán’s photography captures it all beautifully.

If you’re travelling to Ireland and want to catch the Northern Lights, follow Rónán’s Aurora Alert Twitter account @Aurora_ ireland.

To see more of Rónán’s work visit his website www.ronanmclaughlin.com or visit his Facebook page facebook.com/ ronanmclaughlinphotography

Blarney Castle & Gardens Renowned for bestowing the gift of eloquence Take the time to enjoy our magical CASTLE GARDENS

Open all year round 5 miles from Cork Open Monday- Sunday 9-6 www.blarneycastle.ie info@blarneycastle.ie