Travel ireland Volume 4 Issue 38

Travelireland Volume 4 Issue 38 June 2017

Pat Liddy on

Joyce and Bloomsday

Top Ten

Must See Shows Lough Crew Megalithic Centre

magazine

Riverdance Returns!!

Blarney Castle Feile Brian Boru Bloomsday

Maeve Binchy’s first stage adaptation Minding Frankie at The Gaiety Theatre

CONTENTS

4 Welcome To Leinster 6 Riverdance 8 Theatre 10 Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links 12 James Joyce & Bloomsday 14 The Bloomsday Festival 16 10 Great Shows to Catch in Ireland this Summer 18 Shopping 20 Explore Leinster 21 Leinster Bars 22 Leinster Restaurants 24 Minding Frankie 26 Welcome to Munster 28 Shandon Street Festival 2017 28 Enjoy a stay in the all new Loughcrew Yurt 30 Munster Bars 31 Munster Restaurants 32 Explore Munster 34 Féile Brian Ború 2017 35 Dingle Crystal 36 Blarney Castle 38 Welcome to Connaught 40 Connaught Bars 41 Connaught Restaurants 42 Explore Connaught 43 Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival 44 Welcome To Ulster 46 Explore Ulster 47 Ulster Restaurants 48 Ulster Bars 50 Great Irish Writers

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

Willkommen-Bienvenida-Bienvenue-Welcome! To our June 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. This month sees a host of great shows and events all across the country and hopefully some sunshine too. There’s no better place than Ireland when the sun is out and we take a look at some of the best gigs and shows on offer this summer. The phenomenon that is Riverdance returns to the Gaiety Theatre while Maeve Binchy is brought to the stage for the first time with Minding Frankie. June means Bloomsday and we celebrate all things Joyce this month while if it’s music you’re after, then head to the Westport Folk and Blues Festival. Whatever you end up doing, we at Travel Ireland wish you a hefty and heartfelt Céad míle fáilte and hope you enjoy your stay.

Taisteal sásta (Happy Travels)

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Published by Ellen Media Communications Ltd Publisher John Carey Features Writer Mark O’Brien Design & Art Direction Outburst Design Advertising John Carey (john@ellenmediacom.ie, 01 561 2431, 087 911 3732); Thomas Faulkner (thomas@travelirelandmagazine.ie, 089 248 6854) Contributors: Pat Liddy, Angeline Le Mercier, Adam Patterson Photography, John McCurdy, Paula Moore, Patrick O’ , Stephen Walker, Ivan Donoghue, Joleen Cronin, Richard Eibrand, Padraig O’Donnell, Michael McLaughlin, Carl Mark O’Neill.

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

We would also like to thank Paddy Donovan, Ed Reeve, Carr Cotter and Naessens, jonandlauren.wordpress.com and 10bestpubsingalway.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.

JUNE 2017 - 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 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

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Stephen’s Green Park 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

St Kevin’s Church, Glendalough 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

Round Tower, Glendalough range of activities from paintballing in the Stradbally Woods to western-style riding at Fossey Mountain, bowls at the only indoor 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!

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The newly refurbished Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links is Dublin’s only coastal Hotel situated 15 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from Dublin city. As the original summer home of the Jameson Whiskey Family the resort boasts 134 bedrooms, conference centre, an 18 hole Bernhard Langer designed Links course, destination Spa and three separate dining outlets.

Strand Road, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin | 01 8460611 | www.portmarnock.com

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Riverdance

Composed by Bill Whelan, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan, Riverdance has come a long way since it started out as an interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. Since then, the show has become a worldwide phenomenon, playing over 11,000 shows, seen live by over 25 million people in over 467 venues, played to a global television audience of 3 billion people and selling over 3 million copies of a Grammy-winning CD. Now Riverdance returns to Dublin once again for an extended run from 21 June until 3 September.

Fusing Irish and international dance and music, Riverdance is a spectacular show that has left audiences the world over breathless and amazed. Now it returns to Ireland and what better place to see it than in the beautiful surroundings of the Gaiety Theatre? What’s more, patrons can also avail of a fantastic VIP experience.

This VIP experience includes; premium seats in the Parterre, early access to the Gaiety to watch the on-stage rehearsal and warm up, a Q&A with members of the cast before the show, meet and greet with the Principal Dancers after the show, photo and autograph opportunities, a Riverdance souvenir programme and VIP laminate on arrival and access to the VIP lounge.

When Riverdance made its debut as a seven minute dance piece all those years ago, people were blown away but few could have predicted just how successful it would become. The full length stage show broke box office records during its premiere run in Dublin and it has continued to break records ever since. Now it’s coming home for another unmissable run. No trip to Dublin this summer is complete without a trip to the Gaiety to take in the breathtaking spectacle that is Riverdance. www.riverdance.com

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Theatre Mermaid Arts Centre

Leonard Cohen’s Between Your Love and Mine

Writer John MacKenna’s requiem for theatre is written in memory of young friends and in honour of those who mourn them. The requiem was inspired, by Leonard Cohen's hope-filled lines: “Behold the gates of mercy, in arbitrary space, and none of us deserving the cruelty or the grace, o solitude of longing where love has been confined,come healing of the body, come healing of the mind.” Two weeks before he died, Cohen approved the final draft of this beautiful requiem which features music, vocals and spoken word.

24 June Tel: 01 2724043 or visit www.mermaidartscentre.ie Also in the Mermaid Arts Centre this month; Serendipity (1 June), Charlie’s a Clepto (3 June), Moonlight (5 - 6 June), An Evening with Voices of Bray Community Choir (8 - 10 June), Alone Together - Francesco Turrisi (9 June), Encorps Stage School (11 June), Tanna (12 June), Luka Bloom (16 June), East Coast Academy of Performing Arts - A Musical Medley (17 June), Lion (19 June), Vermeer Beyond Time (22 June), Danny O’Brien Who Breaks Up With Stella? (23 June), Peter Pan at Powerscourt (25 June), Welcome to the Chocolate Factory (25 June), Frantz (26 June) and The Successful TD (30 June).

and the human condition. It is an invitation to look at ourselves, and to ask who, or whom, am I? Performer and Co-Director Lisa Dwan offers a searing personal and political vision of Beckett’s most original work: Texts for Nothing.

10 - 17 June Tel: 01 8872200 or visit www.abbeytheatre.ie Also at the Abbey Theatre this month; RTE All Ireland Drama Festival 2017 (1 - 3 June), Postscript (14 - 24 June) and Performance (23 June - 22 July).

The Gate Theatre Private Lives

Noël Coward’s classic tale of bitter sweet love is one of the true delights of theatre. Elyot and Amanda, who marry not wisely but too often, find themselves thrown back together again on their respective honeymoons still hopelessly and passionately in love. Their brief sojourn in her Paris apartment proves to them yet again, that in their case, though one should make love not war – it’s more fun to do both.

31 March - 24 June Tel: 01 8744045 / 01 8746042 or visit www. gatetheatre.ie

The Gaiety Theatre

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Wonderland

Tel: 01 6777999 or visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie Also at Bord Gais Energy Theatre this month; Kraftwerk 3-D (2 - 3 June), An Evening with Bernie Sanders (4 June), Evita (6 - 17 June), Tony Bennett (25 June) and The Play That Goes Wrong (26 June - 1 July).

The Abbey Theatre No’s Knife

Filled with piercing insight, rage, wit and humour, No’s Knife is an extraordinary journey into the heart of Beckett, unlocking his contemporary relevance to gender, identity 8

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Simple Minds

Simple Minds have been responsible for some of the most innovative and enduring rock anthems of the past 30 years and are widely regarded as one of the best live bands in the world. This new show sees the band re-work some of their classic tracks acoustically for a show that is nothing like the group have done before.

7 - 8 June Also in the Olympia this month; Picture This (30 May - 4 June), Agnes Obel (6 June), Cirque du Noa (11 June), Paramore (15 June), The Avalanches (16 June), Visions of Floyd (17 June) and Alter Bridge (20 June) Tel: 01 679 3323 or visit www.olympia.ie

Smock Alley Theatre The Dubliners Dilemma

From Oslo to Mayo to Moscow, Declan Gorman’s performance based on James Joyce’s ‘Dubliners’ has enthralled audiences and critics nationally and internationally. Back home for Bloomsday 2017 for five showings only, this is an unmissable slice of Dublin and Joyce’s world by one of Ireland’s most versatile theatre artists.

16 - 17 June Also at Smock Alley this month; Stones in his Pockets (29 May - 10 June) and Our Town (29 May - 3 June) Tel: 01 6770014 or visit www.smockalley.com

Following sold out seasons in Tampa, Texas and Tokyo, the multi Grammy and Drama Desk Award nominated Frank Wildhorn’s Wonderland comes to Dublin for the very first time in this brand new production. Hailed by the New York Times as ‘inspirational’, Wonderland is an enchanting musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, with a huge heart, a medley of magic and a whole lot of wonder.

19 - 24 June

The Olympia Theatre

Theatre Royal Waterford

Riverdance

The worldwide phenomenon which is Riverdance began its journey as the interval act in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest.

Since being developed into a full stage show, its fusion of Irish and International music and dance has broken all box office records all over the world and now Riverdance comes home once again for an unmissable extended run in the Gaiety Theatre.

21 June - 3 September Tel: 0818 719 388 or visit www.gaietytheatre.ie Also at the Gaiety this month; Minding Frankie (6 - 17 June)

A Taste of Beckett

This summer the Theatre Royal will produce two short masterpieces by one of Ireland's greatest writers, Samuel Beckett.

Footfalls, performed by Waterford actress Carrie Crowley, is a poetic distillation of the a mother-daughter relationship.

Krapp's Last Tape, performed by Irish actor and writer Arthur Riordan, is a moving evocation of human failure.

21, 22, 23, 29, 30 June. 6, 7, 13, 20, 21 July.

Tel 051 874402 or visit www.theatreroyal.ie

Visit the NEW

Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links

Following the completion of an extensive refurbishment under new owners, Kennedy Wilson, the new Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links opened its doors earlier this year. Its location just minutes from Dublin Airport and a short drive to the city centre make it the ideal location for visitors - whether travelling for business purposes or wishing to enjoy a leisurely stay along Dublin’s beautiful coastline. As soon as you walk through the new entrance and are struck by the stylish, newly refurbished lobby, you’ll know you’ve made the right choice in picking the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links.

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The new hotel, located along the idyllic ‘Velvet Strand’ of North County Dublin, boasts 134 newly refurbished bedrooms; a new state-of-the-art Spa; three standalone dining offerings – The Seaview Restaurant, The 1780 Restaurant and iconic Jameson Bar as well as its Bernhard Langer-designed, world-class Links 18-hole golf course.

The refurbishment took place across an 18 month period with the interiors co-ordinated by local interior designer, Ciara Ni Laoi. The new contemporary décor is inspired by the property’s coastal setting with cool and neutral tones reflecting the surrounding landscape and sea.

The hotel is also steeped in history as it was the original home to the Jameson Distillery dynasty and the original Jameson House, built in the early 1800s, remains part of the hotel structure today.

The food and beverage offering at the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links encompasses a mixture of casual and gourmet dining and celebrates the

array of fresh and seasonal ingredients available on the hotel’s doorstep. New Executive Chef Tom Walsh has carved a stellar reputation as one of the industry’s most exciting and innovative figures with a career spanning over 20 years working at some of Dublin’s finest establishments and now he brings that craft and expertise to Portmarnock’s three amazing dining locations.

With its panoramic windows and views over Dublin Bay and Ireland’s Eye, The Seaview is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy exceptional food and drink. By day, guests can enjoy casual all-day dining or Afternoon Tea By-The-Sea, while by night, The Seaview experience is a celebration of the sea offering guests an exclusive seafood-only menu complemented by a wonderfully inventive cocktail menu.

At The 1780, guests will enjoy an entirely different offering as Tom Walsh serves up a contemporary fine dining experience. The restaurant carries an air of New York chic with its modern

Whether it’s business, golfing, pleasure or a venue for that most special of days, the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links can cater for the need of every visitor.

interior design and relaxed atmosphere.

Situated in the heart of the old Jameson House, the Jameson Bar features the original oak panelling, high ceilings and even original oil paintings from the Jameson era, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere that instantly transports you back in time to the early days of this famous dynasty.

One of the most exciting new additions to the property is the hotel’s new stunning state-of-the-art Spa. Embracing the tranquillity and serenity of its natural surroundings, The Spa at Portmarnock is a haven of relaxation and indulgence and offers a range of Elemis, Carita and Essie treatments carried out by its team of expert, friendly, in-house therapists.

Portmarnock has long been famous as a golfing destination. Situated on the shoreline of a rugged peninsula, The Links

Portmarnock was the first links course designed by three-time winner of the Irish Open, Bernhard Langer. Along with architect Stan Eby, Langer designed an 18-hole course that is challenging for all golfers and which has hosted several professional and amateur tournaments over the years including the 2008 and 2009 Ladies Irish Open. The recent renovation at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links has also included investment in the iconic Links with upgraded machinery and the creation of new pathways to maximise the rugged terrain.

That glorious coastal setting also makes Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links a much sought-after wedding destination. Whether you are planning a small intimate affair or a lavish gathering, the hotel’s team of experts are there to take care of your every need for your special day. The hotel is fully licensed to host indoor and outdoor civil ceremonies on site. There are packages to suit all needs, which include a drinks reception and the option of a barbeque the following day in their stunning secret garden.

You can also enjoy drinks in their new Sibin,

which once again harks back to the days when the Jamesons were the residents of the estate.

The hotel’s proximity to Dublin Airport, the M50 motorway and Dublin city centre makes the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links an ideal destination for conferencing and corporate events. The property’s high spec meeting rooms and facilities accommodate up to 300 delegates, who can enjoy the added bonus of free parking, picturesque views and world-class golfing facilities as standard.

Whether it’s business, golfing, pleasure or a venue for that most special of days, the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links can cater for the need of every visitor. Their highly trained staff are a pleasure to deal with and they will make your stay a time to remember. For anyone planning to visit Dublin this year, the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links is the perfect destination to base yourself.

Visit www.portmarnock.com for more information.

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James Joyce

&Bloomsday

by Pat Liddy

There is one unique day celebrated in Dublin every year that has no real comparison anywhere else in the world.

That day is known as Bloomsday and falls on the 16th June. Hundreds of people, maybe even a few thousand, stroll the streets of the city literally following in the footsteps of the stories contained in the pages of one of the most renowned books ever written; Ulysses

by James Joyce. The iconic book is precisely set on the 16th June 1904 across a period of approximately 18 hours. So, fans of the novel, many wearing the dress, costumes and headgear of that Edwardian period, follow the journeys of the main characters and visit the places associated with Joyce or closely described in Ulysses. It’s a rather dazzling and special day of times past that seems to flawlessly integrate into the normal activities of the city as it goes about its modern-day business.

James Joyce was born in Dublin in 1882, the eldest of ten surviving children. His father managed to squander a substantial legacy and the family soon struggled moving from house to poorer house as their income declined. All these moves actually helped James Joyce to discover every nook and corner of the city that would prove so valuable to him later on. Joyce was furnished with an excellent education by the Jesuits 12

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and he then went onto university. You can see Belvedere College, which he attended from 1893 to 1898. It’s still a secondary school situated on Great Denmark Street, just a stone’s throw from O’Connell Street.

Newman College, where he received his degree in modern languages, is on the south side of St Stephen’s Green. Joyce was a brilliant student and mastered Italian. French, German, Latin and taught himself Norwegian so he could read Henrik Ibsen. He had a brilliant memory and could recite whole pages of prose from memory.

Joyce found both the Roman Catholic religion and the so-called Celtic Revival literature of Yeats and others to his distaste.

He resolved to leave Ireland but before doing so he wooed and captured the affections of Galway woman, Nora Barnacle.

He first dated her on the 16th June 1904, the date he selected for the action of his greatest novel. Soon after, Joyce and Nora eloped to live in Pula, Trieste, Zurich, Paris and finally back to Zurich again when the Nazis occupied Paris. Joyce died from a perforated ulcer in 1941 at the age of 59 and is buried in Fluntern Cemetery in Zurich.

Joyce’s best remembered works are Dubliners (1914), Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916), Finnegan’s Wake

(published 1939 and indecipherable to most!) and the universally acclaimed Ulysses (1922).

An accompanying ‘guide’ book would be useful when first reading it. Dublin has changed and grown enormously since Joyce departed in 1904 but many of the places he knew and mentioned in his novels are still there. Trinity College, the Ha’penny Bridge, the National Library, St George’s Church, Westland Row Railway Station, Glasnevin Cemetery and even the Martello Tower in Sandycove where the novel opens with the glorious words: Stately, plump Buck Mulligan came from the stairhead, bearing a bowl of lather on which a mirror and a razor lay crossed. A yellow dressing gown, ungirdled, was sustained gently-behind him by the mild morning air. He held the bowl aloft and intoned: -- Introibo ad altare Dei. The rest is literary history!

Gone, however, are the Turkish Baths, Number 7 Eccles Street (the home of Leopold Bloom - but a plaque designates the site on a hospital wall), The Freeman’s Journal (where Bloom worked) and Nighttown, the notorious brothel area off Talbot Street where, today, one of the streets in this newly developed quarter is appropriately named James Joyce Street! But still there and trading as it always has, is the bar of Davy Byrne on Duke Street where Bloom stopped to have lunch of a Gorgonzola cheese sandwich and a glass of red Burgundy wine. This is the main terminus of Bloomsday aficionados who are more likely to be quaffing beer than wine and pour out onto the street in their

hundreds, gaily dressed and noisy as a turkey farm. It’s a must-stop for Joycean fans, even outside of Bloomsday.

There are four places in and around Dublin which Joycean fans must visit. The Dublin Writers Museum on Parnell Square (www.visitdublin. com/see-do/details/dublin-writers-museum), the Joyce Centre on North Great George’s Street (jamesjoyce.ie), Sweny’s Pharmacy on Lincoln Place (www.sweny.ie) and the Joyce Museum in the Martello Tower in Sandycove (jamesjoycetower.com). There is a statue to Joyce on North Earl Street close to the corner with O’Connell Street.

If you are lucky enough to be around you too can participate in the genteel frolics of the 16th June (see page 14 for more details about the Bloomsday Festival) or even follow in the shadows of Ulysses on any day of your choosing but maybe not in costume or you might attract glances of bemused curiosity. You can join the author of this article or one of his entertaining guides on Bloomsday for the celebrated annual guided walking tour. Ideal for those interested in a first introduction to James Joyce it will celebrate his life by walking through the streets of Dublin partly following Leopold Bloom along his famous wanderings. Tours depart at 10.30 am or 2.30 pm from outside the Gate Theatre, Cavendish Row (off the top-end of O’Connell Street). Cost is €12 each (seniors/ students €10).

You can turn up on the day or book through www.walkingtours.ie.

dodublintours

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Whether you want to sit back and soak up the culture at Dublin’s historic sites or get out there and explore the streets, meet the people and sample the Guinness, our guides can help you make the most of your holiday and see the city like a local.

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Dublin’s No.1 Bus Tour A D VIS

FREE Kids FREE Hotel Shuttle FREE Walking Tour FREE Little Museum of Dublin

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Buy in person at Dublin Bus Head Office 59 Upper O’Connell St, Dublin 1 Hop on and pay driver

dodublin.ie JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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The Bloomsday Festival T

he Bloomsday Festival returns to Dublin once again from 11 - 16 June, celebrating the life and work of James Joyce. The events in Joyce’s most famous work, Ulysses, take place on 16 June 1904 and the festival is timed to coincide with the anniversary of that date. The Bloomsday Festival has been organised by the James Joyce Centre since 1994 and this year’s festival has so much to offer - from food events to walks, talks, music and more.

The festivities begin on Sunday 11 June with the Irish Food Trail's first ever Joycean foodie walking tour. Later in the festival, visitors can enjoy a Pub Crawl, Joyce of Whiskey tours and a rollicking night of trad and pints at the Bloomsday Hooley in JW Sweetman’s bar on the quays.

This year’s festival will also see the first public broadcast of an interview with Joyce's sister, Margaret Alice 'Poppie' Joyce. This very special event takes place in the James Joyce Centre on Monday, 12 June.

As always, there is an exciting line-up of speakers set to attend this year’s celebration. The Bloomsday Interview sees the lauded comic writer Geoff Dyer in conversation with Mark O'Connell, while Professor of Poetry at the Iowa Writers' Workshop, Elizabeth Willis, will discuss and read from her experimental collections at Poetry Ireland.

Novelist and poet Dermot Bolger will sit down with Michael O'Loughlin and Ruth Gilligan in the GPO's Witness Gallery for a lively discussion about Irishness, nationalism and writing. Elsewhere, the work of poet, critic and original Bloomsday raconteur, Anthony Cronin will be celebrated in Dublin City Hall on Bloomsday itself, Friday 16 June.

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On top of all this, festival goers can also enjoy the family friendly, life-size Ulysses map 'Wandering Rocks, the popular night-time literary club the Poetry Brothel and take a tour through a Virtual Reality Ulysses, while poet Stephen James Smith will lead the celebrated Bloomsday Readings in Meeting House Square.

Hailed by many as the greatest novel of all time, Ulysses still resonates with with readers almost 100 years later. The novel brings Dublin to life and Bloomsday offers visitors the chance to retrace the journey that Leopold Bloom and Stephen Dedalus took on that monumental day. With a jam-packed programme, this year’s Bloomsday festival is a great way to celebrate the lasting legacy of James Joyce. www.bloomsdayfestival.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

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Great Shows to Catch in Ireland this Summer

The summer is finally here and that means there are a whole host of brilliant gigs and shows to catch in Ireland this. There are a vast array of great things to see and do all year round in Ireland but summer is particularly jam-packed with great gigs, festivals and shows to see. To help you choose what to do and see, we’ve selected 10 great shows to see in Ireland this summer.

Riverdance at The Gaiety Theatre Riverdance has been wowing audiences the world over for 22 years. Now it returns to Dublin for an extended run from 21 June until 3 September.

Fusing Irish and international dance and music, Riverdance is a spectacular show that has left audiences the world over breathless and amazed.

Now it’s coming home for another unmissable run in the beautiful surroundings of the Gaiety Theatre. www.gaietytheatre.ie

Real Bodies at The Ambassador Theatre This highly original and thought-provoking exhibition of human anatomy has been extended until 31 August 2017 due to phenomenal public demand. Real Bodies in Dublin welcomed their 50,000th visitor to the exhibition in April 2017. Open daily at Dublin's Ambassador Theatre from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m, this powerful exhibition explores life by displaying real, 14 perfectly preserved human bodies and more than 200 anatomical specimens. More than a simple display of human specimens, Real Bodies will connect audiences to a deeper sense of what it means to be alive. http://ambassadordublin.com

Trinity Concert Series

Arcade Fire- Malahide Castle

Dublin’s newest festival couldn’t ask for a better setting - the historic Trinity college will play host to a series of gigs between 6 and 11 July.

And what a lineup they have in store for their first year. Grammyaward winner Gregory Porter kicks off the series with his unique brand of contemporary jazz before hometown hero James Vincent McMorrow brings his incredible voice and songwriting skill to the venue the following evening. Next up it’s the brilliant BellX1 before indie-rock legends Pixies return to Ireland for what is sure to be an amazing show. Next up it’s highly regarded Irish band Two Door Cinema Club before the Mercury Prize winners alt-J bring the festival to a close.

Canada’s finest - Arcade Fire - return to Dublin once again for what is sure to be an incredible show. Their fabled gig at Electric Picnic is still hailed as one of the greatest shows they have ever played and the band have held Ireland in great affection ever since. Always inventive and with an epic sound that is just made for outdoor arenas, Arcade Fire never fail to impress. It’s sure to be a memorable evening at Malahide Castle on 14 June. www.ticketmaster.ie

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Celebrate 4th July with Kings Of Leon at the 3Arena What better way to celebrate Independence Day than with one of the biggest American bands of the last 15 years?

Kings of Leon bring their Walls tour to the 3 Arena on 4 July, featuring a setlist of new material alongside their greatest hits, such

as Four Kicks, Molly’s Chambers and the epic Sex on Fire. The band have had five singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, all seven of their studio albums on Billboard’s Top 200 list and two singles that reached #1 on Modern Rock radio. In addition, they

Once The Musical at The Olympia Theatre It has played for over three years on Broadway, two years in the West End and for two summers already in the Olympia Theatre in Dublin. Now, due to phenomenal demand, the recordbreaking stage show Once returns to the Olympia for 8 weeks this summer.

Described as 'a love-song to Dublin', the stunning music is performed by an extraordinary cast of actor-musicians, who sing, dance and play their hearts out live on stage. Between them, the 12 actors play 30 instruments during each performance, making Once a unique show that has the feel of a play and a music gig combined. https://oncemusical.ie

Walking On Cars- Royal Hospital Kilmainham

have had seven Grammy Nominations, four Grammy Award wins, three NME Awards, two Brit Awards and one Juno Award.

Support comes from Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats. www.3arena.ie

The Royal Hospital in Kilmainham is the perfect city venue. Situated near the Phoenix Park, the historic venue has hosted some amazing gigs in recent years, including Leonard Cohen, Beck and Paul Weller.

This year, one of the most hotly tipped acts to come out of Ireland in recent years, Walking On Cars, will rock this very special venue on 24 June. The band’s debut album ‘Everything This Way’ went to Number 1 in the Irish charts and remained in the Top 10 for 31 weeks. Their remarkable songwriting has gained them fans at home and abroad and this is sure to be a very special show. www.ticketmaster.ie

Longitude Marlay Park Phil Collins- Aviva Stadium This three-day city festival may only be a few years old but it has already become an important date on Dublin’s musical calendar. The festival always plays host to a diverse range of acts and the gorgeous surroundings of Marlay Park are the perfect setting for a festival with so much to explore and enjoy. This year sees some brilliant acts over the festival, which runs from 14 to 16 July. This year sees the likes of Stormzy, The Weekend, Mumford & Sons and Catfish and the Bottlemen take to the stage during this musical extravaganza. www.longitude.ie

As part of his hugely anticipated comeback tour, Phil Collins will play a very special date in the magnificent Aviva Stadium on 25 June. This will be his first Irish concert in 12 years and gig-goers can expect a set-list packed full of his greatest hits. One of the most successful artists of his generation, with more UK top 40 singles than any other artist of the 1980s, Phil Collins came to prominence first as drummer and then as frontman of Genesis, making his solo debut with 1981's album Face Value, containing smash hit single 'In The Air Tonight’.

He followed this with an extraordinary run as a prolific hit maker, with three UK Number ones as well as seven US Numbers ones. www.avivastadium.ie

Punchestown Music Festival Relive the magic this summer as some legends come to play the Punchestown Music Festival on 29 and 30 July. Bonnie Tyler, Culture Club, Deacon Blue,Village People and the living legend that is Tom Jones will all be making appearances at the festival. Tom Jones’ 50-year career has remarkably gone from strength to strength.

Along with sustaining his popularity as a live performer and recording artist for five decades, he has garnered—at the age of 76—the best reviews of his career for his most recent albums Long Lost Suitcase, Spirit In The Room and Praise & Blame. www.mcd.ie JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Shopping Irish Linen House

Mourne Antiques

Irish Linen House create handmade tablerunners, placemats and napkins made from the finest Irish linen. Each piece of the collection is uniquely made, fusing historical elements with a modern, contemporary edge and has caught the attention of worldwide stores including Barneys of New York. Just up the road from the Jameson Distillery, their Smithfield store is the perfect place to pick up a unique piece of Ireland.

Nr. Jameson Distillery, Bow Street Smithfield Village, Dublin 7 www.irishlinenhouse.com 01-5329572 / 083-3010502 01 820 8774

Mourne Antiques have been operating in the thriving town of Letterkenny for 25 years.

They offer a range of beautiful antiques, such as ceramics, silver, furniture and collectables, all with their own particular history and charm.

You could find anything from a rare book to a mink coat!

They specialise in a wide range of jewellery.

From Victorian gold and precious stone pieces to Contemporary diamond and Engagement rings to 1940’s costume jewellery, their stock is sure to please.

Cows Lane Designer Studio

38 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal 074 9126457 www.mourneantiques.com

Tights Department

Celtic Whiskey Shop

Ireland’s premier Irish whiskey specialists with a remarkable selection of beloved, rare and hard to find bottlings and shop exclusives. It boasts a knowledgeable and friendly staff who are proud and passionate about products, and are always on hand to offer advice. Feel free to pop in where we serve up in-store whiskey tastings all day everyday! If you're travelling, our staff can either wrap your purchases in protective wrapping or arrange shipping to national and international destinations.

27 – 28 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6759744 www.celticwhiskeyshop.com

Cows Lane Designer Studio is a colourful, fun retail space run by a group of independent designers and makers. With an eclectic mix of handcrafted, Irish designs including textiles, knitwear, jewellery, millinery, ceramics, prints, homewares and more, there is something for everyone. The perfect place to browse and be inspired!

Unit 2, Essex Street West, Old City, Temple Bar, Dublin 8. Tel: 01 679 8366 Info@clds.ie www.cowslanedesignerstudio.ie

Jam Art Factory

Jam Art Factory was set up in 2011 by brothers John and Mark to showcase the work of Irish artists and designers. It specialises in digital art prints, street art, ceramics and some witty Dublin themed work. It has been shortlisted in The Irish Times “Best Shops in Ireland” 4 years in a row.

64 Patrick Street, Dublin 8 14 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 616 5671 www.JamArtFactory.com and www.JamArtPrints.com 18

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Mitchell & Son Wine Merchants Tights Dept. is an Irish owned store specialising in Italian legwear. They offer a full range of classic and fashion hosiery: tights, socks (men and women), hold-ups, stockings, leggings and more, they also stock a collection of tops and vests. Top brands: Omsa, Emilio Cavallini, Trasparenze, Omero and Happy Socks.

25 Royal Hibernian Way (Anne Street South entrance), Dublin 2 Tel. 085 800 4281 Shop online: www.tightsdepartment.ie (deliver worldwide)

Designer Exchange

Ireland’s only dedicated pre-loved and authentic designer handbag and accessory store, Designer Exchange stock all the leading designer brands such as DKNY, Louis Vutton and Chanel. They offer incredible savings on these top designer brands and Tax Free shopping to non EU residents.

Since 1805, family-owned Mitchell & Son have been providing Fine Wines & Spirits to the people of Ireland. Now in the hands of the 7th generation, they offer a high quality selection of New & Old World Wines, Champagne, & fortified wines. Home to the Green and Yellow Spot Irish Whiskeys, they also have a wide selection of Irish, Scotch, & Japanese whiskies, and other fine spirits. With a superb selection of Riedel Glassware and decanters, Coravin Wine System, and Le Creuset wine accessories, they are one of the most diverse independent wine merchants in Ireland. Mitchell & Son also offer Wine and Whiskey Appreciation courses that provide an understanding of the Irish market and a chance to explore your tastes.

53 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 612 8080 www.facebook.com/DesignerExchangeLtd

CHQ Building, IFSC, Dublin, D01 FC89 Tel: 01 612 5540 www.mitchellandson.com

Recommended Shopping The Donegal Shop

The Donegal Shop is an independently owned and family run Irish business. They are specialists in Donegal homespun tweeds and knitted products.

The store offers a range of knitwear, aran sweaters and accessories for both women and men, all crafted using techniques handed down through generations of Donegal artists.

Mention Travel Ireland to get a 10% discount 2nd Floor, St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, Dublin 2 01 475 4621 www.thedonegalshop.com

The Design House

Brown Thomas

If it’s a high end shopping experience that you’re after, then Brown Thomas is the place to go. In this store you can find some of the world’s finest brands, including Armani, Baker, Chanel, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. The store offers personal shopping services and an unrivalled range of corporate gifts and there is tax free shopping available for non-EU residents.

88 Grafton Street, Dublin 2 01 6056666 www.brownthomas.com

The Kilkenny Shop

43 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6799283 www.thedesignhouse.ie

Amelia’s is home to a selection of beautiful gallery pieces that are perfect for the home or a present for someone special. They stock a range of art and studio ceramics lovingly handcrafted by makers from all over the country, specialising in local makers from the North-West of Ireland. There are little gifts and keepsakes for the everyday too! All pieces are handpicked by owner Frances Spears. She has over 20 years experience in the design and antiques business so you know you’re in good hands when you pay a visit to Amelia’s Irish Design.

29 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny Co. Donegal 087 2434060

Mackintosh by Francis Campelli

Mackintoshes were first produced in Ireland in 1889 and Francis Campelli has been involved in the production of them for almost 40 years so you know you’re in the most experienced hands The Kilkenny Shop is Ireland’s largest emporium for when you visit this store.

Irish designed products; from fashion and jewellery They offer the finest to homeware, handmade crafts and crystal. For over quality, waterproof five decades, the Kilkenny Shop has been supporting Mackintoshes for men and women from stock or made to measure Irish design talent, stocking top designers like from €485, as well as a range of leather bags, Waterford Crystal, Orla Kiely, Aideen Bodkin, satchels and accessories.

Nicholas Mosse and Stephen Pearce.

46 South William Street, Dublin 2 6 Nassau Street, Dublin 2 01 6088608 01 6777066 www.kilkennyshop.com www.franciscampelli.com

Green Gallery “The Design House” is a boutique & design Hub, in the city centre. It is based in a fabulous Georgian building; they offer cutting edge fashion, jewellery, bridal and a variety of crafts all in the one building.

The hallways of their building also host an artist’s gallery. The list of designers who call “The Design house” home has grown steadily since they opened.

They are also the creative home to several in-house designers, that work from 2 floors of shared studio space and professional fashion workrooms .

The concept behind their enterprise is to bring designers, craftspeople and artists together under one roof and to offer the customer a wide array of high quality products, all at varied price points and services such as their bespoke service and café.

Amelia’s Irish Design

For over 20 years The Green Gallery, on the top floor of St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, has led the way in Dublin’s contemporary art market.

Here you will find original, quality works of art from emerging, established and international artists. No trip to Stephen’s Green is complete without visiting this unique gallery. Open 7 days.

Mention Travel Ireland Magazine to avail of a 10% discount.

Top Floor, St Stephen’s Green Centre Dublin 2 Tel: 0851988441 www.greengallery.ie

Article

This charming store in the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir of your time in Ireland.

They stock homeware from around the world, including Irish designers - with everything from Irish woollen throws, glass vases and stationery on offer and the friendly staff are always on hand to offer help and advice.

Powerscourt Townhouse, South William Street, Dublin 2 01 679 9268 www.articledublin.com JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Explore Leinster Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours of Dublin Jameson Distillery Bow Street Following an €11 million makeover, the revamped Jameson Distillery has opened its doors with three new fantastic tours for visitors to enjoy. ‘The Bow St. Experience’ tasting tour focuses on the stories of Jameson’s rich heritage and on-going innovations and ‘The Whiskey Makers’ and ‘The Whiskey Shakers’ experiences which provide more in-depth whiskey and cocktail masterclasses, both including the opportunity to sample whiskey straight from a cask in the distillery’s new live maturation house. All tours are delivered with the assistance of cutting-edge technology making this an experience that demands repeated visits. www.jamesonwhiskey.com

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum and Guided Tours Glasnevin is one of Ireland’s most popular attractions. Located 2.5km from Dublin centre, this is a hauntingly gorgeous Victorian Garden cemetery where over 1.5 million are buried. Guides are passionate about sharing their love of history and recount the stories of Ireland’s fascinating past through daily walking tours. A history lesson made fun and memorable by guides who know their stuff, be prepared to enjoy yourself. Awarded Best Cultural Experience in Ireland and listed at no. 2 on Tripadvisor, Glasnevin is a cemetery of historic importance. Museum, genealogy, gift shop and café on site.

Open daily for guided tours and re-enactments museum@glasnevintrust.ie

Real Bodies at the Ambassador Theatre If you really want to get to know a city, then walking around with an informed, entertaining, professional guide is often the best way to discover its history, charms and hidden treasures.

Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours of Dublin have been offering their famous tours for over a decade and they cover many aspects of the city both with scheduled and private tour programmes. The scheduled walks are provided all year round with two or three times daily departures from March onwards. Special event tours include St Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Festival, James Joyce’s Bloomsday and the Bram Stoker Festival among others. Private tours geared to the topic of your own choice can be arranged for any time. Subject to availability, tours can be provided in the main European languages.

In this centenary year of the Easter Rising of 1916 there are exciting tours dedicated to this momentous event, a pivotal episode in Irish history which eventually led to Irish Independence in 1922 after 750 years of British rule.

Full details can be found on www.walkingtours.ie, by emailing to info@walkingtours.ie or by telephoning to 01 832 9406.

Powerscourt House and Gardens Beautiful Powerscourt House and Gardens was recently voted No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens

by National Geographic and is one of the mustsee tourist attractions in Ireland. Set in the wild Wicklow countryside, overlooking the Sugarloaf Mountain, Powerscourt enjoys a breath-taking panorama.

W: www.powerscourt.com E: info@powerscourt.net Ph: + 353 1 204 6000

This powerful exhibition explores life by displaying 14 perfectly preserved real human bodies and more than 200 anatomical specimens. Real Bodies connects audiences to a deeper sense of what it means to be alive. The exhibition consists of dramatic and compelling galleries that offer unique perspectives on human anatomy and its importance to world cultures as well as the emotional expression embedded in each of our physiological functions, pushing boundaries while seamlessly blending art, science, and emotion as a museum of the self.

Real Bodies takes visitors on a journey asking them to explore who they are, where they come from and what they choose to do with the life and body they have been given. www.realbodies.ie

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. With three locations in Dublin covering Archaeology, Natural History and the Decorative Arts and one location in Mayo covering Country Life, you can lose yourself for hours in the many exhibitions detailing all aspects of Irish life down through the ages. Don’t miss the fantastic new exhibition Shadow of Sodeisha; Japanese and Irish art in Clay, celebrating 60 years of Japanese/Irish relations which runs in the National Museum of History Decorative Arts until February 2018.

Admission to the museum is free all year round.

Tel 01 677 7444

Baggot Street welcomes a beautiful modern Italian restaurant!

Open for lunch from 12pm to 3pm, Dinner 5pm 'til late, Mon- Sat www.cirillos.ie

Phone | +353 1 676 6848 Location | No. 140, Baggot St., Dublin 2 20

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Recommended Bars in Leinster

Dingle Whiskey Bar Sin É

Sin É on Ormond Quay is Dublin’s original late night alternative music venue. Whether it’s bluegrass, ska, alternative rock or open mic Ideally situated close to Grafton Street, this night’s that you’re looking for, Sin É caters for a old watering hole has been providing liquid range of eclectic tastes. The staff are warm and refreshment and sustenance to the people of friendly and will serve you a range of incredible Dublin since 1822. They have a great selection of craft beers and cocktails at agreeable prices. If craft beers, whiskeys and gins for you to try, along you’re looking for a great atmosphere and some with amazing food. The Duke is a great place to of the best musicians in Dublin then Sin É is escape the hustle and bustle of busy Grafton Street.

ǧ

definitely the place to be.

9 Duke St, Dublin 2 016799553 ĆĞnj ĎĒĊ ĊĚē ċėĔĒ ͕͖ ēĔĔē

The Duke

the celt

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. And every Tuesday they host a Whiskey Tasting Class from 7pm with whiskey guru Fionnån O’Connor. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about the brown stuff and enjoy some delicious whiskey. Tickets available at the bar for ₏18.

44 Nassau Street, Dublin 2 01 677 4810 www.theporterhouse.ie

strolling14 into-15 theOrmond celt is likeQuay taking a trip to the west, play boys and chailĂ­nĂ­ payfor attention and& dance along the way to the early light Tel: 01 555 4036 01 555 4037

www.sin-e.ie

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Street 66

Street 66 is a new bar/venue, tucked away in the heart of trendy South Dublin on Parliament Street, just two minutes walk from Temple Bar and Dublin Castle. A great place for lovers of disco, funk and soul, and reggae with a wide selection of Gins, Irish Whiskeys, cocktails and craft beer. This dog friendly bar is designed for the global citizen who loves great drinks and great music.

33 - 34 Parliament Street, Dublin 2 01 6793369 www.street66.bar

Doheny & Nesbitt’s

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.

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

The Celt

The Gravediggers

“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�

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 JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Mykonos Taverna

Authentic Greek food in the heart of Dublin.

Mykonos Taverna offers traditional Greek dishes such as Moussaka, Kleftiko and Souvlaki at incredibly good prices, all made from the freshest of ingredients from land and sea. The staff are friendly and attentive and always on hand to cater to your every need, all you have to do is relax and enjoy your food! Make sure you try their delicious homemade ice cream too, which is made on the premises. The perfect way to round off a fantastic Greek meal.

76 Dame Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 561 3745 Email: mykonostaverna@dublin.com Web: www.mykonosdublin.com

Restaurant FortyOne

Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links

Situated just fifteen minutes from Dublin Airport, the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links has a number of fantastic restaurants. The Seaview restaurant offers specialised seaview dining with magnificent views of the Velvet Strand and Dublin Bay while The Jameson Bar features live music every Friday and Saturday night. The 1780 is the newest addition to the dining offerings at the hotel. Under the command of decorated Chef Tom Walsh and Restaurant Manager Derek Yu, the restaurant exemplifies an ethos of casual fine dining.

With locally sourced food that is prepared

by Tom and his team, this delicately selected menu is certain to appeal to all.

Peploe’s

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.

16 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 676 3144 www.peploes.com

Le Bon Crubeen

Strand Road, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin 01 8460611 www.portmarnock.com

Café Topolis 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.

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

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

Camden Kitchen

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

It has won Best Value Restaurant Dublin in the Dubliner, Best Pre-Theatre listing in Hot Press and Best Casual Dining in the Restaurant Awards Value and Quality.

81-2 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 Tel: 01 704 0126 www.leboncrubeen.ie

Mexico to Rome

Zaytoon

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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.

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.

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.

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

3 Camden Market, Grantham Street, D8 Tel: 01 476 0125 www.camdenkitchen.ie

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

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Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Kafka Restaurant

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. They serve lunch, brunch and dinner, offering a fresh healthy menu of delights including Spinach and Ricotta Cheese Ravioli, Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Tiger Prawn Risotto and as they’re just a short walk from the City Centre, it’s the perfect place to start your night out.

Chez Max

La Resérve Brasserie

Feel the spirit of France right here in Dublin!

Chez Max Baggot Street is renowned for its outside seating area. There is a smart garden at restaurant level as well as a sizable terrace on the upper level. The outside areas are wellheated and covered to allow customers to dine outside all year round! In summer, diners flock to Chez Max, Baggot Street to enjoy lunch in the sunshine.

La Resérve is a lively and intimate French Brasserie that serves a modern take on French classics. They focus on simple yet high quality dishes, presented with precision and faithful to true flavours. Open for dinner, brunch and lunch - whether you’re looking for a light snack or an exciting evening meal, La Resérve has something for you.

133 Lower Baggot St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 661 8899

Cirillo’s

La Réserve Brasserie, 53 Ranelagh village, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 Tel: 01 496 8825 Email: info@lareserve.ie Web: lareserve.ie Twitter: @lareserve1 Facebook: facebook.com/LaReserveBrasserie

La Ruelle Wine Bar

236 Rathmines Rd Lwr., Dublin 6 01 497 7057 www.kafka.ie

Asador Cirillo’s have gone to great lengths to ensure that their customers enjoy an authentic Italian meal.

All of their pizzas are made to the traditional Vera Pizza Napoletana standards, using San Marzano tomatoes, 00 flour and fresh mozzarella all finished in a wood fire oven that they imported from Naples. All of their pasta, bread, pizza dough and ice creams are made in-house every day and they offer a wide variety of Italian wines, craft beers and aperitifs that beautifully compliment their seriously tasty meals.

‘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.

140 Baggot Street, Dublin 2 +353 1 6766848 www.cirillos.ie

Marcel’s Restaurant

ASADOR, the balance of flames, flavour and food.

Combining elegant Moroccan décor and contemporary design, Marcel’s is a restaurant, bistro and bar that offers the finest French and European inspired food in a warm and friendly environment. Diners can choose from a range of delicious dishes, including Risotto, Pan Roast Monkfish and succulent Roast Rump Lamb while relaxing in the heart of Dublin City.

1 Victoria House, Haddington Rd, Dublin 4.

Tel: 01 254 5353 www.asador.ie

13 Merrion Row, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 660 2367 bookings@marcels.ie www.marcels.ie

Tucked in opposite the Mansion House, on Joshua Lane, La Ruelle is the ideal venue for an intimate drink, with over 100 different international wines of which 40 are served by the glass. Their menu includes a variety of mouth watering nibbles, tapas and bites served small or large to accompany your wine of choice. Catering for private parties with free car park facilities in R.I.A.C for all customers.

Perfect for the festive season or any events.

3/4 Joshua Lane, Dublin 2 laruelleadmin@laruelle.ie www.laruelle.ie

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 JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

23

Minding

Frankie at the Gaiety Theatre

M

aeve Binchy was one of Ireland’s most beloved writers. Her unique voice and her relatable characters won her legions of fans during her prolific career. Now Binchy’s work comes to the stage for the first time, with Minding Frankie coming the the Gaiety Theatre for two weeks from 6 to 17 June.

Adapted for the stage by Shay Linehan and directed by Peter Sheridan, Minding Frankie is a family love story, full of Maeve Binchy's trademark wisdom, warmth and humour.

Noel Lynch is struggling with an alcohol addiction, when he gets a call from Stella, a girlfriend with whom he shared a drunken weekend. Stella is having Noel's child but is also dying from cancer. Noel must raise their daughter, Frankie. Social worker, Moira Tierney, has other ideas, and is prepared to do battle for custody of the child. In order to prevail, Noel must prove that he can fill a woman's

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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JUNE 2017

shoes, break all the stereotypes, and become the best mother that he can be. Along the way, he discovers that it takes a village to rear a child, or at least a street.

Bringing these diverse characters to life are actors Steve Blount and Clare Barrett, who have won rave reviews for their performances when the production previously toured the country. The Irish Mail on Sunday said they were "Outstanding character actors” who “deliver the goods to perfection" while they have also been praised for their incredible comic timing.

This wonderful show brings the work of Maeve Binchy to life in a vivid way. Fans of her work will love it while those unfamiliar with her work will soon find themselves enchanted by the true-to-life, engaging characters that Binchy is renowned for.

Tickets for Minding Frankie are on sale now, starting from just €25. www.gaietytheatre.ie

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Over 70 million people around the world claim direct descent from left our shores and set out to distant lands on epic journeys. At EPIC in Dublin’s Docklands you can take an interactive journey of discovery to find out why they left, opening hours: opening hours: see how they influenced the world they found, and experience theSun connection - Thurs: 12pm -between 4am 12pm open end their descendants and Ireland today.

Fri - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am Open daily 10am - 5pm.

Visit www.epicchq.com or call +353 (0)1 906 0861 to book your tickets.

Su F

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.

Cork at night

Lismore 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.

Reginald’s Tower

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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TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JUNE 2017

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.

Shandon Street Festival 2017 There will be fun for all the family at the 11th annual Shandon Street Festival.

This free family fun day will take place around Church Street, in the shadow of the Shandon Bells in Cork on 24th June from 1-6pm and there really is something for everyone to enjoy at this one day extravaganza.

There will be street entertainment, food and craft stalls, dancers, a chance to learn some circus skills and the famous under-10’s 5-a-side soccer tournament that takes place in St. Anne’s Park.

There will also be a wide range of food stalls serving everything from paella to falafels, crepes and ice-cream to homemade pies and cakes. While

you’re tucking into this fine food you can enjoy a great range of diverse music from the likes of the Butter Exchange Band, The Laughing Shamrock’s Band and the Muddy Lee & Shandon Shawlies.

There will also be a ceili about 3pm in the gardens of the Craft Centre.

That’s so much fun to pack into one day and all visitors are encouraged to further take part in the day by taking photos and posting them to the Shandon Street Facebook 2017 page and to their Twitter page @shandonfest, making sure that you will have lasting memories of the wonderful time you’re sure to have at the Shandon Street Festival. www.shandonstreetfestival.com

Enjoy a stay in the all new Loughcrew Yurt L oughcrew Megalithic Centre is the perfect place to discover the historic Boyne Valley. The peaceful campsite and the earthy smell of the native flora and fauna will let you escape to another world. In the tranquil Loughcrew area you will find your favourite fishing spots, unique golf courses, forest walks and romantic castle trails. They already offer camping, campervan and hostel accommodation and now they’ve a new exciting way to enjoy your stay with the addition of the Loughcrew Yurt Yurt accommodation is commonplace in Asia and particularly in Mongolia and is now becoming popular in Ireland and the British Isles. The Loughcrew Yurt has been chosen because of its suitability to the Irish and UK climate conditions. Unlike most yurts, their yurt is fully insulated and provides a cosy and comfortable place to live in all year round. They are furnished with a king size luxury bed and also a sofa bed and other practical furnishings to allow maximum relaxation. The Loughcrew Yurt

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can sleep up to six people or you can steal away and live here by yourself in the peace and quiet of the Loughcrew Hills.

The site itself has a range of wonderful amenities, including a children's playground, a charming museum, an event hall and a delightful café all in an inviting courtyard complex. Living in the Loughcrew Yurt in the heart of the countryside, allows you to experience the rich landscape of Ireland’s Ancient East.

Visitors can take exhilarating walks to the highest point in Meath and enjoy breathtaking scenery. The stunning Loughcrew Megalithic Tombs (older than the Pyramids of Egypt) are here, and when you look out into the horizon you have a panoramic view of eighteen counties in Ireland on a clear day.

Booking is essential to reserve this accommodation. Visitors are assured of a warm welcome and a relaxing stay in the all new Loughcrew Yurt.

www.loughcrewmegalithiccentre.com

Recommended Bars in Munster O’Neill’s Bar

O’Neill’s Bar/Mol’s Restaurant is located at the top of the town of Tramore. It’s one of the original family owned and run, bar & restaurants in Tramore. With its long standing tradition in sport it’s no wonder this bar is the main sports bar in the town. Since its renovation in 2015 the bar has gone from strength to strength with now one of the most comfortable and accommodating smoking rooms in the country.

Live music every Thursday to Sunday ensures that your visit will be one you won’t forget. They also have a top class restaurant adjacent to the bar which serves excellent cuisine hosting a range of dishes sourced locally with the best Waterford has to offer

Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder, Irish Whiskey Experience

Developed by whiskey lovers as a first class destination for whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike. Guests will be amazed by shelf upon shelf of Irish, Scottish & international whiskies and a wide variety of Irish craft gin & vodka, craft beer and cider, eclectic wine list, and creative cocktail menu. Fresh, locally sourced food served daily. Irish Whiskey Experience offers the chance to discover more about the history, production & renaissance of Irish whiskey, with 10 masterclasses to choose from, running every day.

93 New Street Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353646635700 www.celticwhiskeybar.com www.irishwhiskeyexperience.net

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

Dick Mack’s

O’Neills Bar, Summerhill, Tramore, Co.Waterford

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.

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

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.

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) 30

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JUNE 2017

Recommended Restaurants in Munster The Munster Room Restaurant

The Munster Room Restaurant at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine. The awardwinning restaurant is critically acclaimed in the Michelin Guide and holder of two AA Rosette accredited. The Resort’s Head Chef Michael Thomas was awarded “Best Chef of Ireland 2017” by Yes Chef Ireland. Under his direction the award-winning culinary team uses only the finest local produce and creates a truly memorable fine dining experience. All this set aside the Munster Rooms warm ambience, wonderful oak paneled walls and ornate ceiling it’s easy to see why it’s such a winning choice.

Waterford Castle offers an extensive wine cellar and cocktail hour in The Fitzgerald Bar with the winning mixologist Ilario is not to be missed. Start your magical evening with a short crossing over the King’s Channel by the Island Resort’s private car ferry, to the enchanted 310 acre Island Resort.

Waterford Castle leave your worries at the shore…

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort |The Island |Waterford | Ireland Castle Tel: +353 (0)51 878 203 http://www.waterfordcastleresort.com/ munster-room-restaurant

The Copper Hen

The Copper Hen Restaurant is situated above Mother McHugh’s Pub on the Copper Coast between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford. The restaurant was opened in November 2010 by award-winning chef Eugene Long and his wife Sinead Frisby. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and the food is reasonably priced.

Diners can choose from a range of locally sourced food, such as Kilmore crab claws, sautéed Tiger Prawns or Portobello mushroom bruschetta to start and Irish Hereford sirloin steak, grilled fillet of salmon or pan-roasted Dunmore Cod as main courses. The Copper Hen offers an unforgettable casual dining experience that visitors to Waterford can’t miss out on.

Open Wednesday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch.

Tel: 051 330 300 www.thecopperhen.ie

La Boheme

Dingle Harbour. Tel: 066 915 0811

This ocean front family run (2nd generation) establishment opened in 1980. The restaurant has been praised by gastronomic writers worldwide. It’s not hard to see why as the Chef/Proprietor, Henry Hunt, takes pride in serving fresh local produce. Panoramic views from the dining room, and friendly service, will give you the perfect dining experience.

For total relaxation why not have an overnight stay in one of the comfortable guest rooms.

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.

Waterville, Co. Kerry. Tel: 066 9474629

L’Atitude 51

Out of the Blue

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.

The Smuggler’s Inn

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

Open Monday - Saturday 5.30pm until late (Open Bank Holiday Sundays) 2 George’s St., Waterford. Tel: 051 875645 www.labohemerestaurant.ie

This Wine Workshop and live music venue is open six days a week for morning coffee, lunch and light evening meals. They offer and impressive variety of wines and craft beers and were winners of the prestigious Georgina Campbell Wine Award of the Year in 2015.

Their menu offers simple, seasonal food with a distinct French, Italian and Irish influence.

1 Union Quay, Cork Ph: 021 2390219 www.latitude51.ie JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Explore Munster

The Hunt Museum Loop Head Lighthouse This popular tourist attraction is located at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary on the Loop Head Peninsula, which is one of two “Signature Discovery Points” in County Clare along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way. It also is a landmark location on the Loop Head Heritage Trail and is one of 12 Great Lighthouses of Ireland. The lighthouse is steeped in history and rich in maritime heritage with its origins dating back to the 1670s. The existing tower style lighthouse was constructed in 1854 and was operated and maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. In January 1991, the lighthouse was converted to automatic operation, and today is monitored by the CIL.Open daily (10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.) until 5 November.

Jameson Experience, Midleton Co.Cork

Cliffs of Moher

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.

Tours run all day, last tour 16.30pm. Adult rate is €15.00 and save 10% on adult admission by booking in advance online. bookings@jamesonwhiskey.com 32

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Bunratty Castle

Tel: 061 312 833 www.huntmuseum.com

Titanic Experience Cobh

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 Midleton 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.

The old distillery buildings have been restored to their original splendor, as they looked in 1805 when whiskey was first produced on this site.

Each tour culminates in the Jameson Bar with a complimentary glass of Jameson and a chance to become a “Qualified Irish Whiskey Taster”. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious lunch in the Malt House Restaurant or browse the Distillery shop, where you will find exclusive Jameson gifts.

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.

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.

Blarney Castle 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.

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.

www.titanicexperiencecobh.ie

Tel: 021 438 5252

Féile Brian Ború 2017 The beautiful twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina will become a hive of activity from Thursday 29th June - Sunday 2nd July 2017 as they celebrate Ireland’s Greatest High King in his native place during the 24th Annual "Féile Brian Ború”.

Brian Ború was born in Killaloe over a millennium ago and was crowned High King of Ireland in 1002. Traditionally, the seat of the High King of Ireland was at the Hill of Tara, but Brian broke with this tradition and ruled the country from his fort in Killaloe; the remnants of which can still be seen today.

Féile Brian Ború promises to be a great four days of unrivaled fun and entertainment for all the family.

Experience a staggering array of events including: A stunning Fireworks display over the River Shannon, historical guided tours, Family Fun Day with traditional Carnival Games, Archery, 34

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traditional craft workshops, Animal Magic with their amazing display of animals, Welly Throwing Competition, Garden party, Féile Feis, Strut your Mutt Fun Dog Show, Children's Art Competition, Art exhibitions & displays, Street Theatre, Live Music, Shannon Swim, Water events, Farmers Market, Craft Fair and much, much more.

So come along and help to commemorate Brian Ború in style - Fun and entertainment for all the family is guaranteed.

For further information contact: e: info@feilebrianboru.com w: www.feilebrianboru.com f: www.facebook.com/ Feilebrianboru Visitor Information – www.discoverkillaloe.ie

Dingle Crystal F

rom humble beginnings, Dingle Crystal have established themselves on the world stage thanks to their commitment to producing mouth-blown, hand-cut crystal. In an era when many other brands have gone down the wholesale route, this family-run company still proudly produce unique, hand crafted pieces that can be found in the collections of the President of Ireland and Bono to name but two.

With every piece signed and dated, it’s not hard to see why Dingle Crystal’s work would be appealing to those visiting the country, looking for an exclusive souvenir of their trip to Ireland.

They also cater to those living abroad, shipping worldwide.

Their fantastic work in this field was recently recognised at the SME Awards 2016, where they won the award for Best Online Exporter.

If you do visit Dingle then a trip to the new Dingle Crystal Factory & Visitor Centre is a must. While there you can take a tour of their workshop where you will find company founder Sean Daly hard at work. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe a master craftsman and see how Dingle Crystal’s incredible designs are created. There aren’t many craftsmen left making pieces the way Sean and his sons do and the tour is fascinating and informative.

From bowls to glasses, candlesticks and vases, Dingle Crystal can create the perfect souvenir or gift that you won’t find anywhere else. They also offer beautiful whiskey glasses that have proved extremely popular all over the world. These glasses are the perfect match for Irish whiskey but make sure you get your order in early - these handmade glasses are in great

demand. It’s not hard to see why as they really are astounding creations that would stand out in anyone’s collection.

Visit their new Factory & Visitor Centre. They cater for groups of all sizes, with personal demonstrations with Master Craftsman Sean Daly and his sons. Please contact Adam on 0669151550 or email adam@dinglecrystal.ie to organise a tour.

Dingle Crystal Unit 4 Ballinaboola Industrial Estate Dingle Co. Kerry 066 9151550 info@dinglecrystal.ie www.dinglecrystal.ie

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e l t s a C y e n r a Bl B

larney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting visitor s to Munster ever since. People come from all over the world to kiss the Blarney Stone, only to leave with miraculous powers of eloquence.

The castle that you visit today is actually the third to have been built there on the site. The first building was erected in the tenth century and was made of wood. Then around 1210 A.D. this was replaced by a stone structure which had the entrance some twenty feet above the ground on the north face. This building was subsequently demolished, leaving only the foundations. But in 1446, the castle was rebuilt by Dermot MacCarthy, King of Munster. It is this, the third castle to be built here, that you can visit today.

Over the next 600 hundred years all sorts of illustrious visitor s made their way to the famous castle. In the late 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I

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of England sent the Earl of Leicester over to take possession of the castle but whenever he tried to negotiate with the Munster King, MacCarthy always suggested they discuss it over a sumptuous banquet. What was the Earl to do? It would have been rude not to.

So, when the queen asked him for progress repor ts, he sent her a series of long missives in which he carefully avoided answering the key question, and at the end of which, the castle remained in Irish hands. The queen became so irritated that eventually she remar ked that the earl's repor ts were all 'Blarney'.

So it is thanks to Elizabeth that Blarney became synonymous with eloquence, and that so many people flock there today to kiss its stone.

The English did eventually succeed in taking the castle, when Cromwell's General, Lord Broghill blasted his way through the tower walls. But when he got inside, everyone within had somehow disappeared, making their way through the three secret

passageways hidden in the caves below the battlements, known as the Badgers Caves. One leads to Cork, one to the lake, and the third, according to legend, goes all the way to Kerry.

At the beginning of the 18th century Sir James St. John Jefferyes built a Georgian gothic house up against the keep of the castle, which was then the custom all over Ireland. At the same time the Jefferyes family laid out a landscape garden known as the Rock Close with a remar kable collection of massive boulders and rocks arranged around what seems to have been druid remains from prehistoric times.

Certainly, many of the yew trees and evergreen oaks there are extremely ancient.

In 1820 the house was accidentally destroyed by fire, and the wings that remained now form a picturesque adjunct to the keep. These were subsequently rearranged in the 1980s so as to give a better view of the castle’s keep. www.blarneycastle.ie

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Welcome to Connaught

Macnas Festival Parade This Fierce Beauty

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, 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.

Galway city

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Connaught has some Carrick on Shannon 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 the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition Castle in Mayo near to Cong where the of pilgrimage to this holy mountain stretches film The Quiet Man was filmed, and the back over 5,000 years from the Stone Age to natural serenity of Lough Key Forest Park the present day without interruption. Croagh in Roscommon, and a tour of this region is a Patrick is renowned today for its Patrician must for all.

Pilgrimage in honour of Saint Patrick, For those interested in a religious experience Ireland’s patron saint. It was on the summit Mayo is famed for Knock Shrine where on of the mountain that Saint Patrick is said to the 21st August, 1879, at about 8 o’clock, Our have fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the Lady, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist custom of trekking up the mountain has been are reputed to have appeared. The apparition faithfully handed down from generation to was seen by fifteen people whose ages ranged generation. Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the from six years to seventy-five and included picturesque town of Westport, and its conical men, women and children. The shrine has shape soars majestically above the surrounding become so popular in modern times that the countryside with magnificent views of Clew Ireland West International Airport was built Bay beneath. especially in 1985 to cater for the hundreds So, whether it’s water activities on the Atlantic of thousands of pilgrims and visitors to coastline, cruising on the Shannon Waterway, Connaught. religious pilgrimages, chilling out amongst The county also features the pilgrimage site an unspoilt landscape or driving along roads known as Croagh Patrick, which overlooks where motoring is still a pleasure, Connaught Clew Bay in County Mayo. This is considered has it all.

Recommended Bars 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.

Monroe's

17 Cross st, Galway Tel: 091 568 820

The Quays

This famous venue in the heart of Galway city is renowned as one of the best live music venues in the city. Across two stages, they host regular National & International acts. The friendly staff will assure you of a warm welcome and they serve great food in the Tavern along with free live music seven days a week.

Dominick Street, Galway 091 583397 www.monroes.ie 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!

11 Quay St, Galway Tel: 091 568 347

Roísín Dubh

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!

Lower Dominick St., Galway Tel: 091 586 540 40

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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.

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

Matt Malloy’s 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.

Bridge St., Westport Tel: 098 26655

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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Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival rom Friday, 9 June to Sunday, 11 June, the picturesque town of Westport, Co. Mayo will come alive to the sound of folk, bluegrass and old-time music, as the town hosts the 11th Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival.

Established in 2007 by festival producer, Uri Kohen, the festival has gone from strength to strength and is now considered by many as the highlight of the bluegrass calendar in Ireland, attracting many overseas visitors year after year. One couple from Florida, Candee and Tom Manwaring, found themselves at the opening of the festival nine years ago and have been back every year since, planning their annual holidays around the festival.

They said: “As time has gone on, the venues have multiplied and improved (without losing that hometown feel), the acts have expanded beyond local and national, to even international. The festival just keeps getting better, bigger and always improves in quality.”

The 2017 festival will host 20 official gigs in 11 different venues, two workshops, one children’s concert, a vinyl record fair, a luthiers’ exhibition, one official session and a whole host of spontaneous ones. Performing at the festival will be 18 different acts from 4 different countries - 10 of them are international and 8 are Irish-based. The 18 acts are made up of 60 individual musicians.

The opening night concert takes place in the stunning setting of the Holy Trinity Church and will feature three acts all connected by a common immersion in the old rural American string band tradition – The Horsenecks (UK), Jock Tyldesley and Vera Van Heeringen, and Fox and Branch. These three acts will once again symbolise a musical bridge across the Atlantic featuring old-time string band music from America and the UK. Saturday will be an extremely busy day for the festival and amongst the day’s offerings there will be master-classes on guitar and fiddle and a kids’ concert in the Town Hall Theatre.

McGing’s will host the festival big session,

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where professional and amateur musicians will come together to play with musicians from some of the festival’s main acts.

Later that evening, in the Town Hall Theatre, three of the most up-and-coming young bluegrass acts on the UK scene will come together to perform for the first time under the one billing for the Saturday night concert.

The Vanguards, a traditional bluegrass band based in South London, play a number of popular bluegrass songs and tunes, alongside some original material. Cardboard Fox winners of the 2015 Spiral Earth Award for Best Debut - are an exciting new four piece with a fast-growing fan base, while Jaywalkers have cemented their place as one of the most exciting, virtuosic, and entertaining young bands working on the British Folk scene.

Following on the huge success of last year’s ‘Gospel Hour’, the Holy Trinity Church

will once again open its doors on Sunday morning at 11.30am for what promises to be one of the festival highlights. After the Gospel Hour, music will continue throughout the day in multiple venues before the festival finalé concert which will host one of Ireland's finest folk groups – Greenshine. A family trio comprising Noel Shine, Mary Greene and their daughter Ellie, their material straddles the boundaries of contemporary, folk and roots and includes many self-penned songs.

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay, this little gem of a festival is well worth a visit. Official performances will take place in the serene setting of the Holy Trinity Church, and the top-class venue of the recently renovated Westport Town Hall, as well as in many pubs, coffee shops and hotels around the town, but of course the impromptu sessions, which see musicians taking to table tops and street corners, is where the magic is at, and if the sun happens to shine as it did last year, this winning combination of stunning scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way and world-renowned toe-tapping performers mean that quite simply there is nowhere better to be on the weekend than the Westport Folk and Blues Festival. www. westportfolkbluegrass.com JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Welcome to Ulster

The Giants Causway 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.

Linsfort Church, Co. Donegal Belfast City too has many things to see including the grandeur of the City Hall, 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.

Belfast

r Everyone

Something fo

Mount Errigal County Donegal is in the northwest of the 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 ‘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.

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.

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KNITFIELD CAFE GATE FOYLE BOOKS THE BEAUTY LOUNGE THE IRISH SHOP WALLED CITY CRAFTERS HARRYS DERRY HAR SASS & HALO CITY OF DERRY CRYSTAL IRISH DANCING SHOP FUNKY CAKES SALON ONE BLUE MOON NUMBER 19 DERRY DESIGNER MAKERS

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Explore, Experience, Enjoy

Explore, Experience, Enjoy

Discover a city steeped in history Explore the fascinating history of the city at the Tower Museum situated within the historic city walls.

Open Daily 10am-5.30pm The Tower Museum is also home to the Museum Service which includes Education & Learning and the Archive & Genealogy Service.

Crumlin Road Gaol Advert 185x130mm.pdf

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21/02/2017

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T: 00 353 (0)28 9074 1500 | www.crumlinroadgaol.com

derrystrabane.com/museums

Explore Ulster

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, 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.

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.

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.

Dunluce Castle With a rich history, in a stunning, location, Dunluce Castle on the coast of Antrim is just waiting to be explored. Visitor information includes an audio visual tour of the castle, with a ‘treasure hunt’ encouraging younger visitors to explore.

You can also download a Dunluce Castle app for iPhone and Android devices, available free of charge from the App Store and Google Play.

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The Old Bushmills Distillery 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.

Ulster American Folk Park 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.

Down County Museum Situated next to the Down Cathedral, the Down County Museum houses modern galleries telling the stories of the area and fantastic temporary exhibitions. Learn about the museum’s history as a gaol and see the Downpatrick High Cross before relaxing in their new Cathedral View Tea Room.

Belleek Pottery 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.

Glenveagh National Park The second largest national park in Ireland, Glenveagh is a remote and beautiful wilderness in the north-west of Donegal.

Full of rugged mountains, pristine lakes and tumbling waterfalls. Visitors can also take a tour of Glenveagh Castle on the banks of Lough Veagh and take a walk through the beautiful walled gardens, which boast a multitude of exotic plant.

Florence Court 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.

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 JUNE 2017 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

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Recommended Bars 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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22-23 JULY DELAMONT

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30 SEPTEMBER - 1 OCTOBER NEWRY

Great Irish Writers James Joyce

I

t’s no exaggeration to say that James Joyce is one of the most influential writers that the English language has ever known. His novels, including Finnegan’s Wake and Ulysses, have enthralled and perplexed the public in equal measure since they were first published in the early part of the last century. That scholars still pour over them and Bloomsday is celebrated every 16 June in Dublin to this day is testament to his lasting legacy.

Joyce was born on 2 February 1882 at 41 Brighton Square in the Dublin suburb of Rathgar. He initially lived in Bray in County Wicklow and was educated in Clongowes Wood School in Kildare but when his family fell on hard times, mainly due to his father’s problems with alcohol, they relocated to the North Inner City of Dublin and Joyce completed his education at Belvedere College.

After studying modern languages at University College in Dublin, Joyce left for Paris to study medicine in 1902. He was recalled to Dublin a year later by his father when his mother was taken ill. Due to Joyce losing his faith, he refused to kneel praying with the rest of his family as his mother died. This incident, along with others from his childhood were recounted in his first novel, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which was published in 1914 with the help of the poet Ezra Pound.

By that stage Joyce had left Ireland and was never to return.

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He met his partner Nora Barnacle in 1904 and first stepped out with her on 16 June 1904, which is the date that Ulysses is set. He left Ireland later that year and only made four return visits until 1912, after which he never set foot in Ireland again.

He spent the rest of his life in Europe, living in Trieste, Rome, Zurich and Paris.

His best known work, Ulysses was published in 1922 and caused a scandal due to the perceived obscenity of some parts of the book. However it has since gone on to be recognised as one of the towering and most significant novels in the English language. Joyce then spent a long and protracted time writing what would be his final novel, Finnegans Wake, which was finally published in 1939.

Unfortunately Joyce would not be around much longer. He suffered from problems with his eyes which required multiple operations during his lifetime and he also had a tendency, like his father, to drink too much. He underwent surgery for a perforated ulcer on 11 January but died two days later and was buried in Fluntern cemetery in Zurich.

However his work lives on and visitors to Ireland who are interested in learning more can visit the James Joyce Centre on North Great George’s Street in Dublin and visit the James Joyce Museum in the Martello Tower in Sandycove, which is where the opening passage of Ulysses took place.

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