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Winter warmers: Ireland’s finest drinks to keep out the cold this November and December

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Now that the nights are drawing in and the weather is turning decidedly chilly, it is the perfect time to enjoy something that Ireland has long been famous for – its array of alcoholic drinks that are designed to warm the soul and keep the cold at bay.

From whiskey to brandy; ale to stout, there is something for everyone’s taste in the Emerald Isle.

Not to mention plenty of places to delve into the history and culture of some of Ireland’s most popular tipples, aperitifs and chasers.

Here are four of Ireland’s favourite drinks and ways to enjoy them over the coming weeks, in the run up to the festive season……

Whiskey

Irish whiskey was one of Europe’s earliest distilled drinks, once crafted by monks in the 11th Century.

The drink cannot officially be called Irish whiskey until it has spent a minimum of three years maturing on the island of Ireland. Unlike Scottish whisky (note the spelling difference), the Irish beverage is made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley that gives it a smoother, more neutral taste (Scottish whisky only contains malted barley).

There are four main types of Irish whiskey – single malt, single grain, blended and single pot still. Whiskey distilleries are situated all over Ireland and can offer a great day out for fans of the beverage, who can be treated to free tastings, given the chance to tour the distillery and invited to buy bottles of whiskey made on the premises.

Irish coffee

This warming mix of Irish whiskey and coffee was first served to a group of weary American travellers delayed by bad weather at Shannon airport in the 1940s by a chef from Northern Ireland.

They appreciated the dual effects of this powerful pick-me-up.

The drink quickly made it across the Atlantic, where it remains popular to this day.

The iconic hot whiskey cocktail is also served in bars and restaurants across Ireland and offers a wonderful way to end a delicious meal.

Irish Coffee can be served with brown sugar, cinnamon and whipped cream on top for added decadence.

National Irish Coffee Day happens annually on 25 January.

Guinness

From its iconic TV advertisements to its familiar rich, dark colour and creamy head, Guinness stout is for many people, the essence of Ireland poured into a pint glass.

The Guiness harp trademark was registered in 1876 and was inspired by Ireland’s national symbol – the only difference is that the Guinness harp has its soundboard on the left, while the Republic of Ireland’s harp sports it on the right. Guiness (or stout) is the base for many cocktails, including Black Velvet (made from stout and Champagne, or sparkling white wine) and Guinness Martini (Guinness, dark rum, cold espresso coffee, crème de cacao, vodka and ice).

Mulled Irish cider

If you are looking for something different for your festive drink of choice this Christmas, why not sample some warm mulled Irish cider?

This is a richly flavoured drink made from warmed cider and a blend of spices, including cloves, cinnamon and allspice.

You can also add brown sugar, orange zest and apple juice to sweeten it if desired.

It tastes wonderfully of Christmas in Ireland and adds a comforting, warm glow to what is seen by many as a lighter, summery drink.

Mulled Irish cider always goes down well at parties and helps get the holiday spirit started, especially at this time of year.

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Gearing up for wedding season in Ireland

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Think of Ireland and images of romance, poetry and beautiful countryside are often not far behind. Ireland makes the perfect destination for a summer wedding, whether you are already a resident or are planning a trip for your special occasion.

Take a look at our Hidden Ireland guide to making the most of your time in Ireland this wedding season.

Logistics and paperwork

In Ireland, you must be over the age of 18 and not be married to anyone else at the time of your proposed wedding. Regardless of whether you live in the country or not, you must give three months’ notice to a registrar of your intent to tie the knot.

You and your partner will also need to meet the registrar in person before the wedding ceremony to sign a declaration stating that you do not know of any reason why the wedding cannot go ahead.

This rule applies to religious, civil and secular marriages. For more details, as well as a list of the documents you will need to bring with you, visit the Irish government’s website at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/ac59d3-get-married-in-ireland

Choosing a wedding venue

There is a huge variety of wedding venues in Ireland., From tranquil churches to chic country house hotels; cool city centre venues to rustic barns, the choice is up to you.

There are a number of Hidden Ireland properties that are licensed to hold wedding ceremonies that will offer couples and their loved ones a warm, Irish welcome. Some can also host wedding receptions too, making transporting guests far easier and giving people longer to party.

If you are opting for a civil ceremony, make sure the venue you choose is licensed for weddings and appropriate for the number of guests and style of ceremony you want. If you can, visit your shortlisted venues in person so you can get a feel for what it is like to spend time there.

Hens and honeymoons

Of course, the actual wedding is not your only chance to kick back and have fun in Ireland. Organising stag and hen parties is part of the fun in the run-up to the big day. Again, there are plenty of options in Ireland for exciting hen and stag mini-breaks. Adventure-seekers can enjoy watersports on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, or party the night away in a vibrant city or town. More peaceful times can be spent in a secluded country cottage, tucked away in the stunning Irish countryside. Walks in the woods and picnics in the garden are the ideal way to decompress before the frenzied wedding day preparations kick in.

Likewise, Ireland offers a huge choice of honeymoon destinations.

Take a look at the list of Hidden Ireland properties to find the ideal match to help you celebrate your perfect union.

Other people’s weddings

Finally, you don’t have to be tying the knot yourself to make the most of a summer 2024 Irish wedding. If you have been invited to a marriage ceremony this season in Ireland, why not turn it into a proper holiday and book yourself some extra nights at a Hidden Ireland cottage, country house or lodge? Bring the family and enjoy a proper break away.

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Flora and fauna: wildlife along the Wild Atlantic Way

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The Wild Atlantic Way stretches along Ireland’s west coast from the Inishowen Peninsular in County Donegal to the north, down to Kinsale in County Cork in the south.

It offers nature lovers 1,600 miles of beautiful coastal walks, fascinating rock formations and diverse wildlife.

Now, that summer is not so far away – and the late spring bank holidays are even closer, this is the perfect time of year to discover some of the many species of birds, insects, mammals and flowers that the Wild Atlantic Way is home to.

How to go wildlife watching

There are many different ways to enjoy discovering wildlife on the Wild Atlantic Way this spring and summer.

From organised wildlife tours to solo walks and rides, the spectacular scenery will reveal plenty of beautiful flora and fauna.

Besides the far-reaching ocean and coastal pathways, you can explore sand dunes, mud flats, wooded areas, forests and farmlands.

Bring appropriate clothing and shoes – western Ireland can still be fairly chilly even in April and May.

Don’t forget your binoculars and camera, as well as some wildlife books or website addresses so you can identify what you see.

Seas and skies

Ireland’s west coast is a great place to spot some exciting sea life.

Certain cliff-top viewpoints can be ideal for watching dolphins, seals and even the odd whale if the conditions are right.

Marine birds are common too, including gannets, shearwaters, oystercatchers, terns and gulls.

Other avian visitors to the Wild Atlantic Way include kingfishers, ravens, kestrels, sparrowhawk and falcon. They share the skies with a myriad of butterflies, bees, dragonflies and moths.

Always look up as you walk along (taking care not to trip over a stray low-lying branch, of course) to see what you can discover flying freely around you and above.

If you head out for a walk after dark, you may be able to hear bats whizzing around overhead.

Plants and flowers

Ireland’s floral symbol is the shamrock, and this pretty plant can be seen growing in many places all over the island.

The three-leaved clover shape was said to have helped St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, to explain the story of the Ho

Mammals

There are many beautiful mammals that are native to Ireland and can be spotted along the west coast.

Some particularly striking examples include red foxes, red squirrels, Irish hares, badgers, seals and red deer.

You might also spot the odd feral goat if you are lucky – these intriguing creatures roam freely in several places, including the aptly named Goat Island at Roaringwater Bay, West Cork. Their impressive horns make them easy to identify, even in silhouette.

Even if you don’t spot the mammals themselves – some can be quite shy – they often leave behind tracks and other signs of their presence in the area.

Tread gently and go slowly if you don’t want to disturb these easily-spooked wild mammals.

Your patience may well be rewarded by some truly magnificent sights as you explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

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A photographer’s guide to springtime in Ireland: how to take pretty seasonal pictures

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Springtime in Ireland is a wildlife and landscape photographer’s dream.

The vibrant colours that return after months of winter and the perfect seasonal lighting make for some beautiful scenes.

Many insects, birds and animals come out of winter hiding too, to add interest to countryside photographs. People also come out of winter hibernation to enjoy Spring breaks in the run up to Easter and beyond.

An Irish break offers the ideal opportunity to take the camera out and get some beautiful pictures to remind you of your stay.

Read on for some more seasonal photography inspiration.

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Despite it being Spring, the weather does not always follow suit, especially in Ireland!

So, whenever you are heading out on a nature walk, or exploring a town and want to take some photos, wrap up warm and think about how you can protect your camera or smartphone against any rain.

Don’t be put off taking pictures in the rain, or when the sun is not quite as bright as you would have liked.

You can get some beautiful effects with softer light, as well as some really interesting close-ups of raindrops on leaves or petals and reflections in puddles.

Patterns, reflections and shapes

Look out for other interesting reflections, not only in puddles, but in lakes or ponds, shop window glass and car mirrors.

You could even see what can be reflected back in your Guinness or whisky glass to extend the Irish theme.

Spring flowers can also offer intricate shapes and patterns, which, combined with pretty colours and green foliage, create really beautiful photographs of Spring in rural Ireland.

Walking along the Irish coastline can also help you discover patterns in the pebbles and shingle and the movement of the sea.

You can also use a polarising filter on your camera lens if you want to increase contrast and help the bolder colours stand out, such as a blue sky or green meadow.

Frame your photos

You don’t have to wait until you return home from your Irish Spring holiday to frame your images nicely.

Look for natural frames to include in the photo itself. Hedges, arches, branches and doorways can all add interest to a Spring photo in Ireland and help draw the eye in towards the centre of the photo.

Use dramatic mountains or interesting horizons to add interest towards the back of the picture too. Change the angle to make the natural ‘frame’ work to your advantage. Get down to ground level, or climb up somewhere high and angle the camera down (carefully!)

Keep it simple

We often crave the simplicity of a quiet break somewhere lovely to get away from the complexity of daily life.

So it can work in the same way when taking photos of an Irish Spring scene. Look for smaller details, rather than trying to capture a wider scene.

Pick out a single flower in a meadow or person in a street scene.

Other ideas could include a log covered in moss, a row of spring daffodils or an especially lovely tree covered in spring blossom.

When you look back at your photographs later, it will often be these smaller details that will trigger a happy memory, or start a conversation that inspires you to reminisce about your time in Ireland.

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Mountains, mist and magic: exploring the Mourne Mountains region of Ireland

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The Mourne Mountains in County Down are one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive attractions.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and UNESCO Global Geopark, the scenery is glorious and the scope of things to see and do extremely wide. Granite tors sit at the very top, giving a dramatic summit and natural viewing point.

The mountain region is divided into two distinct areas.

The eastern, or ‘high’ Mournes and northern of ‘low’ Mournes.

Each region offers excellent hill walking, cycling and outdoor pursuits.

There is also a wealth of history to explore, such as the eight-foot-high Mourne wall that was built in 1922 to keep sheep and cattle away from the Silent Valley reservoir. The area also has a lively and fascinating past as a smugglers’ haven during the 18th and 19th Centuries.

Hiking, walking and exploring on foot

Such is the diversity of the landscapes in the Mourne Mountains region that you can pretty much find any type of walk to enjoy. Hidden Ireland accommodation bed and breakfast country house hotel cottage rental

Coastal walks along sandy beaches like Murlough Beach offer dramatic and far-reaching views out to sea. Then, there are hill walks that take you through beautiful wooded areas like Tollymore Forest and across heathlands to see the flora and fauna that call the region home.

Choose from circular walks that set out and return from convenient car parks and starting points or linear walks that take you to new destinations and even more exciting adventures.

Walking festivals, tours and events take place every year, including the Wee Binnian Walking Festival in the early autumn. Guided hill walks that suit all levels of hikers and walking enthusiasts take place at different times of the day – and night – to show the region off at its seasonal finest.

Cycling challenges

The Mourne Mountains region is also an excellent choice for cycling fans.

Again, there is a wide range of routes from family friendly trails to more challenging tracks and lanes.

One famous cycling route is the Mourne Loop.

This is a 45-mile circular trail that takes cyclists on a mixed trail along easier flat areas, picturesque coastal paths, with a few challenging climbs and exciting descents thrown in for good measure.

Check out local tourist information sites for details of other self-guided and bookable cycling routes and excursions, including the Mourne trails and ales tour for local ale lovers. You can also hire electric mountain bikes for a different and fun experience exploring the beautiful region in style.

Local history and culture

St Patrick’s Day is only a few weeks away now. Ireland’s history is steeped in legend about this key figure and many others.

It is thought that St Patrick is buried in a graveyard close to Down Cathedral, located close to this fascinating region.

There are also guided walks along many of the routes St Patrick was believed to have walked in the area.

The Mourne Mountains also have a rich smugglers’ history, with valuable goods such as spices, leather, silk and tobacco coming into Newcastle and being trekked via ponies through the secluded mountain trails.

In fact, one commonly used trail in the high Mournes is still a highly popular walking route today, known as the Brandy Pad.

The unspoilt countryside and sweeping views really can transport visitors back to Ireland’s past, adding to the appeal of this stunning region. Several locations were used as filming backdrops for the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Check out our list of Hidden Ireland accommodation to find the ideal base for some Mourne Mountain adventures of your own.

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Kilmokea House

THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

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THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

at Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens

May 16th to 19th 2023

Enquiries & To Book phone Emma 051 388109

Kilmokea Retreat

 

‘Start the day off right with Morning movement followed by reflection time throughout the day. End the day feeling relaxed, pampered and inspired’

Day 1

Arrive at Kilmokea between 2.30pm and 3.30 pm for the introduction to your beautiful, individually designed bedroom.

4 pm. Join Johanna and Emma in the drawing room where you will receive a warm welcome followed by a gentle meditation.

5 pm. Time to explore your retreat space before dinner allowing you to unwind and connect with your surroundings.

7 pm. Healthy Organic Vegetarian 2 course dinner in the Dining room.

8:30 p.m. Evening gathering with Qi Gong at the Italian Loggia & Pool.

Day 2

8.00 am.  Energise with Qi Gong movement on the lawn, whilst listening to the morning birds.

8:30 am Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory

10 am Mindful walk to the Vegetable Garden

10:30 am Explore the world of growing your own fruit and vegetables

12:30 pm Lunch in the Garden Conservatory followed by an afternoon of replenishing your inner resources. Press the pause button on everyday life with a relaxing afternoon in the Jacuzzi and Indoor Heated Pool and Gardens.

4 p.m. Forest bathing/ Shinrin Yoku in the Woodlands. This health promoting, nature connection practice aims to enhance wellbeing, relieve stress and encourage relaxation. Enjoy a guided walk, and soak up the healing benefits of the natural environment through one’s five senses.

6.30 p.m. Healthy Organic Vegetarian 2 course dinner in the Dining room.

8 p.m. Evening Meditation under the Stars.

Day 3

8 a.m.  Energise with Qi Gong movement on the lawn, whilst listening to the morning birds.

8:30 a.m. Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory.

10 a.m. Stunning gentle Beach walk, with optional Sea Swim. Enjoy an Introduction to seaweed delights and the practice of earthing.

1:30 p.m. Kilmokea lunch followed by an afternoon of replenishing your inner resources. Press the pause button on everyday life with a relaxing afternoon in the Jacuzzi and Indoor Heated Pool and Gardens.

6 p.m. Open fire dinner in the Woodlands with evening meditation to finish

Day 4

8 am Meditation & Qi Gong movement in the Gardens.

9 a.m.  Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory.

10am Our closing gathering. Depart feeling revitalised, restored & renewed.

Participation in daily activities and workshops is always optional.

Kilmokea Retreat

 

Mana Retreat Hosts.

Emma Hewlett.

Emma Co owns and lovingly looks after Kilmokea Country Manor and Gardens with her husband, Mark. Guests have been staying at Kilmokea under their care for over 25 years, enjoying the Hewlett home with all the gorgeous offerings on site. Extensive gardens, indoor heated pool, tennis court, croquet lawn, jacuzzi, sauna and gym. Emma is the Chef in the evening for paying guests where she prepares a wide range of seasonal organic locally sourced food, much of which is grown in the gardens under her care.

She is an Holistic Aromatherapist who works with organic Irish essential oils. Recently she qualified as a vibrational flower essence practitioner and forest bathing facilitator. She practices Qi Gong and meditation daily, loves being outside and sea swims throughout the warmer months. She spends her relaxing moments on the beautiful local beaches and walking with her dogs in the woodlands amongst the trees.

 

Johanna Brown

A history graduate from Trinity College Dublin Johanna spent over 20 years working and travelling, including 5 years living and working in Jordan. 10 years ago she started running art and nature classes which evolved into her own ‘Forest school’. This involves outdoor education through school programmes  in after school groups and camps. She has also led teacher training in this area, and workshops for mental health.

Passionate about foraging, eco-art and learning more about nature-based solutions she is also a certified Forest Bathing practitioner.  Johanna enjoys Qi gong regularly, meditation, nlp, swimming in the river and sea, and walking. She loves sharing the joys and benefits of nature and leading groups of people outdoors, promoting mindfulness and well-being.

 

Everything you need to relax at Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens:

3 nights accommodation in beautiful individually designed bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, cotton sheets and floral bathroom soaps.

Invigorating Water from our own well which has been filtered through reverse osmosis and a vortex.

Daily delicious, nutritious, locally sourced, organic vegetarian food with a vegan option available by prior arrangement.

Secluded Property with Historic Gardens which highlight the location of the mythological foundation site of Ireland, with the first landing of Cassair, followed by peaceful Celtic monks in the 7th century who farmed the lands. The Viking boats which sailed up the River Barrow and settled at Kilmokea preceded the arrival of the Normans in 1169. Kilmokea are proud members of Hidden Ireland and offer accommodation to guests wishing to experience authentic Irish hospitality in their historic home.

What to Bring:

Optional to bring a musical instrument, a story or song for the Open Fire evening in the woods

Outdoor activities will require appropriate clothing so please bring a coat, outdoor footwear, sun cream, a water bottle  and Beach towel if swimming

Feel free to wear pyjamas for the meditation or loose comfortable clothing.

Click here to learn more about this amazing retreat

Lough Bawn House

Go Exploring at Lough Bawn House

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Book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House!

The house and estate has been in the same family since it was built in 1820 by George Battesby, the current occupier, Verity’s, Great Great Great Grandfather. The house is being lovingly restored by Verity, having returned from England to live in the family home. Verity ran her own catering and events company in Gloucestershire for over 20 years. Her passion for cooking & entertaining shines through. Guests enjoy an extensive and varied breakfast with much of the ingredients being grown or reared by Verity herself, and delicious dinners are on offer. Breakfast is eaten in the large newly restored dining room, with wonderful views over the lough and of the parading peacocks on the rolling lawns.

Both of the large, en-suite rooms have fine views down the length of Lough Bane and over the wooded hills while the single room and the twin/double room have sweeping views of the surrounding parklands. Guests are warmly welcomed and encouraged to relax in the homely drawing room in front of a roaring fire or to explore one of the many local historical sites, gardens, walks or cultural entertainments on offer.

Lough Bawn House Lough Bawn House Lough Bawn House

What to do whilst at Lough Bawn House!

There is so much you can do while staying in Lough Bawn House! Travel westwards along the River Shannon to the historic town of Athlone, Mullingar and Kells. Heading east brings you to the vibrant city of Dublin! Ramble through beech tree forest at Mullaghmeen or cycle on the Royal Canal Greenway and Old Railway Line.

Play golf at courses in Mullingar, Virginia, Kells Headfort, Slieve Russel, and the K Club. Visit the Lough Crew Megalithic Cairns & Passage Tombs, Hill of Uineach and Newgrange. Visit Tullynally Castle, Belvedere House, Loughcrew, and Ballindoolin gardens. Explore Ireland’s Ancient East with historic places like Fore Abbey with it’s Nellie and Nancy walk and Trim Castle. Kilbeggan Distillery Experience, Lockes Museum, Causey Farm, Sheridan’s Cheesemongers and farm shop.

Click HERE to learn more or to book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House

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Roundwood House Country Houses Accommodation

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

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Are you looking for an activities holiday this year? If the outdoors is your thing then why not try the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails.

There are currently 35km of new mountain bike trails (MTB), with trailheads at Kinnitty and Baunreagh. These trails, which are waymarked in one direction and designed specially for mountain bike use, vary in difficulty. They range from the grade trails: ‘blue’ (moderate, with some single-track sections) to ‘red’ (difficult/severe, with challenging climbs and tricky descent).

The trails have been developed by Coillte in partnership with Offaly and Laois County Councils and are funded by the Dept. of Rural and Community Development.

There will eventually be 100km of biking tracks to explore on the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail, so keep an eye on the site for new developments!

Where to Stay?

While you are considering being on the adventurous side you can book your stay with Hannah & Paddy at Roundwood House which is set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Just over an hour from Dublin, Roundwood House is surrounded by mature trees, lawns, gardens and delightful, extensive outbuildings. It is a historic home of architectural interest and was once described by Desmond Guinness, co-founder of the Irish Georgian Society, as having a “marvellous doll’s house-like quality”.

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

A rambling avenue leads you through a welcoming committee of animals and into a bright, spacious hall. There is a drawing room, study and dining room, where the combination of log fires, antique furniture and absence of televisions may actually make you believe you’ve been transported back to the 18th century. (A bottle of wine tends to hasten the trip.)

The area is picturesque, unspoiled and peaceful – a delight for hikers and cyclists of all abilities. Horse-riding, fishing and golfing are also available locally. There is no reason why you can not take some time off and feel the wind in your face while you are out on the mountain bike and then relax in the evening and let Paddy cook you dinner that will awaken all your taste buds!

Click HERE to book your stay! Do not delay!

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Celebrate your wedding with Hidden Ireland

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Celebrate your wedding in a truly unique style at one of Hidden Ireland’s beautiful historic houses.

With our comprehensive selection of the best wedding venues in Ireland, we can offer a breath-taking setting for your big day, with the ceremony taking place in either the verdant gardens or luxurious period interiors of one our many stunning houses, you will be sure to have memories to cherish forever, and photographs that will be the envy of everyone you know.

By choosing a Hidden Ireland house you will ensure your wedding is a lavish and memorable occasion, with photographs and memories worthy of a grand period drama, and a sense of romance and tradition that is unrivalled.

What’s more, Hidden Ireland will lend you all of their wedding planning expertise and knowledge, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and stress free throughout.

Celebrate your wedding Celebrate your wedding Celebrate your wedding

Take advantage of our expertise, experience and enticing selection of the best wedding venues in Ireland

When planning a wedding you always want to make sure you can standout, not just with a theme and style that are your own, but with a venue that will set you apart from the crowd. Hidden Ireland can offer you just that, with all their venues offering character, tradition and personality. Not to mention the benefits of their renowned catering expertise and years of wedding planning experience.

Hidden Ireland houses have been fulfilling the wishes of couples for years, always making sure to take the time to listen and understand, never losing sight of what matters. This is why we have put together a hand-picked list of unique venues for you to browse through, each with their own unique qualities and style. Once you’ve found the right one for you, simply contact the venue and you’re on your way to the perfect wedding.

Our Stylish wedding venues are renowned for their grand receptions

Celebrate your wedding

A Hidden Ireland property is a fantastic choice for any union, with their historic properties guaranteed to imbue the proceedings, and startle your guests, with a sense of grandeur and elegance. Supported by Hidden Ireland’s excellent food and wine, and with exclusive use of the property, you can enjoy the perfect wedding experience.

Several of our houses are spacious enough to accommodate the wedding party in one splendid room. Others, particularly those with sprawling and breath-taking gardens, provide the perfect backdrop for a marquee wedding.

Click HERE to see all our wedding venues located all around Ireland.

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Temple House

Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

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This is the perfect time to book a stay at Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way and explore all that Sligo has to offer!

Temple House, Ballymote, Co Sligo is one of the finest estates in the west of Ireland.

The great house, which was remodeled in 1864. Nestled in a wooded demesne, looking out over the Templars’ castle to Templehouse Lake.

Despite its vast size this is a comfortable, welcoming family home with many original contents.

The owners are Roderick and Helena Perceval, whose family has lived here since 1665. Temple House is surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty, with beaches, mountains and numerous sites of archaeological interest. It is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast, with fishing on a private lake and miles of lovely woodland walks.

Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

Temple House is a vast classical house in the Georgian style, set in the centre of a beautiful 1000 acre west of Ireland estate.

This of course is ideal for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and in particular Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim & Mayo.

After a day exploring you can then return to the house and be welcomed with a mouthwatering menu for dinner and plenty of rest and relaxation afterwards.

Sipping a glass of wine while overlooking Temple House Lake and the 13th century castle of the Knights Templar.

Roderick & Helena are welcoming and consummate hosts taking great pride in the character of their home, north west Ireland and the special nature of Temple House Estate.

Temple House still retains its authentic decoration and furniture from that period and delicate Chinese porcelain is intermingled with solid County Sligo squires and their ladies. The main reception rooms are large, bright and comfortable, while the bedrooms – several have canopied beds – are particularly pleasant, with superb views.

Click HERE to book a stay at Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

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