Holidaying the Georgian way with Hidden Ireland

Posted on 10/08/202622/08/2026 by hiddenireland-admin

Going on holiday is by no means a modern phenomenon. It has always been part of human nature to want (and need) to take a break from daily life every now and then and to set down working duties and commitments for a bit to give our bodies and minds a rest. Choosing a Hidden Ireland house, cottage or hotel for your break ensures beautiful accommodation, excellent facilities and interesting surroundings to explore.

Many Hidden Ireland properties are Georgian in origin, which prompts the question: where did the Georgians go on holiday?

Georgian transportation

Travel was becoming easier by Georgian times due to developments in transportation that opened up many possibilities hitherto denied to previous generations who mainly travelled by foot – or by horse if they could afford one. Wealthier Georgians were able to take advantage in the rise of horse-drawn carriages, which were increasingly built with comfort in mind to help passengers endure longer journeys. Having said that, the state of many roads remained perilous, so travel could still be rocky and bumpy.

The rise of public carriages, as opposed to smaller, private ones, allowed more people across the classes to access transport, so long as they could pay their fare. This change, coupled will increasing curiosity about further-flung places, meant more people began to venture further afield.

Irish holiday destinations

Popular destinations for Irish holiday-makers, as well as those visiting from other countries included newly fashionable seaside resorts like Dublin Bay and Waterford, where people could go sea bathing and breathe in the ‘sea air’, believed to offer restorative health benefits. Similarly, wealthy Georgians flocked to spa resorts like Connemara to ‘take the waters, or culturally interesting cities and towns, such as Armagh City, which is famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture

Another popular holiday option was to travel to a picturesque countryside location to admire the surroundings and discover ‘curiosities of nature’ that could be talked about back home. Favourite countryside destinations included the Giant’s Causeway, Killarney and the Cliffs of Moher.

The Grand Tour

One travel phenomenon that was highly popular among the aristocratic classes of Georgian Ireland (and elsewhere in Europe) was the Grand Tour. This was a prolonged tour of European countries and cultural centres where the focus was on studying subjects such as art and architecture, poetry, music and classical history. It was mainly wealthy young men in their twenties who embarked upon a Grand Tour in order to gain a broader perspective on life and meet new people. They were usually accompanied by a tutor or family member who could help them appreciate what they were seeing and to guide their routes and experiences.

If you would like to follow in the footsteps of culturally-aware Georgian holidaymakers and stay in beautiful, historically preserved accommodation while doing so, take a look at the Hidden Ireland website to book your next stay.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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How the Georgians lived (and decorated their houses)

Posted on 12/07/202612/07/2026 by hiddenireland-admin

In an increasingly uncertain world, many of us are finding comfort in looking back to the past to take inspiration from our ancestors in all kinds of ways, from hobbies to holidays; dressing to design. The Georgians were especially interested in creating beautiful interiors for their homes and important buildings, particularly favouring symmetry and strong focal points in their rooms.

Many of the cottages, country houses and boutique hotels that are part of the Hidden Ireland portfolio originate from Georgian times. Tell-tale elements of balance, soft colours and elegant decorative details immediately stand out to guests, who enjoy being surrounded by elegant, historical interior decor during their stay.

Symmetry, balance and focus

Georgian interior design was largely centred around a focal point in each room, such as a fireplace or large window. Furniture tended to be arranged around this focal point. Matching pieces, such as identical bookcases, armchairs or statues often flanked important areas in order to draw attention to them.

Visual harmony was key and furniture and fittings were carefully chosen to add harmony, rather than draw attention in their own right. Fireplaces were accentuated with ornate wooden or marble surrounds to add even more interest to them as the chosen focal point.

Floors, walls and ceilings

Georgian interior design indulged itself in decorative details, with ornate ceiling roses, cornices and dado rails a common sight in higher-class rooms and spaces. Floors were either covered in beautiful Oriental carpets if they were plainer, or, if made from decorative marble or stonework, left uncovered to allow the beauty of the stone to speak for itself.

Windows were often tall and beautifully designed to add interest on their own while maximising the amount of light they let into the room. Walls, too, were designed to be decorative even before any paintings or wall hangings were added. Wooden panelling was popular, with dado rails that divided the walls in half vertically allowing a clear separation between the panels below and a painted or wallpapered section on the top.

Colours and textures

Finally, many Georgian homes, including many examples of Hidden Ireland accommodation, were decked out with muted colours, rather than golds or bright reds. Popular shades included dusk pinks, burgundy, sky blue and pea green, with brighter tones used sparingly as accent colours for more formal spaces.

When it came to textiles, luxury was the watchword, with indulgent fabrics like damask, velvet and silk topping the list for drapes, upholstery and wall hangings. This preference for luxury was also reflected in furniture design, such as the high-end, delicate pieces produced using mahogany or walnut wood by leading Georgian furniture makers such as Thomas Chippendale.

If you are interested in staying in historically preserved Georgian accommodation with fine examples of colour, décor and symmetry in every room, take a look at the Hidden Ireland website to book your next stay.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Rise and shine: the Georgian morning routine

Posted on 17/05/202617/05/2026 by hiddenireland-admin

The Georgian era, spanning roughly from 1714 to 1830, was a period of elegance, social ritual, and a deep appreciation for order.

For those fortunate enough to live in the grand houses of the time, mornings were not simply a matter of waking up and getting on with the day. They were an occasion in themselves, governed by custom, attended by servants, and shaped by a belief that how one began the morning set the tone for everything that followed.

If you were lucky enough to have a housemaid at your beck and call, the day would begin with tea delivered to your bedside before you had so much as opened the curtains.

Morning ablutions

If you are staying in Hidden Ireland accommodation that dates from the Georgian era you will find no shortage of inspiration for recreating those elegant morning rituals.

A delicious breakfast awaits you downstairs and while modern-day guests can enjoy beautifully appointed bathrooms complete with every comfort, Georgians made do with considerably more modest arrangements.

Washing was typically a stand-up affair with soap and warm water brought to the room in a basin and jug by a servant. Full baths while not unknown among the wealthy were a far less frequent occurrence and something of a production in themselves.

The morning routine extended well beyond washing.

Meticulous hair brushing was essential and the face was carefully tended to with cold cream preparations made from ingredients such as almond oil and white wax. Georgian ladies of quality also applied cosmetics though the fashions of the era demanded considerable subtlety.

The ideal was a pale luminous complexion, a clear signal that one was a person of sufficient means to remain indoors and well removed from the sun and the demands of outdoor labour.

A little red on the lips and lightly darkened lashes were acceptable touches but anything too obvious risked looking common. The art lay in appearing effortlessly polished while having taken considerable effort to get there.

Getting dressed in the Georgian period was no small undertaking particularly for ladies of standing.

The process involved navigating a considerable number of layers: a chemise first, then stockings, stays (the Georgian forerunner of the corset), one or more petticoats and only then the gown itself.

A lady’s maid was not merely a luxury but a practical necessity as many of these garments simply could not be fastened without assistance. The resulting silhouette was elegant and highly structured with a high waistline that gave Georgian dress its distinctive graceful line.

Whether the wearer was entirely comfortable is another question but comfort was rarely the primary consideration when it came to dressing well.

Up and about

Once dressed and presentable the Georgian household would gather for breakfast, typically a generous spread of tea, eggs, cold meats, fish and bread.

This was not merely a meal but an opportunity for the household to organise itself for the day.

The mistress of the house would consult with her housekeeper on the day’s menus, review any correspondence that had arrived and set the tone for what lay ahead.

Guests staying in Hidden Ireland properties today will recognise something of this unhurried ritual.

Breakfast here is rarely a rushed affair but a chance to gather thoughts, compare notes on the previous day’s adventures and plan the hours ahead over good food and good company.

After breakfast Georgians of leisure might take a turn about the grounds or venture into the countryside for a morning walk, a habit considered both healthful and entirely respectable.

It is a tradition that today’s visitors can follow quite literally, stepping out from the very same doorways into landscapes that have changed remarkably little since the era that shaped these extraordinary houses.

If you are interested in experiencing life in a Georgian house, or other fascinating historical accommodation, take a look around the Hidden Ireland website to find your next stay.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Winter highlights and seasonal things to do in Ireland

Posted on 23/12/202523/12/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

December, January and February in Ireland can be a truly magical time.

Crisp, wintery skies and frosty landscapes can turn the countryside into a winter wonderland, while the cities offer a wealth of seasonal interest, culture and atmosphere. Christmas brings an enchanting sparkle and the New Year brims with the promise of spring and warmer weather to come.

The weather is also perfectly manageable with suitable layers and a warm coat. If it does snow, the countryside can look even more magical with a gentle covering of white as far as the eye can see.

Countryside capers to start the year

From the unspoilt countryside around Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way to the dramatic Wicklow and Slieve Bloom Mountains, there is a vast array of glorious landscapes to explore across Ireland.

Hiking, rambling and coastal walks are all excellent winter pastimes. Wearing layers and investing in a warm coat, gloves and hat will help keep out the chill while you marvel at the wintery scenes and views around you.

Winter sports are also widely available, including snowboarding and sledding in Kerry, Wicklow and elsewhere. Many Hidden Ireland cottages, houses and hotels are located within very easy reach of stunning countryside and beautiful winter walking spots.

City breaks to warm the soul

Christmas in Ireland is a wonderful experience, with Christmas markets, light shows and stately homes dressed for the festive season.

Even into the New Year, the sparkle continues with plenty of ideas for a winter city break to ring in 2026.

Dublin has much to offer, from the Book of Kells and Trinity College to St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse.

Meanwhile in Belfast, history enthusiasts can discover the story of the ill-fated Titanic and stroll around the 19th-century St George’s Market for a taste of traditional Irish architecture and local delicacies.

Other Irish cities and towns that make ideal locations for a winter break include Galway, Cork, Kilkenny, Waterford and Limerick.

Winter warmers and a hearty welcome

Speaking of local delicacies, Irish food really comes into its own during the winter. Hearty Irish stews warm both body and soul, with tempting accompaniments of colcannon and potato cakes. Guinness or hot whiskey are the drinks of choice for many at any time of year, but go down especially well in colder temperatures. Soda bread, straight from the oven is another national treat, delicious with copious amounts of butter and jam.

For a fun night out to go with the food and drink, there are welcoming pubs all over the island where you can spend a fun evening of food, friendship and song. Or, many of the Hidden Ireland properties offer home-cooked dinners on site, along with a wholesome Irish breakfast to begin the day. Local ingredients mix with traditional recipes and talented chefs, dedicated to providing the best in Irish winter cuisine.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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What to take with you on a Christmas getaway in Ireland

Posted on 30/11/202530/11/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Christmas is a matter of weeks away and the exciting plans you have been busy making all year are drawing very close.

If you have booked a week or weekend away in Ireland as part of your festive celebrations, here is Hidden Ireland’s guide to what to take with you and prepare to make your Irish getaway the best Christmas treat ever.

What to wear

December in Ireland can be very wet, with snow sometimes making an appearance too. There can be sharp winds and clear, frosty mornings that look amazing, but bring biting temperatures with them. Warm and waterproof clothing is the order of the day, including an insulated jacket, hats, gloves and scarves and lots of layers.

There is plenty to see and do in both rural Ireland and around the cities and towns, so comfortable sturdy footwear is also a must, as are waterproofs to keep out the rain.

While Irish restaurants tend to be quite casual and relaxed, don’t forget a slightly smarter outfit if you’re planning to enjoy a fancy Christmas meal out in a posher restaurant or upscale bar.

The basics

The Republic of Ireland is in the European Union – anyone visiting from outside the country will need their passport and any associated visas or paperwork relating to the country they are travelling from.

Travel insurance is a very good idea, and you will also need your driving licence if you are planning to hire a car while in Ireland. Bring a good supply of Euros and a credit card.

Essential at any time of year, but a definite must if you’re planning a lot of Christmas shopping or January sales bargain hunting.

There are several amazing Christmas markets in Ireland, including in Dublin, Galway, Cork and Kilkenny.

Things to help you make memories

Keen photographers will find much to catch the eye and fill the lens in Ireland. People watching in a bustling city filled with Christmas shoppers and revellers is always good fun to capture on camera, while the rugged, frosty countryside and coastal walks make the perfect subject for some dramatic wintery landscape shots.

If writing is more your style, pack a journal to record your memories of December days out in Ireland or bring along everything you need to create travel blogs, vlogs or social media updates to keep your followers in touch with your festive Irish adventures.

You can also find postcards very easily all over the country to send greetings home to friends and family, so don’t forget to pop an address book in your bag, or add the details to your phone before you leave.

Curiosity and a sense of adventure

Finally, Ireland at Christmas has so much to offer that you will find it hard to pack everything in.

The more you relax, go with the flow and be willing to seek out new experiences, the more you will discover of this beautiful country.

From the bright, Christmas lights of Dublin’s Grafton Street or Cork’s ‘City of Lights’ display to the wild and wonderful winter landscapes of Giant’s Causeway, Cliffs of Mohar and the Ring of Kerry, there is much to thrill, inspire and entertain.

Choosing Hidden Ireland accommodation to stay in only adds to the charm and beauty of a trip to the Emerald Isle.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Autumn colour: woodland walks, seasonal sights, perfect pumpkins and more

Posted on 17/10/202517/10/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Autumn can be a magical time for a mini break or longer stay in Ireland. The schools have gone back, making it less crowded and often cheaper to travel. Summer temperatures have cooled, leaving a crisp, invigorating chill in the air that calls for cosy coats and chunky knits.

Highlights of an autumn holiday in Ireland include walks in beautiful forests with trees showing their seasonal colours and welcoming pubs and restaurants serving hot drinks, pints of Guinness, warming Irish stews and other local dishes. In the cities and towns, shops are putting out displays for Christmas shopping and there are plenty of local events on offer. Here are some autumn attractions and ideas to get you started.

Giant’s Causeway coastal views and walks

The National Trust looks after lots of beautiful houses, gardens and countryside areas in Northern Ireland, all of which offer many options for a perfect October or November day out, an easy drivefrom Hidden Ireland properties in the area. Among the best known is Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Co. Antrim, it is 60 million years old and has many beautiful walking routes, stunning views, a café, shop and award-winning visitor centre to explore this autumn.

National Trust in Northern Ireland

Other National Trust places that are great for visiting at this time of year include Castle Ward in Co. Down – an impressive 18th-century mansion and grounds. There are 21 miles of trails and walking routes to enjoy, as well as a full programme of family events for autumn and October half term. It was also a filming location for the popular TV show Game of Thrones.

A third National Trust place to go on the list is Mount Stewart, famed for its lovely gardens that are full of seasonal colour and interest at this time of year. Here, you can enjoy strolls in autumn nature, dog walks and tours of the fascinating country house. Visit the National Trust website to find out more about what’s on offer in Northern Ireland.

Autumn harvests and hotspots

Autumn is also the season of harvest, food and drink. As the leaves in the trees turn to reds, gold and browns, so colourful fruit and vegetables also spring up, ripe and ready for the picking. Pumpkin picking events are programmed across the country in time for Halloween, including Ballymad Farm in Co. Meath, Clissman Horse Caravans in Co. Wicklow and Killarney Pumpkin Farm in Co. Kerry.

Autumn colour can also be found all over Ireland, with forests and woodlands alive with golden light and beautiful tones that are crying out to be photographed. Many are free to visit, making this an ideal seasonal break activity for couples, families and groups keen to connect with nature. Some well-known autumn colour hotspots include Killarney National Park (Co. Kerry), Connemara (Co. Galway), Gougane Barra National Forest Park (Co. Cork), the Wicklow Mountains and Slieve Bloom Mountains (Co. Laois).

Wherever you decide to visit in Ireland this autumn, you can be sure of a warm welcome, beautiful views, stunning countryside and delicious, warming food and drink. Choosing Hidden Ireland accommodation can also offer flexibility and freedom, along with beautiful, welcoming places to stay that are close to some of the best autumn attractions Ireland has to offer.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Where and how to take your dog on a mini break in Ireland

Posted on 18/08/202518/08/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

For many people, a holiday is not the same if they cannot bring their dog with them. The thought of getting away for a break without the canine members of the family is unthinkable.

Happily, there are many options for bringing your dog with you on a trip to Ireland.

There are several choices of accommodation that are happy to welcome dogs, as well as attractions and facilities all over the island where you and your pooch can enjoy spending time together.

Getting to Ireland

If you already live in Ireland and are looking to spend time exploring the country with your dog, it is easy enough to bring your pet with you in your own or a hire car, or by public transport.

Always make sure that you travel with your pet’s comfort as a priority, scheduling plenty of stops for them to eat, drink and relieve themselves.

If you are travelling from another country, check online well in advance of your travel date about what you need to do to bring your dog legally into the country.

You will need to have your dog microchipped, apply for an animal health certificate or similar paperwork and treat/vaccinate your pet for medical issues like tapeworm and rabies.

Allow extra time to care for dogs at ferry ports and airports and monitor them continuously during the voyage.

Planning a dog-friendly break in Ireland

Ireland offers a wide range of choices for dog-friendly holidays, including coastal getaways and city breaks.

The key to a successful canine-filled break is to remain as flexible as possible in order to meet the needs of your dog and adapt what you do and how you plan to take their needs into account.

Pack what you need to look after them, including food, water bottles, dog bed, hardness or lead etc. as you may not be able to access these things quickly once you arrive at your holiday base.

Find out where the nearest vet is in advance too, in case of emergencies while you are away.

Self-catering accommodation, such as the holiday cottages and houses offered by Hidden Ireland can offer the ideal holiday location for dogs as they can relax in their own surroundings, with plenty of space to run around, privacy to sleep and eat in safety and exciting new places to explore.

Hotels may not allow dogs to stay, while it can be harder to keep tabs on dogs if you stay on a camp site with lots of people around, for example.

Where to take your dog on holiday in Ireland

On the whole, Ireland is a warm, welcoming country that is well adapted to dogs and their owners.

It is blessed with plenty of beautiful places with stunning scenery where visitors can safely take their dogs.

These include the Wild Atlantic Way in counties Galway and Kerry, which are full of dog-friendly walking routes, woodlands and beaches to explore, as well as the National Trust run Giant’s Causeway and Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland.

In larger cities like Dublin, there are numerous parks, riverside walks and dog-friendly amenities to enjoy, as well as pubs and cafes that allow dogs inside and even grooming parlours to give your pooch their own holiday treat while you are away.

Always check online if you are unsure if your dog is allowed somewhere. A pawprint scheme can give a good indication of places to aim for that will be better geared up to welcome you and your dogs on holiday.

The Hidden Ireland website also has clear guidance on which of its properties around Ireland are able to accept bookings for parties that include dogs.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Why staying in a restored historic house in Ireland could be the best holiday you ever have

Posted on 25/05/202525/05/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Many Hidden Ireland properties have a long history, representing several different historical periods.

Of course, over the years, these older houses will have needed repairs and restoration in order to maintain a safe structure and keep the property in good enough working order to carry on hosting guests.

This is especially the case once they have been added to the Hidden Ireland portfolio.

So, why should you choose to take your next Irish break at a restored Hidden Ireland period property?

For anyone seeking a holiday location with character, history and charm, a restored Hidden Ireland property is the perfect solution.

Located near cities, coastlines and in quieter, rural locations, they are convenience for any type of break.

Read on for a number of reasons that will have you reaching for your diary to see when you’re free to come and stay in 2025 and beyond.

History, culture and connection

People’s fascination with history shows no signs of abating, as is made evident by the popularity of period dramas on TV, historical documentaries and novels.

The Emerald Isle is rich with history and heritage, just waiting to be discovered. From bustling towns to quiet villages; dramatic coastline to verdant woodlands, there is plenty to enjoy during a stay in Ireland.

If you choose an historical Hidden Ireland property, you can immerse yourself in an authentic, memorable experience.

Often the owners or locals will have stories of previous residents or visitors to the house, and you can learn how the property has been restored and conserved over the years.

Aesthetics and architecture

Fans of architecture and historic buildings will thoroughly enjoy staying in a period Hidden Ireland property, simply for the structural details that are present in every room and the beauty of the historic restorations current or previous owners have completed.

From full extensions and room restorations to preserving historic details like staircases, fireplaces and doors, there is much for history buffs and students of period design to explore and enjoy.

You can step back in time without ever having to venture outside the front door of your Hidden Ireland holiday home. If you do explore further afield, the calm, atmosphere of your restored historic holiday home awaits you when you get back.

Bringing together the old and the new

Preserving cultural history and built heritage is an extremely worthwhile aim, that has resulted in architecturally stunning and authentically fascinating holiday properties retaining their former glories and being made available to visitors and holidaymakers all over Ireland.

However, the owners of Hidden Ireland properties have cleverly brought the living standards up to date without compromising on the historic beauty or damaging the careful restorations that have taken place.

They’ve added modern comforts like high-speed wi-fi and, in some houses, even robotic lawnmowers – discreet touches that bring 2025 convenience to a beautifully preserved historic setting.

The best of both worlds.

Mental health and wellbeing

There is much to be said for a break in Ireland that encourages you to slow down, relax and take time out of a busy working schedule.

Historic, restored properties have a unique sense of peace and quiet, with the years of history they have seen evoking a sense of awe among many visitors.

Properties that have unique characteristics and fascinating stories can help us focus on learning more about them and really connecting with the location of our chosen historic house or holiday cottage in Ireland.

They are often located close to nature and wildlife, adding greatly to the mental health benefits and sense of wellbeing gains from spending a few days in situ.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Sweet and savoury Irish dishes for spring and summer dining

Posted on 01/05/202501/05/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Think of eating and drinking in Ireland, and you will doubtless conjure up images of Guinness for St Patrick’s Day, as well as potatoes, fruit scones and hearty Irish stews.

However, there is a lot more to the cuisine of Ireland, especially as we come into late spring and early summer.

While Ireland isn’t exactly famed for gloriously hot summers, the sun can still come out from time to time and give residents and visitors alike nice weather to enjoy.

Whether you are staying at a fully catered Hidden Ireland property, or have opted for a self-catering stay, there are many ways to try some Irish summer classics. Check out some online recipes, visit a local supermarket or market and cook your own back at your holiday accommodation.

Potato salad

Ireland’s history is intrinsically linked with the potato, which is evident when it comes to this delicious, fresh summer tradition – Irish potato salad. New potatoes are boiled until soft and then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Butter is added and mixed with the potatoes until it has melted, then mayonnaise, salt and pepper is stirred in.

Garnish with chives and serve with cold meats for a wonderful summer’s picnic food or light dinner option. You can also add ingredients such as onions, mint leaves, radishes peas or mustard to add to the taste.

Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs

The ultimate in sophisticated breakfast food. Ireland is rich in wild Atlantic salmon, thanks to its geographical location and island status.

Wild salmon live in many rivers in Ireland and is a popular choice among fish lovers.

Pep up your scrambled eggs in the morning by adding flakes of smoked salmon and chives. Or wow your summer dinner guests by serving small portions as a starter, or a larger serving with a side salad on a warm summer’s day.

Summer pudding

One popular dessert in Ireland is called summer pudding. This is a fruity, moist pudding that was originally made to use up leftover bread, but has become a popular option for summer desserts in Ireland and the UK.

Fruits such as blackberries, redcurrants, strawberries and blueberries are cooked and strained to make them soft.

White or soda bread soaked in fruit juices lines a pudding bowl or loaf tin with the fruit added in the centre. The pudding is then chilled and served with delicious ice cream and fresh fruit.

Bread and butter pudding

Another bread-based dessert that rounds off an Irish salad or summer lunch beautifully is bread and butter pudding.

Again, you can use white bread or the traditional Irish soda bread to make this dish. Slices of bread are buttered and soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs and sugar.

Add fruit such as raisins or currants to taste, as well as other ingredients such as chocolate chips or honey if you wish. Bake until the dish is crispy and golden on the top.

Irish lemonade

Lemonade is a wonderfully cooling drink on a hot, summer’s day.

Adding whiskey to it adds a touch of sophistication for a summer drinks party.

To a tall, chilled glass, mix fresh lemonade with a good Irish whiskey, some ginger beer or club soda, a dash of bitters and fresh mint leaves. Garnish, add ice and serve.

You can also make up jugs of it for a larger group of people. This is a lighter alternative to hot whiskey drinks that are more suitable for the autumn or winter months.

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Recipes from the past inspired by Hidden Ireland locations

Posted on 18/02/202518/02/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Ireland is famous for a wide range of delicious dishes that hark back to its rich and vibrant past.

According to a survey run by meal kit provider, Hello Fresh last year (Source: https://www.irishcentral.com/culture/food-drink/irelands-favorite-traditional-dishes), people from different counties across the island of Ireland have very clear preferences for Irish meals and foods according to their location.

Here are some of those findings from the survey, along with tips for making a delicious version at home to inspire your next trip to a Hidden Ireland property.

There are several more detailed recipes online if you want to try your hand at any of them.

Coddle (Counties Laois, Kildare, Louth and Offaly)

Coddle is an Irish stew that warms the very cockles of the heart – perfect for these cold winter months. There are, of course, variants to the recipe, but staple ingredients include sausages, bacon, potatoes and onions. It’s the ideal dish for St Patrick’s Day, not that far away now on 17 March. The dish is slow cooked in stout for added Irish flavor in the oven or on the stove. As well as the main ingredients, you can add extras, such as garlic, thyme, parsley, cayenne pepper and broth. Leave to cook on a low heat for two to three hours. When done, serve with a hearty slice of soda bread.

Colcannon (County Kerry)

This is another popular St Patrick’s Day recipe based on creamy mashed potatoes and cabbage, kale or leeks. It makes the perfect side dish to a bowl of colcannon or Irish stew on a cold winter’s day. Also known as boxty, it contains plenty of cream and milk and is formed into a round shape with a well in the middle for melted butter. You can also make variations by adding bacon, chives and other leafy greens. Boil potatoes and then mash them with onions and greens cooked in butter. Add milk and cream to taste and serve with the melted butter.

Irish breakfast (Counties Cork, Galway and Dublin)

Similar to an English fry-up, an Irish breakfast is a great way to set yourself up before a day of sightseeing in the Emerald Isle. It consists of a large plate of fried eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, baked beans and lashings of soda bread and butter – or potato farls if you prefer. Adding white pudding makes it a truly authentic Irish breakfast and differentiates it from its English counterpart. The drink of choice is milky tea with lots of sugar, making this delicious breakfast a really fine example of Irish comfort food.

Potato Farls (County Cork)

Another Irish side dish, the name potato farls comes for the Gaelic word fardel, meaning ‘four parts.’ The potatoes are boiled, mashed and mixed with flour, melted butter and salt. They are flattened into a round dough, cut into quarters and cooked on a griddle until browned and crispy on the outside. Perfect to go with an Irish breakfast for the ultimate comfort food. Or they can be buttered and served like bread with sweet and savoury toppings ranging from honey or jam to smoked salmon and cream cheese. Yum!

Soda bread (Counties Clare, Sligo, Donegal and Wicklow)

This is a popular bread that is quick and easy to make and goes with anything. It is dense and soft with a crispy crust, made without yeast for an unleavened finish. Recipes are available online, however the basics involve whisking together buttermilk and egg in one bowl and flour, baking soda, sugar and salt in a second. Cut cold butter into the bowl of dry ingredients and then combine with the other bowl. Knead the dough and score with a knife to allow the centre to bake evenly. Bake until golden brown.

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