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A frighteningly fantastic Irish Halloween getaway

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October is the month for spooky fun and games as Halloween comes around for another year. Ireland’s connections with all things scary goes back more than two thousand years when the Ancient East celebrated Samhain – a Celtic festival that heralded the end of the harvest season and beginning of winter.

People believed that Samhain coincided with the time of year when the barriers between our world and the underworld were at their weakest, allowing sprites and spirits to slip between the two.

Ireland has embraced the fearsome fun of Halloween ever since and has plenty to offer families and fun-seekers at this spooktacular time of year. Here are some ideas in parts of the country that are well served by Hidden Ireland accommodation.

Why not get away for a hauntingly good time this half term?

Púca Festival, County Meath

Halloween historians will revel in the chance to take part in the Púca Festival in Athboy, an agricultural town in County Meath. Taking inspiration from the legends of Samhain, the festival embraces music, dance, folklore and storytelling from 31 October until 3 November.

Various events take place across Athboy and the nearby town of Trim.

Enjoy top DJ sets, live performances, food and festivities at one of Ireland’s most authentic Halloween celebrations.

Dracula’s Dublin

Bram Stoker, creator of the world’s best known vampire, Dracula, was born in Dublin in in 1847.

He lived during the Great Famine, in which more than one million people died.

It was hardly surprising, therefore, that Stoker was inspired by tales of hardship and horror to create his terrifying tale.

Dublin holds a Bram Stoker Festival every year around Halloween (this year it runs from 25 to 28 October).

Events include films, theatre, music, comedy and tours, as well as plenty of opportunities to dress up and embrace your inner goth.

Derry Halloween

More frightening fun awaits visitors to Ireland this month at Derry Halloween – a lively carnival themed around Halloween and spooky goings-on.

Costumes are very much encouraged for your visit to ‘Europe’s biggest Halloween festival’, running from 28 to 31 October.

Watch street entertainment, follow the Halloween trail around the town and enjoy amazing food and drink. Then, after dark, stay and be amazed by the light displays and fireworks that will bring the night skies to life.

Other October reasons to visit

Even if you are not such a fan of Halloween and the spookier side of life, an October or November visit to Ireland is still something not to be missed.

Glorious autumn colours bring the trees to life across Ireland’s many countryside areas, parklands and ancient woodlands.

Autumn heathers cast a colourful purple glow across the bogs and heaths of Wicklow and Donegal. Glorious walks in mountainous areas such as Slieve Bloom in County Laois – one of the oldest regions of hills in Europe – are made even more magical with seasonal colours, crunchy leaves underfoot and the crisp, cool autumn air.

Finally, don’t forget to pick up a pumpkin or two to carve into a Jack o’ Lantern during your visit.

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Ideas for enjoying a family break – things for children to see and do this summer

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Summer is almost here and with it will come the long school holidays, stretching out gloriously in front of us.

If you are planning to spend some, or even all of it in Ireland, then read on for some ideas to help keep children of all ages entertained, active and loving summer in the Emerald Isle.

Active kids

Ireland is blessed with easily accessible, stunningly beautiful coastlines offering a plethora of activities for sporty children.

From paddle boarding, water-skiing and surfing to sailing, hiking and fossil hunting, Ireland’s beaches and coastal resorts are fantastic for keeping the whole family fit all summer long.

Other options for active kids include numerous golf clubs, tennis courts, gyms and leisure centres located across the island and open all summer long.

Historical Ireland

History buffs may well appreciate a look round the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, or the City Sightseeing hop on-hop off bus that shows off the many delights of the Republic of Ireland’s vibrant capital city.

Another historical delight is Blarney Castle and Gardens in County Cork, where, folklore has it, you can also kiss the famous Blarney Stone to receive the gift of eloquence.

Explore Ireland’s links to the tragedy of the sinking of HMS Titanic at the Titanic Experience in Cobh in County Cork.

This moving museum is based in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, close to the departure point for the final group of passengers who boarded the fateful ship in 1912.

Nature fans

Ireland’s diverse nature and expansive countryside is second to one.

Nature fans are spoilt for choice. Ancient forests and woodlands offer fascinating walking and wildlife-watching options with trees for the kids to climb and signposted family trails to keep youngsters amused along the way.

Other options include the many wildlife parks, sanctuaries and nature attractions around the country.

Examples include Dublin Zoo in Dublin, Burren Birds of Prey Centre in Clare, Connemara National Park in County Galway, The Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll, County Cork, Secret Valley Wildlife park in Wexford and Wild Ireland in Burnfoot, County Donegal.

Adrenaline adventurers

Children will love to let off some steam after months coped up in the classroom.

This can easily be done during a trip to Ireland. Rollercoaster fans will enjoy a trip to Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) in County Meath, which also has a fantastic zoo and lots of space to run around.

The Aqua Dome in Tralee, County Kerry lives up to its name with plenty of pools, wave machines and water slides to explore.

Funtasia Theme Park in Drogheda, County Louth has plenty for adults and children too, including Pirate’s Cove for small adventurers and casinos for the grown-ups.

Great for wet weather fun.

Culture vultures

Ireland is famed for its folk dancing and lively music.

You can enjoy concerts, theatre, comedy nights, outdoor film showings, opera and dance in several different locations.

Look online for full details of music festivals happening too, including the famous Longitude Festival in Dublin at the end of June, All Together Now Festival in Waterford in early August and Electric Picnic in County Laois in mid-August.

Check out Ireland’s links to famous writers and artists too, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Francis Bacon.

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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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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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Enjoy a sporting life in Ireland in 2024

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Hands up who overindulges at Christmas?

Thought so!

After several days of eating too much turkey and trifle and imbibing mulled wine, eggnog and fizz, many people’s thoughts turn in January to how to get fit and work off some of that festive excess.

This year, why not get a head start and plan some enjoyable sporting breaks in Ireland for the first few months of 2024?

From fishing and shooting to biking and walking, ether is something for everyone in this beautiful part of the world. If you prefer to watch sport from the stands, Ireland will also welcome you with open arms. Here are some ideas for getting sporty this year.

Mountain biking

Ireland is ideal for ardent fans of mountain biking looking for the perfect place for adventures in 2024. The Slieve Bloom mountains in central Ireland are well set up to welcome mountain bikers of all abilities, as are the Wicklow mountains and the Cliffs of Mohr and Doolin. Always check out the difficulty levels of each trail you are considering and ensure that you and your bike are in the best possible condition to tackle the challenge ahead. There are several options for mountain bikers of all abilities to enjoy. Wear a helmet and waterproof clothing, and pack water, snacks, bicycle repair tools and a fully charged mobile phone for safety.

Hiking and trekking

The majestic mountains, lush forests and stunning coastlines of Ireland offer countless options for hiking and trekking. As with the mountain biking, trails and waymarked routes vary in length, difficulty and habitats encountered. Hiking can be hugely enjoyable even in the winter, so long as you are prepared and are wearing the right clothing and footwear. Some good places to start researching your perfect hiking or trekking destination include the Giants Causeway, Wicklow Mountains and Wild Atlantic Way.

Fishing

The milder climates and temperatures make Ireland a great spot for fishing at any time of year. If you have been given brand-new fishing kit for Christmas, or simply want to reconnect with a favourite sport, head off to the Emerald Isle to see what bites you get. Always check what fishing licences you will need, as not every spot is free for anyone to use. Leave no trace of your presence when you leave and respect the countryside around you. Some lovely places to visit for an afternoon’s angling include Mullaghmore in Sligo, river Boyne in Meath, Cork harbour and the lakes of Killarney in Kerry.

Watersports

While on the subject of water, fishing is not the only way to have fun in Ireland’s lakes, coastlines and waterways. Several watersports are popular and widely available in Ireland, including paddle boarding, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking and windsurfing. Lessons are available for beginners and those with experience seeking to brush up on their skills. You can also hire or buy the kit you will need to stay safe and have lots of fun. Take advantage of Ireland’s geography as an island with plenty of coastlines, beaches and shores to explore and enjoy. Head to the west coast of Donegal, Sligo and Clare for the best surfing, or Galway for kayaking and paddle boarding. The lakes of Tipperary are tailor-made for waterskiing and wake boarding.

Golf

Golf in Ireland is far more than ‘a good walk ruined’, with breathtaking courses and exciting gameplay available all over the island. The best time of year to enjoy a round of golf in Ireland is between April and October. Many courses are rated among the top 100 in the world. Call ahead to book and find out about green fees and available facilities, such as clubs and caddy hire, private coaching and golf buggies. Don’t forget to leave enough time to enjoy a pint and bite to eat at the welcoming ‘19th hole’ at the end of your game.

Spectator sport

Finally, if you prefer your sport to be played by other people, there are plenty of exciting sporting matches, games and events happening in Ireland, or involving Irish national teams in 2024. The 2024 Six Nations rugby tournament starts in February with Ireland as reigning champions – the perfect excuse for some late winter television dates. August brings the Dublin Horse Show, featuring showjumping and other equestrian competitions. The Irish Open golf tournament arrives at the Royal County Down Golf Club in Norther Ireland in September while the Dublin Marathon takes place at the end of October.

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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

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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Hidden Ireland Country Houses Accommodation

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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Preston House

Exclusive Stay at Preston House

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Book an exclusive stay at Preston House and find our beautifully restored 18th Century Georgian House. Preston House has a private courtyard and wooded garden. This beautiful property is located on the Main Street of the picturesque Heritage Town of Abbeyleix.

Preston House is the perfect space to unite for family gatherings or private parties. Explore this home from home with the comforts of a fully equipped country kitchen, a drawing room, a music parlour & two dining rooms. There are six luxurious suites in Preston House. Each suite is individually decorated with a quirky mix of chic and antique furnishings. This provides ample living space to comfortably accommodate 14 people.

Preston House Preston House Preston House

The country manor kitchen was originally designed to cater for up to 80 people but it’s perfect for large or small gatherings. The individual room mixes are the perfect setting for family dining, relaxing with friends or celebrations. Preston House as a whole can be transformed into an event space, a cultural gathering or wellness space. With a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining, Preston House is the perfect place as a unique wedding setting.

The Lords Walk is just a short walk from Preston House, every day, there is an adventure waiting in Laois. With its mountains, canals, forest trails, rivers & lakes, Laois is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, Preston House and Abbeyleix is the perfect starting point to explore!

Preston House is only one of the beautiful Exclusive Rentals available through Hidden Ireland.

Click HERE to book an exclusive stay at Preston House!

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