Category Archives: History & Culture

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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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What to see in Hidden Ireland’s university towns and academic hotspots

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Whilst the main summer holiday season may have come to an end, there are still plenty of reasons to visit Ireland this autumn.

September and October are traditionally the time of year when university and college students return to their classrooms, laboratories and lecture halls.

Ireland has much to offer the academically inclined.

There are many prestigious universities, as well as lots to see and do that will appeal to students of all kinds of subjects, from history and geology to music and art.

Here are some ideas to help activate the brain cells.

Dublin

Home to one of Ireland’s top universities, Trinity College, the Republic of Ireland’s capital city has a great deal to offer students and other visitors seeking out academic stimulation.

As well as stunning architecture and beautiful grounds to explore, Trinity College also houses the world-famous Book of Kells in its Old Library – an illuminated Latin manuscript of the four Gospels of the Bible’s New Testament that is more than 1,200 years old.

The city is also famous for its links to literary giants, Oscar Wilde and James Joyce.

Belfast

Some of the most sought-after Irish universities are located in Belfast, including Queen’s University and St Mary’s University.

Belfast is fascinating for students of politics and 20th-century history, with many of the iconic Peace Walls erected during the unrest that began in the late 1960s still standing as permanent reminders of that troublesome time.

RMS Titanic was built in Belfast in the early 1900s and a museum tells the story of the doomed ship. Narnia author, C S Lewis was also born in the city and lived there as a child.

Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway, now owned by the National Trust, has some truly fascinating geological features and attracts many students of physical geography and lovers of nature every year.

It is located around 60 miles from Belfast and well worth the trip for an educational experience like no other.

Guided tours and audio guides introduce the area to newcomers and you can enjoy amazing views out to sea.

Even if you are not a geographer, the natural tranquility is the perfect way to unwind after a heavy study session.

Kilkenny

This medieval town is all about history, with its 13th-century Kilkenny Castle and abundance of medieval architecture and Normal streets to explore.

Kilkenny is also home to Maynooth University and many other respectable academic institutions.

There are also lots of arts and crafts to enjoy, plus the student essential that is vibrant night life and plentiful entertainment.

There is even a spooky Kilkenny ghost tour to enjoy with friends after classes at the end of the day.

Wexford

Formerly Ireland’s leading fishing port, this friendly coastal town boasts a rich maritime history in the guise of Hook Lighthouse and Wexford Harbour, as well as plenty of culture for music and arts students – the 73rd Wexford Festival Opera takes place this October.

Wexford Vocational College, New Ross Vocational College and South East Technological University all call this very welcoming town home.

Letterkenny

Located on the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, Letterkenny is the largest town in County Donegal and home to the beautiful St Eunan’s Cathedral – a must-see for students of religion and architecture.

Geographers and botanists will love the proximity to the natural landscapes and coastal interest of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Historians are not neglected in this market town, with the beautiful Glenveagh Castle just waiting to be explored during a free hour or two.

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How to enjoy a summer of Irish culture, music, arts and dance

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Anyone in the market for a relaxed summer break, staying in privately owned accommodation and spending their days enjoying the best that cultural Ireland has to offer is in luck.

From Irish folk festivals to jazz concerts; open air theatre to film, Ireland has plenty to offer music and culture fans this summer.

Wherever an exciting arts event is taking place, there is a Hidden Ireland country house, countryside B&B or cottage within a highly manageable travelling distance.

Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
Waterford, 2 – 4 August

An eclectic programme of street music, theatre and arts events takes place in Waterford at the start of August, culminating in a colourful parade of performers, costumes, fireworks and special effects.

One not to be missed.

A warm and welcoming family festival that really does have something to offer visitors of all ages.

Choose from around 200 acts descending from around the world, all completely free to watch and enjoy. Delicious street food available too, showcasing the best that Waterford has to offer.

Kilkenny Arts Festival
Kilkenny, 8 – 18 August

This popular festival is over 50 years old and still going strong!

Showcasing the very best of choral works, opera, chamber music, dance and theatre, this highly cultural, searingly beautiful programme is sure to have something to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether they lean towards the classical or yearn to experience something more contemporary.

Full programme, dates and booking information online.

Electric Picnic
Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois, 16 – 18 August

Irish arts and music events don’t come much bigger than Electric Picnic. Especially since global pop sensation Kylie Minogue will be headlining, along with Calvin Harris and Kodaline. This annual rock ‘n’ roll festival offers music, comedy, theatre and holistic health in a colourful mix of heady summer fun. Even if you don’t manage to bag yourself a ticket to the main event, the area will be alive with visitors and attractions and you might even be able to spot a famous face or two in town.

Masters of Tradition
Bantry, Cork, 21 – 25 August

For an authentic, traditional Irish music experience, head over to this charming festival in Bantry on Cork’s west coast. Masters of Tradition offers its visitors exactly what you might expect, with lively, beautiful traditional music from talented musicians and singers. Listen to enchanting performances from Celtic instruments such as the concertina, Scottish small pipes, Uilleann pipes and Irish fiddle. Or get lost in the dreamy world of Celtic folksong. Enjoy the ultimate Irish cultural event this summer.

Dublin Fringe Festival
Dublin, 7 – 22 September

Why should Edinburgh be the only place for some Fringe fun? If you are planning a late summer break in Ireland’s capital city this year, take a look at the exciting programme of new and emerging acts making their professional break-through in this multi-disciplinary arts festival. You might be lucky enough to be in at the start of Ireland’s next huge star’s comedy or musical career! Details of acts, dates and venues are available online.

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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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Plan the perfect Irish Christmas break

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Who doesn’t love to open a Christmas card and see a delightful scene of a cosy room decorated with fresh garlands, glorious countryside views out of the window and stockings set out by the fireplace?

You can picture yourself enjoying a rural Christmas, surrounded by thoughtfully selected gifts, deliciously festive food and drink and a general celebration of friends, family and fun.

After lunch, you might step out for a walk to clear away the cobwebs in stunning Irish countryside that has been gently dusted with frost and snow.

We may not be able to guarantee snow in Ireland this year but the rest of this beguiling scene can be yours by booking a festive getaway with one of the beautiful country house hotels, cottages and other holiday accommodation available through Hidden Ireland.

Our hosts are busily working behind the scenes, preparing to welcome guests seeking seek sanctuary from hectic Christmas planning in December, or looking to enjoy a few days away at New Year (click here to check availability).

Enjoy an Irish Christmas

Ireland has some beautiful Christmas traditions that you can enjoy – and take inspiration from – during an early December visit to a Hidden Ireland property. Many Irish homes are beautifully decorated with fresh holly and ivy alongside the main Christmas tree adorned with baubles and lights. A candle is also placed in the window to guide Mary and Joseph. Why not explore the decorated rooms in your holiday accommodation and introduce some of the finishing touches you find there into your own Christmas decorations at home?

Festive food and drink

Food and drink are a key element of any pre-Christmas break or New Year getaway. Again, Ireland has a rich and copious choicer of amazing festive fare to sample during your stay. The type of food and drink available will vary, depending on where you choose to stay. However, many Hidden Ireland hosts cook their own delicious meals and serve them to their guests in the welcoming surroundings of their holiday accommodation. Alternatively, many of the cottages, B&Bs and hotels are located close to villages, towns and cities brimming with amazing restaurants, cafes and eateries serving festive food throughout December and January.

Christmas shopping

For some people, no pre-Christmas break would be complete without the chance to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Choose between smaller towns offering local delicacies and locally made, artisan gifts and busy, vibrant cities hosting fun Christmas markets and tempting high street sales. To help with your Christmas shopping plans, write out a list before you set off from home with the names of all those for whom you need to get presents – plus some suggestions about what to buy. Lists can also help if you plan to purchase food, decorations and other festive trimmings while you are away.

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Calling all foodies: enjoy amazing August fare, right across Ireland

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We believe that great summer holidays are made even better by making sure that they involve lots of delicious food and drink – the more locally sourced, the better!

Foodies will find much to enjoy in Ireland, home to wonderful main courses, tasty side dishes, decadent desserts and boozy beverages to enjoy at one’s leisure in the company of cherished friends and family members.

Several Hidden Ireland properties serve amazing, home-cooked meals on site. Others are situated within easy reach of some of Ireland’s best restaurants, pubs, cafes and eateries.

Whatever you like to eat and drink, you can be sure that there will be plenty to keep you satisfied during your visit to the Emerald Isle this summer.

Famous foods

Ireland is well-known around the globe for a number of fabulous food and beverages that must be sampled and enjoyed.Hidden Ireland delcious food country house accommodation cottage rental bed and breakfast

Some favourites include Guinness stew, seafood chowder, treacle soda bread and, for those brave enough, black pudding.

For dessert, there is a slice or three of whiskey-laced cake or a brilliantly boozy sherry trifle.

Summer eating

In the summer, staying cool is the order of the day and this is made possible thanks to treats like brown-bread ice cream, Wexford strawberries & clotted cream or just a Baileys on ice for when the sun shines on the glorious countryside and vibrant towns of Ireland.

If your accommodation does not serve home-cooked meals, look out for cafes and restaurants on your travels, or check out reviews online for ideas of where to go to enjoy Ireland’s best-known dishes. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, find a local food market and whip up some delicious Irish treats of your own.

Local fare

A key reason why so many guests enjoy home-cooked food served at Hidden Ireland accommodation is the fact that so many ingredients are sourced within just a few miles of the property.

Local butchers provide grass-fed lamb and beef and locally reared free-range chicken and pork. Vegetables are grown in local soil and berries plucked out of nearby country lanes.

Local artisans supply essential extras such as cheeses, jams, chutneys, yoghurts and porridge oats.

Coastal properties benefit from proximity to local fishing sites, where, during some seasons, sea food can be prepared and eaten on the same day that it is caught.

August alcohol

Ireland is just as lauded for its alcoholic beverages as it is for its delicious food.

Everyone has heard of the world-famous Guinness, plus the country is famous for its rich, earthy whiskeys, just waiting to be sipped gently with or without a cube of ice.

Irish alcohol is a crucial ingredient for many other well-known drinks.

These include the comforting post-dinner drink, the Irish coffee.

The perfect Irish coffee contains just the right mix of black coffee, cream, whiskey and sugar.

Then, there is the equally smooth Irish cream liquor, which combines whiskey with cream, chocolate and vanilla flavourings. Irish cream can be enjoyed as it comes, or added to a cocktail for an intense, unforgettable base note.

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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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