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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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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Ever wondered what life is like in a country house in Ireland?

Posted on 22/06/202522/06/2025 by HIBlog

The enduring popularity of TV costume dramas and films set in grand houses and country estates from the past shows that there is a huge appetite for the elegance and extravagance of fine country house living.

Even if we cannot afford to buy and run our own country house complete with extensive grounds, there is always the option of holidaying in one.

Hidden Ireland country houses are located all over the Emerald Isle, offering charming historic features, beautiful architecture, expansive grounds and fascinating stories dating back centuries.

While no two Hidden Ireland properties are exactly the same, many of the historic country houses come with features and highlights that are commonly found in country houses with a certain style and panache. These can make all the difference to your stay, especially if you are fans of fine dining and country living – and fancy yourself as Lord or Lady of the Manor.

Warm and welcoming dining rooms

Life in a country house has long involved sumptuous meals, delicious, home-cooked food and ingredients sourced locally – even from the house’s own wider estate.

Many Hidden Ireland holiday properties offer in-house dining, with meals cooked by owners and local chefs for a truly authentic experience.

Dining rooms are carefully designed and decorated to feel warm and welcoming – even before anyone arrives to enjoy a meal together. The walls and floors set off antique furniture and exquisite crockery, cutlery and serving dishes and the comfortable chairs mean that you are happy to linger well after you have finished eating.

Cosy and charming bedrooms

When you feel tired after a long day sightseeing, visiting seeing friends or enjoying getting to know your local area, you need to know that you can look forward to a good night’s sleep.

Country house bedrooms are true havens of relaxation and calm. Large beds, covered with top-quality bed linen await, while there is plenty of space to store your clothes and belongings.

Many Hidden Ireland properties have ensuite bathrooms attached to the main bedrooms, for even easier morning and nighttime ablutions. If you have come away with the express goal of regaining energy and relaxing after a busy period in your life, country house bedrooms will fit the bill nicely.

Well-tended, relaxing grounds

Many pivotal scenes in costume dramas set in country houses take place in the grounds. Whether it be a first meeting, a proposal of marriage, an argument or an important decision made, the lush, green backdrop adds texture and gravitas to any fictional scene.

When you choose Hidden Ireland holiday accommodation set in its own grounds, you can enjoy many key moments outdoors too, without even having to leave the boundaries of the property.

Take a stroll around the grounds, bring your breakfast or supper outside and eat al fresco and while away an afternoon seeing how many different native Irish birds, flowers and other wildlife you can spot.

Architectural designs

Finally, life in a country house in Ireland is made even more pleasant by being surrounded by stunning sights at every turn.

This is especially true when you consider that architecture.

Each hidden Ireland country house has been lovingly and carefully maintained to protect and conserve the fascinating and often original architectural details that are in every room.

From ornate staircases to imposing fireplaces; dainty doorknobs to marvellous mantlepieces, architecture fans will find much to admire in Hidden Ireland country houses all over Ireland. Often, local areas, customs, materials and folklore will feature in the architecture.

Don’t forget to ask your hosts about any historical stories depicted in the details all around you when you arrive.

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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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.

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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Eight compelling reasons to stay at a Hidden Ireland property this year – as revealed by our guests

Posted on 05/02/202505/02/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

There are so many reasons why planning a trip to Ireland could be the best move you make this year. From glorious countryside to the warm welcome you’ll receive from locals; delicious food and drink to the fascinating heritage and history, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Emerald Isle. We could write for ages about each reason; however, we thought it would be much nicer to let our guests speak for us.

We are fortunate indeed at Hidden Ireland to be able to welcome people to our historic houses, cottages, bed and breakfasts and guesthouses. People come to Ireland for different reasons, including family breaks, weddings, business trips, sporting weekends, cultural events and group holidays with friends. Many leave us brilliant testimonials saying exactly what they enjoyed about their time in Ireland. Here are eight fantastic guest reviews that we have received in recent years.

“What a treat to stay in this handsome home (The Castle, Castletownshend). I can’t imagine what work it is to maintain this old house and extensive gardens, but the owners do a great job of it, and we are delighted they were willing to welcome us. The breakfast was delicious and the staff friendly. I would be happy to stay here again.”

“I recently booked a whole weekend house takeover at Temple House, with dinners on both nights and was delighted with the entire weekend. The food and wine list was fabulous. We were just over 20 mins from Strandhill beach where we went for a lovely breezy stroll to blow away the cobwebs.”

“The welcome (at Roundwood House) was wonderful and the room was beautiful. We had local craft beer and stunning food. Total dedication to local quality produce and a friendly but not intrusive approach. This place exemplifies why Irish business, which had a tough pandemic, will bounce back. They deserve to do so well.”

“The Quay House has an amazing collection of beautiful pictures, animal artefacts and quirky antiques. We were given tea and delicious home-cooked brack in one of the several cosy sitting rooms. The home-cooked breakfasts are very generous in portion and set you up for the whole day. All served in a very inviting conservatory enabling you to look out across the bay at the sailing boats and seagulls. In short nothing is too much effort. Thank you for a very magical stay.”

“We stayed at Lorum Old Rectory for three nights. We are a family of five (two adults and three children) together with two grandparents. Nothing was too much trouble. Comfortable rooms, fluffy towels, sumptuous beds and amazing food – this really is a special place.”

“Fantastic hospitality for a lovely two-night stay. Stayed at Kilmokea as a base for exploring the sunny south east. Lily bedroom was very comfortable and breakfast was very tasty. We dined there both nights and food was great. Being able to stroll around and explore the gardens every day was a bonus.”

“We stayed in Ashley Park House last week for a wedding. I am dreaming of going back! The grounds and views are gorgeous. The food was gorgeous from the canapes to the breakfast. Staff went above and beyond to make sure we had a great day. The marquee/pavilion is so cosy and the views from it were amazing!”

“We had a wonderful stay here (Collon House). A beautifully restored house, full of interesting and fascinating artefacts and paintings. Very comfortable bedrooms and surroundings, giving the impression of staying in a private country house. We had a truly excellent dinner, delicious food served in a very attractive dining room; the table laid out with lovely silver and ornaments.”

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’s happening in Ireland in 2025

Posted on 22/12/202422/12/2024 by hiddenireland-admin

As 2024 comes to an end, it is the ideal time to look forward into the next year to see what will be happening on the island of Ireland. As ever, 2025 looks to be a year packed full of festivals, culture, sports, history and family fun. So many reasons to book a holiday on the Emerald Isle. Here are a few to get you started.

A very Ernest anniversary

2025 marks 130 years since Irish writer, Oscar Wilde penned his famous play The Importance of Being Ernest.

It is also the 125th anniversary of Wilde’s death.

As a result, there is bound to be a huge focus on the Irish wit and raconteur, not least a new event, In Our Dreams taking place in October in the town of Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, where Wilde went to school.

There will be more Wildean fun in Dublin, with themed guided tours of Oscar Wilde House and Trinity College and the third annual Oscarina, a showcase dedicated to the writer that is taking place in October.

Festival Fun

Ireland is well known for its plethora of festivals that take place across the island every year. Each boasting its own theme, music, food and followers, there is a huge choice for visitors to enjoy in 2025.

Some famous festivals include the Galway Oyster Festival happening in September.

Music lovers will enjoy Imbloc Festival – an eight-day extravaganza happening in Derry at the end of January and into February and Longitude, Dublin’s most famous music festival taking place later in the year.

Dublin will also host an International Film Festival in late February, showcasing the best of Irish cinema and film.

The City of Derry Jazz Festival is another occasion not to be missed, happening in early May.

St Patrick’s celebrations

Ireland’s biggest calendar date is arguably St Patrick’s Day on 17 March – an occasion to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland and participate in parties and parades all over the country.

Some of the more popular St Patrick’s Day festivals and parades will take place in Kilkenny, Dublin, Cork and Killarney – don’t miss out on the party of the year.

As well as parades and events, people dress up, enjoy a pint or two of Ireland’s national drink – Guinness – and enjoy spending time with family and friends as winter’s cold weather gives way to spring just in time for parades and parties to take place outdoors.

This sporting life

Ireland has plenty to offer sports fans in 2025 too, from horse races in Galway, County Kildare and Tipperary in the summer to Gaelic football and hurling matches found all over the island.

The 153rd Open Championship will be held at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland in mind July, attracting golf fans from all over the world for this exciting international tournament.

Finally, several Guinness Six Nations rugby tournament games will take place at various stadia across Ireland in spring 2025, including Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, Belfast’s Kingspan Stadium and Cork’s Virgin Media Park.

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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