Rise and shine: the Victorian morning routine

Posted on 10/09/202629/08/2026 by hiddenireland-admin

Many Victorians believed in the value of getting up early in the mornings to make the most of the day. They also placed great emphasis on hygiene and starting the day with an orderly household routine. If you were lucky enough to have maids at your beck and call, you would also be served tea in bed.

Morning ablutions

If you are staying in Hidden Ireland accommodation that dates from the Victorian era, or even earlier, you will find everything you need to emulate Victorian morning rituals – including tea-making facilities to enjoy a leisurely cuppa in bed and the prospect of a delicious breakfast awaiting you downstairs. While modern-day guests can enjoy state-of-the art bathrooms complete with showering and bathing facilities, Victorians tended to indulge in a stand-up wash with soap and water brought to the room in a basin and jug. Full baths tended to be less common.

The routine was then expanded to meticulous hair brushing and using cold cream on the face made from such ingredients as almond oil and white wax to protect the skin. Many upper-class ladies also applied make up made from natural substances such as red berry juice on the lips and soot to darken eye lashes. Higher-society Victorians favoured a more natural, pale and translucent look, as this suggested sufficient wealth to be able to stay indoors, away from manual labour and the effects or working in the sun.

Donning the right clothes for the day ahead was a complicated matter during Victorian times. For ladies, there were multiple layers to navigate, including drawers, stockings, corset petticoat and chemise. This is all before the main daywear was put on. The results of such a laborious dressing were a sleek, feminine figure, although how comfortable the clothes were that were put on in the name of beauty is perhaps less of a certainty.

Up and about

Once dressed, higher-society Victorians would often enjoy a breakfast of tea, eggs, bacon, fish or porridge. The mistress of the house would meet to plan meals and discuss household needs with her staff. Modern-day guests in Hidden Ireland accommodation often follow a similar routine, chatting over breakfast about places to see in the local area, restaurants to try and timings that ensure they make the most of each day spent in the Emerald Isle. Victorians enjoyed light exercise such as walks in the local countryside, which is yet another way in which today’s visitors can, quite literally, walk in their Victorian predecessors’ footsteps in the glorious surroundings in which many Hidden Ireland properties are located.

If you are interested in finding out more about experiencing life in a Victorian house, or other fascinating historical accommodation, 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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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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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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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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The art of hosting: how to host a brilliant group holiday for friends or family

Posted on 30/03/202530/03/2025 by HIBlog

When you plan a group holiday, whether it’s for friends getting together to go to an event, or a family reunion spanning multiple generations, your responsibilities as host and chief planner don’t stop when you press ‘pay’ on your online booking.

You are responsible for making sure that the plans are ‘on point,’ and that everyone has a great time, understands what’s happening when, and has equal input when it comes to sharing costs, organising meals and deciding what to do.

If you book a Hidden Ireland property for your group holiday in Ireland, you will be able to choose from many different accommodation options.

So, you can make sure there is enough room for everyone, and that you are located in the most suitable place for what you want to do on your time away together.

Many places offer on-site breakfast and dining too, which helps with much of the meal planning.

Here are some more ways to be the perfect host during your trip away, while making sure you’re having plenty of fun as well.

Work out who’s spending what

Money and how to divide up paying for things can be one of the most contentious parts of a group holiday. To minimise stress in this area, get together before the trip and work out who is going to pay for what. You could divide everything absolutely equally, or work out the finer details of who is doing, eating or buying what – and pay for what each individual, couple or family use. It’s up to you, but having some kind of plan in place in advance is the secret to avoiding arguments over money while you are on your trip away.

Plan your itinerary

While you may be getting together to specifically attend a concert, go to as sports fixture or travel as a group to a wedding or party, there may be other places people int eh group would like to visit, or activities people are keen to try while you are staying in Ireland. Again, prior planning helps with this, as you can work out what time you have and the best days/times to do different things. Good hosts put other people’s preferences and needs first, not just their own, so always ensure you have asked for everyone’s input and ideas before pressing ahead with any major itinerary planning.

Meals, snacks and eating out

Whether you are staying an accommodation that provides meals, or have opted for a self-catering property, meal planning is a large part of any group holiday. Establish whether people want to eat all together, do their own thing or work out a mixture of the two. If you are eating together, check for allergies and dislikes, so that everyone can eat something that suits them. Have plenty of snacks available, as people will like to be able to dip in and out, and running out could be inconvenient, especially if your accommodation is rural. Again, sorting out a kitty or means of paying fairly between you all for meals is important to do early on, if not before the trip begins.

Mix it up and be flexible

A god host is able to adapt and change direction with the planning if the group changes their mind about doing something, or an issue crops up, making new plans necessary. Try to keep cheerful and calm if changes must be made last-minute and look out for alternatives to keep everyone happy and the holiday on track.

Take a look online for local attractions, or ask your accommodation hosts for ideas and advice. You and your guests might enjoy trying something brand new to you all – keep an open mind and see what there is out there for you to have a go at.

You might have found your next reason to return to Ireland for another group holiday and have another go at it!

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.

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

Posted on 18/11/202404/12/2024 by HIBlog

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

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

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

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

Whiskey

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

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

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

Irish coffee

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

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

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

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

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

National Irish Coffee Day happens annually on 25 January.

Guinness

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

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

Mulled Irish cider

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on 24/09/202424/09/2024 by hiddenireland-admin

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.

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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