country house accommodation Archives

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.

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

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

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

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

Potato salad

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

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

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

Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs

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

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

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

Summer pudding

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 This is a fruity, moist pudding that was originally made to use up leftover bread, but has become a popular option for summer desserts in Ireland and the UK.

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

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

Bread and butter pudding

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

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

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

Irish lemonade

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

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

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

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