In Ireland there is history everywhere. From passage tombs older than the ancient pyramids of Egypt to ancient monuments dating back to 2500 B.C. Our mystical and magical castles are what attracts many visitors to the island of Ireland but did you know about the Abbeys of Ireland?

An abbey is a type of monastery that was used by members of a religious order under the governance of an abbot or abbess. Abbeys provided a complex of buildings and land for religious activities, work, and housing of Christian monks and nuns. Their architecture is amongst the most beautiful in Europe and well worth a visit when you come to Ireland.

Let me share some of the more well-known and historical abbeys of Ireland.

Mellifont Abbey , County Louth

Mellifont Abbey in County Louth was the first Cistercian monastery to be built in Ireland in 1142. By 1170, Mellifont had one hundred monks and three hundred lay brothers. The abbey became the model for other Cistercian abbeys built in Ireland, with its formal style of architecture imported from the abbeys of the same order in France; it was the main abbey in Ireland until its dissolution in 1539. Mellifont Abbey is now a ruin but it still a national monument of Ireland.

Bective Abbey, Co Meath

The abbey at Bective was founded in 1147 by the king of Meath, though much of the remaining ruins date from the 15th century. The abbey is a fantastic heritage site which sits overlooking the River Boyne in my home County Meath. We got some amazing family wedding photos taken here when my younger sister got married nearby in October 2011. Pictured here are her girls Kate and Aoife at Bective Abbey on a recent visit. Bective Abbey was Ireland’s second Cistercian abbey, established after the success of nearby Mellifont. The superb agricultural land and the surrounding area that the abbey sits on make it a very popular tourist destination.

Kylemore Abbey

The story of Kylemore Abbey in county Galway is a truly remarkable one that spans over 150 year of tragedy, romance, innovation, education and spirituality. Built as a breath-taking Castle in 1868,it is now the Abbey and home of  the Benedictine community of nuns. The Benedictine nuns arrived at Kylemore in 1920 after their Abbey in Ypres, Belgium was destroyed in the early months of World War I. Settling at Kylemore, the Benedictine Community opened a world-renowned boarding school for girls and began restoring the Abbey, Gothic Church and Victorian Walled Garden to their former glory. The Benedictine nuns invite visitors to discover the magic, beauty and peacefulness of Kylemore Abbey. Visit Kylemore Abbey and discover what makes it one of Irelands’ best-loved and most iconic attractions.  Fantastic visit while out touring Connemara and take your time and enjoy…

Corcomroe Abbey

Corcomroe Abbey is beautifully situated on the edge of the rocky hills and fertile valleys of the Burren, Co Clare. The church was constructed in the early 13th century. It was once known as “St. Mary of the Fertile Rock”, a reference to the Burren’s fertile soil. Although no sources refer to its foundation, it is probable that the monastery was founded by Domhnall Mór O’Brien in 1194 as part of his policy of patronage of the church and strengthening his rule in the region and The abbey appears in one of Irelands greatest writers W.B. Yeats’ play “The Dreaming of Bones”.

Fore Abbey Co Westmeath

Fore Abbey is the ruin of a Benedictine Abbey, situated to the north of Lough Lene in County Westmeath, near Fore village. The abbey was founded by Saint Feichinin 630 CE and functioned for over 900 years. By 665 CE (the time of the yellow plague), the abbey is believed to have housed up to 300 Benedictine monks from Normandy and 2000 students. Architectural additions and damage by fire have altered the site’s appearance and layout over the centuries. It is a popular tourist site but also a popular local attraction due to the Abbey being also noted for what local populations call its seven wonders: the monastery built upon the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that won’t burn, the water that doesn’t boil , the anchorite in a cell and the lintel stone raised by St Fechins prayers.

If you want to know more about these wonders you will just have to visit.

Tintern Abbey Co Wexford

Tintern Abbey is located near New Ross in County Wexford, an evocative piece of Irish monastic history. The abbey takes its name from Tintern in Wales and was founded by the Earl of Pembroke founded Tintern Abbey in about 1200.

Legends say that when the Earl of Pembroke encountered a life-threatening storm during a sea voyage, he vowed to establish an abbey if he reached land safely. The abbey is often referred to as Tintern de Voto, or Tintern of the Vow as a result. It was inhabited by Cistercian monks from a larger abbey at Tintern, Wales, of which the Earl was also a patron. Today, visitors to the lovely County Wexford site can view the remains of the nave, chancel, tower, chapel and cloister. They can also participate in 45-minute guided tours of the property, which, in the 16th century, became living quarters for the Colclough family.

Grey Abbey, County Down

Join a local guide for a walk through the ruins of this 12th century Cistercian Abbey, the only Abbey in Ireland founded by a woman and the first example of Gothic architecture on the island. Starting at the Visitor Centre, hear the story of the Abbey through the ages including the 1798 rebellion and our shared past. As you walk around the Abbey itself, learn about the Cistercian way of life and their close ties to early medicine. Visit the reconstructed Physic Garden where over 40 herbs & plants the monks used to produce their cures/medicines still thrive.

The world is getting ready to travel again so why not let Katie Daly’s Ireland help plan your 2021 trip to Ireland and we can help get you to see some of these historic sites in person.

 

 

 

Immerse yourself in Ireland’s food culture and meet the people behind the food; off-the-peg or bespoke experiences, inviting you to discover the true taste of Ireland with Good Food Ireland.

There is no better way of understanding a culture than by eating its food. And this is never more true than with Ireland. An island nation on the edge of Europe, as a people we are all only one or two generations removed from agriculture. (My own grandparents were farmers on my Mum’s side and farm laborers on Dad’s side). Ireland’s location and climate have influenced our culinary culture and today as we produce new ingredients and discover global tastes our true cuisine is still based on this core foundation.

“The secret of Irish cuisine is the naturally high quality of our ingredients” says Margaret Jeffares, Founder of Good Food Ireland® the all island quality assured network of food and drink providers. I had the pleasure of working with Margaret on a Good Food Ireland webinar to our valued travel trade on July 15^th , and please email me if you wish a copy of the presentation.

Good Food Ireland® has 15 years’ experience showcasing and defining Ireland’s food scene and offers visitors unparalleled access and a wealth of knowledge like no one else. It is based on a philosophy around the commitment to using Irish ingredients in produce and cuisine, supporting Irish farmers, food producers and fishermen, creating sustainable local communities. The team journeys up and down the country inspecting businesses to ensure everywhere they recommend, meets the quality guarantee for the very best local Irish food and drink experiences. You get exclusive access to the people behind Ireland’s food, hear their stories and discover the true taste of Ireland as you are immersed in the farm to fork lifestyle that defines and inspires Good Food Ireland® every day.

Exclusive Food & Drink Experiences that can be booked through Katie Daly’s Ireland. The below is just a selection of Good Food Ireland Experiences, some available for Groups only.

Visit a Craft Beer Brewery on a working Dairy Farm. -County Monaghan

It’s not often you can experience a craft brewery on a dairy farm. But in Ireland we’ve been brewing beer for centuries and milking cows too. This is a brewery experience with a difference. Based on a family dairy farm in an area where 5,000 years of history lie buried, you will not only learn about the brewing process and handle the malt and hop ingredients but also see the dairy parlour, the cows, hear the history of this ancient Ireland location and taste the beer in the original family homestead, complete with dresser, traditional range cooker, old photographs and memorabilia of times past. You can even choose to hand label and buy your own personal bottle of hand-crafted beer. Siobhan will take you on a very personal experience that will immerse you in art of craft brewing, the cultural traditions of the area and give insights to a local family that has been ensconced in the region for hundreds of years.

Clay Pigeon Shooting & Lunch in Magnificent Historic House & Garden – County Cork

On arrival, guests will meet in the house for tea or coffee, and Bertha’s Revenge Gin tipples (distilled on site). Owner and shooting expert Justin will give a full shoot safety briefing. The Clay Pigeon Shooting will take place in the magnificent setting of this historic house on the lawn field. Shotguns, 50 cartridges per person and ear defenders will be supplied together with insurance for the event. After shooting, house chef Steve will prepare a 3 course lunch – includes a starter, main, pudding and tea or coffee which you will enjoy in the main house or on the dining terrace.  Made also with seasonal ingredients from their own walled garden and local artisan produce, this clay pigeon shooting and lunch experience will create a lasting memory of the unique taste and flavour of this idyllic area. -Minimum Number of 10

Oyster Farm Experience

Oysters thrive on our clean and natural coastline. This experience will take you to the shore where you will witness the oyster beds, find out how they grow and discover the unique taste and flavour that makes Irish oysters much sought after all over the world.

Gin Distillery Tour and Round Table Lunch in Historic House

This is a Gin Tour with a difference! A local small batch gin distilled in the farmyard of their own historic house and garden, by the owner and Master Distiller Justin. On arrival you will be met by Justin who will take you on a tour of this truly magical historic house and garden. Walking through the grounds you then visit the artisan distillery and hear all about the distilling process. On tasting you will know why this award-winning gin is so special. Afterwards return to the house for a delicious 3 course lunch – includes a starter, main, pudding and tea or coffee. Made with seasonal ingredients from their own walled garden and local artisan produce, house chef Steve will craft a wonderful lunch experience

Dine with a Local Chef at a Private Lunch – Donegal

This is an intimate experience where you will dine with chef Chris who will host and cook a 5-course tasting lunch menu, crafted from local ingredients, from local people along the Wild Atlantic Way. The menu will take you on a tour of the Donegal “trough”, where Chris and Linda will tell you stories of each dish, of local people and the region’s food culture. A unique taste and flavour, this private experience really is contemporary Irish cooking at its best.

Chocolate Tasting, Chocolate Making & Chocolate Afternoon Tea – Carlow

The Experience begins with a Multisensory Tasting and Interpretation of Chocolate Samples especially chosen to give you an insight into chocolate quality, texture, taste and even sound! The skilled team will explain the finer points that make their chocolate so special. Following this, you will enjoy Afternoon Tea with a difference, of course you will have your choice of Barista Coffee or Speciality Tea, but Jim and Mary’s award-winning Hot Chocolate is really a must! Accompanied by freshly baked scones, whipped Irish dairy cream and homemade strawberry jam, you will also get delicious chocolate brownies and chocolate cakes. Now to the next bit, yes there’s more! Make and decorate your very own Chocolate Moulded Creation to take home, complete with its own mould. As you wait for your mould to cool, you will enjoy a Luxury Chocolate Mallow Fondue and then on return with your moulds, you will be presented with a Chocolate Taster’s Certificate. Now this is a must have Experience for all chocolate lovers!

Private Irish Whiskey Tasting in Historic Landmark Hotel – Dublin’s Shelbourne Hotel

If you’ve always wanted to compare Irish Whiskeys or discover what you like, well this is the perfect sensory experience, in a relaxed and refined setting. In this private 30-minute tasting, an expert from The Horseshoe Bar Team will impart their vast and arcane knowledge of Irish Whiskey, immersing you in the fascinating story behind the glorious ‘Uisce Beatha’. Irish Whiskey was one of the earliest distilled drinks in Europe, beginning around the 12th century, with production reaching its peak in the 1700s, when there were over 1200 distilleries in the country. The fact that the Irish for Whiskey is Uisce Beatha, meaning water of life, probably says it all regarding the importance in Ireland of this drink. You will enjoy a signature Irish Whiskey tasting flight of 4 very individual and special Whiskeys – Midleton Very Rare, Bushmills 10 Year Old Single Malt, Connemara 12-year-old, Green Spot Single Pot Still Whiskey as you are guided through each taster. Now what’s not love about this!

Blackcurrant Fruit Farm and Garden Lunch -Wexford

On arrival to the farm you will meet Des and his two golden retrievers Molly and Sophie, don’t worry they are very friendly. As you walk with Des through the blackcurrant plantations you will hear how these humble Irish super berries became interwoven in Wexford’s cultural history. Learn about biodiverse growing methods and the unique soil of Wexford’s Sloblands, that gives the berries a taste and flavour like no other, anywhere in the world. You will see the hedgehog piles, the bird boxes and wildlife habitats that all contribute to sustainable production. Young horses and breeding mares graze the pasture land and if you are lucky enough you will see the new season baby foals. You can even give a carrot to Tom, Sooty and Beauty, the farm’s resident donkeys. On returning to the historic farmyard and home dating back to 1629, you will savour the taste and enjoy a delicious blackcurrant cocktail (non-alcoholic) made from the berries grown and harvested on the farm.

Contact Katie Daly’s Ireland now to book your Good Food Ireland Tour for 2021

The island of Ireland is famous for many things. It’s warm welcome, its magical castles, incredible landscapes and gorgeous blue seas.  We are also known throughout the world for our traditional (Trad) music, & Guinness both of which can be found in the many pubs of Ireland, in our colourful towns and rural areas and villages, our Islands & Vibrant cities….You may think you have been to every type of pub imaginable but Ireland has some unique pubs to visit. Ancient thatch pubs, pubs that double up as an undertakers and fabulous old traditional pubs hidden away in sleepy towns and villages. When it comes to Craic (fun), Culture and Ceoil (music), Ireland’s pubs are the place to be.

We eagerly await the day when the pubs of Ireland re open on July 20^th, but for now grab a virtual stool, get comfortable and let me share some of the best pubs of Ireland…….

 

The Palace Bar Dublin

Hands down my favourite bar in Dublin City. I was the first female bartender at the Palace back when I was a student in Cathal Brugha Street and have so many wonderful memories of this city center bar -both sides of the counter!  It is full of character, charming and homely and yes, serves a great pint of Guinness too! Built in 1823, it has been operating as a bar since. It has been a local for many famous Irish writers over the years and the famous lamp-posts outside even pay tribute to them…

The Crosskeys Inn Co Antrim 

This is Irelands oldest thatched pub and famous traditional music venue. A traditional Irish pub dating back to 1654 the Crosskeys is approximately 30 minutes from Belfast. Located centrally in the North of Ireland just north of Lough Neagh and approximately 1 hour drive from the Causeway Coastal route makes it the perfect destination for all visitors to Northern Ireland. With stone floors, uneven walls and low ceilings, it really is an authentic Irish pub!

Seans Bar, County West Meath

Situated in the Heart of Ireland halfway between Dublin and Galway, (great stop for this drive across the country) Sean’s Bar plays host to visitors from all around the world. Whether absorbing the history, listening to  music, visiting with friends and family or simply enjoying the perfect pint, the appeal is equally strong for everyone. Listed in both “25 of the Most Incredible Bars in the World” and “50 Bars to Blow Your Mind” by Lonely Planet, a visit to Sean’s is a must!

Joe Watty’s Bar on the Aran Islands

Joe Wattys Bar & Seafood Restaurant is a welcoming local Aran islands bar with good food, music & craic located just a short walk from the pier in Kilronan village. A wide selection of craft beers, wines and whiskeys are available at the bar where you might also learn a cúpla focal (few words of Irish) from some of the locals. Live music is core to what Joe Wattys is about and  there is live traditional Irish music seven nights a week in the summer season with ballads and tunes in the evenings and anything from Trad, Country, Folk to Blues later on, indeed that are very proud to be listed by Lonely Planet in the Top 10 pubs in Ireland for Traditional Music.

Johnnie Fox’s Pub, Glencullen Co Dublin

Johnnie Fox’s is famed as the “highest pub in Ireland”. The setting of Johnnie Fox’s is just like you have been invited to a 19th century rural Irish home, with food and service to 21st century standards. Whether you are looking to simply enjoy a pint, to get a glimpse of ‘old Ireland’, to enjoy a tasty meal, to enjoy the unique Irish atmosphere, or to witness a spectacular cultural show, listen to some traditional Irish music, Johnnie Fox’s most definitely has something for you. Great visit for a trip outside the city and there is a shuttle bus to and from the city center

Kehoes Dublin

This is an award winning traditional Irish pub in the heart of Dublin. You can view stained glass mahogany doors, old Irish snugs (a real favourite of mine), partitions and the entire homely feel throughout the pub – and its home to a great pint! If you are looking for the quintessential pub then this is the place to go. The bar today was completed towards the end of the 19^th century and of typical Victorian style

Kellys Cellars Belfast

If you’re looking for a laid-back venue rich in history, local produce and craic choose Kelly’s Cellars in Belfast. You’ll find mid-week trad music sessions and in the summer months you will find live bands at the weekends.  Must stop on a visit to Belfast City

Mc Cathy’s Co Tipperary

Not your typical pub McCarthy’s in operates as a pub, restaurant and undertaker.   “We wine you, dine you and bury you” is their slogan. Unusual to say the least. It is one of Ireland oldest unchanged pubs that has not changed its interior since the original owners of 1840. It is well worth a visit and if you have doubts as to whether there is an undertaker just ask the owner who will show you the evidence.

Kate Kearney’s Cottage Co Kerry

Nestled at the entrance to the world-famous Gap of Dunloe lies Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150-year-old family-run establishment. The pub/restaurant is the perfect way to end a day’s sightseeing washed down with apparently the finest pint in the kingdom of Kerry. Great history with this bar, Kate was quite the business lady in her day and a legend in the area, it was here that she distilled her famous “poitin”

Brays Pub Co Meath

My first ever job (at 15 years young!) was in this traditional pub in Co Meath. It is one of the oldest pubs in Meath having had a liquor licence for over 160 years in the 1850’s. It is located in the picturesque village of Fordstown which is just up the road from where I grew up. It is still a popular establishment for the friendly locals and visitors with its warm and welcoming atmosphere and of course in the winter months the large open fire and traditional Irish music on Sunday mornings make it the perfect place to pull up a bar stool.

O’ Connors Pub Co Meath

Situated in the heritage town of Kells Co Meath is O Connors. It also happens to be my brother’s pub. Great bar with live music at weekends and a friendly atmosphere…..Great place to meet the locals!

The list of pubs could go on with over 7000 pubs on the island but I hope to have given you a taste of a few. As you can see no trip to Ireland would be complete without a visit to an Irish pub. Not necessarily just for a pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey. It is here you will find the unique characters of the local areas and you will hear the tall tales and hidden secrets. It is here you will have the greatest craic of all and you will hear some of the greatest traditional music. If music is your thing you might even be asked to join in.

Katie Daly’s Ireland looks forward to welcoming you back to the warmth and embrace of the Irish pub #WhenWeTravelAgain.

Contact us now to plan your trip to Ireland!