The North West of Ireland has, possibly, the strongest connection with the 'old world' vision of Ireland. 25% of all the Irish speaking world live in County Donegal. It's the region, along with the West, that was most affected by mass emigration during the 19th and 20th centuries. Many towns and villages were left deserted by their youth and, consequently, left without any inhabitants. Abandoned stone settlements can still be seen dotted along the countryside. From these grim surroundings, the people that remained harvested a culture aimed at keeping the traditions of Irish music and art alive and well.
While not the birthplace of the W.B Yeats, globally recognised as one of the 20th-century's most important literary figures, County Sligo held a special place in his heart. Having spent his childhood holidays here he fell in love with the area. He is buried in the town of Drumcliffe, County Sligo, and his grave has since become a pilgrimage for his fans.
The majority of art galleries of the Northwest are home to works by local artists. During the summer months it is also common to find exhibitions and installations on tour, both of local, Irish and international artists.
There are not many noteworthy music venues in the Northwest. If you are traveling in the area and would like to experience some live music, your safest option is to head for Letterkenny, County Donegal. Here you'll find An Grianán Theatre and Club Voodoo. An Grianán Theatre is a purpose-built theatre hosting stage plays, comedy acts, live bands and orchestras. Club Voodoo is a bar and nightclub that occasionally hosts live music.
Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
Adare. In the heart of county Limerick County Limerick we take time to stroll the main street of the beautiful thatched cottages in Adare
Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way
Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.
The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.
About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.
Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Located on the shores of Belfast Lough in County Antrim, Carrickfergus Castle is a Norman castle dating back to 1177. First used as a headquarters for John de Courcy after he took control of eastern Ulster, where he ruled as a petty king until 1204. Over the years, the castle was Besieged by the native Irish, the Scottish, the English and the French. Today it stands as one of the best preserved structures from the medieval era in Northern Ireland.
Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.