We came across these images of historic Ireland and were captivated by the stories they tell and by how much they reveal about life in Ireland over the past 150 years. While much has changed in that time, a surprising amount has remained the same.
Intrigued and inspired, we wanted to see how Ireland had changed over time by capturing the same scenes today. Initially, we headed out to take our own photos, capturing what these same Irish scenes look like today. In other regions, we even used Google Street View to give a 360° interactive experience of the scene.
Fashion and architecture, modes of transport and advertising, all have changed drastically over the past century and a half. But perhaps most fascinating are the details which have not changed; the buildings, businesses and landmarks which Irish people walk past every day, and the little human touches which make Ireland what it was then and what it is now.
Cork Then and Now. Zoom in to see the historic details of what locals call the Real Capital of Ireland.
Donegal Then and Now. Witness the history of a community whose culture remains unique and unspoiled .
Tipperary Then and Now. An interactive look at Tipperary today and in days gone by.
Wexford Then and Now. The human face of a community in change over a century of upheaval.
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.