Destination Ireland Guide

Head to the Cork Harbour Festival this May to witness the thrills and spectacle of one of Europe’s largest multi-craft races and enjoy the lively maritime festival. The Cork Harbour Festival (24 May to 2 June) is a celebration of Cork’s maritime history and heritage with over 80 events across the city and county ranging from fun on-the-water adventures to...

2025 marks the 600th birthday of Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s most authentic and complete castles. Whether you choose to wander its ramparts, raise a goblet at a medieval banquet or stroll its beautiful walled garden, there’s never been a better time to visit Six hundred years ago, stonemasons were at work along the River Ratty in south County Clare....

Bloomsday is a festival like no other, celebrating the genius of James Joyce and his beloved city of Dublin. Step into the Dublin of James Joyce through the eclectic mix of over 100 events that make up the world-famous Bloomsday Festival (11–16 June), a highlight of Dublin’s cultural calendar. Named after Leopold Bloom, the lead character in Joyce’s seminal novel...

The region’s largest agri-food show offers a unique and memorable insight into rural Ireland If you’ve never seen a dancing JCB digger, the Balmoral Show (14–17 May) is your chance to see not one but eight in an awesome performance of synchronised machine manoeuvring. It’s just one of many entertaining events taking place over the four days of Northern Ireland’s...

Dance through summer in Northern Ireland where you’ll find a superb line-up of festivals featuring top international acts.   Whether you are a fan of jazz or folk, or you prefer to rock out, music lovers of all kinds can look forward to a fantastic line-up of festivals and events taking place this year in Northern Ireland. Here’s the pick...