Ireland's Blue Book Blog

Plan Your Trip

5 Things to do for your Country Spring Escape


Spring is in the air so it's time to plan a country escape.

Gardens

4 Glorious Gardens from Ireland's Blue Book


A garden is a beautiful way to reflect the story of a building. Across the island of Ireland there are Blue Book destinations with magnificent gardens that each reflect their own unique history. The incredible gardens that surround these houses, hotels and manors are enjoyed by guests and gardening enthusiasts alike, making them an ideal escape for those who want to enjoy the treasures and delights of a spectacular garden.

Food and Drink

Sparkling Afternoon Tea


6 Sparkling Afternoon Teas around the Island of Ireland

Wild Atlantic Way

A cycling adventure to Gregans Castle


As I sat down to dinner in Gregans Castle, one of Irelands blue book hotels, last evening looking out at the purple hue form the limestone mountain across the valley I noticed the sky beginning to change colour. As each course of my meal was presented the sky went from pink to orange to red before finally succumbing to darkness as my desert arrived.

Food and Drink

The Island's Seasonal Flavours with Ireland's Blue Book


Tastes of the season around Irelands Blue Book Houses

Plan Your Trip

12 Great Ways to Use Your Gift Voucher from Ireland’s Blue Book


The Blue Book contains beautiful country houses, hotels and restaurants all across Ireland, many set in idyllic scenic surroundings in some of the more rugged and isolated parts of this beautiful island.

Recipes

Beetroot, Blue Cheese, Garden Leaves, Toasted Pistachios and Honey Dressing


Garden Beetroot, Young Buck Blue Cheese, Walled Garden Leaves, Toasted pistachio nuts and Ballymaloe Honey Dressing from Ballymaloe House

Plan Your Trip

10 Stunning Places to See in Sligo


Things to do and places to see in Sligo

Plan Your Trip

5 Blue Book Escapes for St Patrick's Weekend


We have chosen 5 perfect spots for over the St Patrick’s weekend, all offering next-level comfort and luxury, as well as sumptuous dining options.

Recipes

7 Traditional Irish Recipes


Traditional Irish recipes from our country houses

Wild Atlantic Way

16 Unique Places to Stay on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way


Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way stretches from the Northern Headlands to the Surf Coast, and is famous for its sweeping coastlines, towering sea cliffs, and diverse landscapes.

Ireland's Blue Book Family

Fresh Air, Facials and Cookery Classes at Dunbrody Country House Hotel


Escape to Dunbrody Country House Hotel in County Wexford for a Wellness Weekend

Wild Atlantic Way

6 Things to do in Kerry


Things to do and places to see in Kerry

Food and Drink

Ireland is your Oyster


The first of the native Irish oysters are appearing on menus around the country, and are being served in the Blue Book Houses

Wild Atlantic Way

8 of Ireland's Wonderful Greenways


Things to do and places to see along Ireland's Greenways

Recipes

5 Sumptuous Spring Lamb Recipes from Ireland's Blue Book


Three delicious spring lamb recipes for Easter from the chefs of Ireland's Blue Book

History

Heritage and History - Clare Island Lighthouse


Islanders are exceptionally proud of their rich heritage and history. Glimpses of Clare Island’s intriguing past are evident at every turn; across the island there are traces of past generations everywhere.

Food and Drink

Mother's Day Takeout Options


Treat your Mum to a special takeaway this Mother's Day from Ireland's Blue Book

Plan Your Trip

7 Lovely Places to Visit in Limerick


Things to do and places to see in Limerick

Activities

The Top 10 Golf Courses in Ireland


Ireland, with its lush green landscapes and dramatic coastal cliffs, is a golfer's paradise. The country boasts an array of golf courses that not only challenge players' skills but also offer stunning natural beauty. From rugged links courses to scenic parklands, Ireland has it all. In this post, we'll take you on a journey through the top 10 best golf courses Ireland has to offer.

Recipes

Traditional Irish Stew from Butler House


Traditional Irish Stew Recipe from Chef Gerard Dunne, Butler House

Food and Drink

Rise and Shine - The Best of Blue Book Breakfasts


Who doesn't love a hotel or country house breakfast - here, we've put together 8 of the best

Food and Drink

8 Things to do on the coast of Northern Ireland


Things to do on Northern Ireland's coast

History

3 Romantic Castle Breaks For a Fairy-Tale Getaway


3 Romantic castle breaks for a fairy-tale getaway with your loved one

Romance

3 Romantic Spa Treatments for Two


Planning something romantic for Valentine’s day? Treat someone special to these treatments for two… Some things are better together.

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