County Kildare

With a history stretching back 800 years, Malahide is one of the oldest castles in Ireland. This magnificent medieval fortress was home to the Talbot family for generations, and is packed with treasures – from portraiture and period furniture to frescoes and vintage toys. In the castle grounds are the lovely Talbot Botanical Gardens, created in the 20^th century by the last of the Talbots.

This historic house situated in Dublin’s Phoenix Park dates back to the 18^th century, and today is used to host dignitaries visiting the city. The Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian influenced property is surrounded by pleasure grounds and boasts fascinating collections inside which incorporate rare books and manuscripts, artworks, and period furnishings.

Newbridge Silverware was founded in 1934, making it one of Ireland’s oldest surviving companies. Originally a producer of fine cutlery, the company now produces stylish jewellery and gifts which are coveted by royalty and celebrities.

At the heart of Ireland’s horse industry, this facility breeds fine thoroughbred horses and is the home of equine royalty. As well as immaculately bred stallions, the farm also has wonderfully tranquil Japanese gardens, which were created in 1910 and are beautifully maintained.

Coolcarrigan is a Georgian mansion situated in 15 acres of grounds known for their rare and unusual trees. There is also a quirky church on the property, dating back to the 1880s, which has interesting stained glass and is surrounded by a dry moat.

Lullymore is a park and heritage centre dedicated to life in the Irish Peatlands. Giving an insight into this fascinating area, where people have lived for millennia, Lullymore’s exhibitions delve into a past of ancient rituals, Stone Age farmsteads, Irish folklore and political rebellions. It is also an area of incredible biodiversity.