What's New in Ireland

Dublin Hotel Update: Good news for Dublin - hotel room supply is due to increase by 15% over the next three years. A further 3,000 rooms are due to be added to the existing 19,000.

New Dublin Distillery Opens: An unusual attraction has just opened in Dublin - a whiskey distillery in a former church! The Pearse Lyons Distillery offers tours of the beautifully renovated St. James's Church where visitors will learn about how the whiskey is made and can taste the three varieties produced there.

Launch of Slane Distillery: In nearby Meath, the iconic Slane Castle has opened its own whiskey distillery in the grounds of its 250 year old stables. Used to hosting world-famous acts like Madonna and David Bowie, the estate will now welcome whiskey-lovers to its visitor centre where they can try triple casked whiskey in the Stalls Bar.

Downpatrick: Where Ireland's History Begins: The ancient Medieval town of Downpatrick offers visitors an insight into the unique history of St. Patrick, a wealth of tourist attractions and some of Northern Ireland's most beautiful scenery. Visit St. Patrick's Centre, Saul Church (the first church in Ireland), Denvir's Coaching Inn and Down Cathedral where the grave of St. Patrick is located. Visitors can also follow in the footsteps of Ireland's patron saint on the St. Patrick's Way, a new walking route stretching from Armagh to Downpatrick. Covering some of the most important sites in St. Patrick's story, the route also takes in a range of breath-taking Irish landscapes.