Are you looking for some last-minute Valentine’s inspiration? Anyone can buy a box of chocolates and a card, but if you bring your loved one to any of these spots across Ireland, you will sweep them off their feet – trust us!
Ballynahinch Castle, Galway
Located in the tranquil depths of Connemara, Ballynahinch Castle is surrounded by woodland and mountains overlooking the Owenmore River. The perfect spot to explore Connemara and go for romantic walks around the woods. Not only is the location to die for, but the beautifully appointed suites are a real treat too. Wake up to the sound of the river meandering past your window in the morning before enjoying breakfast in the elegant restaurant. Now, does that not sound divine?
Travel with Irish Citylink from Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Ballinasloe, Athlone, Kinnegad and more! Check out our website for more details at Citylink.ie
Fota Island Resort, Cork
One of the very few resort hotels in Ireland, Fota Island is the heighth of luxury. Situated on its own private island, you can escape the hustle and bustle of life amidst the tranquillity of Cork Harbour. Enjoy nature walks, pools, a spa, tennis, golf, and gym facilities. They have everything you would want for a relaxing time away with your partner while only being a 15-minute drive from Cork City. So, if you fancy a little wild night out during your stay, you can always mix it up and hit the town too!
Travel with Irish Citylink from Galway or Limerick! Check out our website for more details at Citylink.ie . Alternatively, you can travel from Dublin Airport/City to Cork City via gobus.ie
Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin
Clontarf Castle Hotel in Dublin is a perfect blend of boutique and luxury. Its unique style and modern aesthetic built around an ancient form make you feel a bit royal. Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Dublin City Centre and 5 miles from Dublin Airport, Clontarf Castle Hotel is known for being an oasis tucked away in a tranquil setting, surrounded by fabulous golf courses and the sounds of lapping waters from the sea. It is the ideal romantic getaway.
Travel with Irish Citylink on our Express Galway – Dublin route or our Multi-Stop route serving Galway, Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Kineegad and more! Check out our website for more details at Citylink.ie .
Have any queries about our services? All information about our services can be found on citylink.ie or gobus.ie
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The countdown is on until the holidays are here, and we are looking forward to when we get time to spend with those we hold dear. Days out with our loved ones can bring so much cheer this time of year, so we have found some fun-filled festive activities in Galway for you to try!
The Famous Galway Christmas Market
As we all know, the Galway Christmas market is one of the best things in Galway this time of year to feel that holiday spirit. Containing various stalls with an array of crafts and gift ideas, along with mountains of good food and drink options to choose from.
Enjoy a magical walk through the enchanted light gardens with friends and family, which can make for the perfect insta photo!
Festiva Afternoon Tea at the G Hotel
Next up is the G-Hotel’s Festive Afternoon Tea. With the weather being so cold, inside is where you want to be! Treat yourself in the run-up to the holidays with the delicious, savoury, and sweet treats they have to offer. Indulge in a selection of delicate sandwiches, including the festive-inspired sausage stuffing, walnut & sage croquette with a cranberry gel and turkey coronation & cranberry sandwich. Ooo, that sounds good!
The g’s pastry team have also curated a host of treats for the occasion, such as the traditional Christmas pudding, baileys and a salted caramel yule log. Why not go wild and absolutely spoil yourself with a refreshing glass of Taittinger Champagne? It’s exactly what you deserve.
Elftown
If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Elftown for a truly magical experience. A 2-hour Christmas experience set over 3 different buildings, with the mystical journey set over 4 floors.
And, at the end of your journey, you and your family get a private visit with Santa! Who is the most realistic and authentic Santa you will find in all the land. Children will be amazed when he knows a little secret about each child.
Every child will receive an Elf Town branded gift pack with an official invite from Santa to Elf Town this year. They have a unique Golden ticket and map of Elf Town addressed to the children and delivered by reindeer post before your booking date. All are included with your ticket purchase.
Last-minute stocking fillers from the Sock Society
If you’re looking to do some last-minute shopping to fill your stockings, we recommend hunting down a pair of the Sock Societies socks. Designed right here in Galway, these are the coolest, most colourful and funny socks you could find! These guys know exactly how to bring your feet to life and would make the perfect gift.
Don’t miss out on the festive fun! Book your journey NOW at Irish Citylink or Gobus to enjoy any of these festive activities with your loved ones over the holiday season!
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It’s almost that time of year when everyone’s favourite question is creeping into the conversation again.. so what is Santy bringing ye for Christmas?
Christmas music is playing in the shops, the decorations are being installed, and most importantly, the Christmas markets are coming to towns across Ireland. We love the hustle and bustle these markets bring at Christmas time, with the beautifully crafted gift options and festive appetisers to keep us all jolly. We have compiled a list of the best markets to visit during the holiday season to get you right in the Christmas spirit!
Coming in at number 1 is the Galway Christmas market! Close to our hearts and in the City of Tribes, the Galway Christmas market is back to bring its beautiful sparkle from 6pm on Friday, 11th November, until Thursday, 22nd December 2022.
This will be the thirteenth year of the market in Galway. Visitors can enjoy various stalls in Eyre Square along with amusement rides, including a 32-metre-high Ferris Wheel and Santa’s Express Train! Enjoy a magical walk through the enchanted light gardens with friends and family, which can make for the perfect insta photo!
The 2022 Market will also feature Christmas gift ideas from local and European traders.
Looking to get to the Galway Markets this year? We have daily services up to every 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and Dublin City to Galway!
Every year, Glow Cork transforms Bishop Lucey Park into an enchanting Christmas festival in the centre of Cork city. This year Glow runs from November 25th – January 8th. Here you will find Santa’s magical workshop deep within a winter wonderland. Here, Santa’s elves prepare him for his busiest night of the year, delivering presents to the world! But, before you go, get the kids to write their Santa letter before going so they can post it in Glow’s letterbox when you get there.
If you plan on making the family trip to Glow Cork from Galway or Dublin, you can travel with Irish Citylink or Gobus!
3. Dublin Castle Christmas Market
At number 3, we have the Dublin Castle Christmas Market! Making its return to the courtyard of the castle for the fourth time, the market will be filled with more than 30 traditional market stalls. A little bit different to other markets, this is a tickets market that only lasts the 13 days before Christmas! Each stall features an array of crafts and gift ideas for treating your loved ones with some unique gifts. Not to mention the food and drinks stalls that will have some delicious festive goodies on offer! So let your inner child roam free and enjoy the light displays and fun fair with a vintage carousel.
Don’t miss out on the festive fun! Book your journey NOW at Irish Citylink or Gobus to any of these amazing destinations over the Christmas holiday season!
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While winter conjures up thoughts of dark, rainy weather, it is a season for some wholesome, cosey days by the fire with a mug of hot choco. So as the days get shorter and nights get longer, why not beat those winter blues with a lovely Winter Escape?
We have searched for some of Ireland’s best Winter Escapes for you!
As our Head Quarter’s are placed in Galway, Connemara has a special place in our hearts! One of the best spots to enjoy the thrill of stormy weather and a cosy home from home is the McEvilly family’s beautifully located country house hotel on Cashel Bay.
With a well-earned reputation as one of the country’s most relaxing retreats, it’s set in extensive gardens. They’re known for quiet, comfortable accommodation and good food (we hear their breakfasts are to die for!). With open fires at every turn, it’s the perfect place to chill out with a good book in winter. Sounds like heaven to me!
Dating back to the 18th Century, Dunraven Arms is a four-star hotel situated in Limerick with luxurious rooms and breathtaking views. Their rooms are wonderfully adorned with antiques and flat-screen televisions, with some suites featuring four-poster or canopy beds. You can live out a Victorian Era-styled weekend in these lavish rooms! The hotel also has a spa, indoor pool, and exercise rooms. In addition, there are three reading rooms where guests can enjoy relaxation or afternoon tea. A bit of luxury before Christmas could be precisely what you need.
The Imperial Hotel is a timeless landmark in the heart of Cork City with real character and a boutique design.
It is famous for being Cork’s first hotel built over 200 years ago. Situated in the centre of the pedestrianised zone in Cork City, it is the prime location for the perfect winter escape. The world-famous English Market and the hustle and bustle of Patrick Street and Oliver Plunkett Street are right on the doorstep! The Imperial Hotel is regarded by many as the ‘Grande Dame’ of Cork. You can enjoy the finest afternoon tea, relax is their luxury spa or enjoy their vibrant cocktail bar.
Travel with Irish Citylink from Galway or Limerick! Check out our website for more details at Citylink.ie . Alternatively, you can travel from Dublin Airport/City to Cork City via gobus.ie
If you’re looking for more of a homely feel, then the Wineport Lodge is just the place for you. With a unique sense of cosiness and comfort at every turn, the Wineport Lodge is situated on the banks of Lough Ree. Its tranquil country setting, paired with the native woodland and water, creates the perfect peaceful atmosphere for those looking for time away from a busy lifestyle. They even have rooms with private balconies overlooking the lake! You can cosy up in the lakeshore lounge with a warm glass of mulled wine and savour a leisurely breakfast in bed the following day.
Find out more about what they have to offer here: Wineport Lodge
Travel with Irish Citylink on our Multi-Stop route serving Galway, Ballinasloe, Loughrea, Kineegad and more! Check out our website for more details at Citylink.ie .
Have any queries about our services? All information about our services can be found on citylink.ie or gobus.ie
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Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble!
The air is getting crisper, the leaves are getting crunchier, and pumpkin-spiced lattes are back in town. All of this means one important thing… Spooky Season is upon us! As the land of myths and legends, Halloween is a tradition that has been celebrated in Ireland for well over a thousand years.
Which got us wondering… what exactly are the origins of Halloween? Although wildly popular in America (as one of the best nights of the year), Halloween is filled with street decorations, on people’s houses and costumed kids running around. Some might think it came from Mexico’s Day of the Dead. However, the festival of Halloween actually originated in Ireland as a pagan festival called Samhain (pronounced saw-when). This was when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts before welcoming the darker months of the year.
In modern times though, Ireland is very similar to America in the tradition of good old trick or treating, not to mention the barmbrack tradition, bopping for apples and fireworks! Since this Halloween is the first without social distancing in two years, we imagine everyone will only be itching to get out and have some spooky-filled fun.
We’ve done you the favour of finding some of the best Halloween-themed events happening in Ireland over the next few weeks!
THE NIGHTMARE REALM – DUBLIN
At Number One is The Nightmare Realm, known for being the ‘Most Entertaining Horror Experience’ and even awarded ‘No.1 Haunt in the world!’
From humble beginningsin Tralee, Kerry, back in 2009, to now having its 7th year in the Big Smoke (Dublin City), The Nightmare Realm set out to terrorise the people of Ireland. Each year is different to the last as they redesign haunt themes and mazes, switch up characters and update their most infamous rooms! Nothing is ever the same as it once was. It’s innovative, entertaining and, most importantly.. absolutely terrifying!
Sounds like a bit of you? Check them out here for more information: The Nightmare Realm
Known for their infamous Halloween Parades, Macnas are up to something very different this year. Instead of roaming the streets of Galway, you can find them at Macnas HQ at Fisheries Field, Galway, where apparently an ancient giant named Con Mór lives! Professor Marjorie Morrigan, an expert in Giants & Where They Come From, has said – “This giant seems to have been here for centuries. There is a very large iron nose, so big and rusty, you could park a car in one of the nostrils.”
The word on the street is this big fella belongs to the legendary Tuatha De Danann tribe and comes from an ancient Island of Giants off the coast of Connaught. Con Mór was so famous across Ireland for his love of birds and nature that his friends called him The Bird King!
Perfect for the family and kids, or even those really big kids who just never knew how to grow up. You can see CON MÓR, The Giant, situated on the banks of the River Corrib from 12 noon on Saturday, 29th & Sunday, 30th October 2022. Keep an eye out and see if you catch the pop-up performances from the Macnas Drummers, Macnas Brass, Macnas Stilters and Macnas Youth Theatre across Galway city!
Travel from Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Ballinasloe, Athlone, Kinnegad and more! Check out our website for more details at citylink.ie
3. LIMERICK CIVID TRUST HAUNTED HALLOWEEN WALKING TOUR
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This year, the Limerick Civic Trust offers the opportunity to take a walking tour of Limerick’s haunted medieval quarter in St. Munchin’s Graveyard and Bishop’s Palace, Church Street, Kings Island. Hear about all the tales of Limerick’s ghastly past with tales of ghosts that are said to haunt The Bishop’s Palace and the area of King’s Island to this very day!
You’ll get to hear first-hand about the haunting experiences that the Limerick Civic Trust staff and volunteers have experienced in the building. The tour takes you all around these areas where terrible murders took place. Where ghosts that warn of impending death live, such as the Delmedge ghost that is said to haunt the area.
Due to the scary nature of the tour, apparently, participants are even asked to sign a waiver before partaking in the tour! Saying all those who manage to complete the tour will receive a certificate of completion will show just how brave you are.
Tours run every day from Wednesday, 25th October to Tuesday, 31st October, inclusive at 5 pm & 6 pm.
This year marks the awakening of a giant and beautiful beast. Coming out of her slumber and calling out to her legion of otherworldly night creatures to celebrate Samhain. The moment when our human world and the other world, the unseen world of shadows, coexist freely.
Welcoming its 17th year, the Dragon of Shandon Parade is the highlight of CCAL’s annual arts calendar. Working with local artists to create a cultural hub and provide a friendly and carnival atmosphere within the entire city on Halloween night.
Some of the groups already involved in this year’s parade so far are the Cope Foundation, National Learning Network, YMCA, Aisling Cap, Joan Denise School of Dance, Cork City Samba, Circus Factory, The Tribe Dance Academy, UCC Film and Screen Media, Aatma Indian Dance Troupe and many more.
It looks and sounds like it is NOT to be missed! For more information, click here: DRAGON OF THE SHANDON
Nothing beats the post Summer blues like a cheeky Autumn getaway to look forward to. There are many amazing destinations at our doorstep in Europe, waiting to be explored. Keep reading to find out about our Top 5 picks for an Autumn City Break in Europe.
Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is well known for its sovereign heritage, cobbled streets lined with historic facades, and is the 2nd most bicycle-friendly city in the world. The beautiful city’s historical and cultural attractions have made it the second-most visited destination in the UK!
Recognised as the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh is the seat of the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the highest courts in Scotland. The city’s Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, making it rich in history and artefacts.
You can fly to Edinburgh from all major airports in Ireland, including Cork Airport and Dublin Airport, served by Citylink Routes 251 and 761/763.
Some of the main attractions in Edinburgh include:
Arthurs Seat: An ancient volcano site in Edinburgh
Calton Hill: An exceptional viewpoint and site of many historical monuments
The Royal Mile: The walk from Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle
Illusion Museum: A really cool spectral museum near Edinburgh Castle
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1 hr 10 mins
Travel time from Cork Airport is 1hr 20 mins
2. Brussels
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is home to the seat of the European Parliament and the Belgian Royal Family is a wonderland to visit. Walking through the streets, you’re met with incredible buildings and sites.
Brussels is known for its exquisite cuisine and beverages, including its local waffles, chocolate, french fries and its numerous types of beers.
As well as its historical and architectural landmarks; some of them registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To top it all off, Brussels is a hub for rail, road and air traffic. Sometimes considered, together with Belgium, as the geographic, economic and cultural crossroads of Europe. Brussels will be beautiful in Autumn, with the evenings turning a bit colder and the leaves changing colour.
You can travel to Brussels from Dublin Airport daily, and it is well worth a weekend getaway.
Some things to see in Brussels:
The Royal Palace of Brussels – Seat of the Royal Family
European Commission/Parliament Buildings – Government buildings of the EU
Grand Place – Historic Square in Central Brussels
Mannekin Pis – Famous Bronze Statue in Brussels
Atomium – Museum, an art centre and a cultural place.
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1hr 30 mins
3. Madrid
The capital of Spain, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid is a hub of business and tourism in Spain, housing the headquarters of the UN’s World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB), the Organization of Ibero-American States (OEI), and the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB).
As well as Spain’s political capital, Madrid is Spain’s royal capital, with the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) situated in the centre of the city. Madrid is bursting with activities and sites, including the Buen Retiro Park, the Reina Sofia and Prado Museum. Enjoy amazing art museums, the Gran Via shopping district, and a thriving nightlife.
The autonomous region of Madrid also hosts cities like Toledo and Segovia, both sites oozing with history.
You can fly directly to Madrid from Dublin Airport, making it a very convenient city to travel to!
Some sites to see include:
Retiro Park – Huge park in the City Centre with 2 leisurely lakes
Gran Via – Shopping district in Madrid with many famous brand stores
Segovia – Medieval town in Madrid with a massive viaduct at the entrance of the town
Museums – The Reina Sofia and Prado are famous museums hosting artists like Picasso and Goya
Teatro Real – The Spanish Opera, hosting magnificent operatic art performances
Palacio Real – The Royal Palace of Spain and the city residence of the Spanish royal family
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 30 mins
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world of culture, politics, media and science. It is Germany’s capital and largest city, bursting with a fascinating history. Not only that, but it is one of the most populous cities in Europe!
The city’s main features are the many lakes in the western and southeastern boroughs formed by the Spree, Havel, and Dahme rivers. Due to its location in the European Plain, Berlin is influenced by a temperate seasonal climate. As a result, about one-third of the city’s area comprises forests, parks, gardens, rivers, canals and lakes.
The city has numerous orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues and hosts many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe and one of the most popular worldwide. The city is also well known for its festivals, diverse architecture, nightlife, contemporary arts and very high quality of living.
Things to do:
Brandenburg Gate – Grand classical archway and city divide
Reichstag Building – Historic, glass-domed home of Parliament
East Side Gallery – Section of Berlin Wall for street art
Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe – Columns commemorating the Holocaust
Checkpoint Charlie– Cold War and East/West border landmark
Museum Island – Art museum and Cathedral
Travel Time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 20 Mins
5. Venice, Italy
Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is situated on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. Venice was once a financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. And a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of Lepanto. During this period, it was also an important centre of commerce – especially for silk, grain, spices, and art from the 13th century to the end of the 17th.
The lagoon and a part of the city are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of Venice are renowned for the beauty of their settings, architecture, and artwork. In addition, Venice is known for several important artistic movements – especially during the Renaissance period.
Although the city is facing some challenges (including an excessive number of tourists and problems caused by pollution), Venice remains a top-rated tourist destination. It has been ranked the most beautiful city in the world numerous times. It has been described by the Times Online as one of Europe’s most romantic cities and by The New York Times as “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man”.
Things to do:
Grand Canal – Canal, basilica and palace
Rialto Bridge – Ornate footbridge over the Grand Canal
St. Mark’s Square – Landmark basilica-dominated square
St. Mark’s Basilica – Landmark cathedral with gilded domes
Burano – Island of lace-making and colourful fishermen’s homes
Murano – Museo del Vetro and glass souvenirs
Bridge of Sighs – Iconic white-stone enclosed bridge
Flight time from Dublin Airport is 2 hrs 40 mins
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No matter where you decide to travel, you are guaranteed to find some delicious cuisine, historic landmarks, fantastic nightlife, beautiful scenery and much more!
Travelling to Dublin Airport? Travel in luxury with Citylink. Our coaches offer onboard toilets, Free WiFi, charging points, generous luggage allowances, comfortable seats and friendly and helpful drivers.
Have any queries about our services? All information about our services can be found on http://www.citylink.ie
For a relatively small island, Ireland is blessed to have several airports for passengers to travel through. Each of the four provinces has at least one international airport, which makes Ireland a very well-connected country. In recent months, now that travel has returned to near normal, major airports across the world have seen delays and disruptions. However, cork Airport, Ireland’s second-largest airport, was ready to adapt and grow and is still expanding services, offering a lot of international routes.
Citylink proudly serves Cork Airport as part of the 251 Galway-Limerick-Cork Route, offering times to compliment outgoing and incoming flights. Our team recently took a trip down to Cork Airport to see how handy it is to get through the airport – From Door to Departures.
Citylink services pull up right outside the terminal building of Cork Airport. If the bus was any closer, it’d be on the tarmac with the plane! When you disembark the bus, you’re just a few metres away from the entrance to the building. Cork Airport is pretty compact. Everything is there for you as you walk through the main doors. You have your check-in desks in front of you, cafes and shops to the left, seating areas dotted along the building, and cool displays showing local bars and restaurants.
When you start making your way through the airport and get through security, it will literally take a couple of minutes to get from the front door to your departure gate (not including a stop in Duty-Free, mind you).
A trip through the airport is not complete until you spend some time in Duty-Free. When you get through security, you’ll find yourself in “The Loop.” Alcohol, perfumes, chocolates, and Clonakilty sausages and rashers are the perfect items to be shopping for before boarding your plane.
On our trip through the airport, we were amazed at how quick and convenient the airport was and how easy it was to navigate, which, for any traveler, is very reassuring.
The same can be said for inbound passengers to Cork Airport. You disembark the aircraft, and you’re nearly immediately at passport control. Once you’ve finished up there, you simply turn around the corner, and you’re at baggage claim! Before you know it, you’re passing through the doors to the arrivals lounge – back to where your journey through Cork Airport began.
Citylink offers 8 daily services to and 8 daily services from Cork Airport, bringing you to/from the airport’s front door.
Now that Cork Airport is adding more departures – including new routes to Rome and Newcastle, maybe a winter break is on the cards? We sure are tempted anyways!
At Citylink, we are proud to serve the region of Connemara. Clifden, Cleggan, Oughterard, Letterfrack – the list of stops along our 923 route are as beautiful as each other. Connemara is the perfect place for any visitor to experience the Wild Atlantic Way. It offers visitors some of the most scenic views and natural beauty you can find across Ireland. Places like Inishbofin Island, Clifden Town, Wildlands Adventures, and others provide top-notch experiences for anyone who finds themselves out in this beautiful part of Ireland.
We had the pleasure of filming and producing our brand new “Hidden Gems” ad campaign highlighting Citylink 923 Galway to Clifden/Cleggan route. With each diverse shot, you’ll be amazed by the stunning surroundings of the Wild Atlantic Coast. To coincide with this ad, we thought we’d run through some of the iconic landmarks featured in the clip that you just MUST Visit.
Known as one of the best pubs in Clifden and Voted Best Traditional Bar, Ireland 2019, 2018 & 2015, Lowry’s Bar is the perfect place for a bite to eat and a lovely pint. You will have a fantastic time with their amazing traditional style interior and charming staff. A special shout out to barman Damien, whose smile would brighten up any oul grumps day! Lowry’s Bar also has one of the most fascinating backstories we’ve ever heard, bringing a rich character to the place.
Lowry’s Bar Clifden has been in the Lowry family since 1949. At this time, Patrick Lowry, a Garda sergeant stationed in Donegal, decided to retire and move back home to his native Connemara. Upon his return, he decided to buy a pub. As chance would have it, a cousin of his was selling a pub in Clifden located at Market Street, then known as Connolly’s Bar.
So he bought the pub in Clifden, renamed it Lowry’s Bar, and sure the rest, as they say, is history! Patrick ran the business as not only a pub but a grocery as well. The grocery section was situated at the front, and the public house section was at the back. We can imagine that was very handy if you were tired after doing a day’s shopping! You could stop out the back to Lowrys Bar, where a well-poured Guinness would give you some strength for the walk home!
The most interesting part of Lowry’s history is the unique selling point of offering patrons the chance to cure a toothache! A dentist called Mr. John Bermingham operated his dental practice from a small room at the back of the pub. The story goes that patrons in Lowrys Bar would be sent out to have a sizeable Jameson after a visit to the dentist to numb any pain and, of course, settle the nerves. It’s no wonder it soon developed the reputation for being one of the best pubs in Clifden!
In 1977 Patrick’s niece Eilish and her husband Paul took ownership of Lowry’s Bar which they ran until Paul passed away in 2010. Paul was a natural in the pub, a particularly popular figure with all customers, locals, and visitors, and is sorely missed. Eilish is still involved in the pub but is now taking a well-deserved break from the business’s day-to-day running. Damien, the current owner, is the third generation of the family to own and run the pub. He hopes to emulate the great success of Patrick, Paul, and Eilish before him.
If you are looking for a place to stay while in Connemara, the Clifden Station House is the perfect base to explore the majestic beauty of Connemara.
The Clifden Station House is Galway’s most popular family hotel. Immersed in the heart of the Wild Atlantic way. The cosy modern hotel has many rooms to choose from, with double rooms, family rooms, junior suites, and deluxe double rooms available. As well as an indoor swimming pool, spa and free kids throughout the school holidays including movies shown in our own 200-seat theatre.
You can also indulge in their delicious gourmet dinners created for you by our award-winning Chef Pascal Marino. They have a fantastic 10% discount on their Gourmet Dining Breaks which are not to be missed. We treated ourselves to their stunning lunch menu at their Signal Bar & Restaurant, and we must Connemara seafood tastes divine!
Clifden Bookshop is one of the staple retail outlets in Clifden. Based on Main Street, this little gem is the perfect store to visit when you’re in the area.
The Clifden Bookshop opened in 1997. It is a niche business in the beautiful town of Clifden, known as the Capital of Connemara. When you walk through the door, you’re greeted by walls filled with gorgeous colourful books and the lovely smiling face of Nicole, the owner of Clifden Bookshop. They state, “Our mantra is that there is a book out there that is the key to unlocking a lifelong love of reading.” And have first-hand knowledge of their stock in their “Room with the Books.”
One of the very cool parts of Clifden Bookshop is you’ll see walls of familiar faces who have passed through the store over the past 25 years. You’re sure to find some inspiration here and a chance to chat about your most recently read books!
Cleggan is a beautiful seaside village right on the edge of Ireland. Cleggan is also the point for those wishing to travel to Inishbofin Island will catch the boat. When you arrive in Cleggan via Citylink, you’ll see the village has four bars Olivers, Joyces, Newmans, and The Pier Bar. One a grocer, a sit-down restaurant, and a seasonal take-out.
In addition to trips to the local islands, leisure activities for visitors include horseback riding and fishing.
We’d always recommend a trip out to Inishbofin Island – It’s the perfect place for a bike ride or a stroll. The lads at Inishbofin Ferries and the office staff are quick to recommend things to do or places to go for a bite on the island.
Last but not least, situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the Park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980.
Much of the present Park lands formed part of the Kylemore Abbey Estate and the Letterfrack Industrial School, the remainder having been owned by private individuals. The southern part of the Park was at one time owned by Richard (Humanity Dick) Martin who helped to form the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals during the early 19th century. The Park lands are now wholly owned by the State and managed solely for National Park purpose.
The views here are absolutely breath taking and the hike will be sure to get those steps in!
Does this sound like the perfect weekend for you? Well then you are in luck! We are hosting a Weekend Giveaway for Connemara over on our Instagram page. Head there now to enter!
If you are a regular user of air travel, you are well accustomed to flight delays & cancellations. We here at Citylink completely understand that this can be a stressful situation for our customers coming from the airport.
So, if you book a seat with us and your flight is delayed, we will honour your ticket and put you on the next available service at no extra cost.
I’m concerned it will be busy and I won’t get a seat on the next service; what do I do?
We hear you! This is where our Manage My Booking feature comes to the rescue.
To help our customers have more flexibility and control over their travel plans, customers can now amend their booking up to 3 times prior to the scheduled service departure time.
Conditions:
You can amend your booking with Citylink up to 30 minutes before a service departs its first stop
We are happy to change the time and date of your booking, but we cannot change the destination.
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Athlone is the gem in the centre of Ireland. With Dublin to the east and Galway to the west, Athlone is the perfect middle point. Loaded with great shopping and beautiful surroundings, it’s the ideal place for a day trip or to visit for a weekend.
Athlone is served by Citylink’s Multi-Stop 763 Route, which provides services from Athlone to Dublin, Galway, and many towns between the two. Citylink has recently joined as proud Athlone Chamber of Commerce members and enjoys being part of the community. For those unfamiliar with Athlone, we thought we’d give you an idea of what you can do and see in this beautiful town in the heart of Ireland.
Food & Drink
Athlone is lucky to have a great selection of food and drink places to choose from, from fine dining to little coffee shops – all of which are perfect for a trip to the town. Here are some great spots we’d recommend.
Poppy Fields is a cute place to go for breakfast. Poppy Fields’ menu boasts a great selection of foods, with four Hot Specials available daily to compliment the regular menu. They also offer healthy options every day, which are really delicious. In addition, Poppy Fields makes its own bread, scones, and cakes and offers an all-day breakfast option.
Lunch is essential when you’re roaming around and shopping. We love Bastion Kitchen in Athlone. They offer a vast range of healthy options, which are so tasty. Not only is it a great place to pop in for a bite, but they also have a range of sustainable items for sale, so you can take the Bastion Kitchen journey with you! Check out their site for their range of goods.
There are so many options when it comes to dinner and drinks! Our team members have a few options for eating: Dead Centre Brewing, Gertie Browns (Hatter’s Lane), or Il Collesseo for dinner. Dead Centre is more chill vibes, and who doesn’t love a pizza and craft beer combo. Their selection of beers is really cool too! Then you have Gerties/Hatters or Il Collesseo, which are excellent for a more formal-style, sit-down meal.
Shop Til You Drop
Athlone has some top-quality shopping – from boutique stores to shopping centers, full of great outlets. Golden Island is a firm staple of the Athlone retail scene and offers shoppers some great choices from Penneys, Born, Park Jewellers, and more! In addition, you’ll find great shopping spaces in the center of town, including Athlone Towncentre, a mall with a whole host of shops and cafes.
There are a lot of neat boutiques around the town, so it is well worth spending a couple of hours wandering around, popping in and out – you’ll definitely find a good bargain for yourself!
Get Active!
Many outdoor activities require good weather – which can be hard to come by in Ireland. Nevertheless, we’ve decided to mention a few outdoorsy things and fun activities you can do in Athlone!
Bay sports, just on the outskirts of Athlone, is pure fun for all the family with its giant inflatables out in the water at the Hodson Bay Hotel. If you’ve ever seen the show “Total Wipeout” and wanted to try it out, this place would be perfect for that. Hodson Bay is a great spot for leisure and water activities.
Nearby, for the golfers, is Athlone Golf Club, a great course to play and take in the sights and sounds of the Midlands.
If you start discovering Athlone, be it for a day of shopping at Golden Island, to sample the delicious cuisine at Dead Centre Brewing, or to enjoy some of the outdoor activities, be sure to share your pictures and #DiscoverAthlone
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