DESTINATION IRELAND
AUTUMN 22 28
Ireland ’ s Ancient East is strewn with centuries-old monuments telling dramatic , romantic and heart-breaking stories that stretch over 5,000 years . Here are the top attractions you must visit .
2 . Hill of Uisneach , Westmeath
Ireland ’ s sacred hill has been at the heart of the island ’ s history over millennia . Here a great fire was lit each year to usher in summer , an event celebrated today in the annual Bealtaine Fire Festival .
1 . Brú na Bóinne , Meath
Older than both Stonehenge and the Pyramids , this UNESCO World Heritage Site resonates with otherworldliness Neolithic Newgrange is the centrepiece , a 5,000-year-old tomb that is penetrated by the rising sun on the winter solstice .
3 . Clonmacnoise , Offaly
The iconic Rock of Cashel is an impressive medieval , walled stronghold containing a castle , a cathedral and a round tower . Shrouded in legend , this was the ancient seat of royal and religious power .
4 . Castletown House , Kildare
Ireland ’ s largest and grandest Palladian style house was built by an Irish commoner . Ornate and opulent , 18th-century Castletown tells tales of lords , rebels and rock stars .
A View from The Spinc , Glendalough , Co . Wicklow
5 . Wicklow Gaol , Wicklow
For 200 years , this prison held the poor and desperate alongside rogues and rebels . An interactive tour led by costumed actors tells the story of its prisoners .