Ireland Shopping Essentials
Ireland is a treasure trove of interesting finds waiting to be discovered by tourists from near and far. From the lush green of the countryside to the wild Atlantic coast, there’s something for everyone. Shopping in Ireland is often a unique experience that’s much more than just buying souvenirs. Irish goods are a rich blend of tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and creativity – an invitation for anyone who wants to bring home something truly special.
For starters, you can’t go wrong with some classic knitwear from Ireland. You’ll be hard pressed to find wool sweaters, shawls, and neckwarmers of the quality and craftsmanship of Irish wool hides. The wool is spun into yarn by hand or machine, and then knitted on traditional looms to make all types of garments that are both incredibly comfortable and stylish. You can find them in almost every boutique in Ireland, and you’ll be sure to find a unique design to take home with you.
You also can’t leave without picking up some Irish pottery that’s made using traditional techniques that have been used by generations of ceramicists. From cups, plates and bowls to more delicate jugs and vases, these pieces can be found all over the Emerald Isle from small local potteries to larger-scale stores. You could even consider picking up some handmade tableware that’s been crafted according to the local tradition of hand-thrown and glazed ceramics.
Markets and smaller independent stores also feature some of Ireland’s most unique items, ranging from jewellery to paintings, books, vintage clothes and more. Here you can find truly one-of-a-kind pieces, made by local Irish artisans and craftsmen.
If you’re looking for something to remind you of your holiday for years to come, you can opt for something special – a hand-crafted piece of jewellery which comes in a range of styles from classic celtic patterns to modern designs. Ireland is also home to a range of internationally renowned jewellers, such as John Rocha and the Niall Collection, whose collections of fine jewellery are available in stores across the country.
Books are another excellent buy in Ireland. From manuals to poetry and fiction, the Irish literary scene is buzzing with new and exciting authors. There are book stores specialising in Irish authors around the country, and you can find an extensive choice in almost every city and town. There’s also the possibility of finding limited edition books, signed and with personal notes from the authors.
The range of items available in Ireland is extensive, and the country is renowned for its quality craftsmanship and unique items. From the classic knitwear to the handmade pottery, jewellery and books, there’s something for everyone who wants to take home a little piece of Ireland.
Irish Music and Instruments
If you’re a lover of traditional Irish music, you can bring home some of your favourite music and instruments to remember your time in Ireland. Traditional Irish music has been around since the Middle Ages, and is made up of a unique blend of sounds and instruments such as the bodhrán, flute, uilleann pipes and fiddle. Whether you’re looking for CDs or instruments, you’ll be able to find them in stores across Ireland.
The bodhrán is a popular choice for Irish music enthusiasts, as it is often the most recognisable instrument in the mix. This drum is typically made of either wood or metal, and can be either handcrafted or machine-made. Even if you’re not a drumming expert, you can find easy-to-play instruments designed for the beginner. You can also pick up a practice bodhrán which has a drum head as well as a wooden dowel for learning purposes.
Flutes are also commonly found in Irish music and have been part of Irish music culture for centuries. Today, there is an extensive range of flutes available, ranging from the simple penny whistle to the more intricate concert flute. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, there is something for everyone in the selection of flutes.
If you’re looking to take your playing to a more professional level, then you may consider purchasing a set of Uilleann pipes. These large and complex instruments are often handmade by dedicated craftsmen, and have become integral to Irish traditional music. While they may be difficult to learn, they’re a great way to immerse yourself in the Irish music culture.
The fiddle is another popular instrument among traditional Irish music lovers. It is usually made of wood and made up of four strings that can be tuned to the key of G major or A minor. Many Irish shops also offer the option of buying a fiddle that is already pre-tuned. This is beneficial for beginners, as it means they can start playing right away.
If you want to take home some traditional Irish music, don’t forget to pick up some CDs or vinyl records. You can find a range of traditional Irish bands and musicians, such as The Dubliners, Planxty and The Chieftains, as well as modern bands such as The Corrs and The Pogues.
Cultural Souvenirs
When in Ireland, don’t forget to pick up something that’ll remind you of your time there. From classic Irish accessories to art and fashion, there is an incredible variety of cultural souvenirs and gifts available to remind you of your trip.
Arguably, the most classic souvenir from Ireland is the Aran sweater. These classic pieces of knitwear are made from fine Donegal wool and designed to be durable and long-lasting. There are a variety of stores and boutiques in Ireland selling these timeless classics, either ready-made or custom-made.
If you’re looking for something more modern, then why not pick up some Irish-made fashion items? From accessories such as scarves and hats to larger items like jackets and coats, there are plenty of stylish items to take home with you. Irish fashion brands often combine traditional materials and techniques with contemporary style to create unique pieces that’ll have everybody asking where you got them from.
If you’re a fan of Irish art, then you’ll love the huge selection of prints, paintings and photographs by local Irish artists. From traditional artworks of Irish landscapes to modern pieces of urban street art, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking the perfect artwork for your home. If you’re looking for something smaller, you can also purchase art prints or photographs of landmarks and scenery from all over the country.
Traditional Irish accessories are particularly popular among tourists, as they add a distinctive Irish flair to any outfit. Pashminas, scarves, shoes, hats and bags in the classic Irish green colour are a great way to bring something of the Emerald Isle with you. You’ll also find some of the world’s finest crystal and glassware in boutiques around the country. Fine Irish crystal has been made for centuries and is particularly special when filled with something tasty from an Irish distillery.
Whether you’re after a classic piece of knitwear or a stylish contemporary accessory, Ireland has something for everyone when it comes to souvenirs.
Food and Drink
Depending on what month you’re in Ireland, there will be a range of local, artisanal, and seasonal foods available to explore. Ireland is renowned for its fresh seafood, and the Atlantic coast is full of delicious oysters, salmon, mackerel, mussels and other seafood treasures. Not far away, the Irish countryside produces some of the world’s best beef and lamb, which can often be found in local butchers and farmers’ markets.
Irish cheeses are a must-try for anyone visiting the country, particularly the delicious cheddar that is famously made in the city of Cork. For the ultimate Irish cheese experience, why not try the classic Irish cheese board with poteen, crackers, chutneys and preserves for a taste of Ireland in every bite.
The cider scene in Ireland is also worth exploring, with several microbreweries popping up around the country to cater to the growing demand for these local brews. Traditional Irish pubs will usually serve a wide selection of craft beers, with the likes of Galway Bay Brewery, Franciscan Well Brewery and Porterhouse Brewing Company all producing outstanding ales and lagers with unique flavours.
Irish whiskey is another classic to sample while you’re in Ireland. The country produces some of the best whiskeys in the world, with the likes of Jameson, Bushmills and Paddy all offering a range of award-winning blends. You can visit distilleries in both the north and south of Ireland to learn more about the process of distillation as well as sample the products themselves.
You can also find a superb range of traditional and contemporary Irish wines from different regions around the country. From bold reds to crisp whites, Ireland provides excellent climate conditions for grapes to thrive and produces fantastic award-winning wines.
Places to Visit
Ireland offers a huge variety of things to see and experience for those looking to explore the Emerald Isle. From ancient castles, forts and abbeys to the ever-changing landscape of the Irish countryside and the wild charm of the Atlantic coast, there’s something for everyone.
Dublin is a popular destination for foreign tourists, as it offers a wonderful mix of culture, music, art and history. There are many attractions to visit in the city, such as St Stephen’s Green, the Guinness Storehouse and the National Gallery, as well as plenty of excellent bars and restaurants for a drink or bite to eat. Outside of the capital, you can explore some of the country’s other cities, such as Cobh, Kilkenny and Galway.
For those seeking to explore the Irish countryside, the Ring of Kerry offers an unparalleled experience of the Emerald Isle. With stunning views of mountains and valleys, the route is full of traditional Irish villages, ancient monuments, historic sites and friendly locals. Visitors can also discover the secrets of the Irish wilderness as they wind their way along the rugged Atlantic coast.
No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to Northern Ireland. From Belfast to Derry to Donegal, the attractions are numerous – from discovering the Giant’s Causeway to exploring the stunning Glens of Antrim.
Ireland is a country with plenty to explore and experience. No matter your interests or preferences, there’s something for everyone.
