Ireland in January: things to see and do

City breaks

The island of Ireland is unique, as there are two capital cities to explore.

The Viking city of Dublin is renowned for its culture, creativity and craic (fun). For creative inspiration, head to Trinity College and witness the Early Christian masterpiece that is the Book of Kells. Raise a glass to this UNESCO City of Literature at the Guinness Storehouse before enjoying panoramic views from the Gravity Bar.

Wander the National Gallery of Ireland, just one of Dublin’s many free museums. Watch the wild deer in the Phoenix Park, stroll around the city’s pretty coastal villages, and round off your evening at a traditional music session in The Cobblestone.

Just two hours away is Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city, where the Ship of Dreams is remembered at Titanic Belfast, named the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards. Artisanal food and hand-made crafts are next at St George’s Market, a 19th century haven and the ideal place to tuck into the Ulster Fry, a local delicacy.

Indulge in a free tour of the Baroque-styled City Hall and explore the Ulster Museum. Pick up a Black Taxi Tour for a story-filled trip around the city’s murals. Finish off your Belfast adventure with a visit to the historic Crown Liquor Saloon, or savor fine food at Michelin-starred Eipic or Ox restaurants.

Ireland’s music scene

No trip to Ireland is ever complete without the songs and stories of traditional Irish music. Experience some of Ireland’s best tunes at the Doolin Music House in County Clare as they’re meant to be played: around a crackling fire, with the soft murmur of voices in the background and the kettle just about to boil.

Whether you’re a dancer, spectator or musician, there’s something for everyone on the island of Ireland. Take in the trad music scene of Belfast in the company of musician-guides on the Belfast Traditional Music Trail; visit a master bodhrán maker in Roundstone, County Galway or kick up your heels with an Irish dancing workshop.

To really get into the swing of all things trad, experience the buzz of Temple Bar TradFest in Dublin in January. Ireland’s largest festival of traditional music offers up the best of the island's trad music along with folk and rock-n-roll, hosted in historic sites across the city.

Ireland’s wellness havens

When it comes to relaxation, you’ll find some of the finest spas and relaxing retreats here in Ireland.

The five-star Solis Lough Eske Castle spa in County Donegal is nestled in woodland along a lakeshore overlooked by a mountain range; if you fancy something a bit more urban, the G Hotel is a five-star feast for the eyes in the heart of bohemian Galway city, designed by milliner Philip Treacy– with an ESPA spa you just won’t want to leave.

When it comes to relaxing in the wilderness, it doesn’t get much more scenic than at Elements Spa at Finn Lough in County Fermanagh. Just picture yourself on the edge of Lough Erne immersed in a salt bath, lakeside sauna, or even soaking up nature in the tranquil waters of Lough Erne itself…. Bliss. 

In West Cork, the Tibetan Buddhist centre Dzogchen Beara welcomes visitors of all faiths. Perched in an astoundingly beautiful edge of the peninsula, its meditation garden is famous for its incredible views. And in Mayo’s beautiful Clew Bay, relaxation is serious business at Macalla Farm. They run several retreats combining yoga with vegetarian cooking, meditations of the mind, body, and spirit, and horse riding.