Dublin & County Kildare

Newbridge Silverware was founded in 1934, making it one of Ireland’s oldest surviving companies. Originally a producer of fine cutlery, the company now produces stylish jewellery and gifts which are coveted by royalty and celebrities.

At the heart of Ireland’s horse industry, this facility breeds fine thoroughbred horses and is the home of equine royalty. As well as immaculately bred stallions, the farm also has wonderfully tranquil Japanese gardens, which were created in 1910 and are beautifully maintained.

Coolcarrigan is a Georgian mansion situated in 15 acres of grounds known for their rare and unusual trees. There is also a quirky church on the property, dating back to the 1880s, which has interesting stained glass and is surrounded by a dry moat.

Lullymore is a park and heritage centre dedicated to life in the Irish Peatlands. Giving an insight into this fascinating area, where people have lived for millennia, Lullymore’s exhibitions delve into a past of ancient rituals, Stone Age farmsteads, Irish folklore and political rebellions. It is also an area of incredible biodiversity.

Built in the mid-1700s, Russborough is widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most beautiful stately homes. Its fine interiors recreate the grandeur of life in the 1740s, and the house also has several tales regarding the robberies – and subsequent recoveries – of its extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Velázquez, Vermeer, Goya and Rubens.

This stunning illuminated manuscript from the 9^th century is formed of the gospels of the New Testament. A world famous medieval document, the Book of Kells is one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures and displays the Hiberno-Saxon style, with its complex patterns, elaborate letters and intricate details which glow with rich colour. The manuscript can be found in Trinity College's Old Library, a beautiful building in Dublin dating back to the 18^th century.