Things to Buy

Everywhere you go in Ireland there will be stores packed with souvenirs, knitwear, books, pottery, glass and jewellry, vying for your hard-earned cash! Some of this stuff will be rubbish, but there are things that are worth buying if you know where to look and how to choose wisely. I hope these guides will help!

Irish Crystal and Glass

Irish Crystal and Glass

Irish crystal is renowned for its quality and clarity as well as its beautiful design, and modern styles are now joining the traditional ones we all know.

Crystal is expensive, but its special and will last a long, long time so choosing what to buy and where to buy it is important.

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The Story of Irish Crystal

The Story of Irish Crystal

Crystal has been made in Ireland since the late 1700s, when the development of lead crystal made it possible to shape and cut glass as never before.

This is a look not just at the history of glass making in Ireland but at the story of how each individual piece of glass is painstakingly made by hand.

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Contemporary Irish Glass

Contemporary Irish Glass

It would be wrong to think Irish glass ends with crystal, there are many talented glass makers working in more contemporary styles.

Many produce one-off pieces that are pieces of art, astonishing in their beauty. Others are making modern styles of home ware that have a unique style.

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The Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh Ring

Used as a token of love and friendship this traditional Galway ring can be worn in several different ways to signify the status of the wearer – married/attached or free and looking?!

There are many stories about its origin, some fanciful though even the most likely contender is a tale of adventure and romance.

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Irish Lace

Irish Lace

Irish lace, modern or antique, is hard to find and expensive, as the tradition of lace making has declined considerably from it’s peak in the late 1900s.

A revival of interest in old crafts means new lace makers are now appearing around the country doing very beautiful work that is worth seeking out.

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Buying Irish Cream

Buying Irish Cream

Reviews of the top selling Irish Cream Liqueurs, including Bailey’s, Carolan’s, O’Mara’s, Ashourne and Bushmill’s, as well as a few private labeled ones.

Not all Irish Creams are the same, the quality of the whiskey and of the cream as well as the added flavours gives each one a distinct character.

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Irish Cream Recipes

Irish Cream Recipes

If you don’t want to buy Irish Cream or can’t find the perfect one, the good news is that it’s quite simple to make. There are two good recipes here, which I selflessly tested on your behalf!

Irish Cream is also an excellent ingredient for making luxurious and indulgent desserts – in fact just pouring it over ice cream makes for a quick and delicious treat.

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Bear Essentials

Bear Essentials

Teddy bear paradise in Ireland at this workshop and exhibition space where visitors can see teddy bears being painstakingly created by hand.

It’s a delight for kids (of all ages!) and a must-see for teddy bear lovers.

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Irish Tweed

Irish Tweed

Hand woven Irish tweed is a wonderful and timeless fabric that never goes out of fashoin, and tweed is one product that is definitely best bought in Ireland.

The colours traditionally used in Irish Tweed reflect the colours in the Irish landscape, although it has also been woven in more vibrant shades for high fashion garments.

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Aran Knitwear

Aran Knitwear

Aran sweaters, hats and scarves are a popular purchase in Ireland, with their fascinating history and intricate patterns. But it is a case of buyer beware, as not all Aran is created equal!

A lot of misinformation surrounds the history of Aran knitting – it is a wonderful craft, but not as ancient a one as many people believe.

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