A noble manor, the Viking Age, and a mystery-genealogy novel

Céad míle fáilte, welcome to your Letter from Ireland “Shorts”.  Each Tuesday we’ll bring you a quick-read of some of our favourite and interesting Irish things for this week.

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FAVOURITE PLACES IN IRELAND
Bantry House, County Cork. (See it on a map here.)

Bantry House is a magnificent 18th-century manor overlooking Bantry Bay in West Cork. Built in 1710 and home to the White family for centuries, this grand estate features spectacular Italian gardens and the famous “Hundred Steps” offering breathtaking views of the bay. Today, visitors can explore the elegant rooms, stroll through the restored gardens, or even stay overnight in the B&B wing. Check out this insightful video about maintaining a massive house like this here. 

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FEATURED IRISH SURNAMES – The Viking Age

As the Vikings went from raiders to settlers, the Viking Age officially dawned in Ireland, and with them came a slew of new hybrid surnames that continue to be used today. Read all about the dawn of the Viking age here – and see if you can spot your own Viking surname!

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BOOK I’M READING NOW
“The Irish Convict” by MJ Lee

Combine the thrill of mystery with genealogy! This books comes recommended by Green Room member, Michele. Here she tells us more about it: “The main character in the book and series is Jayne Sinclair, a genealogy investigator. This genealogy mystery begins with the story of Annie Kelly… [who] is…sentenced to seven years in Australia. The chapters vary from past to present day…[and] delving into Annie Kelly’s life and family history in both Ireland and Australia.” Check out the book on Amazon. 

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IRISH WORD OR PROVERB

“Céad míle fáilte”

Which translates to “A hundred thousand welcomes.”

Click here to listen to how a native Irish speaker would say it.

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IRISH CRAFT/PRODUCT WE LOVE

Is learning the Irish language part of your 2025 resolution? Well, how about diving in and combining it with a trip to the Dingle peninsula? Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne offers immersive Irish language and heritage courses come highly recommended. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a fluent Irish speaker, they have courses to match your level. Start your journey with the Irish language here!

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RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

“Why are pigs like trees?”

Click here to see the answer.

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That’s it for this week. Send us an email with any of your own favourites for inclusion in future emails, or if you’re a plus member leave a comment below.

Slán for now,
Mike & Carina.

*Note: The above article may contain some affiliate links (for example Amazon) which means we get paid a small amount should you choose to purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep the show on the road!