Things That Are Irish

Welcome to our list of things that are Irish! ☘️🌈🥔🇮🇪

Ireland, a picturesque island nation in the North Atlantic, is renowned for its rich and vibrant culture. Irish culture is deeply rooted in history, folklore, and a strong sense of community. Irish culture is characterized by its music, including traditional tunes played on instruments like the fiddle and bodhrán, as well as the evocative sounds of uilleann pipes and tin whistles. Dance, particularly Irish step dancing, is another integral part of the culture, with lively performances showcasing intricate footwork. Irish literature has produced renowned authors such as James Joyce and W.B. Yeats, while Gaelic mythology and folklore have left a lasting mark on the national identity.

Here’s a visual list of things that are Irish – if you’d prefer categorised descriptions of Irish things, skip past the gallery to the lists below.

Hopefully that visual list of Irish things was useful! If you’re interested in learning more about Ireland and Irish culture, here’s a longer and more informative list of things that are Irish, separated into handy categories:

Food

Irish cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, often making use of locally sourced ingredients. Here’s a list of traditional Irish foods and dishes with brief descriptions:

Irish Stew: A classic dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, carrots, and often, parsnips. It’s simmered to tender perfection in a flavorful broth.
Boxty: A type of potato pancake made from grated potatoes, flour, baking powder, and buttermilk. It can be served with various toppings.
Coddle: A one-pot dish made with sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes. It’s simmered until everything is tender and flavorful.
Colcannon: Mashed potatoes blended with chopped kale or cabbage, along with scallions and butter. It’s a popular side dish, especially during Halloween.
Champ: Similar to colcannon, champ is mashed potatoes mixed with scallions and lots of butter, creating a creamy and flavorful side dish.
Black Pudding (Blood Sausage): A sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal or barley, and seasonings. It’s typically sliced and pan-fried.
White Pudding: Similar to black pudding, but it doesn’t contain blood. It’s made with pork meat, fat, suet, bread, and oatmeal.
Soda Bread: A traditional bread made with simple ingredients, including buttermilk and baking soda. It has a dense texture and is often served with butter.
Barmbrack: A sweet, yeasted bread filled with raisins and sultanas. It’s traditionally eaten at Halloween and may contain hidden charms or trinkets.
Seafood Chowder: A rich and creamy soup made with a variety of seafood, potatoes, onions, and often, bacon.
Irish Breakfast: A hearty morning meal consisting of items like fried or grilled sausages, bacon, eggs, black and white pudding, baked beans, and toast.
Collops: Thinly sliced or minced beef or bacon, cooked in a creamy sauce made with onions and sometimes, mustard.
Lamb with Mint Sauce: A classic combination of tender roasted or grilled lamb served with a sweet mint sauce.
Bacon and Cabbage: Boiled bacon, often served with cabbage, potatoes, and a creamy parsley sauce.
Steak and Guinness Pie: A savory pie filled with tender chunks of beef, onions, mushrooms, and a rich Guinness stout gravy, all encased in flaky pastry.
Salmon: Salmon is a popular fish in Irish cuisine, often served grilled or smoked.
Oysters: Ireland is known for its fresh oysters, which are often served on the half-shell with a dash of lemon or a splash of Guinness.
Irish Cheese: Ireland produces a wide variety of cheeses, including cheddar, blue cheese, and goat cheese.
Apple Pie: A classic dessert made with sweet, tart apples encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Rhubarb Pie: A sweet and tangy pie made with fresh rhubarb and often served with custard or cream.
Apple Crumble: Baked apples topped with a crumbly mixture of butter, sugar, and oats.
Guinness Cake: A rich and moist chocolate cake made with Guinness stout, topped with cream cheese frosting.
Porter Cake: A dense and fruity cake made with porter beer, dried fruits, and spices.
Baileys Irish Cream: A popular Irish cream liqueur used in cocktails, coffee, or sipped on its own.
Poitín: A traditional Irish spirit, similar to moonshine, made from grains or potatoes.
Irish Coffee: Coffee spiked with Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with whipped cream.
Tayto Crisps: A famous brand of potato crisps (chips) known for their distinctive flavors.
Cockles and Mussels: A popular seafood dish, often served in a brine or vinegar sauce.
Potato Farls: Thin, griddled bread made from mashed or grated potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.
Mutton Pie: A savory pie made with mutton (sheep meat), vegetables, and spices.
Blaa: A soft, white bread roll with a floury crust, originally from Waterford.
Spiced Beef: A spiced and cured beef dish traditionally served around Christmas.
Lamb Stew: A variation of Irish stew, but specifically using lamb as the primary meat.
Wheaten Bread: A wholemeal bread made with whole wheat flour, buttermilk, and baking soda.
Ballymaloe Relish: A popular tomato relish that’s often used as a condiment.
Barm Brack: A fruit loaf similar to a fruitcake, often served with tea.
Carrageen Moss Pudding: A traditional Irish dessert made with carrageen moss seaweed, milk, sugar, and flavorings.
Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream or milk and often topped with cheese.
Sausage Roll: A pastry filled with seasoned pork sausage meat.
Cod and Chips: Deep-fried battered cod served with thick-cut potato fries, often wrapped in newspaper.
Grilled Macke-rel: A popular fish dish, often served with a drizzle of butter and a squeeze of lemon.
Dublin Coddle: A hearty stew made with sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes.
Oatcakes: Biscuits made from oats and often served with cheese or butter.
Drisheen: A type of black pudding made with cow’s blood and other ingredients.
Goody: A traditional dessert made with bread, milk, sugar, and spices.
Tripe and Onions: A dish made from the stomach lining of a cow, often served with onions and a white sauce.
Plum Pudding: A Christmas dessert made with dried fruits, suet, breadcrumbs, and various spices.
Wexford Strawberries: Known for their sweet and juicy flavor, these strawberries are famous throughout Ireland.

Drinks

Irish drinks encompass a wide range of beverages, from the world-famous stout to traditional whiskey and beloved teas. Here’s a comprehensive list of Irish drinks with detailed descriptions:

Guinness: Often referred to simply as “the black stuff,” Guinness is one of the world’s most iconic stouts. It’s known for its dark color, creamy head, and a distinctive blend of roasted barley, hops, and malted barley. The Guinness Draught is the most famous, but the brand also produces other varieties like Guinness Foreign Extra Stout and Guinness Extra Stout.
Irish Whiskey: Irish whiskey is famous for its smooth, approachable character. Brands like Jameson, Bushmills, Redbreast, and Powers are celebrated for their quality. Irish whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in various cocktails, such as the classic Irish Coffee.
Irish Cider: Ireland produces a range of delicious ciders, with brands like Magners and Bulmers being popular choices. Irish cider is often enjoyed over ice and is a refreshing option during the summer months.
Irish Red Ale: Irish red ales, such as Smithwick’s and Kilkenny, are known for their balanced flavors with malty sweetness and a touch of bitterness. They are perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet approachable beer.
Irish Cream Liqueurs: In addition to Baileys, there are various other Irish cream liqueurs available. These include Carolans, Kerrygold, and Coole Swan, each offering a unique blend of Irish whiskey, cream, and flavorings.
Murphy’s Irish Stout: Similar to Guinness, Murphy’s is a rich and creamy stout with a dark color and a balanced flavor profile. It’s a popular choice, particularly in Cork.
Smithwick’s: Smithwick’s is an iconic Irish red ale that boasts a smooth and malty taste with a subtle hop bitterness. It’s a widely enjoyed Irish beer.
Bulmers Cider: Known as Magners outside of Ireland, Bulmers is a well-known Irish cider brand that offers a range of flavors, including apple, pear, and berry.
Bushmills Whiskey: Bushmills is one of the oldest distilleries in Ireland, known for producing a range of Irish whiskeys, including Bushmills Original, Black Bush, and Bushmills 10-Year-Old Single Malt.
Redbreast Whiskey: Redbreast is celebrated for its rich and complex single pot still Irish whiskey. It’s often considered one of the finest examples of this style.
Paddy Whiskey: Paddy is an approachable and smooth Irish whiskey that’s easy to enjoy either straight or in mixed drinks.
Dingle Gin: Dingle Gin is produced in County Kerry and is known for its botanicals, including rowan berry, bog myrtle, hawthorn, and heather.
Irish Mist: A sweet and aromatic liqueur made from aged whiskey, honey, and various herbs. It’s often served as a digestive after a meal.
Cork Dry Gin: A traditional Irish gin that’s known for its crisp and refreshing flavor profile, making it an excellent base for cocktails.
Harp Lager: Harp Lager is a well-known Irish beer that’s light and refreshing, making it a popular choice, especially in the summer.
Knappogue Castle Whiskey: Knappogue Castle produces a range of Irish whiskeys, including single malt and single pot still expressions. They are prized for their smoothness and complexity.
Irish Craft Beers: Ireland has seen a surge in craft breweries, producing a wide array of beer styles. These breweries often create unique and flavorful options, such as stouts, IPAs, and saisons.
Powers Whiskey: Powers is one of the oldest Irish whiskey brands, known for its triple-distilled, flavorful whiskeys.
Clonakilty Whiskey: Produced in County Cork, Clonakilty whiskey offers a range of expressions, often characterized by their rich, fruity notes.
Baileys Chocolat Luxe: A decadent variation of Baileys Irish Cream, Chocolat Luxe combines Irish whiskey with real Belgian chocolate.
Irish Spring Water: Ireland has several brands of natural spring water, including Ballygowan and Tipperary Water. They’re often enjoyed on their own or as mixers.
Elderflower Cordial: Elderflower cordial is a sweet and floral syrup that’s often mixed with water or sparkling water to create a delightful and refreshing drink.
Irish Mineral Water: Ireland has several brands of natural spring water, including Ballygowan and Tipperary Water. They’re often enjoyed on their own or as mixers.
Chocolate Milk: Chocolate milk is a beloved beverage in Ireland, enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a creamy and sweet drink, perfect for sipping with cookies or as a treat.
Irish Heather Ale: A traditional Irish ale that combines heather flowers with malted barley for a unique and floral character.
Irish Pale Ale: Irish pale ales, such as Smithwick’s Pale Ale, are characterized by their balanced flavors, including malt sweetness and a touch of hop bitterness.
Irish Hot Whiskey: A warm and soothing drink made with Irish whiskey, hot water, sugar, cloves, and a lemon slice. It’s often enjoyed to combat the cold and is known for its soothing properties.
Red Lemonade: A popular Irish soft drink that’s sweet, fizzy, and often enjoyed as a mixer with whiskey or on its own.
Club Orange: Club Orange is a famous Irish orange soda known for its refreshing and tangy flavor.
MiWadi: A brand of fruit squash concentrate that’s often mixed with water to create a refreshing and flavorful beverage.
Irish Tea: Tea is a cherished beverage in Ireland. Brands like Barry’s Tea and Lyons are popular choices, often served with milk and sugar.
Dubliner Whiskey & Honeycomb Liqueur: A sweet and indulgent liqueur that combines whiskey with honeycomb flavoring.
Irish Cream Liqueurs: In addition to Baileys, there are various other Irish cream liqueurs available. These include Carolans, Kerrygold, and Coole Swan, each offering a unique blend of Irish whiskey, cream, and flavorings.
Cocktails: Ireland has a vibrant cocktail scene, and you can find a variety of innovative cocktails at bars and restaurants. Favorites include the Irish Mule, Black Velvet, and the classic Irish Coffee.
Murphy’s Irish Red: A renowned Irish red ale that’s characterized by its malty sweetness and a touch of caramel.
Hennessey’s Cider: Hennessey’s is an Irish cider brand, offering a range of flavors, including apple, elderflower, and honey.
Jameson Caskmates: Jameson Caskmates is Jameson Irish whiskey aged in stout-seasoned barrels, resulting in a unique flavor with hints of cocoa and coffee.
Irish Herbal Teas: Ireland is known for its herbal teas, which include blends like nettle, chamomile, and various floral infusions.
Irish Red Ale: Irish red ales, such as Smithwick’s and Kilkenny, are known for their balanced flavors with malty sweetness and a touch of bitterness.
Bunratty Mead: Mead is an ancient beverage made from fermented honey and water. Bunratty Mead is a well-known brand, offering a sweet and honeyed drink.
Irish Spring Water: Ireland has several brands of natural spring water, including Ballygowan and Tipperary Water. They’re often enjoyed on their own or as mixers.
Irish Lemonade: Irish lemonade is a carbonated, lemon-flavored drink that’s both sweet and refreshing.
Irish Smoothies: As part of the global smoothie trend, Irish smoothies have gained popularity, often featuring fresh fruits, yogurt, and sometimes honey.
Elderflower Cordial: Elderflower cordial is a sweet and floral syrup that’s often mixed with water or sparkling water to create a delightful and refreshing drink.

Animals

Ireland, with its rich biodiversity, is home to a variety of animal species. Here’s an extensive list of Irish animals:

Red Fox: A cunning and adaptable predator, the red fox is the most widespread of Ireland’s wild mammals. With its bushy tail and sharp features, it is often spotted in both rural and urban environments.
Irish Hare: Unique to Ireland, the Irish hare is a bit larger than its European counterpart. It’s well adapted to the country’s varied terrain, from open fields to boglands, and it’s known for its “mad March” boxing displays during mating season.
Stoat: The Irish stoat is a small carnivorous mammal, recognized by its slender body and short legs. While similar to weasels, stoats can be identified by their black-tipped tails. They are known for their playful nature and are commonly found in hedgerows and grasslands.
Badger: A nocturnal animal, the badger lives in large underground setts and has a distinctive black and white striped face. They are part of the mustelid family, which also includes otters, stoats, and pine martens.
Pine Marten: This elusive mammal is a tree-dwelling member of the mustelid family. With its rich brown fur and a cream-colored “bib” on its chest, the pine marten mainly feeds on small mammals, birds, and berries.
Hedgehog: A small nocturnal mammal covered in spines, hedgehogs are commonly found in gardens and woodland areas across Ireland. When threatened, they roll into a ball as a protective measure.
European Otter: Found in freshwater habitats throughout Ireland, otters are semi-aquatic mammals known for their playful behaviors. With a streamlined body and webbed feet, they are excellent swimmers and feed primarily on fish.
Red Deer: As the largest land mammal in Ireland, red deer are primarily found in the forests and open mountainous areas. With a rich reddish-brown coat, the males, or stags, are recognized by their impressive antlers which are shed and regrown every year.
Grey Seal: These seals are found around the Irish coast and are easily recognized by their large size and long heads. Pups with fluffy white fur are often seen in autumn.
Harbor Porpoise: A small marine mammal frequently seen off the Irish coast. They’re shy creatures, often spotted by their dorsal fins breaking the water’s surface.
Rabbit: Introduced to Ireland, rabbits are now a common sight in countryside and grasslands.
Wood Mouse: A common rodent in Ireland, often found in gardens, hedgerows, and forests.
Bank Vole: A small rodent, recognizable by its round ears and reddish-brown fur.
Pygmy Shrew: One of Ireland’s smallest mammals, they have a high-pitched call and eat insects.
Feral Goat: Often seen on mountainous and rugged terrains, these goats were once domesticated but have returned to the wild.
Grey Squirrel: Originally from North America, they’re now found in various parts of Ireland and are known for displacing the native red squirrel.
Red Squirrel: Native to Ireland, they are now under threat due to habitat loss and competition with the grey squirrel.
Common Frog: The only species of frog found in Ireland, often seen after rain or in ponds during breeding season.
Smooth Newt: Ireland’s only species of newt, often found in ponds and damp areas.
Common Lizard: The only reptile native to Ireland, they are often seen sunbathing on sunny days.
Barn Owl: Recognized by its heart-shaped face, it’s a nocturnal bird of prey that hunts rodents.
Golden Eagle: Reintroduced to parts of Ireland, this magnificent bird of prey is a symbol of wild, rugged landscapes.
Peregrine Falcon: A powerful and fast bird of prey, known for its incredible diving speed when hunting.
Buzzard: Often mistaken for eagles, these birds of prey have made a comeback in Ireland in recent decades.
Raven: The largest member of the crow family, often seen in wild and mountainous areas.
Kingfisher: With its bright blue and orange colors, this bird is often spotted near water bodies hunting for fish.
Robin: A small bird with a red breast, popularly associated with Christmas.
Wren: One of Ireland’s smallest birds, known for its loud song.
Puffin: A seabird with a colorful beak, often found on cliffs during the breeding season.
Guillemot: A black and white seabird, nests in large colonies on cliffs.
Razorbill: A seabird with a distinctive deep black back and a white belly.
Atlantic Salmon: Known for its incredible journey from freshwater rivers to the ocean and back for breeding.
Brown Trout: A common freshwater fish, often seen in Irish lakes and rivers.
Pike: A predatory freshwater fish, known for its long body and sharp teeth.
Basking Shark: The second-largest shark species, often spotted near the Irish coast feeding on plankton.
Irish Damselfly: A delicate, brightly colored insect often found near freshwater habitats.
Orange Tip Butterfly: Recognizable by the orange tips on the wings of the males, seen in spring.
Peacock Butterfly: Named for the eye-patterns on its wings which resemble those on peacock feathers.
Common Dolphin: Frequently spotted off the Irish coast, known for their playful behavior.
Brent Goose: Migrates to Ireland for winter from the Canadian Arctic.
Whooper Swan: A winter visitor from Iceland, recognizable by its long neck and loud call.
Curlew: A wading bird with a distinctive long, curved beak.
Lapwing: Known for its distinctive crest and “peewit” call, it’s a bird of open farmland.
Snipe: A small, camouflaged wading bird that’s often hard to spot.
Merlin: Ireland’s smallest bird of prey, often seen hunting over moorland.

Plants

Ireland boasts a wide array of flora due to its temperate maritime climate and varied landscapes. Here’s a list of Irish plants:

Irish Yew: An evergreen tree that’s native to Ireland, its dark-green needles and reddish bark make it stand out. Traditionally found in churchyards and old estates, it is also grown ornamentally.
Bog-rosemary: Predominantly found in bogs, this plant is known for its slender needle-like leaves and delicate pink flowers which bloom in spring.
Gorse: A robust shrub that’s widespread across the countryside, gorse is easily recognizable with its sharp, spiky leaves and vibrant yellow flowers that bloom almost year-round, emitting a coconut-like aroma.
Heather: Iconic to the Irish peat bogs and moorlands, heather showcases tiny bell-shaped purple flowers, giving the landscape a purple hue during its blooming season.
Bog Cotton: Growing in wet bogs, this plant stands out with its white, cotton-like fluffy seed heads that sway in the wind, resembling tufts of cotton.
Bell Heather: Flourishing in heathlands, it’s named for its bell-shaped, vibrant purple flowers which offer a splash of color to the landscape.
Irish Spurge: This wildflower, native to the southwest of Ireland, is known for its greenish-yellow flowers and milky sap which can be an irritant.
Bluebell: Carpeting woodlands during spring, bluebells are famed for their drooping blue, bell-shaped flowers, creating a picturesque blue woodland floor.
Bog Myrtle: Often found in peat bogs, this fragrant shrub has aromatic leaves that were traditionally used to ward off insects and for brewing beer.
Fuchsia: Introduced to Ireland, this shrub has now naturalized and is frequently seen with its pendulous deep pink to purple flowers, especially in hedgerows and roadsides.
Wild Strawberry: This plant showcases small white flowers which later turn into tiny, sweet red fruits. They’re a delightful find in meadows and wood edges.
Ling Heather: A common sight on heaths and moorlands, this plant offers a profusion of small pink flowers, adding color to the green backdrop.
Wild Garlic: Often found in woodlands, its presence is given away by a potent garlic scent. During its bloom, it produces clusters of star-shaped white flowers.
Lords and Ladies: This woodland plant is unique, featuring a green hood-like structure (spathe) that surrounds a central spike (spadix). It’s also known as “wild arum”.
Meadowsweet: Abundant in damp meadows and riverbanks, it displays frothy clusters of cream flowers which emit a sweet, almond-like fragrance.
Yellow Iris: A staple in wetlands, ditches, and pond margins, it’s renowned for its striking bright yellow flowers which bloom in early summer.
Primrose: A harbinger of spring, this wildflower presents pale yellow flowers, often nestled under hedgerows or in woodland clearings.
Wood Anemone: A delicate woodland flower, it features white, star-like petals that open in the sun and close in the evening or during rain.
Bilberry: Common on acidic soils of heathlands and moors, this plant bears small blueberries in summer, which are not only tasty but also beneficial.
Foxglove: A distinctive plant with tall spikes laden with purple-pink tubular flowers. Common in woodlands and hedgerows, it’s beautiful but also toxic.
Thrift or Sea Pink: A coastal plant, it’s often spotted on rocky shores and cliffs. Its pink, globular flowers stand on tall stalks, resembling small pom-poms.
Bramble: A thorny shrub, it’s most celebrated for its juicy blackberries, which ripen in late summer and are a forager’s delight.
Rowan or Mountain Ash: This tree is adorned with fern-like leaves and, in autumn, showcases vivid clusters of red berries, which are a favorite for many birds.

Sports and Activities

This list provides an overview of the diverse range of sports and activities enjoyed in Ireland, from traditional Gaelic games to outdoor adventures that take full advantage of the country’s natural beauty.

Gaelic Football: One of Ireland’s most popular sports, it’s a fast-paced game played with a round ball that can be caught, kicked, and hand-passed.
Hurling: Another traditional sport, hurling is played with a wooden stick (hurley) and a ball (sliotar). It’s known for its speed and skill.
Camogie: Similar to hurling but played by women.
Handball: Played in a court where players hit a small ball against a wall using their hand.
Rounders: An Irish bat-and-ball game, which is similar to baseball.
Rugby: Rugby Union is particularly popular, with the Irish national team competing in international competitions like the Six Nations.
Soccer (Football): Popular throughout Ireland with clubs competing in domestic leagues and the national team in international tournaments.
Golf: Ireland is known for its world-class golf courses and has produced many international golfing champions.
Horse Racing: A popular sport with major events throughout the year.
Greyhound Racing: An evening activity where dogs race around a track chasing a lure.
Cycling: Both as a sport and recreational activity, including road cycling and mountain biking.
Fishing: Ireland has numerous rivers and lakes teeming with fish, making angling a popular pastime.
Athletics: Includes running, jumping, and throwing events.
Boxing: A strong tradition in Ireland, producing many Olympic medalists and world champions.
Swimming: Popular both competitively and recreationally, with many indoor pools and coastal areas for sea swimming.
Sailing: With a vast coastline, sailing and other water sports are widely enjoyed.
Surfing: The Atlantic coast, especially in places like Bundoran, offers great waves for surfing.
Hill Walking & Hiking: Given its scenic landscapes and mountain ranges like the Mourne Mountains or the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, hiking is a beloved activity.
Dancing: Traditional Irish dance, like the jig or reel, is popular, both in competitions and as a pastime.
Music Sessions: Not strictly a sport, but traditional Irish music sessions in pubs are a significant cultural activity.
Gaelic Handball: A sport where players hit a ball against a wall using their hands.
Road Bowling: An old game where players throw a metal ball along a predetermined course on country roads.
Horse Riding & Equestrian: Beyond racing, show jumping, dressage, and simple trail riding are popular.
Archery: Growing in popularity, especially as a recreational activity.
Rock Climbing: Given its varied terrain, rock climbing and bouldering are popular in certain areas.
Kayaking & Canoeing: Both on open water and rivers, kayaking provides a unique view of the Irish landscape.

Tourist Sites and Attractions

This list showcases just a fraction of Ireland’s rich tapestry of attractions, ranging from natural wonders to ancient monuments and vibrant cities. Each offers a unique insight into the country’s heritage and beauty.

Cliffs of Moher: Towering sea cliffs located in County Clare, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Burren: A unique limestone landscape located in County Clare, home to many rare plants and archaeological sites.
Blarney Castle: Located near Cork, visitors often kiss the Blarney Stone to receive the gift of eloquence.
Ring of Kerry: A scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, showcasing some of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes.
Dublin: The capital city, home to attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, and Trinity College with the Book of Kells.
Killarney National Park: A stunning park with lakes, mountains, and the historic Muckross House.
Giant’s Causeway: An area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, located in Northern Ireland.
Newgrange: A prehistoric monument older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids, known for its winter solstice illumination.
Aran Islands: A group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay, known for their geological formation, historical monuments, and traditional Irish culture.
Rock of Cashel: A historic site with a complex of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone.
Connemara National Park: A vast national park in Galway, known for its mountains, expansive bogs, heaths, and grasslands.
Dingle Peninsula: A stunning area known for its scenery, Fungi the dolphin, and ancient sites.
Galway City: Known for its vibrant arts scene, medieval city streets, and the annual Galway International Arts Festival.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: A medieval fortress in County Clare, showcasing life in Ireland during the 19th century.
The Titanic Belfast: Located in Northern Ireland, it tells the story of the Titanic, from its construction in Belfast to its tragic sinking.
Wicklow Mountains National Park: A beautiful park south of Dublin, offering hiking, nature, and the historic site of Glendalough.
Skellig Michael: An ancient monastic settlement located on a rocky island off the Kerry coast, also known for its appearance in the “Star Wars” films.
Temple Bar: Dublin’s cultural quarter known for its lively nightlife, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.
Croke Park: Dublin’s sporting and cultural venue, where the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) holds its major championship games.
Limerick: A city on the River Shannon, known for King John’s Castle and the Hunt Museum.
Slieve League: Some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, located in County Donegal.
Kilmainham Gaol: A historic former prison in Dublin that played a significant role in Irish history.
Cobh: A seaport town in Cork, known as the Titanic’s last port of call.
Powerscourt Estate: Located in Wicklow, this estate features stunning gardens and a beautiful house.
Dark Hedges: An atmospheric tree-lined road in Northern Ireland, made famous by its appearance in “Game of Thrones.”
Malahide Castle: A historic castle located near Dublin, set amidst a beautiful park.
Kylemore Abbey: A beautiful castle and walled gardens located in Connemara.

Musical Instruments

Each of these instruments has contributed to the unmistakable sound of Irish music, whether in lively jigs and reels or in more plaintive, soulful ballads. Here’s a list of Irish musical instruments:

Uilleann Pipes: Unlike Scottish bagpipes, these are played indoors and have a softer, more intricate sound. They are powered by a bellows, not by blowing.
Tin Whistle (or Penny Whistle): A simple, high-pitched woodwind instrument. It’s widely used in Irish music due to its portability and distinctive sound.
Bodhrán: A traditional Irish frame drum that is played with a wooden stick called a “tipper” or “beater.” Its rhythmic beats are foundational in many folk songs.
Irish Flute: Made of wood and played horizontally, it has a mellow tone and is often used in traditional Irish music sessions.
Celtic Harp (or Cláirseach): A symbol of Ireland, this stringed instrument has a rich sound and historical significance in Irish culture.
Fiddle: While similar to the violin, the playing style and types of tunes played on the Irish fiddle are distinctive to Irish traditional music.
Concertina: A small, hexagonal accordion, it’s particularly popular in the counties of Clare and Galway.
Button Accordion: Different from the piano accordion, it produces a different note when a button is pressed on the push and pull of the bellows.
Banjo: The four-stringed tenor banjo is common in Irish music, providing rhythmic and melodic accompaniment.
Bouzouki: Originally from Greece, the Irish version has a flat back (as opposed to the rounded Greek back) and has been adapted for Irish traditional music.
Irish Bones: Two curved bones (often actual animal bones) held in one hand and rattled together to provide rhythm.
Spoons: Just like regular eating spoons, they can be played by holding a spoon in each hand and striking them against each other.
Lambe Drum: A double-sided drum, it’s similar to the bodhrán but is played with a mallet.
Harp Guitar: A type of guitar that includes additional bass strings, adding depth and range.
Melodeon: A type of single-row button accordion, which has become more uncommon but is still used in certain traditional settings.

Notable People

This list includes people from various fields, each having made significant contributions in their respective domains, further enhancing Ireland’s global cultural and historical legacy.

Samuel Beckett: Nobel Prize-winning playwright, novelist, and poet, best known for his play “Waiting for Godot.”
James Joyce: Renowned modernist writer whose works include “Ulysses” and “A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man.”
W.B. Yeats: Nobel Prize-winning poet and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature.
Seamus Heaney: Nobel Prize-winning poet known for his deep connection to the Irish landscape and history.
Michael Collins: A key figure in the Irish struggle for independence, he played a significant role in the establishment of the Irish Free State.
Maureen O’Hara: Legendary actress best known for films like “The Quiet Man” and “Miracle on 34th Street.”
Bono (Paul Hewson): Lead singer of U2, one of the world’s best-selling music artists, and a prominent activist.
Enya (Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin): Singer, songwriter, and musician known for her unique sound and hits like “Orinoco Flow.”
Oscar Wilde: Playwright, novelist, and poet known for his wit and works like “The Picture of Dorian Gray” and “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
George Bernard Shaw: Playwright and critic who won both a Nobel Prize in Literature and an Oscar.
Richard Harris: Renowned actor known for roles in “A Man Called Horse,” “Gladiator,” and as Dumbledore in the first two “Harry Potter” films.
Daniel O’Connell: 19th-century political leader who campaigned for Catholic Emancipation and the repeal of the Act of Union.
Graham Norton (Graham Walker): Television and radio presenter, comedian, and actor.
Saoirse Ronan: Acclaimed actress known for roles in films like “Lady Bird” and “Atonement.”
Bram Stoker: Author best known for his Gothic horror novel “Dracula.”
Mary Robinson: The first female President of Ireland and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Conor McGregor: Mixed martial artist, former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion.
Colin Farrell: Hollywood actor known for films like “In Bruges” and “Minority Report.”
Niall Horan: Singer and songwriter, formerly a member of the boy band One Direction.
Cillian Murphy: Actor known for roles in films like “28 Days Later” and the “Dark Knight” trilogy, and TV series “Peaky Blinders.”
Jonathan Swift: Writer, cleric, and satirist best known for “Gulliver’s Travels.”
Sinéad O’Connor: Singer and songwriter known for her hit “Nothing Compares 2 U.”
Phil Lynott: Lead vocalist, bassist, and founding member of the rock band Thin Lizzy.
Luke Kelly: One of the founding members of the Dubliners, a folk band that played both traditional and contemporary Irish music.
Eamon de Valera: Prominent political leader, third President and Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland.

Inventions

Ireland has a rich history of innovation and invention, with many Irish people and residents of Ireland contributing significantly to various fields of study and practice. Here’s a list of inventions and discoveries that can be attributed to the Irish:

Submarine: While there were early prototypes, John Philip Holland from Liscannor, County Clare, is credited with developing the first submarine commissioned by the US Navy and the first Royal Navy submarine, the Holland 1.
Ejector Seat: Invented by Sir James Martin from County Down, this invention has saved countless lives in aviation.
Binaural Stethoscope: Dr. Arthur Leared of Wexford invented this device in 1851, allowing for listening to both lungs simultaneously.
Modern Tractor: Harry Ferguson from County Down was responsible for the development of the modern tractor and its three-point linkage system.
Flail Chest Treatment: Belfast’s Pantridge introduced portable defibrillation and the treatment for flail chest, dramatically improving trauma care.
Boyles Law: Robert Boyle, an Irish natural philosopher, chemist, and physicist, described the inversely proportional relationship between the absolute pressure and volume of a gas, known as Boyle’s Law.
Clofazimine: Invented in the 1950s in Ireland, this drug has been pivotal in treating leprosy.
Seismology: Robert Mallet, often called the father of seismology, conducted groundbreaking work on earthquakes.
Guided Missile: Louis Brennan from Castlebar invented the world’s first guided missile in the late 19th century.
Splitting the Atom: While not strictly an invention, Ernest Walton, from Dungarvan, along with John Cockcroft, were the first to artificially split the atom, leading to huge developments in physics and earning them a Nobel Prize.
Hypodermic Syringe: Francis Rynd is credited with inventing this in 1844.
The Induction Coil: Rev. Nicholas Callan from County Louth came up with this invention, which became a vital component in automobiles.
Cream Cracker: The Jacob family in Dublin were the brains behind this popular snack.
Massey Ferguson Tractor: The world-famous tractor brand came from the collaboration between Harry Ferguson (mentioned above) and Canadian inventor and investor Daniel Massey.
Tank: While there’s some contention around this, Sir Walter Gordon Wilson from County Dublin played a crucial role in its development during WWI.
Modern Chocolate Milk: Sir Hans Sloane from County Down is often credited with developing a milk chocolate drink during his stay in Jamaica.
Portable Defibrillator: Professor Frank Pantridge from Northern Ireland introduced the first portable version, which has since saved countless lives.
Tobermory Cat: This isn’t a physical invention, but a famous children’s character created by author Debi Gliori, based on a real cat from Tobermory, Mull.
Colour Photography: John Joly from County Offaly developed a process for producing color photographs from a single plate, changing the future of photography.
Nickel-Zinc Battery: Developed by Dr. James Drumm in the 1930s, it was one of the first rechargeable batteries.
Whiskey Distillation: Ireland claims the earliest records of whiskey distillation, with the word “whiskey” coming from the Irish “uisce beatha”, meaning “water of life”.

TV Shows, Songs, Entertainment

Ireland has a vibrant entertainment scene, which includes TV shows, music, video games, and more. Here’s a list that encompasses various aspects of Irish entertainment:

Irish TV Shows:

“Love/Hate”: A crime drama series about organized crime in Dublin.
“Fair City”: An urban soap opera that has been airing since the 1980s.
“The Late Late Show”: One of the world’s longest-running talk shows, hosted primarily by Gay Byrne and now by Ryan Tubridy.
“Father Ted”: A comedy about three priests living on the fictional Craggy Island.
“The Fall”: A psychological thriller starring Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan.
“Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope”: A drama series about two young women living in Dublin.

Irish Songs (from various genres and eras):

“Whiskey in the Jar”: A traditional Irish song covered by many, including Thin Lizzy.
“Molly Malone”: An Irish folk song that’s also the unofficial anthem of Dublin.
“The Fields of Athenry”: A folk ballad often sung at sports events.
“Sunday Bloody Sunday” by U2: One of the band’s most political and poignant tracks.
“Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor: A cover of a song written by Prince, but her rendition is globally recognized.

Irish Video Games:

“Darkside Detective”: A point-and-click adventure game developed by Spooky Doorway.
“Guild of Dungeoneering”: A turn-based dungeon crawler by Gambrinous.
“Last Day of June”: While not strictly Irish, it was heavily inspired by the song “Drive Home” by Steven Wilson, which features Irish musician Michael Akerfeldt.

Other Irish Entertainment:

“The Commitments”: A novel by Roddy Doyle that was turned into a successful film and later a musical. It’s about a group of Dubliners who form a soul band.
Celtic Woman: An all-female Irish musical ensemble that has achieved global recognition.
Riverdance: An iconic stage performance showcasing traditional Irish music and dance, especially Irish stepdance.
Dublin International Film Festival: Ireland’s premier film festival attracting filmmakers from around the world.
Croke Park & Aviva Stadium Concerts: Massive music concerts featuring international and Irish acts alike.
The Irish Pub: A documentary that celebrates the iconic institution that is the Irish pub.
Bloomsday: An annual celebration in Dublin (and other parts of the world) that celebrates Thursday, 16 June 1904, the day depicted in James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses”.

Slang/Phrases

These phrases offer a glimpse into the playful and colorful world of Irish colloquial language. While some might be understood outside of Ireland due to the influence of Irish culture globally, others might leave outsiders a bit “gobsmacked”!

“Craic” (pronounced ‘crack’): Refers to fun or enjoyment. “What’s the craic?” means “How are you?” or “What’s happening?”.
“Grand”: Means ‘fine’ or ‘okay’. “How are you?” “Ah, grand.”
“Banjaxed”: Broken or ruined. “My phone is completely banjaxed.”
“Gobsmacked”: Extremely surprised or shocked.
“Yoke”: Thing. Used when you can’t remember the name of something. “Pass me that yoke over there.”
“Eejit”: An affectionate term for someone being silly or a fool.
“Slagging”: Teasing or making fun of someone, but often in a good-natured way.
“Feck”: A milder version of a certain other F-word. Used often in Irish conversations for various purposes.
“Gas”: Funny. “He’s a gas man” means “He’s a funny guy.”
“Snug”: A small, cozy section of a pub, often slightly private.
“Acting the maggot”: Messing around, behaving foolishly.
“Bollixed”: Tired or broken. Can also mean drunk.
“Deadly”: Really good. “That film was deadly!”
“Gutted”: Really upset or disappointed.
“Jacks”: Toilet. “I’m off to the jacks.”
“Locked”: Drunk. “He was absolutely locked last night.”
“Messing”: Joking or fooling around.
“Ride”: An attractive person. Can also mean sexual intercourse, so it should be used carefully depending on context.
“Scarlet”: Embarrassed. “I was scarlet!”
“Shift”: To kiss someone. “Did you shift him?”
“Stall it”: Wait or hold on.
“Story?”: Another way of saying “What’s up?” or “How are things?”.
“Thick”: Angry or upset. “She’s thick with you” means “She’s mad at you.”
“Wrecked”: Very tired.
“Chancer”: Someone who is always trying to get away with things.
“Bogger”: A person from the countryside (can be derogatory depending on context).
“Culchie”: Similar to ‘bogger’, referring to someone from a rural area.
“Donkey’s years”: A very long time.
“Fair play”: Well done or congratulations.
“Gaff”: House or place. “Come over to my gaff.”

We hope this list of Irish things was useful and that you found what you needed!

We did our best to cover all of the varied meanings of “Irish” with our visual gallery of Irish things and descriptive list. But if you feel there’s something we missed, please feel free to let us know and leave a comment.

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