I‘ve

I’ve
visited this remarkable place twice a year for the last
decade – it’s what happens when you fall head over heels for an
Ulster girl away from her beloved motherland.

Initially, our trips to Emma’s hometown of Downpatrick would
largely be spent enjoying “the craic” (good old sociable Irish
fun). We’d visit hotspots like Speedy’s, Denvir’s or the notorious
Hotel Casa Bradley and enjoy traditional antics with family and
locals alike. From roaring pub singalongs led by hometown heroes
like Jerome or Edgie and their six strings, to perhaps less
traditional Limóncello after parties… The Irish sure know how to
enjoy themselves, and for years this meant our daytimes were often
spent wrapped in duvets, reaching for the local delights of Suki,
Tayto Bikers, Jammy Joeys and Herron’s Super Chip to nurse our
hangovers.

More recently, though, a new lady has entered the scene. Judy,
the gorgeous family Springer. She, along with owners Chris and
Smurf, have shown an alternative way to spend daytimes in Northern
Ireland, opening hidden doors to some stunning scenery.

While these images alone may be enough to encourage a visit, the
beauty of this land is nothing compared to that found in the hearts
of the people that live upon it. Go and experience the most
unimaginably warm welcome and generous spirit that I’ve been
fortunate enough to enjoy for the last ten years. Sláinte.

@alexfostagram
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