Before leaving Connemara we attempted several photos of the grandparents and grandchildren. Hmm… The first and last attempt:
Leaving Connemara
The remaining got a bit silly!
You can’t be in Ireland without seeing a castle. There are loads; and of course you can find them in various conditions-some are no more than ruins where the viewer must use old photographs or drawings and the knowledge of someone else to describe and a paint a picture of what the castle once was, while others have been maintained over the years or restored to their splendor and architectural grandeur. With only small amounts of planning or efforts you can tour one or even attend a Medieval Banquet. We heard positive things from both Irish friends and the King clan about the t experience and thought we’d save it for the McDonald Hurd Family visit.
Bunratty Castle
We had a fantastic time being entertained as one of many “Earl of Thomond’s guests” starting with a sampling of honey Mead; a history lesson about the castle, listening to period music and delightful singing as well as feasting on a four course meal with our hands of course! (Hats off, by the way to Seamus, the Juilliard trained violinist and our server for the night!)
Harp music, and our man, Seamus who grace us with his musical talent!
Emmie and one of the Bunratty singers after the banquet.
In the courtyard.
Emmie & the boys found a hill. In fairness each of them (minus Grace) took a turn.
We wish we had more photographs! Perhaps family has a few to share.
Fortunately we had time to check-in to our B & B before the start of the banquet. Not only was it to nice to be able to freshen up after the drive from Connemara, but it’s always fun to explore and poke around a new place. Erica and Brian also recommended the historic New Park House B & B. We certainly got a kick out of seeing their names in the registration book.
The New Park House
On the back deck- Pat, Scott, Marti, and Griff!
Chicks entertained the kids as well as the dogs.
New chicks!
The next morning in semi shifts we enjoyed breakfast and left for the location of Ballykissangel. Griff and Pat are big fans of the late 90’s BBC show set in Avoca, County Wicklow.
Pat, Emmie and Spencer at breakfast at the New Park House.
In front of Fitzgerald’s Pub
Pat & Griff on location o f Ballykissangel
A Year in Ireland 