It’s only a short hop across the Irish sea, but the countries of Ireland and Northern Ireland will offer you a break to remember.

From the moment you arrive till the moment you leave, you will be beguiled by these friendly, welcoming and beautiful nations. The food – seasonal, local, abundant – is wonderful and the hotels are often privately owned, sometimes in gorgeous Georgian houses, with amazing views, peat fires and comfort second to none. Head to Dublin and Belfast for buzzy restaurants, bars and nightlife, while from County Cork to County Wicklow and Connemara to County Donegal, the verdant nature, unfettered wilds and geological richness of the lore-soaked landscape is the chief draw. Well, that and the Guinness. Ireland isn’t a destination, it’s a love affair, and we are in love.