Posts tagged County Down
Navigating the foodie paradise of County Down (Copy)

Over recent years the food scene in Northern Ireland has really come to the fore and it certainly isn’t showing any signs of slowing, either.

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Top tips for planning a golfing holiday in Northern Ireland

The British Open returns to Northern Ireland this week after 68 years away, and it’s safe to say that Northern Ireland is enjoying golf fever!  As we all gather to rally behind hometown heroes Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke and Rory McIlroy, thousands of golf enthusiasts from around the globe have descended on Northern Ireland not only to take in the thrilling, world-class golf on display at the 148th Open at Royal Portrush but also to challenge themselves on some of the world’s top golf courses.

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Navigating the foodie paradise of County Down

Over recent years the food scene in Northern Ireland has really come to the fore and it certainly isn’t showing any signs of slowing, either.

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Autumn fun in County Down provides the perfect backdrop for a Dufferin staycation

As we wave goodbye to summer, it’s time to cast our minds to the wonderful autumn months ahead that bring a mix of beautiful colours with falling leaves and colder weather.

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Explore iconic Game of Thrones sites in County Down

If you are a true Game of Thrones fan, we’re sure for you and many others across the world, the latest instalment of the series has been one of your main topics of discussion in recent weeks.

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Spending a long weekend at Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough, located just 30 minutes from the busy streets of Belfast, is one of the many beautiful hidden gems that Northern Ireland has to offer, and sits conveniently in Killyleagh’s back yard.

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A rather magical day for Mark and Lynsey at Dufferin

It could be said that Newcastle upon Tyne couple Mark and Lynsey Harbottle truly bucked the traditional wedding trend when they planned their wedding for 20th October last year. From a bubble filled bus collection from the airport for English guests featuring prosecco and beer aplenty, to a special flash mob performance and an enchanted Harry Potter style themed reception at Dufferin Hall, it’s safe to say that they fulfilled their hope of having an “element of surprise at every stage” for their guests.

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Must-visit beaches to paddle on this summer

It’s June and summertime has officially begun! Time for school holidays, day trips and spending every moment possible outdoors as we soak up our few months of Northern Ireland’s sunny summer weather!

Northern Ireland has miles and miles of coastline featuring some outstanding beaches, stunning scenery and fascinating wildlife, and whether you’re a long-time resident or a weekend visitor to Northern Ireland, our beaches are popular among everyone on beautiful summer days.

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What to pack for your Irish summer holiday

Describing the weather in Ireland as ‘unpredictable’ is a huge understatement! There really can be up to four seasons in the one day, so it is important to be prepared, whatever the weather.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting our wee island or if you are venturing off on a ‘staycation’ weekend, it is essential to pack properly for the occasion to avoid any weather mishaps or wardrobe malfunctions.

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Top secrets for a good night’s sleep

In need of more shut eye? Are you longing for a morning when you can wake up feeling rested and ready for the day? 

Seven to nine hours is often cited as the recommended daily dose of sleep for adults but, for some, the bare minimum can even prove difficult. This might be down to an overactive mind, hectic work schedule, busy household, a spate of insomnia… or all the above!

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Hygge-lovers Andrew & Lauren celebrate their big day at Dufferin Hall

“I completely fell in love with Dufferin as soon as I stepped foot in it and knew it was the perfect venue for the cosy wedding I had envisaged,” says bride Lauren.

Newlyweds Andrew and Lauren Blair had a cosy and very personal wedding at Dufferin Hall last September after getting engaged on a romantic break in Iceland. The couple had been dating for two years before tying the knot and chose Dufferin Hall to gather together their nearest and dearest after a ceremony at a nearby church.

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A Fairy-tale wedding with personal touches for Grace and Matt Evans

Grace & Matt Evans got married in a lovely autumn wedding on Saturday 19th November and chose to have their special reception among their closest friends and family in Dufferin Hall.  Their romance budded while working in Tesco during university nearly 14 years ago, and they have since lived together in London and now Dublin.

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Dufferin talks food with Johnny McDowell of Indie Fude!

Dufferin Hall recently teamed up with Indie Fude and the Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival to host ‘An Irish Cheeseboard’ - an event which included a pairing menu featuring local cheeses accompanied by chutney, oatcakes, and - of course - complementing locally-sourced drink.  The sold-out event packed Dufferin Hall’s event space and acted as a boost to the popular Chocolate & Fine Food Festival in Killyleagh.

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Meet Leontine Haines, Owner & Operator, Dufferin Coaching Inn & Hall

Say hello to Leontine Haines, the lady who has been welcoming guests to the Dufferin Coaching Inn and Hall for over 10 years.  Over a cup of tea in her cosy front room, Leontine shared her stories, inspirations, and secrets to the perfect Ulster Fry. 

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St Patrick's Day in Northern Ireland - What to see in Downpatrick

Dufferin Coaching Inn is located just a stone's throw away from Downpatrick, a town famous for its Monastic heritage. Known as Saint Patrick’s town, the quiet area comes alive during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

We caught up with an expert on the area’s historic inheritance, Dr Thérèse Cullen from Irish Monastic Tours who told us the must-see attractions in County Down during St. Patrick’s Day. 

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Winter walks

It’s the start of 2016, and a lot of people have resolved to be healthier this year.    We believe one of the greatest ways to get in shape, both physically and spiritually is through walking - and with a stunning landscape in Northern Ireland, we're well positioned for some of the best walks in the world.

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