Ireland

We  travelled from Corofin to Blarney, making a brief stop at Adare (which I can remember something about being "the prettiest town in Ireland"). It was a great stop as there was a row of thatched houses and a beautiful little park. We also walked down to the riverbank.

We then went to Blarney Castle, where we walked all the way to the top so Matthew could kiss the Blarney Stone (like he really needs 'the gift of the gab'). Another interesting castle, full of history, (although the castle itself is in a state of disrepair).
Matt was really interested in the Poison Garden tho, (lots of poisonous plants in there and all the information on effects when touched or swallowed)

We caught the bus into Cork for dinner and a walk around before heading back to the camping park for the night.

Saturday, we headed up to Waterford to see the Waterford Crystal factory. Very interesting, and I would have bought some gorgeous crystal, but the budget wouldn't stretch that far (30,000 euros for a 1m tall crystal grizzly, thought he looked like the bundy bear).

It was also a great spot for lunch.

As we were catching the ferry early Sunday morning, we stopped at a park near Dublin. We made friends with a couple from near the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland, (Fiona, Brian and their 6yr old son Danny) and had a few drinks. I left their van just before midnight, Cam and Matthew stayed until 12.30, and we were up at 5.30 this morning. (Lucky for Cam we brought the nurofen).

Today we're on the ferry to Hollyhead, and seeing Nigel and Sian this afternoon in Manchester.