Hidden Ireland: County By County
Host Ciara Whelan leads us on a captivating exploration of Ireland's lesser-known treasures, unveiling the secrets and stories embedded within each county. From rugged coastlines to lush countryside, the series delves into the rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Join us on a journey across the Emerald Isle, where every county has its own unique tale to tell.
20211 season
GHDCC
Season 1
10 episodes
1. CarlowCiara Whelan travels inland to Carlow, one of Ireland’s smallest counties, to uncover a mix of heritage, landscape, food, art, and music. Her journey includes an ornate castle with a surprising basement, wild-food foraging near the Blackstairs Mountains, a contemporary art installation, and a traditional music session that brings the county’s local character to life.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
2. DonegalCiara heads to Ireland’s northernmost county, where dramatic coastal scenery meets deep-rooted tradition. She climbs Fanad Lighthouse, explores the wild beauty of Glenveagh National Park, steps back in time at Glencolmcille Folk Village, and ends with music in a pub connected to the family of Clannad and Enya.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
3. Dún LaoghaireIn Dún Laoghaire and south County Dublin, Ciara explores a seaside world of literature, markets, islands, and sailing. She visits the James Joyce Tower, journeys to Dalkey Island, takes to Dublin Bay for a sailing lesson, meets local producers at the farmers’ market, and enjoys outdoor dining with sweeping coastal views.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
4. DublinCiara explores Ireland’s capital through its institutions, history, skyline, and famous hospitality. From the grounds of Trinity College and the heights of Croke Park to Dublin Castle and the ritual of pouring a pint of Guinness, the episode presents Dublin as both a historic city and a living cultural hub.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
5. GalwayCiara visits Galway, where craft, faith, performance, landscape, and coastal escape come together on Ireland’s western seaboard. She meets makers of the iconic Claddagh ring, experiences Irish dance in St. Nicholas’ Church, tours the striking Kylemore Abbey, and relaxes in a wild outdoor sauna on Glassilaun Beach.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
6. KilkennyCiara discovers Kilkenny through craft, sport, design, and brewing tradition. Her route takes in Nicholas Mosse pottery, a hurling experience at Nowlan Park, golf on a Jack Nicklaus-designed course, and a beer tasting at Sullivan’s Brewing Company, revealing a county where medieval charm sits alongside contemporary Irish culture.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
7. SligoOn Ireland’s western coast, Ciara explores Sligo’s mix of surf, wellness, rural life, and literary heritage. She braves the waters at Strandhill Beach, unwinds in a seaweed bath, meets a skilled sheepdog and his flock, and follows traces of W.B. Yeats in the landscapes that helped inspire his poetry.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
8. WaterfordCiara travels to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city and a county shaped by Viking history, craftsmanship, coastline, and grand estates. She watches master glassblowers at Waterford Crystal, forages for seaweed in Ardmore, visits Lismore Castle, and hikes to Mahon Falls for a glimpse of the county’s wilder side.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
9. WexfordCiara explores Wexford through stories of migration, farming, political legacy, and wildlife rescue. She boards the Dunbrody Famine Ship, meets an unexpected herd of Irish buffalo, visits the JFK Homestead, and stops at a seal sanctuary, showing a county connected to both global history and local conservation.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
10. WicklowCiara visits Wicklow, the “Garden of Ireland,” for a journey through stately homes, monastic history, gardens, and mountain scenery. She explores Russborough House, takes a walk with animals, visits the ancient monastic site of Glendalough, and tours Killruddery House, highlighting the county’s blend of natural beauty and historic grandeur.GCC25minMar 12, 2021
Hidden Ireland: County By County
20211 season10 episodesEnded
Host Ciara Whelan leads us on a captivating exploration of Ireland's lesser-known treasures, unveiling the secrets and stories embedded within each county. From rugged coastlines to lush countryside, the series delves into the rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Join us on a journey across the Emerald Isle, where every county has its own unique tale to tell.
Creators and cast
- Directors
- Derek Dillon
- Created by
- David Harvey
- Studio
- Total Content Digital
