There is a unique appeal about Ireland and its culture that manages to capture the imagination of so many people all over the world. You can see creations with an Irish origin in so many aspects of everyday life, from flavoured crisps to colour photographs, but whether they are vital functions or subjects of fun these are some of the best contributions to come from Ireland.

Guinness by ceasol

Modern tractors

Harry Ferguson, an engineer from close to County Down, played a key part in one area of today’s world when he developed the modern tractor. The highly significant company Massey Ferguson Limited still bears his name today as one of the most prominent manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. Ferguson was also the one to provide Formula One’s first four-wheel drive as well as becoming the first Irishman to put together and fly his own plane.

Guinness

One of the most synonymous products and signifiers of Ireland, the world-renowned stout was created by Arthur Guinness’ brewery in the 1700s. It is estimated that around ten million helpings of ‘the black stuff’ are served worldwide each day with breweries containing Guinness in close to 50 countries and sales in more than 150 nations. The first edition of the Guinness Book of Records was produced in 1955.

St. Patrick’s Day

Ireland’s traditional holiday on March 17th each year manages to turn people all over the world into Irishmen and women for the day. Guinness is an absolute necessity on St. Patrick’s Day, whether it is in the pint glass or on people’s heads in the form of those foam hats that are so often worn. Ireland’s patron saint is said to have died on March 17th in 461AD after living a life that included working as a slave herding sheep, becoming a Christian priest and contributing hugely to converting the people of Ireland to the Christian faith.

St. Patrick’s Day in Munich, Germany by David Pursehouse

Father Ted

Simply one of the best comedies to have ever come out of Ireland, Father Ted starring Dermot Morgan, Ardal O’Hanlon, Frank Kelly and Pauline McLynn, ran for three series from 1995 to 1998. The three priests live with their housekeeper Mrs. Doyle on Craggy Island as a punishment for things they have done in the past and the characters’ antics gained the programme a sizeable and loyal audience. The lead character of Father Ted was played by comedian Dermot Morgan who died of a heart attack in February 1998 just a day after the final episode was filmed.

Ireland is steeped in culture, tradition, history, myth and mystery and this is just a small selection of it’s many facets.

Article written by Paula Chadwick representing www.freshmilkclothing.com who sell new, stylish and humorous clothing, celebrating the culture of Ireland in many of their products’ designs, why not try buy clothes online Ireland.

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The Nutshell – Bury St Edmonds, Suffolk

This pub is famous simply because it is the smallest pub in England. If this doesn’t spark your curiosity, then perhaps the dimensions will: The Nutshell is only 15 feet wide by 7 feet deep. Interestingly, it has been the same way since it was built in 1867. This pub has made the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest pub; even though it is said to feel crowded with only 10 people, 102 have once fit inside! After a long day of exploring and driving, pull your car over and enjoy the bizarre atmosphere of this famous bar.

Photo of Nutshell – smallest pub in England by Karen Roe

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – St Albans, Hertfordshire

It’s likely you and your car are starting your journey in London. After navigating your way out of Heathrow airport, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is a relatively close drive. Just North of London, this pub is the oldest in England. While some records state that this pub opened in 1129, there are some records of monks selling alcohol in this building as far back as the 700s! The interesting octagonal shape of the building (supposedly for cock fighting), the very low ceilings and the attached cellar will make you feel like you’re eating and drinking back in time.

Photo of Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, UK by Legis

The Old Silent Inn – Stanbury, West Yorkshire

There’s no bizarre or quirky reason to make a special visit to this pub. Simply, it is a great stop because of its fantastic location in the midst of the Bronte region of the UK. While sipping a local brew, you will look out onto the moors, the sheep and the ruins. To add to the picturesque scenery, The Old Silent Inn is famous for its friendly service, and good food and drink. If you’re planning on heading to the North part of the country during your road trip through England, this pub is a must-see after a long day in your car. In addition to the stops you’ve already planned for your road trip through England, traveling by car will also allow you to easily get to all these famous pubs. After a great day of driving, traveling by car will let you visit some very memorable pubs. You can eat and drink like a monk, a Victorian and a Bronte all on one road trip!

Susan enjoys traveling by car around the country and blogging about it, she also enjoys not driving a new car, but only buys and drives used cars, she picks up at car acutions or rental agency used car sales.

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Vikos Gorge is 20 km long and 400 m wide but at some places it is only a few meters wide. Its walls are high in some places over 1000 meters. Due to its size, the Vikos Gorge ranked the world’s deepest canyons and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Onno Zweers

Part of the Vikos Gorge is covered by the National Park Vikos-Aoos, which was founded in 1973. Except of canyon, there is also Tymfi mountain, river Aoos and several villages. The main part of the gorge stretches from village of Vikos to the village of Monodendri. The river Voidomatis flows through the canyon which constitutes the breathtaking scenery. Along the gap there are several view-points, offering breathtaking views. In the local unspoilt countryside there are many species of plants and animals such as bears, deer and foxes, which are protected by park.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Onno Zweers

The area around the Vikos Gorge is ideal for many sports. Among others, climbing, mountain biking and of course hiking, which is the most popular. It is better to hike with a guide as it is very easy to get lost here. There are ongoing organized excursions, including a tour through the Zagori picturesque villages and famous stone bridge.

You can get to the Vikos Gorge e.g. by public bus transportation service. The journey from Athens to Zagori takes about 7 hours.

View Vikos Gorge in Greece in a larger map

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