The unmistakable and thick sweaters of the Arran Islands; the airy linen shirts; the wools and tweed of Donegal; the crystalware of Waterford; the brooches and jewelry made of wood, leather, or metal with ancient Celtic motifs; CDs and compilations of wonderful folk music; whiskey; marinated or smoked salmon and much, much more.
In various counties, such as Clare, also called “the singing county,” traditional musical instruments are made. Handmade harps are a specialty of Mayo and Dublin, where it is also easy to find bodhrans, the typical goat skin drums and handmade bagpipes. Local wood is also used for ash or beech furniture, walking sticks in blackthorn, and sculptures made from ancient bog wood.
Tourist offices provide lists of sales points and workshops where one can see the manufacturing processes and purchase the best artisanal productions. A widespread chain of stores, present in almost all cities, is the Kilkenny Design Centre, with stores full of traditional ceramics and delightful home accessories. In Connemara, in Clifden, there are upholstery, rugs, and handmade knitwear.
The Royal Tara China of Galway is the most important fine porcelain factory, characterized by decorations recalling Celtic motifs. In Dublin, the shopping streets focus around the central Grafton Street or around O’Connel Street, not far from the banks of the Liffey River. Also not to be missed is the revived, picturesque district of Temple Bar, lively from the early morning (fruit, vegetable, and organic product markets) until late at night. Here nest trendy and curious little shops, tiny creative workshops, art galleries, and the most modern and extravagant venues.
