Culture
22 May 19

Best Festivals To Plan A Weekend Break Around: Listowel Writers' Week

Ireland is renowned for its brilliant festivals, with dozens of intriguing events - covering all sorts of cultural, historical and musical activities - taking place throughout the year. We take a look at some superb festivals to plan a weekend break around...

Listowel Writers’ Week
May 29 – June 2
Listowel, Co. Kerry
writersweek.ie

For more than three decades, Listowel – forever associated with the legendary writers John B. Keane and Bryan MacMahon – has been home to one of the finest literary gatherings in the world. Listowel Writers’ Week is renowned for attracting local and international novelists, poets, and playwrights, and promoting a sense of communal shared experience, through Q&A Sessions and workshops. Attendees can take part in events ranging from lectures, readings and book launches to seminars, interviews, literary and historical tours, art exhibitions, theatre and music. Special guests for this year’s event include renowned Irish writers Joseph O’Connor, Colm Tóibín, Emilie Pine (pictured above), Donal Ryan, Sarah Davis Goff – and many more.

• While You’re in the Area
Check out the towers of Listowel Castle. Built in the 15th century, it was the last bastion against Queen Elizabeth I in the first Desmond Rebellion. An external staircase leads to the upper storeys. For dinner, try Allo’s on Church St. Also on Church St., John R’s Bakery provides tasty treats, great breakfasts – and superb luxury accommodation. The legendary Mike The Pies bar is a must visit for music fans.
Across in Ballybunion, Virgin Rock at Nun’s Beach is a sight to behold. Have a round of golf on the famous Ballybunion course. And try the ‘evocative cuisine’ in the hugely impressive Daroka Restaurant.