We get it, travelling during the winter months is not everyone’s cup of tea. Especially not to countries that are neither hot nor snowy, like Ireland. However, Ireland in winter can be very picturesque and romantic. If you’re looking for a winter getaway that combines festive charm, breathtaking scenery and cultural richness, Ireland could be the perfect destination.
Sure, the daylight hours are much shorter, around eight to nine hours, but you can use it as an excuse to make the most of each moment. The silver lining? Longer nights mean more opportunities to gaze at the star-studded skies on Ireland’s west coast and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights if luck is on your side.
Reasons To Explore Ireland In Winter
I do love Ireland in winter. It is different, not your typical snow-and-ice affair. Unless of course, once every decade or so, we do get a snow dump – the last one was in March 2018. Instead, it is wild Atlantic waves, powered by piercing winds, dramatic and roaring, crashing on empty beaches. It is moody skies painting the landscape in all shades of gray. And not forgetting the cozy pubs inviting you to warm up with a hearty stew, a pint of Guinness or an Irish coffee. If you’re thinking about visiting Ireland’s west coast in November, December or January and are unsure whether it is a good idea, perhaps these six reasons will help you pack your suitcase.
Mild Climate
We must talk about the weather first. Ireland in winter enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to other European destinations. If you’re expecting bone-chilling cold or heaps of snow, you might be in for a pleasant surprise. While it can be chilly, it rarely sees extreme cold temperatures or heavy snowfall. This makes it an ideal destination for those who want a winter experience without the harshness of severe weather. The west coast tends to be milder than you might think, thanks to the warming Gulf Stream. Temperatures generally hover around 4-8 degrees Celsius (39-46 degrees Fahrenheit). So it’s not exactly beach weather, but it’s not freezing either.
Rain, well, that’s another story. Winter brings its fair share of showers, sometimes a bit more than fair, I won’t lie. But Ireland wouldn’t be the lush Emerald Isle without them. You shouldn’t let the rain dampen your spirits. Invest in a sturdy raincoat and waterproof boots, and you’ll be ready to tackle anything the weather throws your way. Plus, there’s something quite romantic about the rain when you’re cozied up in a charming B&B or exploring a misty coastal path hand in hand.
Festive Atmosphere
The days do start getting noticeably shorter once the clocks change at the end of October. But Ireland in winter is also sprinkled with Halloween and Christmas magic.
Halloween Or Samhain
As the crisp autumn air settles in, Ireland comes alive with a mystical energy, drawing from its Celtic heritage and pagan rituals. Halloween on October 31 is a celebration deeply rooted in ancient traditions. Ireland is, after all, the birthplace of Halloween, or as we would call it, Samhain. Mentioned in the earliest old Irish literature from the ninth century, Samhain festival marked the beginning of winter in Gaelic Ireland.
In Irish mythology, this is the time when the doors between our world and the ‘Otherworld’ become permeable. Supernatural beings and the souls of the dead can move between both worlds. Many of the towns on the west coast will hold Samhain parades to mark this festival of the dead. And of course, the cultural influence of the US is huge and kids love dressing up in costumes and going door to door trick-or-treating.
Christmas
From the start of November you get the festive run up to Christmas – by far, my favourite time of the year. Cities, towns and villages come alive with decorations and ‘turning on the Christmas lights’ events. On the west coast, Galway city does the best holiday markets, without a doubt. And the city of Waterford in the south-east of Ireland is renowned for its fantastic Christmas festival – Winterval. Many places will have carol singers as well as traditional Irish music sessions. It is the overall festive atmosphere that makes winter a special time to visit. After all, it is a season of warmth, despite the cool temperatures.
Wren Day
If you happen to be in the town of Dingle, County Kerry, on St Stephen’s Day (26th December), you may experience a piece of Ireland’s rich ancient culture, the Wrenboys. This is another tradition originating in Gaelic paganism. On Wren Day, groups of boys and men dressed in straw masks parade around the town, singing songs collecting money for charity.
Cozy Pub Culture
I’ve touched on this already – the warmth of Ireland’s legendary pubs during the colder months is very hard to resist. The cozy character of Irish pubs seems especially inviting during winter. Picture yourself snuggled by a turf fire with a pint of Guinness in hand, after a brisk coastal walk, while the wild winds are whistling outside. The winter winds are a force of nature, for sure. But think of them as the west coast giving you a proper welcome.
Wholesome Comfort Food
Winter in Ireland is the perfect time to indulge in some comforting traditional dishes that fill you up and warm you up. Like the classic Irish stew. Hearty and wholesome, slow cooked with lamb or mutton, potatoes, carrots, onions and flavoured with thyme. Or you could try boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake. It is made combining grated raw potatoes with mashed potatoes, flour and buttermilk. Pan-fried until golden brown, these savoury pancakes can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a breakfast item with sour cream, smoked salmon or both.
How about some colcannon, a staple on Irish tables, especially during festive occasions like Halloween? A delicious and comforting mashed potato dish that typically includes cabbage or kale, along with butter and milk. Somehow, all these satisfying yummy dishes taste best in the winter months.
Off-Peak Intimate Experiences
Wintertime is very much the off-peak season in Ireland. And that is one of the perks, as it means fewer crowds. With less tourists around, you get to experience the rugged beauty of places like the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare more intimately. You can have the windswept Achill Island beaches all to yourself or wander through ancient ruins in Cong, County Mayo, without the masses.
Winter is the perfect time to explore tourist spots without the hustle and bustle. You get to savour quiet walks through historic sites and enjoy the serenity of the countryside. The absence of crowds allows you to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Ireland’s west coast.
Affordable Flights And Stays
Winter in Ireland could be great for budget-conscious travellers. Given the jump in accommodation costs since the start of this year, the off-peak season may be an opportunity for visitors to experience the country without breaking the bank. Hotels and guesthouses often lower their rates during winter, providing an excellent chance to stay in charming places without the hefty price tag.
Additionally, airlines and tour operators frequently offer special winter discounts. Thus allowing tourists to explore Ireland’s rich cultural and natural wonders at a more budget-friendly cost. The reduced demand during winter means that savvy travellers can enjoy the same Irish hospitality, breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences at a discounted price. The season is therefore ideal for those seeking both affordability and an Irish adventure.
Should You Pack Your Bags For A Trip To Ireland In Winter?
Absolutely. Embrace the moody weather, the cozy vibes and the untamed beauty this season brings. Just be prepared for the elements, stay flexible with your plans and don’t forget to savour every day. It will be a different kind of adventure, one where the weather is part of the experience. Exploring Ireland in winter is a unique and romantic experience.