Page 339 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Ireland

SHOPPING IN IRELAND  337

Irish linen is world-famous and the range unparalleled. There
is a huge choice of table and bed linen, including extravagant
bedspreads and crisp, formal tablecloths. On a smaller scale,
tiny, intricately embroidered hand kerchiefs make lovely gifts
as do linen table napkins. Tea towels printed with colourful
designs are widely available. You can also buy linen goods
trimmed with fine lace, which is still handmade in Ireland,
mainly in Limerick and Kenmare.

Set of linen placemats and napkins
Nicholas
Mosse plate

Nicholas
Belleek
teapot Mosse cup
Fine linen handkerchiefs

Irish ceramics come in traditional and
modern designs. You can buy anything
from a full dinner service by established
factories, such as Royal Tara China or the
Belleek Pottery, to a one-off contemporary
piece from a local potter’s studio.
Irish crystal, hand-blown and hand-cut, can
be ordered or bought in many shops in
Ireland. Visit the outlets of the principal
manu facturers, such as Waterford
Crystal and Jerpoint Glass, to see the
full range – from glasses and decanters
to elaborate chandeliers.

Book of Irish Proverbs
Books and stationery are often
beautifully illustrated. Museums and
bookshops stock a wide range.
Celtic-design cards Waterford crystal tumbler and decanter
Food and drink will keep the distinctive tastes of Ireland
fresh long after you arrive home. Whiskey connoisseurs
should visit the Old Bushmills Distillery (see p270) or the
Jameson Heritage Centre (see p183) to sample their choice
of whiskeys. Good regional food can be found at
local shops all over Ireland. Try the dried
seaweed, which is eaten raw
or added to cooked dishes.

Jameson Bushmills Fruit cake made Jar of Irish Packet of
whiskey whiskey with Guinness marmalade dried seaweed

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