Also well worth a visit is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which includes an imposing castle dating back to the 15th century and farmhouses recreating rural Irish life from a bygone age. But after stocking on plenty of carbs with a full Irish breakfast, we opted for the great outdoors and headed to the coast and the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the 800ft cliffs have inspired many a poet to pick up their pen, and its not hard to see why.

The cliffs are simply breathtaking in both their size and beauty. Our morning at the coast left us feeling energised, not to mention a little hungry, so it was back into Ennis to sample some of the famous Irish hospitality. Ennis has plenty to occupy even the most exacting of shoppers, earning the title of boutique capital of Ireland and even staging its own annual fashion week.

There’s plenty of gift shops and book stores to buy a memento for loved ones back home, but at the same time you can look after number one and indulge in a treatment at one of the town’s spas.

The Town Hall Bistro boasts some of the best cuisine in the county, winning bonus points for generous helpings served up by candlelight in one of the town’s most historic buildings.

After-dinner entertainment came in the shape of a traditional Irish music session at the Poet’s Corner pub, where fiddlers and tin whistle players provide a foot-tapping soundtrack to any Saturday night.

As a lively town barely two hours’ away from Birmingham and within reach of some of the West coast’s most dramatic scenery, Ennis has everything that makes Ireland an appealing destination.

Travel Facts

Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, County Clare Enjoy three nights’ luxury accommodation, full Irish Breakfast and one gourmet dinner on any night of your choice from only €159.00 per person sharing. For more information call +353 65 682 8127 or visit www.flynnhotels.com. Aer Lingus flies direct from Birmingham International Airport to Shannon Airport. To book, visit www.aerlingus.com.