Our village is split in half by monstrous 700m HS2 tunnel that turns life into daily nightmare & makes homes unsellable
VILLAGERS have told how HS2 is turning life into a "daily nightmare" - after their small community was carved in half by a 700m tunnel.
Burton Green, in Warwickshire, now lies completely divided by a HS2 construction site as work continues to build the massive tunnel in their rural area.
Advertisement
4
Burton Green is completely divided by a HS2 construction site
Credit: SWNS
4
The residents have said the road is making their life a 'daily nightmare'
Credit: SWNS
Shocking images show how the works have carved straight through the middle of the picturesque village.
Fuming locals say their homes vibrate due to the loud machinery while dust and dirt wafts into gardens as the surrounding countryside is destroyed.
Many residents have already moved out of the area and those who have remained have revealed how their lives have been blighted by the works.
When plans were announced for the tunnel the village was billed as potentially being the worst affected by the controversial high-speed rail network.
Advertisement
And five years on, many living in the village, which dates back to the 1500s and has around 600 residents, say that has come to fruition after it was turned into an "eyesore building site".
Grandmother-of-one Eileen Thompson, 77, a retired secretary, has lived in Burton Green for six years.
She said: "It has just been absolutely horrendous from the start.
"The dust, the dirt, the noise - all the diversions and road closures, it has literally split our village in two.
Advertisement
Most read in The Sun
Live Blog
Exclusive
"There's been all the destruction of the greenery and lots of wildlife displaced. Some people have moved out of the area.
"Sometimes if I'm sitting in my house I can feel the whole place vibrating.
New £2billion 'super station' to open in the UK with 250,000 passengers a day and huge outdoor parkland
"We had three weeks of them blasting concrete posts out they had erected wrong and the noise and dirt from that was appalling.
"Before there was a lovely walkway alongside what used be a Victorian railway with fields and wildlife on both side - compared to this mess we have now.
Advertisement
"It's heartbreaking the see the destruction around us.
"They have bought empty properties and knocked them down as people have moved out. HS2 must own more properties than anyone else at the moment.
"It is just disgraceful how it has been planned and executed and I can't even see who its really going to be benefit.
"We're just going to end up with a shuttle train between Birmingham and London that doesn't quite go all the way into Birmingham or all the way into London.
Advertisement
"It is a waste of billions of pounds of our money and I think it will eventually be known one of the biggest scandals in Britain."
Mum-of-one Karen Blake, 55, a creative director, accused HS2 of "ruining lives" and described the situation as like "living on the M25."
Karen, who has lived in Burton Green for six years after moving from Coventry, said: "We moved from the city for a quieter life and it's been anything but.
"We were told it would be two fields over from the village but instead they have built it right at the back of us.
Advertisement
"Some days the noise from the vibrations can really make you feel quite sick, all the dust covering our homes can't be good for our health either.
"Before we had fields for miles, loads of nature, we had deer and bats and now they have torn down thousands of trees in an ancient forest for this monstrosity.
"What they have done is heartbreaking, people here have had their lives ruined.
"I've been in tears at some points. I work from home and you just can't concentrate, you may as well be living on the M25.
Advertisement
"You can only use your gardens on a Sunday - because that's the only day they have off.
"I just don't know how they can justify its existence or it's cost. I can't see who it's even going to benefit".
Other residents say they are concerned that house prices, which currently average around £500,000, could plummet by as much as £100,000.
Dad-of-two Phil Fairclough, 55, added: "When the plans were announced there was all this talk saying we could be the worst-affected by HS2.
Advertisement
"And if you look around here now I don't think you could argue that - we've had our little village bisected by a railway line nobody here wants.
"I've had friends move out, it's divided and torn a community up. It's an eyesore building site. We think house prices will drop by around £100,000 at least."
HS2 was originally meant to link up London with Northern cities like Manchester and Leeds as part of a 330-mile flagship high-speed rail network.
But after costs spiralled from £37.5bn to more than £180bn, then PM Rishi Sunak decided to only push ahead with a line between the capital and Birmingham.
Advertisement
The latest estimate suggests will cost £66 billion for the high speed line between London and Birmingham.
HS2 say the Burton Green Tunnel, which is around 70 per cent complete, will be one of five "green tunnels", which will eventually blend into the natural landscape.
A spokesperson for HS2 Ltd said: "We are working hard to reduce disruption during the construction of the Burton Green Tunnel and have provided a new village hall for the community.
"Excavated soil is being reused for nearby landscaping to avoid putting extra lorries on local roads and help blend the structure into the surrounding countryside.
Advertisement
Read more on the Irish Sun
"Once complete, the tunnel will shield neighbouring homes from noise and disturbance, with a new public green space for residents to enjoy.
"The existing Kenilworth greenway cycle and footpath will be reinstated along with new landscaping and tree planting to boost biodiversity and create new wildlife habitats."
4
Burton Green before HS2
Credit: Google
4
Eileen Thompson who has lived in Burton Green for 6 years
Credit: SWNS
Advertisement
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Irish Independent
a day ago
- Irish Independent
Ireland's 60 best beer gardens – from proper pubs to trendy rooftops and sunny terraces
The best traditional pubs with beer gardens Grogan's Castle Lounge 15 South William Street, Dublin 2; 'I'll drop them out to you' — rare words of service for a city centre pub that you'll often still hear at Grogan's. The attentive staff will sometimes even magic some extra stools for you among the al fresco street seating that wraps around this beloved old-school boozer. Add unbeatable people-watching and an almost festival vibe on a sunny day, and it's clear to see why these are some of the most coveted outdoor seats in town. Toners 139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2; An institution in Dublin, this authentic Victorian pub is best known for its historic interiors and literary connections. James Joyce and Patrick Kavanagh were such regulars here, they even feature on the pub's signage. You'll need to drag yourself from the storied front bar (and snug) to find the beer garden, one of the largest and best in the city centre. Here, tourists and the after-work crowd gather to enjoy top-tier pints and soak up the sun. Hynes' Bar This much-loved Stoneybatter local is well known for its brightly painted, festooned beer garden. It's a pure suntrap and the perfect place to sink a few pints in the summer. A solid line-up of beers is always on offer, and even a few cocktails. The pub hosts regular events, from quizzes to trad sessions, and it's also proudly Gaeilgeoir- and dog-friendly. Harry Byrne's 107 Howth Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3; The beautiful red-brick exterior and colourful window boxes of this pub, dating back to 1798, make Harry Byrne's a local landmark. Inside, the pub has plenty of character, and step around the back and you'll find a spacious courtyard beer garden packed with seating, booths and big screens, making it a magnet for any sporting event. Smooth pints are happily sipped in the sun, and there's often a food truck in the yard to keep hungry punters fuelled. The Old Royal Oak Kilmainham Lane, Dublin 8; This self-proclaimed 'authentic country pub in the city,' on the edge of Kilmainham, is a cracking destination for a pint in the sun. The small but perfectly formed beer garden fills up fast, but it's one of the best places in town to enjoy a perfectly poured pint. Bonus points for a stellar crisp selection and the chance of trad music indoors when it gets chilly. ADVERTISEMENT Peggy Kelly's 159/163 Harold's Cross Road, Dublin 6W; Peggy Kelly's is one of many traditional pubs that transformed their outdoor areas over the Covid years. Now what was once their car park is the vibrant 'Park' beer garden, covered in street art with colourful seating. Harold's Cross locals flock here for sunny pints — luckily, there is plenty of seating. To drink, you've got all your classic pub pints plus a good selection of craft beers. It's still a proper pub, just with a bright, outdoor twist. The Blue Light Barnacullia, Sandyford, Dublin 18; Sitting in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, The Blue Light dates back over 300 years. It was named after a blue ship lantern once lit to guide smugglers in the 1700s. Today, the pub is better known for its scenic setting, suntrap beer garden, sunset sessions, and unrivalled views over Dublin Bay. They pour a great pint, and it's well worth the hike or bus ride up the hill on a sunny day. Egan's Bar Liscannor, Co Clare; The classic design and straightforward look of this pub — emerald-green facade, plain lettering and a simple stone beer garden — perfectly reflect its no-nonsense attitude. In a good way. It's no frills and all fun, well known for lively front courtyard sessions. For many, including me, a perfect West Clare day includes a swim at nearby Clahane, fish and chips next door at Vaughan's, and a pint at Egan's to finish. Tigh Ned Inis Oírr, Co Galway; If you're lucky enough to get over to the Aran Islands this summer, add Tigh Ned's on Inis Oírr to your plans. This traditional pub, run by the Ó Conghaile family since 1897, is a standout place for a pint, with a unique grassy beer garden that stretches down towards the water with panoramic views of Galway Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and the Clare coastline. The pub also has a great reputation for seafood and trad sessions. Brady's Clockhouse Main Street, Maynooth, Co Kildare; This popular local pub has become well known in recent years for its outdoor seating in a prime location by the town square. On sunny days, you might have to wait for a seat — there are no pavement pints here, and landlord Declan Kennedy runs a tight ship. But tables do turn, and it's well worth the wait for table service, well-poured pints, and sun late into the evening. Jackal 10 Market Square, Navan, Co Meath; Jackal is in the spot that was previously Smyth's, on Market Square in Navan. Out back, you'll find a smart and buzzy beer garden featuring long benches and a retractable roof to suit any weather. There's a noteworthy beer selection, with plenty of craft options. No surprise, given it's part of the Animal Collective bar group, which also runs three Dublin bars with great beers and outdoor seating — Kodiak in Rathmines, Caribou on Stephen Street and the ever-popular beer garden at Bonobo in Smithfield. Swan's Bar and Paud O'Donoghue's Forge Curragha, Co Meath; Winner of the Best Outdoor Pub 2024 in the VFI Awards for good reason. First, you've got a proper pub, Paud O'Donoghue's Forge, that has been lovingly restored with plenty of nods to the building's blacksmithing past. Then there's a comfy covered beer garden area and then another large fully outdoor area with ample benches, booths and even a little chapel space they use for weddings. The Tin Pub Ahakista, Co Cork; This seasonal pub on Cork's Sheep's Head peninsula is a delight. You arrive at a modest building made of corrugated iron (hence the name), but don't let the frontage fool you. Inside, you'll find a classic, simple pub adorned with black and white wood and three stouts on tap — Murphy's, Beamish and Guinness. Grab your pint and head to the beer garden, where grass rambles down to a stone wall and, beyond that, the beach. It's an idyllic place to drink in both the scenery and very tasty pints. Dick Mack's Dingle, Co Kerry; How can a pub have it all? Dick Mack's in Dingle shows us how. Established in 1899, it's a legendary joint renowned across Ireland and beyond. While it could easily become a tourist trap, it somehow manages to maintain its integrity and still exudes that quintessential, cool pub charm. Pass through the history-steeped bar out front to find a large, bright beer garden: a lively space for sunny sessions. The pub serves all the classic pints along with its own brewhouse beers and boasts one of Ireland's top whiskey selections. Tigh Neachtain 17 Cross Street, Galway; Tigh Neachtain, in Galway's city centre, is instantly recognisable by its distinctive blue and yellow exterior, and is featured in every guidebook and list for good reason. The seats outside are sought after for prime people-watching and soaking up the lively, arty Galway vibe. Known for great pints, craft beers, Irish whiskeys, oysters and chowder, it's a favourite for both locals and visitors alike. The Quays Bar Cloonmonad, Westport Quay, Co Mayo; The streetfront of this pub offers no hint, except maybe the sunset motifs by the name, that it's hiding one of the best beer garden backdrops around. Step through the pub, Peggy Brawns, and you'll discover a spacious terrace with spectacular views over the water, with uninterrupted sights of Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick. An ideal setting for a pint in the sun. The Beach Bar Aughris, Co Sligo; What's better than a pint in a 17th-century thatched pub? When that pub sits right on the edge of Aughris Beach in Sligo Bay. The seats out the front of this pub are like gold dust on a summer's day, filled with locals, tourists and thirsty surfers. Take in impressive views over the Atlantic and across to Benbulben, order some Irish seafood and wash it down with a local beer — they've recently added the brilliant Lough Gill Brewery to their taps. Mother Mac's Mother Mac's in Limerick was once known as the Round House, thanks to its distinctive circular architecture dating back to the mid-1800s. The perfect place to admire this piece of history? Out front of the pub, in their small but lively beer garden, where standing pavement pints are just as good as a seat, thanks to the stellar selection of beers they always have and a great line-up of whiskeys, if that's your thing. Bob's Bar The Square, Course, Durrow, Co Laois; Bob's Bar in Durrow makes the most of its riverside setting. Its outdoor seating extends into a well-kept grassy beer garden that stretches down to the banks of the River Erkina, offering views of a beautiful stone arch bridge. Inside, the pub is often called the 'museum pub' thanks to its vast collection of memorabilia, antiques and old photos. They're also well known for serving excellent pints of Guinness. The Suir Inn Cheekpoint, Co Waterford; Nestled on the harbour front at Cheekpoint, where the Rivers Barrow, Nore and Suir meet, The Suir Inn is a charming, no-frills pub with a prime riverside beer garden offering excellent estuary views. Dating back to the 18th century, the bar is a traditional haunt pouring good pints. The adjoining restaurant serves local seafood and homely dishes. A simple spot and in a fantastic setting. 20 beer gardens & terraces for food The Circular & Coke Lane Pizza 536-538 South Circular Road, Dublin 8; This is a modern pub that still feels like a proper traditional boozer, so you get the best of both worlds. Great pints poured just right are part of a cracking drinks list of craft beers, wine on tap, cocktails and plenty of low- and no-alcohol options. All perfect to pair with Coke Lane's wood-fired pizzas, which are served daily from 4pm. Nab a space on the sunny street terrace benches outside. And if you like The Circular, check out its sister pub, Lucky's on Meath Street, where Coke Lane also operates. Rascals Brewing Company Unit 5 Goldenbridge Estate, Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8; A brewery with a sunny terrace, great food, and just a stone's throw from the city centre — what's not to love? Rascals have been brewing delicious beers in Dublin for over a decade, and you can taste their latest creations on site, plus they always have some fun guest brews on tap. They have their regular pizza menu and they often team up with food trucks for a bit of extra variety. There's always something happening here, so get on that Luas this summer. Pot Duggans New Road, Ennistymon, Co Clare; Pot Duggans has been constantly evolving since Bodytonic took over the pub back in 2017, and in the last few years it really feels like it's found its groove. They offer a wide range of food options — a cafe by day, then The Melting Pot and Pizza Board from the afternoons onwards. The drinks list is long and varied. There's generous seating inside and outside their restored barns, but the spot to seek out is always the hidden riverside garden, looking out on to the Inagh. Arundel's by the Pier Ahakista, Co Cork; Arundel's take full advantage of their enviable seaside location with bench seating outside overlooking the gorgeous scenery, and even a few scattered on the lawn across from the pub. They embrace the location in their food sourcing too, featuring plenty of local seafood and Cork producers on their menus. Bowls of mussels or fresh fish and chips paired with a chilled rosé or a pint in the sun here are hard to beat. The Lifeboat Inn Courtmacsherry, Co Cork; If every fishing village had a pub like The Lifeboat Inn, they'd be very lucky. The 'lads' (as they call themselves) run a well-appointed gastropub serving classic pub grub with a strong focus on local seafood and Cork suppliers. The waterfront beer garden is a wonderful spot for lunch or dinner, overlooking boats bobbing in the water. Check out their socials, 'The Lads from The Lifeboat', for a glimpse of what's on offer and the story behind this West Cork treasure. The Moorings Dungarvan, Co Waterford; Chowder and a pint by the water is a quintessential Irish summer experience — or if it's not, it should be, and the Moorings in Dungarvan is probably the perfect place to find it. This harbourside pub has buckets of maritime charm, a big bistro menu (with chowder) and, most importantly, plenty of outdoor seating, including a courtyard bar enclosed by castle walls, and waterside seats out front. O'Connell's Bar & Dough Bros Eyre Square, Galway; O'Connell's is a solid pub, pouring good pints, and its Eyre Square location means it's often hopping. Still, I'm always happy to brave the busy crowds here because a) there's a sprawling beer garden out back, and b) the Dough Bros sling their signature 'Neapolitan-inspired but distinctly Irish' pizzas from a cute green hatch there. Galway's best pizza in a buzzy beer garden? It would be rude not to, really. P. Dan's Pub & Misunderstood Heron Killadoon, Louisburgh, Co Mayo; The food world rejoiced at the news that food-truck favourites The Misunderstood Heron found a new nest for the summer. They are setting up shop at P. Dan's, a scenic pub on the Co Mayo coast, which means The Heron can continue serving its acclaimed food while the pub attracts a fresh crowd of hungry diners. And all of the above can be enjoyed on the sunny terrace overlooking Clew Bay. Dunmore House Clonakilty, Co Cork; Dunmore House boasts one of the most glorious locations, overlooking the shores of Clonakilty Bay. Last summer, they added their Sea Terrace, serving Boatshed Pizzas made with the same care and local ingredients as their award-winning hotel restaurant. Plus, they use vegetables and herbs from their very own organic Ocean Garden. Honestly, I don't think there's a more picturesque spot in the country for a pint and a pizza. O'Neills The Point Renard Point, Cahirsiveen, Co Kerry; This seasonal pub and restaurant at Renard Point offers some smashing outdoor seating overlooking Valentia Harbour. In the O'Neill family since the 1800s, it has evolved from a sailors' pub into a seafood destination serving super-fresh, locally sourced fish. The menu is simple and focused, usually featuring oysters, crab and lobster, and they are well known for their expertly poured pints. Put it on your Wild Atlantic Way list pronto. The Algiers Baltimore, Co Cork Hidden behind this gastropub — inspired by Baltimore's pirate past and North African connection — is a sun-kissed beer garden serving signature cocktails with a local twist: think a West Cork Old Fashioned of Connemara whiskey given depth by locally foraged kombu and dillisk, perhaps, or the seasonal Kind of a Cocktail with fresh sprouts from a lone pine tree. The casual food menu stars Roaring Water Bay mussels in harissa broth, tacos and chicken taquitos. The Terrace at Ballynahinch Castle Recess, Connemara, Co Galway; You don't have to be a resident to spend some heavenly hours watching the mesmeric Owenmore River take its wide bend below the south-facing terrace of this very special hotel. The seafood-focused menu has treats for every budget, from beer-battered fresh fish to potato waffles with Oscietra Royal Caviar and sour cream — and an unmissable platter of dressed Cleggan crab, Galway Bay prawns, Letterfrack oysters and Connemara lobster. Charlotte Quay Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 4; Sun-seekers flock to soak up late-evening rays and dockside vibes at this Bereen Brothers restaurant and bar, both with their own seated terrace. The bar terrace takes group bookings but if it's full, regulars happily sit on the dock wall, feet dangling above the water. Like its sister restaurants Coppinger Row, Row Wines and Orwell Road, all overseen by talented executive chef Dan Hannigan, the food and cocktails are on point. Fisk at The Harbour Bar Downings, Co Donegal ; What do you get when you pair a hilltop traditional pub overlooking one of Ireland's finest golden strands with a chef-owned whitewashed fish shack right next door, serving the likes of buttermilk-battered fish tacos, prawn bahn mi, Bloody Mary oysters and crab grilled cheese toasties? A slice of heaven is what — especially if the sun shines and you nab an outdoor table in the shared beer garden. The Glyde Inn Annagassan, Castlebellingham, Co Louth; This dreamy beachside pub with views of Dundalk Bay and the Mourne and Cooley mountains makes an excellent pitstop for an M1 journey, and a worthy destination in its own right (with bus connections from Dundalk and Drogheda). Arrive early to ensconce yourself in the outdoor terrace, which doesn't take bookings — but does serve the restaurant's seafood-heavy menu plus local bevvies from Linn Duachaill beer to Dan Kelly cider, Listoke gin and Koffy coffee. Hartley's Restaurant Harbour Road, Dún Laoghaire; Inside the former Victorian railway ticket hall is a high-ceilinged family-favourite restaurant, but the harbour-view terrace also offers sunny-day dining with waiter service from breakfast to lunch and dinner. A newer high-tabled patio area serves al fresco drinks for non-diners, from post-pier pints to extensive cocktails (think six spins on a margarita plus refreshing house mocktails) to plenty by the glass from a well-considered wine list. Helen's Bar Kilmackillogue, Tuosist, Co Kerry; Helen Moriarty's fifth-generation bar midway between Kenmare and Castletownbere is beloved for its bay and mountain views, the value of its pints and the perfection of its old-school open crab sandwich. The outdoor wooden tables are hot property on a sunny day, but you won't care when perched on the pier wall with local bay mussels, Castetownbere-landed fried fish, a Beara Belties burger or whatever you're having yourself. Margadh RHA Ely Place, Dublin 2; The kerbside terrace outside the RHA gallery is a wonderful suntrap on a sleepy cul-de-sac off St Stephen's Green. This weekday cafe switches to wine bar in the evenings and at weekends, serving snacks and small plates like arancini, Kelly's oysters or pork rillette through to primetime tasting menus. Drinks include wine flights with cheese, charcuterie and olives, wines by the glass aplenty plus various spritzes, negroni, sherries and homemade kombucha. Mo Chara Roden Place, Dundalk, Co Louth; A community hub brewpub with taps aplenty from three beer-loving best pals, Mo Chara's beer garden has hosted pop-up kitchen collabs with Chimac and Feast (with plans a-brewing with Bambino), Sunday markets and dog mornings, trad sessions and mariachi bands, plus much more. The bar menu stars Dundalk buttermilk chicken atop hand-rolled Neapolitan-style pizzas or loaded fries, or crisp-fried and tossed in one of several house sauces. Morans on the Weir Kilcolgan, Co Galway; Galway has several seafood bars with seaview outdoor seating within an easy spin of the city, including O'Grady's on the Pier in south Connemara's Barna, and Linnane's Lobster Bar over the Clare border into the Burren — but it's hard to beat Morans' sheltered weir-side tables as an essential pitstop for plump Kelly's oysters (try the native 'Galway flats' if in season) and a brimming pint. Iconic for good reason. Rooftops and terraces for wine and cocktails... Allta Three Locks Square, Dublin 2 This chic destination restaurant where chef Niall Davidson playfully elevates modern Irish food is also home to a bright, roomy bar spilling on to a sheltered courtyard. Grab (or book) a low terrace table for fun, flavourful cocktails, Whiplash beers and maybe a Woodtown Jersey beef burger in a No Messin' bun. Their bottle shop sells pre-mixed cocktails if you want to bring the vibes home. L'Atitude 51 Union Quay, Cork; Cork city offers several riverside terraces where you can watch the River Lee run towards the sea, from The River Club's semi-covered tropical oasis to the peaceful upriver escape of The Kingsley. For natural-wine lovers, though, nothing beats a quayside table at L'Atitude 51, the beloved wine bar, wine shop and small-plates kitchen in the heart of the city with a joyful curation of wines by bottle or glass. Bar 1661 Green Street, Dublin 7 ; Recently nominated for Best International Bar Team (Europe) 2025 in the world-class Spirited Awards, Bar 1661 has been leading the way in Irish cocktail culture with menus that celebrate community, collaboration and independent spirits. Their suntrap terrace overlooks leafy St Michan's Square in a surprisingly sleepy corner of town just off buzzing Capel Street, and enjoys full sunshine from afternoon into evening, plus full table service from this top team. The Boathouse Bistro Dromquinna Manor, Kenmare, Co Kerry; 'There is nothing like a straightforward gin and tonic, with no elderflower or other herb,' reckons hotelier John Brennan. 'The quinine works best with gin, lime and a ton of ice. Pure bliss.' Except that at The Boathouse terrace, there's nothing straightforward about their choice of over 40 international gins — and nothing ordinary about the waterside setting in the sunshine, which becomes 'like something from the South of France, without the bling'. Cashel Palace Hotel Main Street, Cashel, Co Tipperary Yes, the adjoining Mikey Ryan's gastropub offers fabulous al fresco dining, but thirsty non-residents are also welcome at the tranquil terrace at the rear of the hotel itself with views over the manicured garden to the castle ruins. It's uncovered, so weather-dependent, but should you get clear skies, then where better to sip a glass of Deutz Champagne Brut or a Strawberry and Mint Spritz featuring Blackwater Strawberry Gin and prosecco? Cask MacCurtain Street, Cork; One of Ireland's leading destination cocktail bars (and sister to the newer, Latin American-inspired Paladar), Cask are so dedicated to celebrating seasonal farm-to-glass flavours that they change up their cocktail menu completely every 12 weeks, which is no mean feat. Their open-air courtyard in the heart of Cork's Victorian Quarter doubles their indoor capacity, with a waterfall providing a soothing backdrop to what will be a memorable sensory experience. Cliff House Hotel Ardmore, Co Waterford; Is there a better coastal view from a hotel terrace than down to the golden strands of Ardmore Beach from this five-star cliffside escape? Order a glass of Gosset Extra Brut Champagne, perhaps, or a driver-friendly Eins-Zwei-Zero Riesling, or from the cocktail list a Gunpowder Spritz of Drumshanbo pineapple gin and Poachers ginger beer, or Ardmore Sling featuring Waterford's own Blackwater No. 5 Gin… and breathe. Drury Buildings Drury Street, Dublin 2; Drury Street is (in)famous for its kerbside scene of pubs and wine bars. But for the added luxury of an actual table and chair, this streetside heated terrace is your action-adjacent hub. They take their cocktails seriously, with in-house syrups, shrubs and sous vides from a purpose-built cocktail kitchen. Inside has more outside options too, with shady gardens and balconies wherever you look. Green Man Wines Terenure Road, Dublin 6W; Dublin is blessed with several wine bars with prime outdoor seating — think 64 Wine in Glasthule and Loose Canon on Drury Street as well as Green Man Wines — where you can order from a fine selection of wines by the glass or buy a bottle to enjoy onsite for a nominal corkage (€15 in this case), served by passionate wine lovers who know their stuff. A treasure. Haddington House Haddington Terrace, Dún Laoghaire; There are many ways for non-residents to enjoy this boutique seaside hotel, from the elegant Parlour cocktail lounge to outdoor Platform for casual plates and pizzas, and modern Italian cooking at Oliveto. One of the loveliest is to take in garden views of the East Pier and harbour down towards Sandycove beach, with something refreshing from their outdoor bar — a homemade lemonade with gin, perhaps, or a frozen margarita. Harvey's Point Terrace Donegal town, Co Donegal; It's all about lakeside views and home-from-home charm at Harvey's Bar & Terrace, where non-residents are welcome at the patio tables for a glass of Rosé d'Anjou or Picpoul de Pinet, something modern or traditional from the cocktail list (a limoncello spritz, perhaps, or a French 75), one of several liqueur coffees or a booze-free cocktail such as their Clean Rhubarb Spritz. The Moët Garden Blue Haven Hotel, Kinsale, Co Cork; Enjoy three different expressions of Champagne Moët & Chandon — the Brut Imperial, Rosé Imperial or Grand Vintage 2015 — by the glass or as a flight at this streetside terrace of Kinsale's boutique hotel as you watch the world go by. There is plenty more wine by the glass, including decent non-alcoholic choices from Kolonne Null, plus summer-friendly quenchers in a short but smart cocktail list. The Montenotte Hotel Middle Glanmire Road, Montenotte, Cork; Besides Cork city's rooftop bars (Clancy's Skybar for high-octane energy and Sophie's at The Dean for prime docklands views), the hillside slopes of Montenotte will take you skyward. At this former 18th-century merchant-prince residence, you can choose al fresco dining and city-view cocktails at the Botanical Panorama Terrace or stroll through the Victorian sunken gardens to the intimate terrace and Art Deco glamour of The Glasshouse bar for a botanical cocktail. The Palmer The K Club, Co Kildare; With its deep-rooted wine heritage, you can expect excellent wine choices throughout this resort, and The Palmer's wraparound terrace does not disappoint. With views over velvet golf greens and shimmering lakes, this first-floor clubhouse venue is open to non-members and non-residents alike, with an all-day menu and plenty by the glass available to non-diners too (make mine a Barton & Guestier Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature Cremant). La Touche Wines Greystones, Co Wicklow; Locals know the blue-sky rules for this wine store that turns wine bar for three hours a day. Bring your own chair if you want to guarantee a seat, otherwise elbow into a barrel or bench. Order a glass or buy any bottle for €8 corkage. Choose nibbles from the short menu, or buy your own gourmet bits from around the shop and they'll plate it up for you. Simples. The Rooftop Bar & Terrace, Anantara The Marker Dublin Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2; The rooftop bar of this luxury docklands hotel has 360-degree views out to the bay, up to the mountains, down to the canal basin and upriver through the city. Don't miss the lobster toast on executive chef Gareth Mullins' Asian-inspired bar-bites menu, while the drinks menu continues the theme in its mocktails and cocktails, plus local beers from Hope Brewery and Ayala (Bollinger's little sister) as the house-pour champagne. The Terrace at The Shelbourne St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2; Hidden in an airy first-floor courtyard inside this Grand Dame hotel is a summer-only rooftop plaza with generous sky views. Floral displays and colourful woollen throws bring garden colour to serene green tones. Order wines on tap from Wine Lab or a glass of Laurent Perrier Rosé perhaps, or choose from a smart curation of top-shelf spirits, with or without something from the decadent sharing menu created by executive chef Garry Hughes. The Station House Hotel Kilmessan, Co Meath; A highlight of the Boyne Valley Garden Trail, this former railway terminus station house is surrounded by 12 acres of woodland charm complete with the original railway turntable and signal box. Two separate terraces bridge inside and out: the bookable Platform Terrace with its wicker chairs, giant parasols and menus proudly showcasing Boyne Valley food producers, and the Moroccan-inspired (weather-dependent) Garden Terrace for an impromptu glass of rosé or limoncello spritz. The Universal William Street West, Galway; On one of Galway's West End streets, now pedestrianised during the summer (along with neighbouring Dominick Street Upper, Ravens Terrace and the Small Crane), you'll find this smart bar. It serves natty wines, craft beers and clever cocktails with a strong local twist — such as the Focal Deireanach featuring Connemara's own Micil Gin, Glas 55 Irish Herbal Liqueur, maraschino cherries and lime — and will spill its tables on to the street on balmy evenings. Urban Brewing CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1; As you'd expect, this dockside brewery-bar from Carlow Brewing Company has lots of house beer to enjoy fresh from the tanks, plus 200 more from around Ireland and the world. They also have a cocktail menu featuring vermut-based aperitifs and spritzes through classics with a twist to signature serves inspired by Irish myths. All on a sunny terrace with no neighbours blocking the late rays — and a vaulted cellar restaurant should you get hungry. Read more Beyond bland: Try these five Italian whites with Pinot Grigio's universal appeal From 'happy juice' to clarete: the rise of dark rosés and pale reds The French foodie connection – our restaurant critic says Marseille is having a moment
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Our village was made famous by huge TV show – now busloads of brash tourists block our driveways… nowhere's off-limits
RESIDENTS of a town made famous by a hit TV show have hit out at brazen tourists who peer through their windows and block their driveways. 5 Locals have been subjected to tourists peering in their windows Credit: Twitter - @markchristie 5 St Mary's church features heavily in the show Credit: David Hartley Locals have said the town, which features in Downton Abbey, has become a magnet for tourism and now attracts thousands of Some residents told the Telegraph that the tourism has made them a small fortune and helped to improve local amenities. Others have slammed the tourists, demanding their quant village be freed of "brash American accents." Residents of Bampton have told horror stories of their encounters with tourists. Read more in TV Locals have been subjected to selfie-sticks appearing at bedroom windows, Guided tours of the village are offered to fans of the hit show with some charging as much as £500. Busloads of fans are taken around the small village to visit filming locations made famous by the Local shop owners have claimed at one point they were making £1,000 a day from the tourists. Most read in News TV The thousands of pounds raised from visiting TV fans has been used to fund renovation works to buildings. Local services have also been improved using the massive wealth brought into the community. Despite all this locals still hit out saying they've had enough of nosey tourists One resident told "Let me tell you – Bampton was a beautiful, expensive place to live long beforehand." 'I live on the main square and they often stand in my driveway. They just go everywhere.' The 5 Highclere castle, the main filming location, is more than forty miles away from Bampton Credit: Getty 5 Tourists pay £500 for guided tours of the towns filming locations Credit: SWNS 5 Bus loads of tourists are brought into the small town Credit: SWNS Even though it has been a decade since the last episode of the original series was aired tourists still flock to Bampton. Locations including The main set for the historical drama, Highclere Castle, is forty miles away. The Residents claim that visitors spend most of their time and money in a few select locations, bringing no benefit to the rest of the town. A resident told The Telegraph: "They contribute to the library, but apart from that they don't have enough time. 'We are better off with individual travellers, with families in cars – not the buses. There's so much more to Bampton than The Community Hub receives shedloads of support but according to locals the other shops and businesses are left to fend for themselves.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Joe Swash reveals the two things he and wife Stacey Solomon can't go on holiday without
JOE Swash has revealed the two things he and Stacey Solomon can't go on holiday without, as the family gear up for their summer getaway. The 43-year-old former EastEnders star and his X Factor contestant wife are planning to jet off to sunnier climates in the coming months - but haven't landed on a location yet. 5 Joe Swash has revealed the two things he and Stacey Solomon can't go on holiday without Credit: SWNS 5 The former EastEnders star and his X Factor contestant wife are planning to jet off to sunnier climates in the coming months Credit: Instagram / @staceysolomon But no matter where they go, they'll end up packing two things as they always do - a crafts box to keep their young children entertained, and flotation devices to keep them safe in the water. Joe said: "Stacey likes to travel with a craft box so the kids can stick out things together and do a bit of drawing. "But we also like to do things with the younger ones, Belle and Rose. Rex not so much now as he's a bit older and he can swim really well, but we make sure we get the armbands for swimming properly. READ MORE ON JOE SWASH "You can go on holiday and then it's a nightmare if you can't get the right ones. We always want to make sure they have the right swimming equipment so they're safe before we go, so we know that box is ticked." Joe revealed the family are weighing up where to go – but that decision is out of his hands and will be down to the kids. Joe said: 'We do like to go away with a lot of family as well so I'm sure there's going to be more than just us lot. Most read in Showbiz 'We like to go to Turkey as that's where the kids love. We're not 100 per cent sure where it'll be, but there's going to be a lot of us. 'We are driven by what the kids love – wherever they want to go, we do.' Stacey Solomon hits back at cruel troll who branded her a 'horse mouth' He added: 'Our kids have never loved kids club, but they love water parks, swimming, playing sports, football and tennis. 'They've got huge amounts of energy to burn off and because we've got so many of them, there's never a dull moment. " I always say to Stacey that we need a holiday after the holiday.' One thing which never changes is the drenching one another with water when the sun is out. And as summer approaches, Joe has teamed up with Jammie Dodgers, to unveil a limited-edition Super Soaker made in collaboration with Nerf, which has been created to inspire kids to get outside in the sun, and 100 are up 'We're always trying to get the kids out into the garden and we're chucking water at each other so it's right up my street. 'I usually come out on top because I can carry the most water.' Discussing his collaboration with the biscuit brand Joe said: 'Jammie Dodgers have been in my family for years - I grew up with them, they were something my mum used to buy and it's something our kids love having as well.' He also revealed his and Stacey's plans to turn their Pickle Cottage to Animal Farm – by getting in goats, pigs and other farmyard animals. The 43-year-old former EastEnders star and his wife have been busy with home and garden improvements to their Essex abode, with one of the latest additions including a beehive. But not settling there, Joe opened the door for the possibility of more animals joining their growing family, which already includes dogs, ducks and fish. 'We had more chickens arrive the other day and I've heard rumours there might be rabbits on the way. 'There's always something new. I wouldn't be surprised if a goat popped up, or a pig. I feel like we're at that stage now.' The first bits of honey were extracted from their beehive recently, and so far, none of the family has been stung – although their dog Peanut did get nipped. 'I think he might have got a bit too close the other day, but he won't be doing that again,' Joe said. Joe and Stacey's interest in becoming more sustainable has spilled over into growing more fruit and vegetables and is something the whole family take part in. Growing fruit and veg in the garden has provided the perfect learning experience for their young children Rex, five, Rose, three, and Belle, two, to learn about where food comes from. Joe said: 'The question is what Stacey isn't growing, that would be easier to answer. She's really transformed the garden and really found a passion for it.' 5 As summer approaches Joe has teamed up with Jammie Dodgers to unveil a limited-edition Super Soaker Credit: BBC 5 The couple will end up packing two things as they always do - a crafts box and flotation devices Credit: BBC 5 Joe also revealed his and Stacey's plans to turn their Pickle Cottage to Animal Farm Credit: PA
