Discover Ireland Unveils Five ‘Traitors Ireland’-Inspired Autumn Breaks

Warning: latest episode spoiler ahead - The Traitors Ireland viewers were left ‘reeling’ after Pauric held hands with unsuspecting Janet, uttering to her “Good night, and thanks for the dance”, which ultimately led to her demise in plain sight during last night’s show.

As proud sponsor of The Traitors Ireland, DiscoverIreland.ie is helping viewers turn memorable moments from the show into inspiration to discover Ireland for themselves. 

Taking inspiration from this week’s dance theme on the show, DiscoverIreland.ie has rounded up five dance-inspired autumn getaways, where the dancing is just the beginning of a brilliant short break in Ireland:

WICKLOW: Say ‘Thanks for the Dance’ to Leonard Cohen in Bray

It might just be the most appropriately named show in Ireland following this week’s Traitors Ireland episodes. On Wednesday 7 October, Thanks for the Dance – The Leonard Cohen Story comes to Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray. The show celebrates the songs, poetry and life of Leonard Cohen.

Make a short break of it: Take in the sea air with a walk along Bray Promenade before heading to nearby Killruddery House and Gardens, where historic gardens and parkland sit against the backdrop of the Great Sugar Loaf.

TIPPERARY: Take Pauric’s hand to his home county, and discover Lough Derg

Why not visit the home county of the Traitor behind last night’s killer moves? On Saturday 10 October, award-winning choreographer Wanjiru Kamuyu presents An Immigrant’s Story at The Source Arts Centre in Thurles, combining dance, spoken word and song in a powerful exploration of migration, identity and belonging.

Make a short break of it: Explore more of Tipperary with a break around Nenagh and Lough Derg. Climb the steps of Nenagh Castle for views across the town before heading towards the shores of the picturesque lakeside village of Garrykennedy, where Larkin’s Bar and Restaurant is a great spot for food, lake views and traditional music. 

ROSCOMMON: Add some drama to an Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands escape

Also taking place on Saturday 10 October, Ham Sandwiches & Discipline takes to the stage at Roscommon Arts Centre, bringing an evening of contemporary dance theatre from choreographer Nóra Ní Anluain Fay and NAF Dance.

Make a short break of it: Explore the atmospheric ruins of Roscommon Castle, an imposing 13th-century Norman castle just minutes from the centre of town. Right beside it, continue through Loughnaneane Park, a 14-acre recreational and conservation area featuring walking routes, a wildflower meadow and a reconstructed crannog.

Then head back into town for dinner and the performance, all the drama of The Traitors Ireland, without having to ask your dance partner, “Did you murder me?”

CORK: Take the dance to the streets

During October, Cork Folk Festival brings its Cross Roads Dance to Beamish Plaza as part of a weekend packed with traditional music, dancing and sessions across Cork City.

Make a short break of it: Start by browsing and tasting your way around the historic English Market, before taking the short walk uphill to Elizabeth Fort. The 17th-century star-shaped fort offers a fascinating glimpse into Cork’s past and views across the city.

Then follow the music back into the city, where Cork’s pubs, restaurants and live music scene offer plenty of reasons to stay the night and make a weekend of it.

GALWAY: Make a song and dance of a city break

If watching Pauric has inspired you to brush up on your own moves, head west to Galway, where Irish Dance at the Thatched Cottage gives visitors the chance to experience the steps, music and traditions of Irish dancing for themselves.

Make a short break of it: Explore Galway City Museum beside the Spanish Arch before heading to Salthill Promenade for an autumn walk overlooking Galway Bay – remembering to kick the wall at Blackrock before turning back towards the city. Then enjoy Galway’s food and famous live-music scene before calling it a night.

There’s plenty to discover after the dance, says Claire Redmond, Publicity and Partnerships Manager at Fáilte Ireland: “As proud sponsor of The Traitors Ireland, DiscoverIreland.ie is helping viewers turn memorable moments from the series into inspiration for their own short breaks around Ireland. This week’s episodes certainly gave a whole new meaning to ‘good night, and thanks for the dance’. Thankfully, away from the castle, accepting an invitation to dance comes with considerably fewer consequences!

“From following Pauric home to Tipperary to enjoying a weekend of music and dance in Cork, there are brilliant experiences happening across the country this autumn. So, whether you’re a Faithful, a Traitor or simply looking for an excuse to get away, take inspiration from the much-loved show and discover somewhere new”.

For more inspiration for your next autumn short break, visit DiscoverIreland.ie.

DiscoverIreland.ie is the proud sponsor of The Traitors Ireland.