Episode 4: The Shannon
Donal and his doggy companion Max set off for the midlands in this instalment, and what better way to start than to traverse the longest river in Ireland, the river Shannon. Donal’s trusty skipper Declan knows the Shannon like the back of his hand and brings Donal to meet local fisherman Mick for a spot of river fishing.
Donal cooks up a late lunch, a delicious Smoked Trout & Potato salad for his fellow river cruisers to enjoy, then it’s time to get back on dry land. Donal and Max venture to one of the oldest pubs in Ireland “Luker’s”, situated on the banks of the river in Shannonbridge. Here, Donal steps back in time as he meets with the pub landlord for a drink and chat in the 17th century bar.
Further down the river in county Offaly – Donal and Max visit Clonmacnoise – home to extraordinary monastery ruins founded in 544 by Saint Ciarán – but today he is greeted by fascinating travel writer, midlander Manchán Magan.
Starting the day with a delicious Breakfast Boxty, it’s time to take things closer to the modern day…well 1700s, where Donal visits the little village of Knockcroghery and meets Ethel, who has re-discovered a 300 year old craft of clay pipe making and gives Donal a one-to-one lesson in the craft.
The last stop on Donal’s tour of the Shannon is Leap Castle, rumoured to be the most haunted castle in Ireland, it boasts a turbulent history. He meets with the castle’s current owner, tin whistle player Sean Ryan to talk about living in a property with such a mysterious reputation. Donal makes a quick getaway before it gets dark and checks in to Wineport lodge for some well deserved relaxation in the hot tub.
Series Overview:
Over the last couple of years, a lot of us holidayed at home out of necessity – and as a result were reminded just how special this little island of ours really is. Donal Skehan is determined to keep up the habit – and with his trusty sheepdog Max as his travel companion – is about to embark on a food-filled Road Trip around Ireland. Donal will take in all the places he’s never had a chance to visit, tick some culinary hotspots off his foodie bucket list and – inspired by visits to some of Ireland’s finest artisan food and drink producers – will whip up a few delicious dishes along the way.
Further information: dee@appetitemedia.tv
This series is produced by Appetite Media for RTÉ One