New Ross's seafaring tradition has two great attractions for a day out. The Dunbrody is an authentic replica of a ship from Famine times that brought people to America. It provides an excellent view of life on board (051-425239). Take a cruise on the tranquil Barrow up to St Mullins, and have lunch or dinner aboard the Galley cruising restaurant (051-421723)

Nightlight

The Rock of Cashel resounds to music from Tuesday to Saturday at the Bru Boru, where the show of music, song and dance begins at 9 p.m. Make it a complete night out with dinner before the show, and afterwards feel free to join the seisi·n. Show £9, dinner and show £27 (062-61122).

Highlight

Have your tea out on the bog. If you take the Clonmacnoise and West Offaly Railway nature trail, you get a cup of tea and slice of porter cake in the heart of the Blackwater Bog. You can also see how the bog was formed and learn about the flora. Tours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the hour (0905-74114).

I'm Bored!

Have you ever wondered what tropical butterflies look like? Watch hundreds of them free-fly at Seaforde Gardens in Co Down, on the main A24 to Newcastle. Also on view are tarantulas, iguanas, birds, lizards and reptiles from Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia (048 44 811225).