Soul Cakes Recipe
Long before pumpkins were carved or candy was handed out door-to-door, Halloween in Ireland looked a little different. Over 2,000 years ago, the ancient Celts celebrated Samhain (pronounced Sow-win), marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of the darker half of the year. It was a time when people believed the veil between the living and the spirit world grew thin — and kindness to wandering souls could bring good fortune.
Out of this belief came the tradition of Soul Cakes — small, spiced biscuits baked and shared with visitors or the poor in exchange for prayers for the departed. In many ways, they were the first trick-or-treats.
Today, Soul Cakes are a delicious way to honour that ancient Irish heritage. Soft, gently spiced, and perfect with a cup of tea, they connect us to a centuries-old custom that celebrates community and comfort.
Ingredients
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 Tbsp vanilla extract
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1½ tsp baking powder
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2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
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1 tsp salt
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¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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¼ cup full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
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½ cup whole milk (or your preferred milk)
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½ cup dried cranberries
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1 small apple, finely chopped and patted dry (optional)
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Milk and coarse sugar, for brushing and topping
Directions
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Preheat & Prep
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Cream the Base
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the sour cream (or yogurt), milk, and vanilla until smooth.
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Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. It will look a bit crumbly — that’s okay!
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Fold & Chill
Gently stir in the cranberries and diced apple, then cover and chill the dough for about 20 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
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Roll & Cut
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about ½ inch thick. Cut out rounds using a biscuit or cookie cutter. Transfer them to your prepared baking sheet.
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Finish & Bake
Score a small X on each cake, brush the tops with milk, and (if desired) press a few bits of dried fruit on top for decoration.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and brush again with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Return to the oven for another 10–12 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
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Cool & Serve
Move the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with tea, coffee, cider, or mulled wine.
Discover the Castles Where Legends Still Whisper
Ireland’s misty hills and ancient ruins are steeped in history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural. From eerie fortresses to shadowy towers, the country’s haunted castles are more than stone walls — they’re gateways to centuries-old stories of love, betrayal, and restless spirits.
If you’re brave enough, here are six of Ireland’s most legendary haunted sites.
Leap Castle – Ireland’s Most Haunted Fortress
Hidden deep in the heart of County Offaly, Leap Castle has earned its title as the most haunted castle in Ireland. Built in the early 1500’s by the O’Bannon clan, the castle has been home to centuries of bloodshed — and countless hauntings.
The castle’s “Bloody Chapel” tells one of its darkest tales: legend says one O’Carroll murdered his brother, a priest during mass. Visitors still report flickering lights, cold drafts, and many claim to have seen The Priest himself, forever lingering in the chapel where his life was cut short.
Barberstown Castle – A Haunted Haven with Rock ’n’ Roll Roots
Photo Credit: Barberstown Castle
Just outside Dublin in the charming village of Straffan, Barberstown Castle blends 13th-century history with a dash of modern legend. This ivy-covered fortress has stood witness to more than seven centuries of Irish history — from Norman knights to rock royalty (it was once owned by Eric Clapton!).
But behind its elegant stone walls lies a whisper of mystery. The ghost of a nameless lady is reported to have visited Room Four, the Katherine Dillon room, not once, not twice, but three times. The friendly spirit smiles at guests then turns and slips out the window.
Despite its ghostly reputation, Barberstown’s warmth and charm make it one of Ireland’s most inviting stays — the perfect blend of luxury, history, and a hint of the supernatural.
Charleville Castle – The Ghostly Child of Tullamore
Photo Credit: Charleville Castle
Also in County Offaly, Charleville Castle is a Gothic masterpiece with a chilling twist. It’s said to be haunted by Harriet, the youngest daughter of the third Earl of Charleville, who tragically fell to her death while sliding down the bannister on the main staircase in the early 1800s.
Visitors and paranormal investigators often report hearing a child’s laughter echoing through the halls — or catching glimpses of a little girl with golden ringlets drifting past the staircase where her story began.
The Hellfire Club – Dublin’s Mountain of Myths
Perched atop Montpelier Hill, overlooking a spectacular view of Dublin city, the Hellfire Club to Dubliners is the stuff of dark legend. In 1725, William ‘Speaker’ Conolly built a hunting lodge on the same site as an ancient passage grave with a cairn of stones stacked on top. It is said, Conolly destroyed the cairn while building the lodge.
After Conolly’s death, the lodge was sold and became a meeting place for the Irish Hellfire Club – founded by Richard Parsons – a man known for dabbling in black magic.
Stories tell of black masses, ghostly apparitions, and even a visit from the Devil himself, who appeared one night during a card game. Today, hikers still brave the trail to the ruins, where howling winds and a view of Dublin below create an atmosphere that’s equal parts beautiful and unsettling.
Dunluce Castle – The Ruin on the Cliff with a Haunting Legacy
Photo Credit: Tourism Ireland
Perched dramatically on a basalt outcropping along the Antrim coast, Dunluce Castle is equally renowned for its spectacular views and its ghostly tales. The stronghold, once home to the MacQuillan and later MacDonnell clans, now stands in ruins — yet it seems the past still lingers within its stone walls.
Legend tells of the young and sorrow-stricken Maeve Roe, locked away in a turret while her true love tried to rescue her. Their boat never reached safety, and Maeve is said to wander the castle’s ruined halls, eternally waiting.
Beyond its haunted past, Dunluce Castle has inspired storytellers for generations — even C.S. Lewis, whose vision of Cair Paravel, the royal castle in The Chronicles of Narnia, was said to be influenced by these dramatic coastal ruins.
Ross Castle – The Lady of the Lake
On the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park stands Ross Castle, a 15th-century stronghold surrounded by serenity — and sorrow. Legend tells of Sabina, the daughter of the castle’s chieftain, who fell in love with an English soldier. When her father forbade their union, the couple fled across the lake, only for their boat to capsize.
Sabina’s body was never found, and her grief-stricken spirit is said to wander the castle still, waiting for her lost love to return. Guests have reported soft footsteps, unexplained chills, and the sound of a woman’s sigh echoing through the halls.
Dare to explore Haunted Ireland?
Discover tours that visit some of these legendary sites and experience the island’s mysterious past come alive.
St. Patrick's Day Irish Recipes
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the flavors of Ireland! From traditional Irish soda bread to hearty seafood chowder, these festive recipes bring the taste of the Emerald Isle to your table.
Irish Brown Soda Bread courtesy of Renvyle House Hotel
Farmhouse Kitchen Fifteens courtesy of Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen
Classic Irish Scones courtesy of Kevin Dundon
Seafood Chowder courtesy of Kevin Dundon
Traditional Irish Christmas Plum Pudding
A traditional Irish Christmas Plum Pudding is the perfect way to add a touch of old-world charm to your holiday feast. Rich, moist, and bursting with festive flavours like dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of Irish whiskey this classic dessert is a true celebration of the season. It’s a delicious centrepiece that brings warmth and tradition to any Christmas meal. Whether you’re reconnecting with your Irish roots or simply seeking a unique holiday treat, this pudding is sure to delight every guest at the table!
Serves: 1 cake Cooking Time: 1 hour Prep Time: 8-10 hours
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 7 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed, plus more for greasing
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2/3 cup chopped almonds
- 2/3 cup golden raisins
- 2/3 cup raisins
- 2/3 cup dried currants
- 1/4 cup chopped candied citrus peel
- 1 small baking apple, peeled, cored, and shredded
- 1 cup dried white bread crumbs
- 2 large free-range eggs
- 1/3 cup Irish stout
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 3 tablespoons Irish whiskey
- Fresh cream/ice cream
1. Begin by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the chilled butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add the sugar, spices, almonds, dried fruit, citrus peel, shredded apple, and breadcrumbs. Mix well and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Stir in the stout, orange zest, orange juice, and whiskey until combined. Pour this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly. In keeping with Irish tradition, invite everyone in the house to take a turn stirring the mixture and making a wish. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
3. The next day, lightly grease a 1-quart pudding bowl. Pour the batter into the bowl, smoothing the top. Cut a circle of wax paper about 1.5 times the diameter of the bowl. Grease the paper, then fold a pleat in the middle to allow the pudding to expand as it cooks. Cover the bowl with the wax paper and secure it tightly with string.
4. Place the pudding bowl into a saucepan and pour in water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the bowl. Cover the pan and steam the pudding for at least 6 hours. The longer it steams, the richer and darker it becomes. Check the water level occasionally and top up with boiling water as needed to prevent it from boiling dry.
5. To store the pudding, remove the wax paper and replace it with a fresh piece. Wrap the pudding in a clean kitchen towel and store it in a cool, dry place until ready to serve.
6. To reheat, steam the pudding for about 2 hours. For a festive finish, pour Irish whiskey over the pudding at the table. Allow the youngest member of the family to light it with a match. Once the flames have died down, serve the pudding with softly whipped cream or your favourite accompaniment.
RIT Vacations Wins TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards 2024
We are beyond thrilled to announce that RIT Vacations has been honoured with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024! This prestigious accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and the highest level of service to our valued clients.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Travellers
This award belongs to you—our wonderful clients and travellers. Your positive reviews, ratings, and heartfelt testimonials have propelled us to the top. We are deeply grateful for your continued support and trust in RIT Vacations.
What the Award Means to Us
The Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award is based on the reviews and opinions from millions of travellers around the globe, placing us in the top 10% listings on Tripadvisor. This recognition reflects our dedication to excellence in every aspect of our business, from the meticulous planning of itineraries to the personalized care we offer each guest.
Celebrating Our Team
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our hardworking team. Their passion, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence make every RIT Vacation a memorable and unique experience. This award is a celebration of their commitment and dedication.
Looking Ahead
Winning the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024 inspires us to aim even higher. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing to create unforgettable travel experiences that exceed your expectations. With new tours and enhancements on the horizon, we can’t wait to share more adventures with you.
5 Intriguing Facts About St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick’s Day, a vibrant and spirited celebration, goes far beyond the sea of green attire and revelry. Dive into the rich tapestry of Irish history and culture with these five fascinating facts that make St. Patrick’s Day, a truly unique and cherished occasion.
The Origin of St. Patrick’s Day:
St. Patrick’s Day commemorates the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. He died in 461 and is buried in the grounds of Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, County Down.
The Tradition of Wearing Green:
Green has become synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day, but until the 19th century, the colour associated with St Patrick was actually blue.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades:
While parades are a common sight during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations worldwide, the first recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade actually took place in Boston in the United States in 1737. Today, these parades are a spectacle of Irish pride, featuring traditional music, dance, and colourful displays.
The Global Reach of St. Patrick’s Day:
St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just an Irish affair; it’s a global phenomenon. From Sydney to Tokyo, cities around the world join the festivities, illuminating landmarks in green lights, organizing parades, and embracing Irish traditions. It’s a day when everyone is a little Irish at heart.
The Shamrock Connection:
It is said that St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) in his teachings.
As we come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, let’s not only immerse ourselves in the joyous festivities but also take a moment to cherish the profound history and cherished traditions that transform this day into a worldwide celebration of Irish culture. Whether you find delight in savoring a hearty Irish meal, dancing to the rhythmic beats of traditional tunes, or simply adorning yourself with a subtle touch of green, let these fascinating facts weave an extra layer of appreciation into the tapestry of your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!
Robert Burns: 5 Facts About Scotland's National Poet
The Burns Monument is located in the city centre of Edinburgh and commemorates Scotland’s National Poet, Robert Burns
Robert Burns, affectionately known as Rabbie Burns, stands as a literary icon whose influence extends well beyond his native Scotland. Celebrated on January 25th as Burns Night in Scotland and globally, his impact is marked by traditional suppers, haggis, poetry readings, and toasts.
Let’s uncover five intriguing facts that contribute to the enduring allure of Rabbie Burns, a celebrated poet, songwriter, and national treasure.
Lyricist
While renowned for his poetic prowess, Burns was a man with many talents. In addition to his literary contributions, he was an accomplished lyricist, composing timeless songs such as “Auld Lang Syne,” a New Year’s Eve anthem embraced worldwide.
Statues
Robert Burns has more statues, monuments, and memorials dedicated to him than any other non-religious figure, surpassed only by Queen Victoria and Christopher Columbus.
Inaugural Burns Night
In July 1801, the inaugural Burns supper took place, as nine of Burns’ intimate friends gathered at Burns Cottage in Alloway to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the poet’s passing. The event featured a meal of haggis and performances showcasing Burns’ literary works. Now, thousands of people celebrate Burns night across the globe.
His Name
Originally spelling his name “Burnes,” Robert adopted the more familiar “Burns” after his father’s death. This spelling change, a common occurrence in Ayrshire, contributed to his enduring legacy. He is affectionately known as Rabbie Burns.
Jamaica
Burns contemplated moving from Scotland to Jamaica after the success of his poetry collection “Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect” (Kilmarnock Volume). Ultimately, Edinburgh became his destination, where a second edition of his poetry book was published.
These intriguing facets showcase the multifaceted brilliance of Robert Burns, leaving an indelible mark on literature and culture.
Photos: Visit Scotland
Traditional Irish Christmas Turkey Recipe
A traditional Irish Christmas dinner is a festive and hearty affair, bringing families together around a table adorned with the season’s finest. The star of the show is often a succulent roast turkey, generously basted and accompanied by a rich stuffing of herbs and breadcrumbs. Served alongside are velvety mashed potatoes, golden roasted vegetables, and lashings of traditional cranberry sauce.
Serves: 12-14 Cooking Time: 3 hr 30 mins
Ingredients
- 7 kg turkey, oven ready
- Salt, black pepper and a little flour
- 2 tablesp. softened butter
- 8 slices streaky bacon
Stuffing
- 450g bread broken into pieces
- 6 tablesp. fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablesp. fresh thyme chopped
- 1 medium onion, cut into quarters
- Salt and black pepper
- 100g – 150g butter, softened
1. For the stuffing, place the bread, parsley, thyme and onion in a food processor. Process until you have fine breadcrumbs and the onion is finely chopped. Remove to a bowl, season and mix in the butter.
2. To stuff the turkey, loosen the skin at the neck end with your hands. Pack the stuffing in, pushing it up between the flesh and the skin, but not too tightly because it will expand during cooking. Tuck the neck flap under the birds back and secure with a cocktail stick. Any remaining stuffing can be cooked in a covered baking dish with the turkey. Weigh the turkey and calculate the cooking time. Allow 15-20 minutes per ½ kg. (Allow 10-15 mins per ½ kg for turkeys weighing over 8kg). Place the turkey breast side up in an oiled roasting tin.
3. To cook the turkey, set the oven at 220°C or 450°F. Season the turkey with salt and pepper and dust with a little flour. Rub the turkey all over with the butter and then wrap it in foil and roast in the preset oven.
After the first 30 minutes, reduce the heat to 170°C or 325°F. Baste a couple of times during roasting. For the last half hour, remove the foil. To check if the turkey is cooked, pierce the thickest part of the leg, the juices should run clear.
When the turkey is cooked remove from the oven and transfer to a large plate. Reserve the cooking juices in the tin to make the gravy. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and allow to rest for half an hour in a warm place until you are ready to serve it.
4. We can’t forget about the gravy! A day ahead, place the giblets, some onion slices and a bay leaf in a saucepan. Cover with water, then simmer gently for 1½ – 2 hours. Then strain and season.
After removing the turkey from the roasting tin, pour off the fat and leave behind the juices. Over a medium heat, stir in a tablespoon of flour. Blend well. Add a dash of wine. Continue to cook.
Stir in the stock and simmer for 2-3 minutes. A tablespoon of red current jelly, cream or balsamic vinegar will also add to the flavour. Season to taste.
Haunting Whispers from Irish Castles
Ireland, the land of legends and folklore, is home to many ancient castles, each with its own history of kings, battles, and sometimes, even ghosts. Let’s delve into the eerie and intriguing stories that shroud Ballygally Castle, Barberstown Castle, and Ballyseede Castle. These centuries-old fortresses not only stand as architectural marvels but also hold secrets that go bump in the night.
Ballygally Castle – A Ghostly Guest
Photo Credit: Ballygally Castle
Perched on the tip of the famous Causeway Coastal Route and built in the 17th century, Ballygally Castle is famed for its breathtaking views and charming hospitality. It’s also renowned for a resident ghost, Lady Isabella Shaw, who has been a part of the castle’s history for over 400 years. Legend has it that she fell to her death from the tower while escaping her husband’s cruelty.
Her spirit is believed to roam the castle’s hallways, with an eerie twist. Lady Isabella is said to be a friendly ghost who often appears in the night, knocking on guests’ doors before disappearing. She seems to be searching for something, or perhaps someone. The brave of heart may stay in the “Ghost Room” where Lady Isabella’s presence is most strongly felt.
Barberstown Castle – The Nameless Lady
Photo Credit: Barberstown Castle
Heading southwest to County Kildare is Barberstown Castle, a 13th-century hidden gem that is now a luxurious hotel. It’s not just the castle’s elegance that captivates visitors; it’s also the story of a nameless lady.
Wrapped in a cloak, the ghost of a nameless lady is reported to have visited Room Four, the Katherine Dillon room, not once, not twice, but three times. The friendly spirit smiles at guests then turns and slips out the window.
Ballyseede Castle – The Smell of Roses
Photo Credit: Ballyseede Castle
Ballyseede Castle in County Kerry is a testament to the past, where history seeps from every stone. Built in the 17th century and surrounded by 30 acres of private gardens and woodlands, it was here that the Blennerhassett family, a well-heeled noble family from Cumberland in England, first built a property in 1721. Hilda, the last surviving member of the Blennerhassett family at Ballyseede who worked as a nurse in France during WWI, is said to still appear in Ballyseede to this day.
It has been reported by people that they get a very strong smell of roses around the main staircase (though no roses are ever present). The scent is an eerie aromatic announcement that precedes the appearance of the spirit of Hilda. She is mostly seen “roaming around” the upper floor bedrooms of the castle and the main staircase. Patrons who frequent the hotel bar recall catching glimpses of an old woman in a black Victorian dress.
Whether you’re visiting Ballygally Castle, Barberstown Castle, or Ballyseede Castle for a tranquil getaway or an adventurous ghost hunt, these stories add an extra layer of mystique to your experience. You can visit any one of these castles on a RIT Vacation.
Have you had any ghostly encounters in Irish castles? Share your tales with us!
The Perfect Barmbrack Recipe
Barmbrack Recipe
Celebrate the ancient Irish festival of Samhain (Sow-win) with an Irish Halloween treat.
Serves: 8 Cooking Time: 1 hr
Ingredients
Makes one 900g loaf
225g plain flour
2 tsps of baking powder
375g packet of fruit mix
250ml cold tea
50ml of whiskey
125g light brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 tsp of mixed spice
A ring, stick, thimble, button, coin and a piece of cloth to place inside. (All wrapped in parchment paper).
1. Place the fruit mix in a bowl and pour over the whiskey and cold tea. Allow to soak up the liquid overnight.
2. Preheat the oven to 170C/340°F and grease and line a 900g loaf tin. Combine the flour, baking powder, sugar and mixed spice in a mixing bowl. Make a well and break in the egg, and using a wooden spoon mix the egg with the dry ingredients. Add a little it of the liquid the fruit mix is sitting in and mix it through. You may not need all the liquid – you are looking for a wet dough. Then stir through the fruit mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Add in the traditional symbols and stir through. Spoon the wet dough into the lined loaf tin and place in the oven on the middle shelf and bake for one hour. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before removing from the loaf tin and place on a wire rack.
4. Cover in cling wrap and tin foil and allow to sit for one to two days before cutting into it. Serve in slices spread with a little butter.
