A Brief History of the Irish National Ploughing Championships The Irish National Ploughing Championships (commonly referred to as “The Ploughing”) is one of the largest and most iconic agricultural events in Ireland, showcasing the best in farming techniques, machinery, and rural life. With a history dating back to the early 1930s, the event has…
Introduction to Belfast Zoo Belfast Zoo is one of Northern Ireland’s most beloved attractions, situated on the slopes of Cave Hill overlooking the vibrant city of Belfast. Established in 1934, the zoo has been a hub of learning, conservation, and entertainment for decades. Visitors come not only to see the wide variety of animals…
Dunree Fort, Donegal: A Comprehensive History and Guide Chapter 1: Introduction to Dunree Fort 1.1 Location and Significance Dunree Fort is located on the western side of Lough Swilly, near Buncrana in County Donegal, Ireland. The fort, perched high above the rugged coastline, offers sweeping views of Lough Swilly and the surrounding…
Exploring the World of E-Bikes in the UK Electric bicycles, commonly known as e-bikes, have gained significant popularity in the UK over the past few years. Combining the convenience of cycling with the benefits of electric assistance, e-bikes provide an exciting alternative to traditional bicycles and other forms of transport. In this blog,…
Shane’s Castle: An In-Depth Exploration of Antrim’s Historic Landmark Nestled on the serene shores of Lough Neagh in County Antrim, Shane’s Castle stands as a testament to Northern Ireland’s rich history and architectural beauty. With its captivating scenery and storied past, Shane’s Castle has captured the hearts of both locals and tourists alike. The castle…
Balmoral Show: A Comprehensive Exploration of Northern Ireland’s Premier Agricultural Event The Balmoral Show is Northern Ireland’s largest agricultural event, attracting thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the best of farming, food production, and rural life. Taking place over four days in May at the Eikon Exhibition Centre in Lisburn, just outside Belfast,…
Castle Espie: A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty and Conservation Nestled on the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland, Castle Espie is one of the most remarkable wildlife reserves in the United Kingdom. Owned and operated by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), Castle Espie is not just a sanctuary for…
Jersey Giant Hens in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide The Jersey Giant hen, renowned for its size and calm demeanor, has been steadily gaining popularity in the United Kingdom. Originally bred in the United States during the 19th century, this majestic chicken breed has found a welcoming home in the UK, attracting both small-scale backyard…
The Beltex Sheep in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction The Beltex sheep breed, known for its exceptional muscle development and quality of meat, has become a staple of the British sheep industry. Originating from Belgium, where they were initially bred as a variant of the Texel sheep, the Beltex has since gained immense…
A Complete Guide to Newmills, Donegal Nestled in the rolling hills of County Donegal in the northwest of Ireland, Newmills is a small, yet historically significant location that offers visitors a glimpse into the Ireland of yesteryears. Despite its size, Newmills is home to one of the country’s best-preserved examples of industrial heritage: the…
Introduction to Massey Ferguson Massey Ferguson is one of the most renowned names in the world of agricultural machinery, known for its high-quality tractors, combines, balers, and other farming equipment. As a brand that has revolutionised farming globally, Massey Ferguson has had a particularly deep-rooted relationship with the agricultural community in the United Kingdom.…
Ballintoy: A Hidden Gem in Northern Ireland Introduction Ballintoy is a small village on the stunning coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, known for its breath-taking natural beauty, dramatic landscapes, and its proximity to famous landmarks like the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Nestled between rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean views, Ballintoy…
Limousin Cattle in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction The Limousin breed of cattle has become one of the most popular and highly regarded breeds in the UK, known for its adaptability, superior meat quality, and excellent production traits. Originally from the Limousin region of France, these cattle were first introduced to the UK…
The Origins and History of Garron Tower Garron Tower is one of Northern Ireland’s hidden gems, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the scenic North Antrim coast. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture and breath-taking views of the Irish Sea, Garron Tower has a rich history and is steeped in local folklore.…
Carlingford Village: A Timeless Gem on the Irish Coast Carlingford Village is a picturesque destination nestled on the shores of Carlingford Lough, along the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. With its rich history, stunning views of the Mourne and Cooley Mountains, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural…
Tulips in the UK: A Comprehensive Exploration of Beauty, History, and Cultivation Tulips, with their vibrant colours and elegant shapes, are among the most beloved flowers in the UK. They symbolize beauty, renewal, and the arrival of spring. Originally from Central Asia, tulips have a rich history that spans centuries, continents, and cultures. They…
Hoverflies in the UK: Nature’s Unsung Heroes of Pollination Hoverflies, also known as flower flies or syrphid flies, are one of nature’s most fascinating and essential insect species. They are part of the Syrphidae family and are often mistaken for bees or wasps due to their similar coloration and body patterns. However, unlike their…
The Locks on the River Bann: A Historical and Navigational Marvel The River Bann, Northern Ireland’s longest river, has been a lifeline for the region for centuries. Flowing from the Mourne Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, the Bann passes through some of the most picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities. Along its…
Wind Turbines in Northern Ireland: Harnessing the Power of Wind for a Sustainable Future Wind energy has become a pivotal part of Northern Ireland’s transition toward a sustainable and low-carbon future. With its expansive coastlines, rugged landscapes, and consistent wind resources, Northern Ireland is well-positioned to capitalize on wind power as a renewable…
The Dams of Northern Ireland: Engineering Marvels and Environmental Guardians Northern Ireland, a region known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is also home to numerous dams that play a crucial role in water management, flood control, and renewable energy generation. This blog post explores the significance of these…
Carrickfergus Castle: A Towering Guardian of Ireland’s Medieval Past Carrickfergus Castle stands majestically on the northern shore of Belfast Lough in Northern Ireland, a testament to nearly 900 years of tumultuous history. As one of the most well-preserved Norman castles in Ireland, it has witnessed significant events from medieval battles and sieges to royal…
Types of Flathead Syndrome: Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly & Scaphocephaly Flathead syndrome, also known as positional plagiocephaly, is a condition in which a baby’s head develops a flat spot, often due to consistent pressure on one part of the skull. While this condition might sound alarming to new parents, it is relatively common and…
Introduction to Solar Ovens Solar ovens represent a fascinating and innovative solution to cooking food using renewable energy. As concerns over climate change, environmental degradation, and resource depletion become more pressing, solar ovens offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cooking methods that rely on fossil fuels or electricity. In simple terms, a…
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bird Food for Garden Birds in the UK The joy of birdwatching in one’s own garden cannot be understated. The simple act of filling a bird feeder can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant hub of life. Birds, with their colourful plumage, melodic songs, and…
Belfast Harbour: The Heartbeat of Northern Ireland’s Maritime Heritage & its Historic Shipbuilding Giant Belfast Harbour, a vibrant and historically rich maritime gateway, has played a pivotal role in shaping the economy, culture, and identity of Northern Ireland. From its early beginnings as a modest port to its transformation into a bustling hub…
Harnessing Solar Power: The Complete Guide to Installing Photovoltaic Panels on UK Homes Introduction The world is experiencing a profound shift towards renewable energy sources, driven by the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. In the UK, one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of renewable…
Discovering UK Garden Birds: A Comprehensive Guide to Feathered Friends Gardens across the United Kingdom are not just havens for flowers and plants; they are vibrant ecosystems teeming with life. One of the most delightful aspects of gardening is the array of birds that visit. UK garden birds bring a splash…
Kilwaughter Castle: A Hidden Gem in Northern Ireland’s Storied Past Kilwaughter Castle, located in the lush green countryside of County Antrim, just outside Larne, is one of Northern Ireland’s most intriguing historical sites. Once a grand estate of aristocratic splendor, the castle now lies in ruins, a haunting echo of its…
Larne Harbour: A Comprehensive Exploration of Its Rich History, Economic Role, and Modern Relevance Introduction Larne Harbour, located on the northeastern coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, is much more than just a port; it is a historical and strategic maritime gateway that has shaped the region’s economy, culture, and political landscape…
Discovering the Ulster American Folk Park: A Journey Through Irish and American Emigration History The Ulster American Folk Park, located near Omagh in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, is a unique living history museum that tells the compelling story of emigration from Ulster to America during the 18th and 19th centuries. The…
Turf Cutting in Ireland: A Comprehensive Overview Turf cutting has been a cornerstone of Irish rural life and culture for centuries, offering not only a vital source of fuel but also creating a deep connection between communities and their natural landscapes. This comprehensive exploration will delve into the history, techniques,…
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A Journey Across Nature’s Spectacle Nestled along the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is more than just a thrilling experience; it is a journey into the heart of nature’s beauty, history, and cultural significance. Stretching 20 meters (66 feet) above the crashing waves of…
Exploring the Glens of Antrim: A Journey Through Northern Ireland’s Hidden Valleys The Glens of Antrim, nestled in Northern Ireland’s northeastern coast, offer one of the most breathtaking and unspoiled landscapes in the world. This stretch of rolling green hills, rugged coastline, and quiet villages is a land where ancient myths and modern…
Beaghmore Neolithic Stone Circles: A Journey Through Time to Ireland’s Ancient Landscape Hidden within the rugged and untamed beauty of Northern Ireland’s Sperrin Mountains lies one of the most enigmatic archaeological wonders of the British Isles: the Beaghmore Neolithic Stone Circles. This remarkable site, dating back over 4,000 years to the late…
Belfast City Hall: A Monument of History, Civic Pride, and Architectural Splendour Belfast City Hall stands not just as a civic building but as a monumental representation of Belfast’s rich heritage, complex history, and cultural identity. Nestled in Donegall Square at the very heart of the city, City Hall has been a cornerstone of Belfast’s…
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI): A Deep Dive into the Heroes of the Sea The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is a remarkable and enduring symbol of maritime rescue, bravery, and community spirit. Founded nearly 200 years ago, the RNLI has evolved from a handful of coastal lifeboats into a world-renowned…
Exploring Stormont: The Architectural and Historical Significance of the Stormont Buildings Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of east Belfast, the Stormont estate serves as a symbol of governance, heritage, and political history in Northern Ireland. The Stormont buildings, primarily known as the Northern Ireland Assembly, stand not just as a functional space for political discourse…
The Giant’s Causeway: A Natural Wonder Shrouded in Myth and History The Giant’s Causeway, a breathtaking natural marvel located on the rugged coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, is one of the most extraordinary geological formations in the world. Renowned for its unique hexagonal basalt columns, stunning coastal scenery, and rich mythology, the…
Battling Blue-Green Algae Blooms on the River Bann: A Comprehensive Overview of Causes, Impacts, and Solutions Introduction The River Bann, Northern Ireland’s longest and most important watercourse, is not just a river; it’s a lifeline for the communities that surround it. Stretching over 129 kilometers from the Mourne Mountains in County Down to…
Revolutionizing Agriculture for a Sustainable Future Agriculture has always been the backbone of human civilization, and at the heart of modern agriculture stands the tractor—a powerful symbol of innovation, efficiency, and progress. Over the past century, tractors have undergone a tremendous transformation, evolving from basic steam-powered engines to sophisticated, tech-laden machines that are…
Bees in the UK: Guardians of the Garden and Beyond Bees are some of the most remarkable and essential creatures in the UK’s natural landscape. Beyond their characteristic buzz and sweet honey, these industrious insects play a critical role in maintaining our ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and even shaping the natural beauty of…
Dolphins in the UK: Guardians of the Sea Dolphins are among the most beloved marine mammals in the world, captivating people with their intelligence, playful nature, and graceful presence. In the UK, dolphins are not just occasional visitors; they are year-round residents and essential indicators of the health of the marine environment. From the waters…
Silage Production in the UK: A Complete Guide for Farmers Silage production is a cornerstone of livestock farming in the UK, providing a reliable and nutrient-rich feed source for cattle, sheep, and other ruminants throughout the year. Especially vital during the winter months when fresh pasture is unavailable, silage is essential for maintaining…
The Thrills of the Portrush Air Show: A Sky Full of Wonder Every year, thousands of aviation enthusiasts, families, and thrill-seekers flock to the Portrush Air Show in Northern Ireland, where the sky above the North Coast is filled with breathtaking aerobatics, the thunderous roar of jet engines, and awe-inspiring displays of aerial…
Belfast Harbour Belfast Harbour is a major maritime hub in Northern Ireland, handling most of Northern Ireland’s seaborne trade and similar of the maritime trade of the entire island of Ireland. It is a vital gateway for exports and consumer goods. It is also Northern Ireland’s leading logistics and distribution hub. …
Belfast City Hall home of Belfast City Council is situated at Donegall Square, Belfast, Northern Ireland. The Grade A listed building faces North and divides the commercial and business areas in the city centre. The building has an arched cart entrance at the centre. A clocktower rises above the entrance and is…
Beaches of Ulster (Northern Ireland) Northern Ireland is home to amazing ocean cliffs and tall green mountains, but what you will find to be most beautiful when visiting this beautiful European Island is its gorgeous sandy beaches. Ireland is home to over 100 spectacular beaches that draw in visitors from all over the world…
There’s a saying among photographers in Ireland, ‘If the light is not quite right, wait for 10 minutes’. There’s a certain logic there. For instance, if you are travelling on the Antrim coast road you would be advised to always have your finger on the ‘take’ button of your camera. Every turn of the road…
In these difficult times we are living in, safety and security are foremost in our minds. We are being encouraged to have our holidays and breaks at home rather than risk travelling abroad. We are fortunate that here in Ireland we are blessed with choice of places to visit and stay. From East to west…
Photos of Ireland Are you looking for quality images and film footage of Ireland? Do you want to capture the rolling hills landscape in all their beauty? Perhaps you are just interested in stunning photographs of the shoreline? Either way, we have photos of Ireland covered. Taking photos of Ireland can be…
There’s really nothing new about portrait style photography. After all, artists have been using that method to capture images for hundreds of years. Some images are simply better in portrait mode. Tall buildings for example, lighthouses, castle turrets, the list is endless. 1. The Dark Hedges, Armoy County Antrim A bewitching promenade…
‘Ireland in Black & White’ 21 Super shots of the Emerald Isle 1. The Dark Hedges The Dark Hedges Armoy Co Antrim N. Ireland. Of all the wonderful tourist attractions in Northern Ireland the mysterious ‘Dark Hedges’ is surely among the most memorable locations to visit. Famously renamed ‘The Kings Road’ in…
Larne Harbour Larne Harbour is one of the most modern ferry ports in the entire United Kingdom. It’s conveniently located just north of Belfast, making it an easily accessible way to travel by sea to nearby Scotland. Larne Harbour and the surrounding town of Larne is the ideal place to begin exploring Northern Ireland’s…
Ireland is a gorgeous country with picturesque scenery at every turn. Talk about the photo ops! From the rolling countryside to the ancient castles, there is something for everyone in Ireland. The opportunities for stunning shots are endless. Here is a list of 18 authentic Irish photos for your travel blog! The Blarney…
The History of Irish Soda Bread, –Farls & Fadge Soda Bread and the Potato Famine of 1845 Soda bread became very popular during the famine, as the main staple of potatoes was in very short supply and hence an alternative staple was needed. Soda bread could be made from any poor quality flour,…
Crafts of Ireland Ireland has a rich history of craftsmanship, with certain practices going back as far as the Stone Age. Though born out of necessity, crafts of Ireland have persisted throughout the ages, passing from generation to generation and evolving to keep up with changing times. With numerous, ageless crafts, Ireland’s enduring workmanship is…
The Castles of Northern Ireland (Co Down) It is intended that this narrative is as a three-part series of Castles in Northern Ireland. Who built these edifices and why? Where do these castles fit into the geographical and ancient history of Northern Ireland? County Down Ardglass Castle County Down Ardglass Castle is…
It is intended that this narrative is as a three-part series of Castles in Northern Ireland. Who built these edifices and why? Where do these castles fit into the geographical and ancient history of Northern Ireland? County Antrim Antrim Round Tower Antrim Round Tower is situated on the northeast side of Antrim in Steeple…
Piers, Jettys, Marinas & Harbour Villages of Northern Ireland’s Coastline Part 2 (Co. Antrim & Derry Londonderry) A comprehensive collection of facts and details relating to small ports that lay between Carlingford Lough in Co. Down and Lough Foyle in the N/W of the province. County Antrim & Derry Londonderry Port of Belfast…
Piers, Jettys, Marinas & Harbour Villages of Northern Ireland’s Coastline Part 1 (Co Down) A comprehensive collection of facts and details relating to small ports that lay between Carlingford Lough in Co. Down and Lough Foyle in the N/W of the province. County Down- Warrenpoint Warrenpoint is a small port town in Co.…
The Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Northern Ireland Game of Thrones is one of the most popular and successful fantasy TV series ever made. First airing on TV in 2010, GOT was taken from George Martin’s book series ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’. The filming of seasons 1-7 took place in…
The Commissioners of Irish Lights is a corporation chartered by the Irish Parliament in 1785 and based in Dublin, it continues to operate the major coastal lighthouses in Northern Ireland and in the Irish Republic. Harbour Lights are operated by the local harbour authority. Read on for further information and photographs of Irish Lighthouses …
Part of the Causeway Coast and Glens Rathlin Island is an island and civil parish off the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland and is the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland, with a population of approximately 130 people, and is the most northerly inhabited island off the coast of Ireland. Rathlin Island…
Cutting Turf from a Peat Bog In Ireland A Brief History Of Peat Along with rural Irelands many breath-taking and picturesque scenes, ShutterSpeed Ireland has captured ancient traditions and crafts that have been used for hundreds of years. One of these ancient traditions is the art of cutting peat in a bog, once the…
Below is a narrative written by By Shaun-Paul Linton. Photography by Peter Steele. The Antrim Coastline in The Glens of Antrim. The story is told that two English motorcyclists arriving at the port of Larne to begin a short holiday in Northern Ireland, were joined by another cyclist who asked, “Hey mate whats the…
The Tulip Festival at Glenarm Castle and walled Gardens What makes a flower appeal to the eye, enchant the soul, and inspire art, poetry and true love? For some, it may be perfect symmetry and bold colours. For others, it is wild frills or subtle shades of pastel. All of these traits are on display when…
Move beyond pixels with exceptional photos of Ireland with ShutterSpeed Ireland The same old questions still arise, ‘Where can I download stock photos?’ ‘How much do stock photographs cost?’ ‘are there any websites where I can download images for free?’ In the digital age, images are essential for communicating your message or story effectively. The…
The Irish Moiled Cattle The Irish Moiled is one of our most distinctive breeds of cattle native to Ireland and more specifically they are the only surviving domestic cattle native to Northern Ireland. They have no horns and are generally red with a white line on the back and stomach. They are usually known…
Over 250,000 Visitors enjoyed the 88th running of the National Ploughing Championships in Fenagh, County Carlow. More than 600 acres were made available to display the 3 day event. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Anna May McHugh met competitors at the show. From food and craft stalls to prize winning sheep and cattle, there…
There are seven Forts guarding Lough Swilly Co. Donegal in Ireland. In October 1798, It was part of a scheme to fortify Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle against French Invasion during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Neds Point Fort Buncrana Co Donegal Ireland Neds Point Fort Co Donegal Ireland Neds…
This is our promotional video for our new Photo & Multimedia Website ‘ShutterSpeed Ireland’, We have incorporated many of the most loved beauty spots and places of interest along the picturesque Antrim shoreline. The haunting Dunluce Castle, the challenging Carrick-a-Reed Rope Bridge, and the world renown, Giants Causeway and much more. Included in…
Dunluce Castle a now-ruined medieval castle in Northern Ireland, located in County Antrim Coast and is accessible via a bridge connecting it to the mainland. The castle is surrounded by extremely steep drops which may have been an important factor to the early Christians and Vikings who resided in the area. In the 13th…
The Irish Industrial Section on ShutterSpeed Ireland.com covers a multitude of occupations. High resolution multimedia photographs of steam power, renewable energy, wind turbines, solar energy and hydro power. The Shanes Castle May Day Steam Rally Estate Antrim Northern Ireland Editorial Blacksmith anvil and hammer at Shanes Castle May Day Steam Rally…
Have a look at ShutterSpeed Ireland’s vast range of Flowers and Plants in some of Northern Irelands most Beautiful gardens. Mix of flowers in a Garden Centre in pots and willow baskets Summer time is when the trees and plants are looking their spectacular best With our cameras loaded and…
“Over 5,000 people attended the BBC Antiques Roadshows at Castleward hoping to have their personal treasures valued by the Roadshow’s experts. Presenter, Fiona Bruce said she loved the Castleward setting and was delighted to return once again to the Province. The weather was kind and there were many photographic opportunities” www. ShutterSpeedIreland.com Castleward Website National…
The Gobbins Cliff Path A photographers delight A sunny day in East Antrim Northern Ireland, is a photographers delight. From Blackhead lighthouse on the edge of Belfast lough, to the colourful dwellings in Whitehead Bay, excites the creative imagination to experiment with such a stunning photogenic landscape. ShutterSpeed Ireland has a unique selection of…
Yep ‘WE ARE LIVE’ a year in the making! We have just launched our new Photography & Videography Website where snaps can be purchased by both hard copy or digital download. Carrickfergus Castle County Antrim We have 1000’s of images and video footage which can range from photos of collie…
Here are some shots of the spectacular coastline of County Donegal Ireland. We got awesome photos and video footage of Doe Castle,Dunree Head Lighthouse, Malin Head Tower, Greencastle Fort and many other locations. Donegal always offers phenomenal photography opportunities. www.shutterspeedireland.com Doe Castle in Creeslough County Donegal Ireland If…
ShutterSpeed Ireland are proud to announce that they have received a prestigious award for services to tourism. Shutter speed Ireland have also been granted ‘WorldHost’ status by Tourism N.I. www.shutterspeedireland.com
ShutterSpeed Ireland are looking forward to film with our new Panasonic dvx200 4K Camera. A phenomenal piece of equipment ! www.shutterspeedireland.com Link to SLR Hut Panasonic ‘s AG-DVX200 4K Handheld Camcorder with Four-Thirds Sensor and Integrated Zoom Lens brings professional features and familiar camcorder ergonomics to the Four Thirds sensor format. It features a single…