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Visit Belfast | Official Belfast Tourist Information | Trips to Belfast UK
You don’t have to go far for a city break this Spring! Uncover the reimagined Titanic Experience, shedding new light on our world-famous history. Visit whiskey distilleries, food markets and cool rooftop bars. Stroll through the cobbled streets steeped in history or embark on a traditional music trail. Start planning your Spring city escape today!
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You’ve come to the right place to start planning your next trip to Belfast – we’ve lots of ideas to inspire your travels for when you are able to get in the car, bus, coach train, plane or ferry to get here.
Here, you can search for things to do and find out what’s on in Belfast and across Northern Ireland. Get information about Belfast hotels , accommodation , attractions , sightseeing tours , restaurants and bars , and be inspired by our Titanic heritage and Game of Thrones territory.
Find out about getting here and download Belfast tourist maps . Or find out about the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre where you can pick up visitor guides and book tours and events tickets.
Get the latest scoop on concerts and gigs, festivals, family events and everything else that’s happening in Belfast. Browse our events guide to discover what’s on today, what’s on this weekend, and more things to do this month.
Here in Belfast, you’ll find fascinating walking, bus and taxi tours, cultural escapes, scientific exhibitions and literary inspirations. Not to mention the superb shopping, beautiful landmarks and top class entertainment.
Eat & Drink
Eating out is one of the great pleasures in life. There’s nothing like a new city, new restaurants and new culinary experiences. For a city the size of Belfast the choice of places to eat is surprising. We offer everything from fine dining, brasseries and bistros to gastro pubs, cafes, coffee shops and some of the best fish & chips around.
Looking for a comfy place to stay? Of course you are! And you’re guaranteed to find it here in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland. Browse ideas for places to stay, including hotels , spa resorts, hostels , camping , caravanning , serviced accommodation and university accommodation .
We’re here to help you plan your perfect trip to Belfast. From information about getting to Belfast and travelling around the city to car parking , travel tips and guides to our neighbourhoods . Download Belfast visitor maps and brochures , and discover a host of visitor apps to help plan your trip.
Belfast is taking steps to become a future proof city for generations to come. Find out how you can make your trip to Belfast and the surrounding area more sustainable.
Discover these Green Tourism accredited attractions in and around Belfast. Make new memories and have fun at one of these sustainable attractions.
On your next visit to Belfast, why not show some love to the planet by visiting these Green Tourism accredited hotels, that are playing their part in making Belfast more sustainable.
Did you know Belfast is one of the top cities in the UK for green attractions? If you’re looking to make your visit as eco-friendly as possible, put these parks, gardens and tours at the top of your list.
Ideas and Inspiration
Check out our blog articles for some inspiration of things to do in and around Belfast.
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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland
Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read
From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you go to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images
A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.
Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.
1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country
Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.
It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .
Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year.
2. Keep it to casual wear
The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.
Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.
Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary.
3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes
Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".
Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.
4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t
The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers".
The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.
5. You’d better learn about the rounds system
It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law.
The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.
6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport
Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).
The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.
Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.
7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car
If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat.
Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.
8. Ireland is good cycling country
Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north.
Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland and Cycling Safaris .
9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland
June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.
Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.
Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.
Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.
10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU
Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.
Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee).
Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.
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Best Things To Do in UK & Ireland
History, art and picture-perfect cities in UK & Ireland
With centuries of extraordinary history to discover and plenty of jaw-dropping scenery to admire, you’ll never be short of things to do in the UK and Ireland. From big and bustling capital cities like London and Edinburgh to charming cobbled villages and beautiful national parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re an art fanatic, a keen walker or simply love exploring magnificent castles, here are a selection of highlights to put on your bucket list.
1 Explore Central London
Top of our list of things to do in the UK and Ireland has to be a trip to the Big Smoke. From the Tower of London to Covent Garden, London’s attractions are truly endless. As well as numerous historical gems, you’ll find many contemporary sights, too, including busy Oxford Street and The Shard.
2 Amble Around The Cotswolds
The picture-perfect Cotswolds in south west England are famed for their rolling hills and quintessentially British villages filled with honey-hued houses. Considered one of the prettiest regions in the UK, you can easily spend a few days exploring Medieval market towns, gorgeous gardens and historic country houses.
3 Discover the Elegant Georgian City of Bath
Fans of Jane Austen will feel right at home in Bath, the location of many of the author’s novels. The attractive city in Somerset is also known for its Georgian architecture and beautiful Roman bath houses. Bathe in mineral-rich waters at the Thermae Bath Spa, stroll along the Circle or pop into the Jane Austen Centre.
4 Visit the Historic Heart of Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital city is also its most historic. Make some time to leisurely stroll along the Royal Mile that links Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace. For great views across the city you can walk up Arthur’s Seat, while New Town is home to many handsome Georgian buildings and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
5 Spend a few Days in the Idyllic Lake District
Located in the north of England, the Lake District is one of the most popular destinations in the UK for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s filled with natural wonders, from towering peaks like Scafell Pike to over 16 lakes. The Lake District hosts over 500 events every year, from music festivals to guided walks, so be sure to check the calendar before you visit.
6 Discover the Irish Countryside
Breathtakingly beautiful, the Irish countryside has been immortalized in countless literary and cinematic works, including Star Wars, Harry Potter and The Game of Thrones. Discover the countryside for yourself on a scenic drive through the verdant Ring of Kerry, past rugged coastal landscapes and tiny seaside villages, or set out to explore the mountains, heaths, bogs and forests of Connemara National Park, in western Ireland. Set on the southwest of County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher as just as mesmerizing, especially at sunset. Also visit Giant’s Causeway to the north of Northern Ireland – a land of myth and legend, locals consider this astonishing volcanic landscape Northern Ireland’s most popular attraction!
7 Wander Around Oxford and Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge are famed for being home to two of the world’s most prestigious universities. Walk in the footsteps of former alumni, from Charles Darwin to Oscar Wilde, by taking a day trip to either from London. In addition to admiring Medieval and Renaissance architecture, you can punt along the canals in Cambridge or visit the Bodleian Library (the second largest in the UK) in Oxford.
8 Look out for Mythical Creatures at Loch Ness
A trip to the Scottish Highlands isn’t complete without taking in Loch Ness. It’s one of the region’s deep, freshwater lakes and is best known for its links to the mythical Loch Ness Monster. We can’t guarantee you’ll spot the infamous Nessie, but you can learn more about it at the visitor center or while cruising on the loch.
9 Witness Iconic Landscapes in the Isle of Skye
Another must-see location in Scotland is the Isle of Skye. Part of the Inner Hebrides archipelago, it’s best known for its rugged scenery and rich history. Admire the cascades at the enchanting Fairy Pools, take a walk to The Old Man of Storr – a huge rock that can be spotted from miles away – or wander around Portree, Skye’s main coastal town.
10 Visit Medieval Forts and Castles in Rural Ireland
Like the UK, Ireland has dozens of grand houses and ruined castles with truly fascinating histories. Take a trip to Kilkenny to visit its restored 12th century fortress whose original structure dates back to the Norman conquest. Killarney in County Kerry is where you’ll find the impressive Ross Castle, the ancestral seat of the O’Donoghue clan, and Muckross House, a handsome 19th century lakeside manor.
Discover all the best spots to visit in the UK and Ireland by booking your vacation with our experts at Enchanting Travels.
UK & Ireland Travel Guide
Popular trips to uk & ireland.
England and Scotland: Historical Cities
Go back in time as you soak in the history of seven iconic cities across England and Scotland. Unearth the hidden gems of the bustling city of London, admire the UNESCO-listed city of Bath on leisurely walking tours and stroll down the tree-lined avenues of Oxford and Cambridge. Delve deeper into the history of Scotland…
Grand Tour of Ireland
Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Emerald Isle! Beginning in cultural Dublin, take a heritage walk through its famous landmarks and take in a traditional dinner accompanied by live entertainment at a proper Irish pub! Discover Belfast’s blend of history and modernity as your zip through the city in your private black cab! Travel…
Scotland: Heritage Cities and Loch Ness
Explore Scotland’s largest urban sprawls and experience the countryside and famous Loch Ness on this private tour. In Edinburgh, acquaint yourself with Highland history as you walk down the Royal Mile and explore the Old Town. Take a tour of the surrounding countryside and discover medieval abbeys that date back to the time of the…
Best Places To Visit
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Bath is all about soaking in history, quite literally! Named after the well-preserved Roman-era baths found here, the city continues with its spa tradition to this day.
A famous port city, Belfast today is sought after for its elegant Victorian landmarks, glitzy waterfront attractions, and fabulous gastronomic experiences.
Cambridge is a university town located along the River Cam in eastern England. With its stunning architecture, cobbled streets and rich history, this city is quintessentially English. The University of Cambridge is at the heart of the town and the area is dotted with college grounds and imposing buildings.
Celebrate the Cotswolds, a wonderful collection of rural counties in south-central England, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, best explored on historic walking trails and driving along the picturesque Cotswolds Romantic Road.
County Clare in western Ireland is known for its natural beauty and culture, from the showstopper Cliffs of Moher that features crashing Atlantic swells, to the lively Irish culture that reels you into intimate gatherings.
County Clare
The quaint town of Donegal, in Co. Donegal, is perched by the mouth of a serene bay against the stark Blue Stack Mountains, part of the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route. Prehistoric ruins, ringforts and defensive structures speak to its history as an important settlement.
Best Time To Visit
Discover the best time to visit UK & Ireland. Our destination experts provide an overview on the ideal travel time and weather to ensure that you see the best of the region.
If you’re wondering whether the UK and Ireland are safe regions to visit, the answer is yes! Read the top tips from our experts before starting on your UK & Ireland travel plans.
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Entry requirements
This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Ireland set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Ireland’s embassy in the UK.
COVID-19 rules
Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.
You should also read TravelHealthPro’s general COVID-19 advice for travellers .
Entry to Ireland
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Ireland.
Check the latest requirements from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs .
ID requirements
If you are a British citizen, you do not need a passport to enter Ireland. However, some carriers and airlines might require identification. Irish immigration officers check the ID of all passengers arriving by air from the UK and might ask for proof of British nationality, particularly if you were born outside the UK. You should take your British passport with you. Check the Ireland Citizens Information Board for guidance on acceptable ID.
You do not need ID to cross the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.
Visa requirements
British citizens do not need a visa to visit Ireland. Ireland, along with the UK, is a member of the Common Travel Area ( CTA ). UK nationals do not need a visa or residency permit to live, work or study in Ireland.
Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ireland guide .
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Ireland. Find out about customs rules from the Irish Revenue . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Travelling with pets
Read about travelling to the EU with your pet and check the Irish entry requirements for pets .
Taking money into Ireland
If you are travelling with or sending 10,000 euros or more, check Irish Revenue guidance on travelling with cash .
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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.
Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!
Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.
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Festivals and events coming up
Happy Days Beer & Food Festival 2024
Sat, 4 May - Sun, 5 May
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Fri, 3 May - Mon, 6 May
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Mon, 6 May - Sun, 19 May
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Sat, 13 Apr - Sat, 11 May
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Wed, 24 Apr - Sun, 12 May
Gate Theatre
Culture Date with Dublin 8
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Map of Ireland with places to visit
With our interactive Ireland map, all the must-see attractions in Ireland and Northern Ireland are just one click away. Here you’ll find a comprehensive overview of scenic highlights, cliffs, beaches, castles, antiquities, gardens and much more.
Meeting of the Waters & Old Weir Bridge
The National Monument
Nano Nagle Bridge
White Strand Beach
White Strand Bay
Vartry Reservoir
Vandeleur Walled Garden
Trinity College
Tourmakeady Waterfall
Torc Mountain Walk
Three Castle Head
St. Lua’s Oratory
St. Flannan’s Oratory
St. Brendan’s Well
Srahwee Wedge Tomb
Spinc and Glenealo Valley
Sketrick Castle
Cloghleagh Bridge & Shankill River
Seven Heads Bay
Sandycove Beach
Reefert Church
Ravensdale Dolmen
Rath Strand
Pulleen Loop Walk
Pulleen Harbour Bog
Powerscourt Waterfall
Port an Dorais
Pincher Bay
Old Bawn Beach
Nun’s Cove
Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
Mullinhassig Wood & Poulanassig Waterfall
Muckross Lake
Muckross House & Gardens
Muckross Friary
Mornington Strand
Moone High Cross
Moloney’s Strand
Glendalough Miners Village
Mahon Falls
Loughane More Ring Fort
Lough Currane
Looscaunagh Lough
Long Woman’s Grave
Lissadell House & Gardens
Lettergesh Beach
Kockaunaniller Cliffs
Carlingford Castle
Kindred Spirits
Kilmacduagh Monastery & Round Tower
Killiney Beach
Kilcummin Bay Beach
Kilcooley Abbey
Kells Priory
Jameson Distillery Midleton
Enniscrone Castle
Hussey’s Folly
Huntington Castle and Gardens
Purteen Harbour
Grotto & Slate Quarry
Golden Castle
Glengarriff Nature Reserve
Glenarm Valley
Glenballyeamon
Gleensk Viaduct
Glebe Stone Circles
Glassilaun Beach
Glanleam Beach
Galley Cove
Split Rock / Fionn Mac Cumhal’s Stone
Eyrephort Beach
English Market in Cork
Dunworley Beach
Dunworley Bay
Dunbrody Castle
Dunany Beach
Dromineer Castle
Dingle Lighthouse
Dhurode Mine Powder House
Derryveagh Mountains
Cuas Pier Caves
Creagh Graveyard
Craigs Lower Passage Tomb
Courtown Beach
Shankill Beach
Coom Wedge Tomb
Cockle Row Cottages
Clonegal Bridge
Castlehaven Strand
Castledermot Friary
Castledermot Round Tower & High Crosses
Cashel Murphy
Carrowmore Lake
Carrowmore Beach
Carnivan Bay
Cahersiveen
Cahermore Pier
Burren Perfumery
Bunowen Castle
Brownshill Dolmen
Brigit’s Garden
Blarney Castle
Blackstairs Mountains
Bird Island
Bellacragher Bay
Barryscourt Castle
Barry’s Cove
Bishop’s Quarter Beach
Ballyvaughan
Ballymoney Beach
Ballymalis Castle
Ballydavid Cliff Walk
Ballinskelligs Pier
Tinnaberna Bay Beach
Dolmen of the Four Maols
Ardmore Point
Annascaul Lake
An Bhinn Dubh
Altagore Cashel
Ahakista Pier
High Mournes Scenic Loop
Coomhola Bridge
St Vincent’s Bridge
Shandon Bridge
Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
Shandon Bells and Tower – St. Anne’s Church
Toe Head Signal Tower
Benvoy Strand
Roaringwater Bay
Wynn’s Castle
Warren Beach
Grand Canal
Urris Hills
Twelve Bens
Tranabo Cove
Tralong Bay
Traloher Strand
Torc Waterfall
Addergoole Titanic Memorial Park
The Gearagh
Tetrapod Footprints
Templetown Church
Temple of Deen
Pigeon Hole Cave and Teach Aille Cave
Swiss Cottage
St. Saviour’s Priory
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Sigginstown Castle
Shronebirrane Stone Circle
Sherkin Island
Sheen Falls
Rosscarbery
Rossbrin Castle
Ross Errilly Friary
Ross Castle
Rock Art at Letter West
Reenroe Beach / Inny Strand
Rattoo Round Tower
Rathlin Island
Rathfran Priory
Rabbit Island
Puffin Island
Puck’s Castle
Glengarriff
Poulnabrone Dolmen
Poulgorm Bridge
Owenahincha
The Old Barracks
Northburgh Castle
National Museum of Ireland
National Library of Ireland
Mount Gabriel
Mount Errigal
The Mottee Stone
Moll’s Gap
Memorial Garden in Kilmore Quay
Meeting of the Waters
Maynooth Castle
Mare’s Tail Waterfall
Magilligan Point
Macroom Castle
Loughareema
Lough Corrib
Lough Caragh
Lough Aughawoolia
Lough Abisdealy
Long Strand
Leacanabuaile Stone Fort
Lauragh Forest
Larrybane Quarry
Ladies’ View
Labbacallee Wedge Tomb
Kylemore Abbey
Knightstown
King John’s Castle
Kilmakilloge Church and Cemetery
Kilmainham Gaol
Kilcoe Castle
Kilcatherine Church and Cemetery
Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve
Macgillycuddy’s Reeks
Kerry Highlands
Kenmare Stone Circle
Kenmare River
Keelbeg Pier
Kealkill Stone Circle
John D’Arcy Monument
Jerpoint Abbey
Holy Island
Hill of Tara
Guinness Storehouse
Grange Stone Circle
Gougane Barra
Goat Island
Glenveagh National Park
Glenmore Valley
Gleninagh Castle
Glencar Waterfall
Glenbeg Lough
Glen of Aherlow
Gleesk Pier
Glanworth Castle
Glanmore Lake
Garnish Beach
Gap of Dunloe
Foilhommerum Bay
Ferrycarrig Tower House
Ferns Cathedral
Ferns Castle
Glenariff Forest Park
Errew Abbey
Enniscorthy Castle
Dwyer-McAllister Cottage
Scotsman’s Bay – Dún Laoghaire
Merrion Square
Half Penny Bridge
Dublin Castle
Drumlohan Ogham Stones and Souterrain
Downhill Beach
Downeen Castle
Doonbeg Castle
Doonagore Castle
Dooks Beach
Desmond Castle Adare
Derrynane Beg Ogham Stone
Derrynane House
Derrymore Beach
Derryclare Lough
Derreen Garden
Cranny Falls
Craggaunowen
Courtmacsherry Woods
Coppinger’s Court
Coosacuslaun Bay
Coomasaharn Lake
Cloonsharragh Standing Stones
Cloonee Lough
Clontygora Court Tomb
Clonca Church and High Cross
Clogher Strand
Glenevin Waterfall
Causeway Coast Way
Causestown Castle
Castletownshend
Castlepoint
Castlehaven Bay
Castlefreke Woods
Cashelkeelty Stone Circles
Carton House
Carrowmore High Crosses
Carrigaphooca Castle
Carriganass Castle
Carrigadrohid Castle
Carlingford Lough
Cahir Castle
Caha Mountains
Old Bushmills Distillery
Burrishoole Abbey
Buncrana Bridge
Bunagee Old Pier
Bonane Heritage Park
Boheh Stone
Bocan Stone Circle
Blennerville Windmill
The Blasket Centre
Blackstones Bridge
Black Valley
Bishop’s Quarter
Beltany Stone Circle
Beaghmore Stone Circles
Barnancleeve Gap
Barloge Creek
Barley Lake
Bantry House and Gardens
Banagher Old Church
Dún na Séad Castle
Church Strand Bay
Ballyrisode Beach
Ballynahinch Castle
Ballylinchy Signal Tower
Ballylahan Castle
Ballydonegan Beach
Ballydehob Viaduct
Ballycrovane Harbour
Ballycorus Leadmines
Ballybrack Dolmen
Ballaghisheen Pass
Ballaghbeama Gap
Aughadown Church and Graveyard
Athgreany Piper’s Stones
Ardmore Beach
Ashford Castle
Ardclinis Church
Ardgroom Stone Circle
Annagh Killadangan Archaeological Complex
Garrykennedy
Dark Hedges
Downhill Demense and Hezlett House
Dalkey Island
Dalkey Castle
Trawnamoe Cove
Brown’s Bay
Hill of Uisneach
Titanic Belfast
Rogerstown Estuary
Bannow Church
Priest’s Leap
Glanteenassig Forest Park
Dysert O’Dea
Abbey Island
Christ Church Cathedral
Reginald’s Tower
Athassel Priory
Rock of Cashel
Clonmacnoise
Portumna Castle and Gardens
Rock of Dunamase
Kilkenny Castle
Mellifont Abbey
Trim Castle
Hill of Slane
Monasterboice
Powerscourt Gardens
Castle Roche
Glendalough
Bloody Foreland
Ballyhiernan Bay
Isle of Doagh
Kinnagoe Bay
Inishowen Head
Mussenden Temple
Londonderry
Whiterocks Beach
Whiterocks Bay
Dunluce Castle
Giant‘s Causeway
Dunseverick Castle
Dunseverick Falls
White Park Bay
Ballintoy Harbour
Carrick-a-Rede
Kinbane Castle
Ballycastle Beach
Bonamargy Friary
Murlough Bay
Torr Head Scenic Route
Layd Old Church
Red Bay Castle
Garron Point
Carnlough Harbour
Walled Garden at Glenarm Castle
Glenarm Harbour
Antrim Coast Road
Ballygalley
The Maidens
Blackhead Lighthouse
Gobbins Cliff Path
Carrickfergus Castle
Belfast Castle
Cave Hill and McArts Fort – Belfast
Donaghadee Lighthouse
Kearney Village
Mount Stewart House and Gardens
Scrabo Tower
Lightship L.V. Petrel
Strangford Lough
Nendrum Monastic Site
St. Patrick‘s Grave in Downpatrick
Down Cathedral in Downpatrick
Castle Ward
Killard National Nature Reserve
Ardtole Church in Ardglass
St John‘s Point Lighthouse
Rossglass Beach
Dundrum Castle
Murlough National Nature Reserve
Annalong Cornmill
Silent Valley in Mourne Mountains
Greencastle
Cloughmore Stone
Narrow Water Keep
Flagstaff Viewpoint
Cooley Mountains
Carlingford
Kilwirra Church
Proleek Dolmen
Carrig Cultra Wetlands near Blackrock
Dromiskin Monastery
Salterstown Pier
Port Beach or Lurganboy Beach
Termonfeckin Castle
Baltray Beach
Drogheda Port East Lighthouse
Laytown Beach
Balbriggan Harbour
Ardgillan Castle
Red Island Skerries
St. Patrick‘s Footprint in Skerries
Skerries Mills
Skerries Islands
Loughshinny
Lusk Round Tower
Tower Bay Beach
Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk
Balcarrick Beach Donabate
Malahide Castle
Malahide Estuary
The Velvet Strand in Portmarnock
Howth Lighthouse
Howth Castle
St. Mary’s Abbey in Howth
Baily Lighthouse at Howth Head
Martello Tower in Sutton
North Bull Wall
Dollymount Strand and Bull Island
Wooden Bridge in Clontarf
Clontarf Pier
River Liffey
Samuel Beckett Bridge
Great South Wall
Seapoint Beach
Forty Foot in Sandycove
James Joyce Tower in Sandycove
Bullock Harbour
Coliemore Harbour
Sorrento Park
Killiney Hill
The Pyramid at Killiney Hill
The Obelisk at Killiney Hill
Bray Cliff Walk
Six Mile Point Newcastle
Wicklow Harbour
Black Castle Wicklow
Wicklow Head
Brittas Bay
Redcross River
Arklow Harbour
Clogga Strand
Kilmichael Point
Courtown Harbour
Norman Motte Glasscarrig
Cahore Beach
Curracloe Beach
Raven Nature Reserve
Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
Burrow Peninsula Rosslare
Rosslare Strand
Johnstown Castle
Our Lady‘s Island
Tacumshane Windmill
Ishartmon Church
Kilmore Quay
Shell Cottage
Bannow Island
Woods at Tintern Abbey
Tintern Abbey
Shipwrecks near Saltmills
Fethard Quay
Baginbun Head
Hook Lighthouse
St Dubhán‘s Church
Duncannon Fort
Ballyhack Castle
Dunbrody Abbey
Dunmore East
Metal Man Tramore
Garrus Strand
Kilfarrasy Strand
Dunhill Castle
Dunabrattin Bay
Tankardstown Copper Mines
Bunmahon Bay
Ballydowane Bay
Ballyvoony Cove
Stradbally Cove
Ballinacourty Lighthouse
Waterford Greenway
Dungarvan Castle
Davitt‘s Quay Dungarvan
Dungarvan Harbour
Helvick Head
Ballyquin Strand
Ardmore Cliff Walk
Ardmore Round Tower
Youghal Clock Gate Tower
Youghal Lighthouse
Garryvoe Beach
Ballymaloe Cookery School
Ballymaloe House
Ballycotton Lighthouse
Ballycotton Cliff Walk
Ballycroneen
Cloyne Round Tower
Roches Point
Little Island
Fota Island Castle
Fota Arboretum and Gardens
River Lee at Passage West
River Owenabue
Roberts‘ Cove
Myrtleville Beach
Tracton Woods
Rocky Bay Beach
Nohoval Cove
Charles Fort
James‘s Fort Kinsale
Lough Foyle
Dunmanus Bay
Barley Cove
Toormore Bay
Altar Wedge Tomb
Baltimore Beacon
Gurranes Stone Row
Raheen Tower House
Drombeg Stone Circle
Galley Head
Inchydoney Island
Timoleague Abbey
Harbour View
Courtmacsherry Bay
White Strand Garrylucas
Old Head of Kinsale
Ringrone Castle
Kinsale Harbour
Sheep‘s Head
Seefin Viewpoint
Garinish Island – Ilnacullin
Seal Harbour
Dunboy Castle
Pulleen Harbour
Firkeel Bay
Dursey Island
Dursey Sound
Ballydonegan Bay
Ballydonegan
Allihies Copper Mines
Ring of Beara
Hag of Beara
Kilmakilloge
Ardea Castle
Staigue Fort
White Strand
O’Carroll’s Cove
Lamb‘s Head
Derrynane Beach
Coomakesta Pass
Eightercua Stone Row
Ballinskelligs Bay
St. Finian‘s Bay
Coomanaspig Pass
Kerry Cliffs
Skellig Michael
Geokaun Mountain
Cromwell Point Lighthouse
Ballycarbery Castle
Cahergal Stone Fort
Mountain Stage
Rossbeigh Strand
Minard Castle
Kinard Beach
Dingle Town
Dunbeg Fort
Fahan Group
Slea Head Drive
Coumeenoole Bay
Great Blasket Island
Blasket Sound
Dunquin Pier
Clogher Head
Smerwick Harbour
Reask Monastic Site
Wine Strand
Gallarus Oratory
Dooneen Pier
Brandon Point
Fermoyle Strand
Castlegregory
Fenit Beach
Ballyheigue Beach
Ballybunion
Bromore Cliffs
Carrigafoyle Castle
Killimer – Tarbert Ferry
Scattery Island
Shannon Estuary
Carrigaholt Castle
Bridges of Ross
Kilkee Cliffs
White Strand Dunbeg
Doolin Pier
Fanore Beach
Limestone Coast of The Burren
Ballyvaughan Pier
Shanmuckinish Castle
Finavarra Point
Finavarra House
Flaggy Shore
Tawnagh Mill
Dunguaire Castle
Rinville Park
Silverstrand Beach
Spiddal Pier
Ballynahown Pier
Coral Beach
Lettermore Causeway
Illaunnaginga
Pearse‘s Cottage
Gorteen Bay
Aillebrack Beach
Derrigimlagh
Clifden Castle
Omey Island
Knockbrack Megalithic Tomb
Connemara National Park
Rinvyle Point
Rosroe Quay
Killary Harbour
Aasleagh Falls
Doolough Valley
Silver Strand
Carrownisky Strand
Old Head Beach
National Famine Memorial
Croagh Patrick
Carraigahowley Castle
Mulranny Beach
Corraun Peninsula
Kildavnet Castle
Atlantic Drive
Ashleam Bay
Minaun Heights
Trawmore Bay
Moyteogue Head
Achill Head
Deserted Village Achill Island
Doogort Beach
Doohoma Head
Claggan Island
Annagh Head
Doonamo Point
Ballyglass Lighthouse
Benwee Head
Céide Fields
Bunatrahir Bay
Downpatrick Head
Lackan Strand
Moyne Friary
Rosserk Friary
Ballina Quay
Easky Beach
Aughris Head
Dunmoran Strand
Culleenamore Strand
The Fairy Glen
Rosses Point
Raghly Harbour
Streedagh Point
Mullaghmore Head
Tullan Strand
Ballyshannon
Kilbarron Castle
Rossnowlagh Beach
Murvagh Beach
St. John‘s Point
Fintragh Bay
Muckross Head
Teelin Pier
Slieve League
Glengesh Pass
Maghera Beach
Loughros Beg Bay
Kilclooney Dolmen
Fall Island
Carrickfin Beach
Illannamarve
Dunmore Strand
Cara Na Mara Bunbeg
Tory Island
Marblehill Beach
Tranarossan Bay
Boyeeghter Bay
Donaghmore Strand
Kinny Lough
Great Pollet Arch
Ballymastocker Bay
Lough Swilly
Burt Castle
Grianán of Aileach
Inch Island
Lisfanon Beach
Dunree Head
Gap of Mamore
Tullagh Bay
Carrickabraghy Castle
Trawbreaga Bay
Culdaff Beach
Magilligan Point View
Five Fingers Strand
National Wax Museum
Uragh Stone Circle
Keem Strand
Cliffs of Moher
Interactive Ireland Map with sights and attractions
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Weekend Money: The 10 biggest mistakes people make in job interviews, according to employers and recruiters
From handshakes to how you dress, recruiters and business owners have shared the most common mistakes they see in job interviews. Read this and our other Weekend Money features below, and leave a comment, and we'll be back with live updates on Monday.
Saturday 4 May 2024 07:54, UK
Weekend Money
- The 10 biggest mistakes people make in job interviews, according to employers and recruiters
- Cinema is back - so should movie lovers unsubscribe?
- Brexit rule changes, disability vouchers and manifestation cynicism: What readers have said this week
- Interest rates, inflation and fuel prices: What you need to know about the economy this week
Best of the week
- It turns out Sainsbury’s boss was right about self-checkouts
- State pensions could be in doubt for future generations, expert warns
- New ISA rules were supposed to help savers - right now they've just made everything more complicated
- Money Problem: 'A company isn't abiding by written warranty for dodgy building work - what can I do?'
- Gameboys, Sindy/Barbie dolls, designer shoes, 1950s furniture: The items in your attic that could be worth a small fortune
- Train strikes in May - everything you need to know
Ask a question or make a comment
You filled out the job application, got the call (they're interested, phew!), but now... it's interview day.
If the thought of selling yourself to a stranger brings you out in a cold sweat, you're not alone - but you can help yourself by not making the following common mistakes...
1. Not dressing app ropriately
Paul Webley, managing director of Blaze Media Digital Marketing Agency in Merseyside, says: "If you are coming for an interview in a marketing agency, dress smart. No need to be in a suit. It's cute if you are but just dress how you would expect to dress in the job and, if in doubt, err on the side of being slightly smarter.
"With us, there are loads of photos of the team in the office on the website and socials (which you should have looked at) so there is no excuse."
2. Handshake mishaps
Paul's second interview mistake is: "This last one is a real pet hate and probably doesn't matter as much in the current world but... learn how to shake a person's hand. You have to do this within every job from time to time.
"There is nothing more off-putting than a limp shake. Having a firm, polite handshake is a basic human skill in business and beyond."
3. Complaining
This is another one from Paul: "We had someone a few months ago tell us that they didn't think they should have to come into the office for an interview. This was for an office-based role. If they don't think it's worth coming in then the job is not going to be for them."
4. Not checking your tech
Tas Ravenscroft, senior consultant at recruitment firm Cherry Pick People , says: "Overlooking details like the interview location or the platform being used (such as Teams), and not testing your tech beforehand, can disrupt the interview process. This is especially crucial as most first interviews are now conducted via video conferencing."
5/ Bad mouthing previous employers
Tas says: "We see that candidates sometimes feel too comfortable on interview and decide to talk about their past experiences (if aggrieved) negatively, which is a big NO. Instead, my advice is to focus on the lessons learned and how you've grown from challenges in your career."
6. Not asking questions - or asking about benefits or sick pay policy
Tas says: "There are no right or wrong answers to this, but asking questions at the end of the interview is a big YES. It shows you're interested, engaged and would like the opportunity to either progress or land the role.
"I'd say in your first interview, ask about company culture, day to day tasks, expectations of this role, who's the best performer and why?
"Questions I'd stay away from are benefit-related questions, or I recently had someone ask what the sick pay policy was like in the first interview… Safe to say they didn't get invited back. If you work with a recruiter, you will have salary and benefits info before, so no need to ask on interview."
7. Not showing enthusiasm
For Mike Carlucci, managing director of Reading-based Italian-food importer Tenuta Marmorelle , this is a big one: "A lot of people at the moment are applying for everything and anything. They apply for hundreds of jobs.
"The result is that you get applicants who are not enthusiastic or passionate about the role or sector as they see it just as a job. There are few people looking for actual careers at the moment. In our industry, the food industry, you need to have passion and enthusiasm."
8. Talking too much
Andrew MacAskill, founder of Executive Career Jump , says: "Sometimes this is down to nerves, other times it is down to overthinking and often it is due to the questions being too broad, which leads to them saying lots and hoping the right answer is in there somewhere."
Ian Nicholas, global managing director at Reed , says a common slip-up people make is to carry on talking after giving their answer.
"Some interviewers may purposely leave a pause just to see how the interviewee will react under the pressure - so be confident in what you've said and know when you've finished."
9. Under-preparation
Habiba Khatoon, director of Robert Walters UK , says: "This means they haven't researched the company, are unaware of the key aspects of the role they are interviewing for and can't make connections between their CV and experience and the role.
"Most interviewers can easily catch on when a candidate has turned up unprepared and when they do, they can lose interest in that candidate quite quickly."
Italian food importer Mike agrees: "It is so important to spend five minutes to go on to the website, see what the company does, how they started and any general information you can get. This really makes someone stand out from the 100s of applicants."
10. Being late - or too early
James Rowe, managing director of the Recruitment Experts , says: "I would suggest arriving 20 minutes early to give you time to prepare, but don't walk through the door too soon! Turning up five to 10 minutes prior to your interview start time shows you're punctual but won't rush the hiring manager… they need breaks too!"
By Brad Young , Money team
Almost half of Britons (45%) subscribe to two or more streaming services, according to comparison website Finder, but box office figures show the theatre-going experience is making a comeback.
The pendulum is swinging back from streaming-first to theatre-first releases, and streaming platforms like Amazon and Apple are making moves on to the big screen with the likes of Saltburn and American Fiction, or Killers of the Flower Moon and Napoleon.
That means movie-lovers are facing a conundrum, according to a senior media analyst: should they prioritise spending cash on trips to the cinema or on streaming if they want to see the biggest and best movies?
"People are making decisions on 'what am I going to allocate to the movie theatre experience, what am I going to allocate to streaming?'" Paul Dergarabedian, of Comscore, told the Money blog.
Cinema's revival is real, according to Philip Clapp, chief executive of the UK Cinema Association.
"Certainly the major US studios see the theatrical experience, the big screen experience, as where they want their major films to be and then benefitting from the promotional buzz that comes from that," Mr Clapp said.
Disney chief executive Bob Iger said last year that theatrically released films were "great sub drivers".
"We benefit greatly from the power of our great films, they drive so much engagement and so much interest in our platforms," he said, pointing to Moana, Marvel, Star Wars and Avatar.
Mr Clapp added this year was a "key stepping stone" to an offering similar to before the pandemic, but cinema wouldn't be back to full strength until next year.
In the pandemic, studios experimented with straight-to-streaming releases, which continued even after restrictions fell away.
Mr Dergarabedian said: "When the pandemic hit it was a real stress test on the industry because a lot of people thought theatrical was dying on the vine and that it would be going away at some point in the near future - and then the pandemic accelerated that demise in the minds of some."
But audiences have voted with their feet and instructed studios they want more variety: international films, stadium concert films, videogame adaptations, prestige films and horrors.
Smile, a Paramount horror movie on a $17m budget that could have been straight-to-streaming, had a "great result" at the box office, said Mr Dergarabedian, as did Five Nights at Freddy's.
Low and mid-budget movies have been the slowest to recover but are returning to the big screen, making the theatre offering more diverse this year, Mr Clapp added.
Mr Dergarabedian said Universal's "diverse portfolio" was the one to beat: it spent the last year putting out everything from action films like Fast X, prestige movies like Oppenheimer, animations like Migration and some spookier offerings too.
Going theatrical still comes with a risk, the analyst said. A flop on the big screen leaves studios with a big hit to their bottom line, having spent large amounts on distribution and marketing.
But films "tend to have more value" once they arrive on a streaming platform if they were released in cinemas first, including lower budget movies.
Each week, Money blog readers share their thoughts on the subjects we've been covering, and over the past seven days your correspondence has been dominated by these topics...
Brexit rule changes
- Our feature on manifesting
- The prospect of disability payments becoming vouchers
Britons could face higher food prices, and even empty supermarket shelves, as new post-Brexit border fees were introduced this week, industry figures warned.
These comments - while perhaps not representative of the whole country - are definitely reflective of the majority view in our inbox...
It's almost like Brexit was a terrible idea… To think our politicians would do anything but make things worse was beyond naive. People let their prejudice override common sense that most politicians look out for themselves and not the country's best interests… Joe
Others suggested the government should be turning its eyes to the issue rather than elsewhere...
Food prices rise even though they told us they would fall and yet the priority is sending asylum seekers to Rwanda. Isn't it about time the UK started to listen to people's problems rather than a very loud minority? Lee
Several people suggested the solution was growing all our own food - which is often talked about, but producers and importers point out the UK climate makes it less achievable to mass produce certain foods at a low cost than in southern Europe.
Disability vouchers?
Reports this week suggested disabled people could receive vouchers instead of monthly payments under proposed government changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
The story resulted in a backlash among our commenters...
Absolutely barking mad. Disabilities aren't an option. Can't be fixed with words. And can happen to anyone at anytime. Time to get a grip. Rob
Others suggested it was a symptom of a wider failure within the system...
I don't know how the government can take away vital PIP money and say they can replace it with better mental health support. My daughter is waiting for a PIP assessment and also an assessment for ADHD - the latter's wait time is currently four years. Matmac33
Can you 'manifest' financial success?
Moving to our manifesting feature, which prompted a lot of cynicism. If you haven't read it yet, you can do so here ...
Some of our readers are believers...
I manifest things in my life. Be it money, people or events I've had dreams about, there's more magic in the universe than most people know of. Steve
I believe in manifestation in terms of positive thinking. You'll never get anywhere if you're always assuming the worst. But you do have to put the leg work in for what you want, it won't fall in to your lap. Jim Carrey didn't get that £10m acting job sitting under a tree! Caroline D
Others, well, not so much...
Why are you giving space to this specious guff manifestation? Does it work for the poverty-stricken, starving millions without basic infrastructure and education, or those suffering in warzones across the world? I wonder what they want "manifesting" in their lives? FM1
"Manifesting", what a load of rubbish! I can't believe this is one of the top stories on Sky News. David
And finally, in our weekly round-up of your comments...
This comment section is a COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME. Sky NEVER publishes its readers' views. John Hammond
The next week in Money is likely to be dominated by interest rates - with the Bank of England's latest base rate decision coming on Thursday .
A cut from the current 16-year high of 5.25% is extremely unlikely, as inflation is yet to reach the Bank's 2% target.
Markets had forecast a first cut in June but are now pricing in August, with only two cuts now expected in 2024 rather than three.
There had been hope the base rate would dip to 3% next year - but again, these forecasts are now on ice.
As we outlined in our new weekly mortgage update yesterday, high street lenders have responded by moving their rates upwards ...
Mortgage approvals rose to 61,300 in March - the highest number since September 2022. But while on the face of it this looks positive for the housing market, industry experts are reporting that uncertainty over the direction of interest rates is prompting renewed caution.
Hina Bhudia, partner at Knight Frank Finance, said: "The sun is out and buyers are returning from their Easter break, so we'd usually expect these to be the busy weeks before the summer; however, the uncertain outlook for mortgage rates will undoubtedly weigh on activity.
"It's not just buyers that are frustrated. The lenders are eager to rebuild their businesses after a subdued 2023; however, they are constrained by stubborn inflation and the resulting impact on their cost of funding."
The influential OECD this week said now was not the time for the UK to be considering cutting rates - which is bad news for mortgage holders, but may be positive for savers.
The organisation anticipates inflation will be "elevated" at 3.3% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025 - above the Bank's 2% target.
And it claims the UK will grow more slowly next year than any other major advanced economy.
It puts this down to stealth taxes and high interest rates squeezing the economy.
The organisation, which is based in Paris, downgraded its forecasts for GDP to 0.4% this year and 1% in 2025.
In February, the UK had been in the middle of the rankings with forecast growth of 0.7% this year and 1.2% next.
Away from the economy, RAC has put out figures today showing that both petrol and diesel have gone up by 10p per litre so far this year, adding £5.50 to the price of filling up a car.
Oil prices rose during April, sending an average litre of unleaded up 3p to 149.95p, while diesel rose by 2p to 157.76p.
The lowest prices for petrol and diesel so far this year were both recorded on 16 January – 139.7p and 147.6p respectively.
The good news is that, as tensions between Israel and Iran have defused, the oil price has crept back down, meaning some of the recent hikes may soon be reversed.
The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.
It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.
Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.
The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.
A cash ISA offering an interest rate of 4.5% has been launched today by Melton Building Society .
The interest is paid annually on 31 March and can be added to the account, transferred to your bank account or transferred to an existing Melton savings account.
Here's what you need to know...
How do you open an account?
- You must be a UK resident and be aged 16;
- Accounts can be opened with a minimum amount of £25 and the maximum that can be held in this account is £500,000.
Can you withdraw money?
Yes, you can withdraw money as long as you give the bank 180 days' notice in branch, by post or phone
Once you have done this, all or part of the investments in the ISA, including any interest earned, will be transferred to you.
You can also access your money without giving notice, but you will be charged 180 days' interest on the amount you withdraw.
A lack of demand for new electric cars has led some brands to begin slashing prices.
Even some of the UK's best-selling electric cars are thousands of pounds cheaper than a year ago, according to Auto Trader figures shared with The Times .
Among the most heavily discounted vehicles are the Honda E, down 20% versus a year ago at £29,600, and the Peugeot E-2008, which has fallen in price by 15% to £30,000.
The Vauxhall Corsa-e and Mokka-e are both being advertised at a 20% off sale price, while the MG ZS and MG5 are discounted by 15%.
Meanwhile, Ford's flagship electric car, the Mustang Mach-E, has fallen in price by 14%.
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader's commercial director, said lower prices are good news for car buyers and that it was "encouraging" to see more affordable electric cars on the market.
He said the discounts had been "driven by a softening in consumer demand, coupled with the introduction of the zero-emissions vehicle mandate, which is putting pressure on manufacturers to comply with the new regulations or face heavy fines".
The government's zero-emission vehicle ( ZEV ) mandate requirers manufacturers to produce a certain percentage of zero-emission cars and vans each year.
It started when comedian Peter Kay, who was supposed to be the first official act for the new Manchester Co-op Live on 23 April, had his performances rescheduled.
Rick Astley's performance on 20 April was a "test event" for the venue but ticket capacity was slashed just hours before his gig was due to begin.
Astley fans who had their tickets cancelled were instead offered seats to see US rock band The Black Keys play - but their show has also been affected.
And to add to the chaos, this week Olivia Rodrigo's concerts, scheduled for 3 and 4 May, were postponed.
Then, Take That announced they were moving their shows from the venue to the AO Arena in Manchester.
A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie concert was also postponed just over an hour before the rapper was set to perform.
Today, Barry Manilow also said he had a "back-up plan" to move his Manchester performance from the beleaguered venue.
The ongoing mayhem has left disgruntled concert-goers voicing their frustration, with some calling for travel and accommodation to be reimbursed and others calling the situation "embarrassing".
"There will be countless people who would've booked travel and hotels just for you to stitch them up because you couldn't meet assured deadlines," one person wrote on X.
Another person said the music venue should "at the very minimum" be "looking at refunding travel/hotel costs for people that can prove they paid for cancelled dates".
And another person asked: "How do I get a refund for parking? There's no info on your site or app."
Organisers at Co-op Live said the venue would be taking "a short pause to events" before welcoming members of the public to the arena from 14 May.
A Co-op Live statement said: "At this time, we do not expect further impact on our opening season. We are aware our actions have frustrated and angered ticketholders."
Tim Leiweke, chairman and chief executive of Oak View Group, which developed Co-op Live in partnership with the City Football Group, has said they cannot run any event until it is "absolutely safe to do so".
A Co-op Group spokesperson said: "As naming rights sponsor for Co-op Live we are disappointed with these further schedule changes.
"Co-op is a sponsor and does not own or run the venue, and we have made it clear to Oak View Group, who are responsible for the building, that the impact on ticketholders must be addressed as a priority."
An Itsu freezer product is being urgently recalled over fears it could contain plastic.
Customers are being told not to eat Itsu's sizzling pork gyoza, which is sold at Asda and Sainsbury's.
The 240g packs with a best before date of 8 March 2025 are those affected by the recall.
A 200-year-old Edinburgh attraction is reopening this month after being closed for four years.
The Nelson Monument is a 150ft tower overlooking the city, and was built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.
It has been shut for essential works for years, but visitors will soon be able to climb its 143 steps again.
An official opening date has not yet been given.
HMRC's Welsh-language app is only being used by two in every 100 native speakers, according to a new report by The Telegraph .
A freedom of information request by the paper found that 13,831 Welsh speakers have used the app since its launch in June 2022.
That equates to 1.5% of the nearly 900,000 people who say they speak the language.
Jonathan Eida, researcher at the TaxPayers' Alliance pressure group, told the newspaper he thought the move was a "gimmick".
Gig ticket prices may be eye-wateringly high at the moment (just like everything else, let's face it) but a big sale next week will see tens of thousands of tickets at discounted prices.
LiveNation is holding a sale for 24 hours from noon on Thursday until noon on Friday, with prices starting from £25.
Artists who you can get discounted tickets to see include Doja Cat, Meghan Thee Stallion, Shania Twain, Becky Hill, Avril Lavigne, Eric Prydz, Giggs, Glass Animals, James Arthur, JLS, Jungle, Kaiser Chiefs, Limp Bizkit, Offset, McFly, Olly Murs, Paloma Faith, Placebo, Tom Jones, Tiesto and The Streets.
You can find the full line-up of artists and venues with discounted tickets on the LiveNation website here .
The company will also be holding promotions and competitions throughout next week.
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26 April 2024 Promoting Ireland's superb golf and luxury tourism offering in Frankfurt Tourism Ireland hosts golf and luxury workshop for German tour operators. Learn more. 26 April 2024 Tourism Ireland leads sales blitz to the United States 'Best of Ireland' sales mission visits Cleveland, Cincinnati, Minneapolis-Saint Paul and Chicago.
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