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Travel across Ireland with internationally renowned singer Michael Londra in a celebration of Irish culture, history, and music. Combining glorious video footage from the Emerald Isle, fascinating travel destinations, exciting cultural experiences, and performances from Irish stars, Ireland with Michael allows you to tour Ireland from your own home.
2021
Singer Michael Londra, travels to County Clare to walk the Cliffs of Moher, to sample the pubs along the Wild Atlantic Way and to hear performances by One for the Foxes and the Kilfenora Céilí Band.
Michael heads to his hometown on the Sunny South East. Known for their funny accent, their maritime history and most of all, their love of singing, Wexford people are unique. We see Johnstown Castle, the National Opera House and hear about the founder of the American Navy, Commodore John Barry.
Michael heads to Lough Erne learning about its mystic past. He then meet musical legends Nathan Carter, Niamh Dunne and Sean Og Graham. On the way there is a stop at a gin distillery.
Michael is back up north starting in Belfast where he meets Riverdance legend Jason O Neal and the Shamrock Tenors. There is a quick stop at the Titanic Museum before meeting Celtic Thunder singer Ryan Kelly in his hometown.
First stop is the fishing village of Kilmore Quay to learn about The Kilmore Carol and some Fish and Chips. Then on to meet NY Times Best Selling author Eoin Colfer to learn about and climb Hook Head Lighthouse. Michael visits the Kennedy Homestead, family farm of the Kennedy dynasty and recalls the influence JFK had on his own life.
A whirlwind walking tour of Dublin starting in Trinity College founded in 1592 before meeting his friend Chloe Agnew of Celtic Woman fame to talk about her love of Ireland’s capital. We then get a performance of Dublin songs from Niall O Sullivan in Kilmainham Gaol and Brian Kennedy on the banks of the Royal Canal.
2022
Michael Londra tours the medieval city of Kilkenny with a stop to explore the old Kilkenny castle stables, which have been transformed to host local artisans. He meets violinist Patrick Rafter for a performance in the Great Hall of Kilkenny Castle.
Michael visits various places throughout Waterford including Bishop’s Palace, the Museum of Silver, and the House of Waterford Crystal where he talks to skilled glassblowers about training to become masters of their craft. Waterford native, and singer Glenn Murphy performs the song “The Parting Glass.” He meets with the traditional music band Tulua and for a performance of polkas and reels.
The Dingle Peninsula is filled with small shops, must-see attractions, and skilled artisans. World Champion Irish dancer David Geaney, owns a pub in town where he performs for Michael. Michael sings a song on emigration and the land left behind. He visits Inch Beach to catch a wave, and cruises the coast following the Sea Safari to investigate the marine life that surrounds the Peninsula.
Michael meets the quintessential Galway Lady, Michelle Lally - lead singer of Irish music legends Dé Dannan for a beautiful vocal performance. He tours Galway City with local historian Brian Nolan. In Connemara, the Gaelic-speaking region of Ireland, Michael meets musicians Seamus and Caoimhe O Flaharta who perform a duet of Sean Nós singing with the Wild Atlantic as their backdrop.
County Mayo is the birthplace of Michael’s grandfather. He drives to Achill Island to follow the life of Grainuaile (Grace O Malley – The Pirate Queen). From there it’s on to Westport House, a gorgeous mansion built on the site of the Pirate Queen’s former castle.
The episode begins in Sligo town, steeped in the history of Nobel Poet Laureate William Butler Yeats. Yeats’ scholar Susan O Keeffe discusses Yeats’ connection to the county, his importance in literature and his beautiful poetry in a tour of the Yeats Center, where Aileen Mythen sings “Down By The Sally Gardens” written by Yeats himself.
A tour of the Kilruddery Estate hosted by Lord Ardee of Meath who shows Michael his home which has been in his family for 400 years. Michael heads to a favorite spot, the National Stud, where world class horses are bred and trained. He tours the connected exquisite Japanese gardens, meets with his friend Aileen, and sings an old Dubliners song with her.
In a wild compendium of sites around the country, Michael visits the shores of Loch Corrib at Ashford Castle, gets a lesson in making Guinness bread at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, tours the gorgeous Mount Congreve Gardens, and even meets the artistic director of Macnas, the creators of the fantastic puppet parades in Galway. He performs a duet of the song Maggie with tenor Glenn Murphy.
2023
Michael learns about Charlie Chaplin's love for Kerry and his particular fondness for the Butler Arms Hotel in Waterville. Opera tenor, Gavan Ring guides us around Cahiciveen. Michael hears about Daniel O Connell, and his friendship with Frederick Douglas. Despite a fear of heights Michael climbs to the top of Cahergall Fort for a view of Skellig Michael. Aoife Scott sings Wild Atlantic Way.
Michael performs with the Riverdance show at Dublin's Gaiety Theatre; Gardiner Brothers; hurling at Croke Park; National Gallery of Ireland; Museum of Modern Art; concertina player Niamh Ní Charra.
Damien McGeehan and Shauna Mullin perform in Donegal Castle; Hanna Hats; exploring Studio Donegal; Ardara Distillery; the Henry Girls.
The Celtic band Clannad; a walking tour around Derry; sampling scones; Riverdance singer Denise O'Cain.
Michael visits Iniskeen to honor the life of one of Ireland's greatest poets, Patrick Kavanagh with Singer Ben Reel performing On Raglan Road and a listen to a poetry jukebox, The owner of the The Handmade Soap Company also play the Uilleann Pipes. A visit to Carrickmacross Workhouse reminds us of a tougher time in history. Michael then crosses to Glaslough for a stay at the Castle Leslie.
Michael heads to the Republic of Cork to meet Darina Allen who hosts him at Ballymaloe Cooking School. Nearby Ballycotton Lighthouse and port, sunbathing is nothing short of idyllic. From the River Lee Hotel in Cork city, Michael explores the English Market and speaks to a fishmonger with a connection to royalty. Michael visits Middleton Distilleries and visits the last stop for the Titanic. Featuring the Ballymaloe Cookery School; Midleton Distillery; and performances from Shelly O'Grady and Cormac O'Hanlon.
Michael stops by Strokestown House, home of the National Famine Museum, to hear a performance by CEOL and to sing. Next a stroll in the gardens to witness a performance by Mintesinot Wolde, blending influences from Africa and Ireland. Leather designer to Beyonce and Lady Gaga, Una Burke, invited Michael to her home. He stops by Rathcroghan, home of halloween and visits the Lough Key Center. Featuring the National Famine Museum's Strokestown House; a performance by Mintesinot Wolde; designer Una Burke; and more.
Poet Laureate of Wexford, Sasha Terfous hosts Michael at the Irish National Heritage Park. Michael meets legendary potter Louis Mulcahy whose at his scenic kiln site. Chocolate legends, Bean and Goose host the singer to hand make chocolate and satisfy his undying sweet tooth, Hearing impaired Harpist Una Walsh plays some tunes and shares her story. The Henry Girls sing a Fats Waller song.
2024
Michael embarks on a nostalgic journey to the City of the Tribes, reconnecting with friends from his Riverdance days to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Trad on the Prom. Escaping to the serene beauty of Connemara, he tries his hand at angling and marvels at the impressive art collection housed in the luxurious Ballynahinch Castle.
Exploring Killeavy Castle; the fine art of cheese-making; The Four Harps; Derry Girls; Ebrington Hotel.
American civil rights connection in Wexford; pot still whiskey paired with local cheese; The Bow Tide; a cooking lesson from television chef Paul Flynn.
The Republic of Cork; Bandon House & Gardens; horseback riding; Five Farms Liquor; fresh oysters; a landlady with a story from outer space.
Traveling along the Wild Atlantic Way, stops include Killybegs and Glencolmcille Folk Village; Byrne Brothers; a surfing lesson on Strandhill Beach; seaweed bath.
Kenmare's local chocolates and pottery; mezzo soprano Grace Foley; touring the scenic Ring of Kerry; a pony and trap ride through Killarney National Park; Iveragh Peninsula.
Adventure along the Royal Canal; cycling and horseback riding across the Ballyfin Demesne; clay pigeon shooting and golfing at The K Club; food historian Santina Kennedy.
The Iowa Irish Festival features performances by the Byrne Brothers and Colm Keegan; Keepers of the Steps.
2024
Explore Westmeath's enchanting mysteries, from Dun Na Sí's Sean Nós dancing to Belvedere House's Palladian grandeur. Discover Athlone's historic charm, cruise the Shannon River, and embrace Mullingar's musical culture at the Fleadh Cheoil. Ireland's heart unfolds with captivating allure.
Michael explores US-Shannon flights, unveiling the gateway's historical significance. His journey includes the village of Killaloe's music with Tommy Hayes, acoustic play in the Aillwee Caves' , and indulging in Ireland's sole Michelin-starred pub. His adventure is elevated by the ethereal harmonies of the Shannon Gospel choir, adding spiritual beauty to his adventure.
Arriving at Dublin airport, Michael unravels the means of exploring the entire island. He ventures North for a Game of Thrones tour and he heads to Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Meeting Bushmills' master distiller, Alex Thomas, he discusses the promising future of Irish whiskey. Amid travels, he discovers the folk musical 'In the Midst of Plenty' and enjoys a performance by vocal supergroup Onóir.
Michael revisits Co. Limerick, his Alma Mater's home. He explores King John's Castle, tees off at the future Ryder Cup (2027) course in Adare Manor, and learns the art of making Irish coffee at the historic Foynes Flying Boat Museum. He also touches an actual Oscar and discovering a Hollywood star's affection for a quaint village.
Michael's earliest memories revolve around his grandmother's residence situated in the quaint Leighlinbridge village. Revisiting this cherished locale, he immerses himself in the riverside existence of Carlow. He engages in lace making and gains insights in the world of media in Borris. He also experiences historical looms at Cushendale in Graiguenamanagh before his journey ends at Saint Mullin's.
Neighbouring Michael's home county, Wicklow, abounds in cultural and artisanal wonders. Conquering his fear of heights, he ventures the Avondale Treetop Walk, embracing panoramic views of the county. He reconnects with Fiachra Garvey, a renowned pianist and sheep farmer and explores Wicklow's gastronomic legacy with Santina Kennedy, a food historian, during his stay at eco-luxe Brook Lodge.
Hidden within Northern Ireland lie unexplored cultural treasures awaiting discovery. Michael's journey leads him to Ulster, where he explores the impressive art collection of King Charles and Queen Camilla, gaining a glimpse into their exquisite drawing room. Michael’s itinerary includes a visit to the Ulster Folk Museum, and a performance by The Honey Dew Drops at the Bluegrass Festival.
Join Michael on the MAD DASH across Ireland, a journey of delights spanning the island with a brief yet memorable pause at Fore Distillery to sample rum and poitín (legitimate Irish moonshine). As usual, musical interludes punctuate the route, featuring exceptional talents such as banjo virtuoso and national champion, Aoife Dunleavy, adding to the voyage's richness.
2025
Wander the Hill of Tara, once the seat of the High Kings, and uncover the prehistoric mysteries of Dowth and Knowth—sites older than the pyramids. Step back in time at Trim Castle, then savor a dram at Boann Distillery while discovering the melodic story behind Whistler Whiskey. Music, poetry, and local lore bring this captivating region vividly to life.
From legends to sport, Michael explores Northern Ireland’s spirit. At Navan Fort, Carolyn Cairns brings the legend of Macha to life. Then, Michael takes on thrilling rounds of hurling and road bowling in Armagh. After a refreshing cider at Long Meadow Orchard, embark on a kayaking adventure near Enniskillen Castle with Trevor Foster. Modern folk tunes from Clada complete this energetic journey.
Explore the dramatic cliffs and ancient traditions of Donegal. Marvel at the soaring Sliabh Liag, the highest cliffs in Europe, and uncover fairy lore alongside WWII history. Traverse Glenveagh National Park by e-bike, tour Glenveagh Castle, and witness Donegal’s hand-woven heritage at Magee 1866 weaving factory. End the day with music and hospitality at Harvey’s Point Hotel.
Michael journeys to Connemara’s coast and the magical island of Inishbofin. Local Irishman, Andrew Murray shares stories of the lake, the abbey, and the island’s maritime history. Take in the breathtaking views along the Sky Road before a captivating encounter with the master of Abbeyglen Castle. Fill your heart with music from the talented Leah Barnaville and the fresh energy of rising act Clada.
The Wild Atlantic inspires music, craft, and cuisine in West Clare. Join host Michael Londra to watch the craftsmanship of master bodhrán maker Malachy Kearns, then dine in luxury aboard the Pullman Restaurant’s historic train cars. Next, explore artist Richard Hearns’ vibrant studio, while historian Pat Sweeney provides a guided walk of the majestic Cliffs of Moher.
Join Michael Londra at Loop Head to explore the natural beauty and maritime heritage of County Clare’s southern tip. Taste local spirits at Loop Head Distillery, wander Carrigaholt Castle and the lighthouse to learn the region’s history. Then join a dolphin tour for an unforgettable encounter with Ireland’s marine life. Bronx-born, Irish whistle and flute sensation Joanie Madden performs.
Join host Michael Londra in discovering artistry, history, and food along Dublin’s coast. Watch silversmith Seamus Gill at work, tour Howth Castle with historian Davy Holden, and sample oysters with TV sensation and culinary author Donal Skehan. Conclude with a scenic boat tour of Ireland’s Eye with adventurer Shane O’Doherty for stunning coastal views.
Viewers will delight as host Michael Londra takes on a whirlwind adventure across Ireland. Bake soda bread at Long Meadow Orchard in County Armagh, try sheepdog herding along the coast of County Sligo, climb the Stairway to Heaven in County Fermanagh, and journey deep into the Marble Arch Caves. Legendary musician Joanie Madden and friends close the adventure with laughter, song, and friendship.
