Ariel House Guesthouse Ballsbridge

The National Gallery of Ireland - A Guest Blog by colleague & artist Ewa Krupa

2011-11-27T00:51:00.000-08:00

My name is Ewa Krupa and I am one of the staff at Ariel Guest House where I have been working full-time in the Food and Beverage department since April 2009. Besides working in the hotel I have a huge passion for art, since childhood I have been drawing and painting. My artwork was included in various group exhibitions in Ireland, Bulgaria and Italy. In 2010 I graduated from University College Dublin with a Diploma in History of European Painting. At the moment I am continuing education at the Open University where I am studying towards a BA in Humanities with specialism in Art History. In my free time I am an Information Desk Volunteer at the National Gallery of Ireland. Due to the refurbishment of the gallery the historic building is closed at the moment and the main entrance is through the Millennium Wing, on Clare Street. Even though the gallery space is reduced because of the refurbishment it is still great place to visit. Current exhibitions are Masterpieces from the Collection and ‘The Gift of Knowledge’. The highlights of the exhibition Masterpieces from the Collection among other paintings are ‘The Taking of Christ’ by Caravaggio, Claude Monet’s ‘Argenteuil Basin with a single Sailboat’ or a beautiful painting by Irish artist William Leech ‘A Convent Garden, Brittany’. ‘The Gift of Knowledge’ is a temporary exhibition from the Library and Archives Collection of the National Gallery of Ireland, on a view in the Print Gallery. Items are on display until 15th of December 2011. Admission to the gallery and exhibitions are free.

Recipe for Halloween Tea Brack

2011-10-31T03:56:00.000-07:00

Halloween Tea Brack

Ingredients
• 300 ml cold tea
• 4 tsp. Irish whiskey
• 110 g sultanas
• 220 g currants or raisins
• 55 g chopped glacé cherries
• 55 g chopped mixed peel
• 200 g brown sugar
• 225 g self-raising flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp. ground Nutmeg

Method
1. Place the cold tea and whiskey in a bowl. Add in the sultanas, currants, glace cherries and mixed peel. Cover and set aside to soak overnight.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas 4/ 350 F.

3. In a mixing bowl, mix together the sugar, self-raising flour, beaten egg, nutmeg and soaked fruit, with its soaking liquid until well-mixed.

4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf tin lined with baking paper.

5. Bake for 1 hour, 30 minutes until risen and set.

6. Remove from the oven and cool for 10 minutes in its tin, then turn out and cool on a wire rack.

7. Serve in slices with butter

Dublin Living Awards 2011

2011-10-15T03:18:00.000-07:00

Ariel House is delighted to be nominated as a finalist in the very first Dublin Living Awards. The Awards are to celebrate the Dublin businesses, organisations and people that make Dublin a great place to live work and visit. The competition organisers have had a brilliant response, the entries have been counted and the finalists have been chosen by the panel of judges. Now it is over to the Dublin public to decide the winners. As a finalist in the Hotel and Guesthouse category Ariel House would really appreciate your support. Please vote for Ariel House in the Dublin Living Awards using the link www.dublinlivingawards.ie/vote/7 or TEXT: Hotel followed by Ariel House to 51500

2011-08-26T01:25:00.000-07:00

Fáilte go Áth Cliath agus Beal Féirste! Welcome to Dublin and Belfast!

When I booked my ticket to Dublin I knew very little about the place itself and I had no idea about the hotel I had booked. I arrived and was greeted by the sweetest lady ever and she showed me to my room. From that point I knew that Ariel House was a place I would fall in love with. It’s located close to the brand new Aviva Stadium and the DART station that will bring you in to the city centre within a few minutes.
By staying at Ariel House you will experience a friendly staff, lovely rooms and develop a love for their amazing homemade scones, a typical Irish treat.

After a long day of exploring the city of Dublin.You can relax in the lovely drawing room with a cup of tea, and just let the impressions of the day sink in. Ariel House is one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed at and I recommend it with all of my heart.

The reason for me coming to Ireland that particular summer was that I was going to move to Belfast, Northern Ireland, in August. I have now lived in Belfast for a year and would like to tell you a bit about Northern Ireland that might interest you and maybe one day you will go there for a holiday?

Let’s be honest, Belfast and Northern Ireland aren’t particularly two words you associate with fun and joy, and maybe not the place you would consider for your holiday. I had the exact same idea of Belfast before I moved there, but I was determined to give it a try and hoped to go home with a new view of Belfast and Northern Ireland.

For you, as a tourist based in Dublin, you might be interested in seeing some more of the beautiful country you are already in. I can strongly recommend visiting Northern Ireland, and I can guarantee you, all your prejudices about Northern Ireland and Belfast will be gone when you return to Dublin.

They are very friendly and open, and also interested in your home country and your language. If you’re lucky you might pick up a cúpla focal (a few words) in the native language Gaelic.

When you’re in Belfast, the easiest way to see the city and learn the history is to go on one of the guided bus tours. Companies such as Allen’s and Belfast City Sightseeing will bring you around the city for a good price. This is a good opportunity to see both the Catholic and the Protestant part of the city, as well as the famous Titanic Quarter and other historical places. The tickets are also valid for 48 hrs and it’s a hop on/hop off bus, so you get great value for your money!
Finding the craic (Gaelic for “having fun”) is very easy in Belfast. Pubs like Robinson’s, Fibber Magee’s, Kelly’s Cellar and Madden’s have Irish music nights on every week. For the younger crowd Belfast is full of clubs and hip places. Have yourself a pint of Guinness and enjoy the craic.

Even though I’m telling you about the good things of staying in Belfast, I will have to warn you about a few things for your own safety.
Also bear in mind that Belfast is a divided society, and please do not wear either British or Irish flags or symbols on your backpack or clothes. But again, as mentioned they are not interested in harming their tourists, but this is just a little something called common sense.

Northern Ireland is such a beautiful country and deserves more positive attention. If you’re planning on going to Northern Ireland you have to visit the famous Giant’s Causeway in the very north of Co. Antrim. The coastal route is mind blowing and the scenery changes every 10 minutes. While you’re first up in the very north, pay a visit to the historical city of Londonderry or Derry. (The name will change depending on where in the country you are, but to avoid any confusion simply call it Stroke City!). Allen’s Tours will take you to Giant’s Causeway and the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in a day, but if you want to go to Londonderry/Derry you will need to book with the Paddywagon Tours, since they are the only company going to this particular city.

Good news for those of you staying in Dublin, you can book the Paddywagon from Dublin and it’ll drive you all the way up to Belfast and further north to the locations I’ve just mentioned.

I can also recommend cities such as Donegal, Coleraine, Portrush and Portstewart. They are all easy to get to. You simply take the bus from Europa Bus Station in Belfast or jump on a train from Great Victoria Station.

I really hope that you would find this helpful and also tempted to explore the beautiful Northern Ireland.

For more info visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

I reassure you, there’s nothing dangerous about going to Belfast and Northern Ireland. They love their tourists and are constantly working on improving their cities just for you. Just keep in mind the little thing called common sense, and have fun!

Some handy information

What to do in Belfast and Northern Ireland

 Experience live Irish music in a pub
 Go on a city tour
 Visit Giant’s Causeway
 Eat an Ulster fry for breakfast
 Learn a few words in Gaelic
 Visit the Ulster Museum www.nmni.com/um
 Visit Ulster Folk and Transport Museum www.nmni.com/uftm

Accomodation in Belfast/N.Ireland
 The Europa Hotel www.hastingshotels.com/europa-belfast
 The Merchant Hotel www.themerchanthotel.com
 Radisson Blu Hotel www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-belfast
 The Fitzwilliam Hotel www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com
 Jury’s Inn www.jurysinns.com

City tours and bus tour companies
 Allen’s Tours www.allensbelfastbustours.com
 Belfast City Sightseeing www.belfastcitysightseeing.co.uk
 Paddywagon Tours www.paddywagontours.com

Enjoy your stay in Ireland!

Cheers,
Nadia
www.therockabillygirlnextdoor.blogspot.com

The Ariel House Winners Enclosure Dublin Horse Show 2011

2011-08-06T02:52:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to announce that some of our guests competing at the Discover Ireland Horse Show 2011 at the RDS had great success this week.

Congratulations to Making Waves aka Splash ridden by Niamh Spurr (Pictured here). Making Waves a seven year old mare by Boden Park out of a Grange Blue Surf mare was the smallest Connemara pony in the ridden classes. Standing at 13.2hh she was placed 5th out of fifteen ponies in class 75. Owned by Norma Spurr from Ballygowan in Co. Down and ridden and produced by Niamh Spurr. Norma says " We are thrilled for Splash and that she did so well as she was up against stiff competition".

We had another winner in the Lightweight Cobb class. Toy Boy, a Cobb owned by our guest Colleen Lowry from Blessingbourne and produced in Co. Wicklow won a purple ribbon, coming 5th in his class. Well done and congratulations to Toy Boy also.

Dublin Horse Show

2011-08-03T10:14:00.000-07:00

The Dublin Horse Show will be held between the 3rd and the 7th August at the RDS stadium in the heart of Dublin. It promises to attract local, national and international horse shows, show jumpers and equestrian exhibitors including the world-famous Ukrainian Cossacks. The buzz of horse show week brings an unmatched atmosphere to the Ballsbridge area.

There will also be over 300 shopping stands with art, books and fashion equestrian items on sale to all visitors.

This year’s blossom hill ladies day will take place on Thursday 4th August and the winner will win a fantastic trip for two to California and Napa Valley, the home of Blossom Hill, worth €10,000.

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For RDS accommodation around the event visit Ariel House

Leinster Vs Toulouse - A Guest Blog by Rebecca Warrington

2011-05-03T03:04:00.000-07:00

Lansdowne Road is the same on a match day no matter if it’s the old stadium with is banked terraces or the Aviva with its sweeping roof and Perspex outer shell. The atmosphere builds as fans from both sides pour out of the surrounding pubs on to the road itself. Different nationalities and languages mixing together down the tree lined road bathed in April sunshine passed the beautiful terraces of Lansdowne Road. The match kicked off a fan fair of cheering and song that is so customary at Leinster matches. Even if you don’t know the words at the start you will by the end with the help of the friendly and welcoming Irish fans. Toulouse kicked of the better team with a flurry of activity that put Leinster very much on the back foot. A quick Florian Fritz try and David Skvella conversion put Leinster in the doldrums. In true Leinster style they slowly crept back into it with some penalties from the boot of Sexton. A drop goal put Toulouse ahead but after much deliberation from referee Dave Perarson he finally awarded a try on thirty minutes to Jamie, who as always sent Leinster fans into rapturous song. Disaster struck on 35 mins when Irish Golden boy and my hero and idol, Brian O’Driscoll was sent to the bin to have a think about his actions. It was a decision widely deliberated amongst Leinster fans which meant the resulting penalty was not taken in customary respectful silence. A late Jonny Sexton penalty made for what was a nervous 16-13 half time lead for Toulouse. Leinster fans still debating O’Driscolls binning for coming in from the side were in confident buoyant mood. They began the second half with song but that was soon silenced with a Toulouse try and conversation which meant 4 points had been conceded with talisman O’Driscoll in the bin. A penalty on 48 brought Leinster back to within a point of Toulouse. The atmosphere was electric with a new sense of belief in the crowd (and a new song). O’Driscoll soon made up for his spell in the bin with an excellent try which was certainly celebrated by every Leinster fan in the ground with myself whooping like a banshee from the Gods that took the score to 29-20 to Leinster - they never looked back from this. The French top 14 leaders and four time Heineken Cup Champions looked decidedly lost and confused and lacked inspiration with a flurry of substations on the hour mark. This did seem to rally the French champions who had a period of sustained pressure between 70 and 73 minutes making the crowd glittery. I lost count of how many times I looked at the clock over the last 10 minutes with 5 minutes to go a late Toulouse penalty brought the score to 29-23 but the 50,073 fans needn’t have worried as Leinster finished with a flourish as Sexton slotted the final kick of the match to send the crowd into raptures and on to the final in Cardiff with a score of 32-29. As always the craic is phenomenal between Leinster fans and the French. As an English fan of Leinster and a lover of all things Irish the fans are welcoming and friendly and always happy to help and encourage you to sample the local delicacies in many of the surrounding pubs or bars within the ground, where festivities and songs continue well into the night, many sore heads in the morning.

St. Patricks Day Festival 2011

2011-03-16T13:39:00.001-07:00

St. Patricks Day is a worldwide celebration with all eyes on Ireland through global coverage of the day’s celebrations. In Ariel House our celebration will begin before breakfast on the morning of the 17th where each guest will receive complimentary shamrock to wear in their lapel. Irish Coffees will then be served as our guests leave for the parade.
In Dublin the St Patricks Day Festival 2011 began today with The Céilí Mor which took place at St. Stephens Green and by all standards has brought the city to a standstill. The event ran from 4.30pm-7.30pm offering a unique and fun filled way to spend an afternoon dancing your heart away. Expert callers took those who attended through the Siege of Ennis, the Walls of Limerick and lots more.The Céilí was open to all - young and old, beginners and self-proclaimed pro’s. It’s a great opportunity for friends and family to get together and join award-winning musicians and dancers. Watch, learn and dance; you’ll be doing jigs and reels in no time!
The Parade
In honour of Dublin’s UNESCO City of Literature designation the festival parade will bring specially commissioned short story “Brilliant” by Roddy Doyle, to life on the streets of Dublin, in spectacular fashion.
Inspired by the outrageously whimsical story; Ireland’s finest performance companies will present the chapters in their own inimitable style. Marching bands from Ireland and across the globe will animate the streets with their magnificent musical mastery as they march through the heart of Dublin city.
Ireland’s leading Pageant Companies will interpret different chapters of the story using their own performance style. Follow each company to see how they approach the story in a different way.

Parade Route
The Parade begins on Parnell Square and continues on to O’Connell Street and over O’Connell Bridge to Westmoreland Street. It then winds its way down Dame Street and Lord Edward Street passes by Christchurch Cathedral and along Patrick Street where it finishes just past St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

DublinSwell –Words and Voices for the City of Literature In a new and exciting move for the festival, DublinSwell –Words and Voices from the City of Literature, offers the public a cultural evening celebrating Dublin as UNESCO’s new ‘City of Literature’. This unique ticketed event will bring together a star studded line up of Irish faces from literature, music, film and theatre. Sebastian Barry, Roddy Doyle, Paul Durcan, Glen Hansard, Paul Howard ( Ross O’Carroll Kelly), Declan Hughes, Paula Meehan, Joseph O’Connor and many more will make the city come alive in an evening of imagination and inspiration. The event will take place in the Dublin Convention Centre and promises to be a fitting and inspiring tribute to literary Dublin.

Sharon Shannon
Sharon Shannon, one of Ireland’s most accomplished musicians will present an evening of traditional music at the National Concert Hall. Her unique style of accordion playing is celebrated worldwide, and her home-coming is sure to be a heartening musical experience.
This is just the St. Patricks Day Festival 2011 at a glance; A snippet of events that will take place in the city over the next few days. For Full information see the Festival website 2011.

Festive Cheer Begins Here!

2010-12-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

Festive cheer begins here... Some recommendations from the team at Ariel House on how to spend Christmas week in Dublin and make the best of the build up !

The Docklands Christmas market 2010 is running until the 22nd of December 2010. This year the market is filled with brightly decorated wooden huts and chalets selling unique Christmas gifts, including beautiful Christmas decorations, hand made arts and crafts, and other unusual stocking fillers. The Docklands market also plays host to almost one hundred German traders as well as plenty of home grown Irish stalls. The market is open from 12noon to 8.30pm each day. So whether you're looking for that special gift, a seasonal snack or simply looking to soak up some festive feeling, The Docklands Christmas Market 2010 is the perfect injection of yuletide cheer with a beautiful German twist
The National Concert Hall Family Christmas Show will take place on the 22nd of December where this year they stage Howard Blake’s Christmas masterpiece ‘The Snowman Movie – Live Concert. The animated movie will play out on a large screen accompanied by The Orchestra of The National Concert Hall under the baton of conductor Fergus Sheil. Brian Ormond will tell the story of James and the flying snowman as you watch the film on a big screen. The Family Christmas show will also feature seasonal favourites by an all singing and dancing theatrical group, adding to the spirit and excitement of Christmas.
Now celebrating its 8th year, 7UP Christmas on Ice at the RDS Dublin offers all the fun of real ice skating on a spectacular covered rink. Ballsbridge and the RDS have a unique Christmas atmosphere with lots of festive fun to be found. There's something for everyone from families and school children to teens and social groups. Christmas on Ice at the RDS runs until the 9th of January 2011.
Christmas is not complete without a visit to the panto at the Gaiety! This year the story of Aladdin will be brought to life at the Gaiety Theatre. Starring Boyzones Mikey Graham in the role of Abanazar and the voice of X-Factors Louis Walsh as Master of the World. The performance runs until the 30th of January 2011 and tickets are available from the Gaiety Box Office.
Finally what will we be doing on Christmas Eve ? Ariel House will close for Christmas holidays on Thursday 23rd of December and will reopen on Tuesday 28th. Most of our overseas colleagues will fly home to spend Christmas with family and friends. Those of us who are staying in Dublin will take a trip into the city centre on Christmas Eve morning. Soak up the atmosphere of Grafton Street and the Brown Thomas window which is beautifully decorated this year and perhaps some last minute Christmas shopping or the odd impulse buy! Lunch at Pichet Restaurant followed by a visit to the Nativity Scene at the Mansion House. A quick Hot Port at Keoghs Heritage Pub and then its home on the bus to prepare for a visit from Santa. Happy Christmas Everyone!

31st Dublin City Marathon

2010-10-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

Over 13,000 runners will descend on Fitzwilliam Square on this morning, 25th October for the 31st Lifestyle Sports-adidas Dublin Marathon ensuring Dublin’s status as one of the “friendliest” marathons remains intact. Despite the recession over seventy-four nations will be represented and the 2010 Irish field is the largest ever present.

This is the first time race organisers have exceeded the 13,000 mark. Race Director Jim Aughney says the key reason is the big increase in Irish entries. “Irish people are back running again, and it bodes well for the sustained growth of Dublin into the future”

Whether the other course records are broken in 2010 remains to be seen, but with current record holder, Russian Alexsey Sokolov making a return this year, organisers expect there to be a real challenge to the record held since 2007. In the Women’s Elite category, last year’s winner Kateryna Stetsenko (Ukraine) will be hoping for her second consecutive win in Dublin.

The Irish Elite field is strengthened by the presence of a number of the Marathon Mission 2012 candidates. The Marathon Mission Team was set up earlier this year to improve the competitive depth in quality of times being run by Irish Marathoners.

Joe McAllister is among the favourites to finish in a strong position whilst in the women’s field Gladys Ganiel O'Neill, Barbara Sanchez and Breege Connolly are also expected to make an impact.

While the elites will dominate the headlines on Tuesday, most of the 13,000 field today will be running for personal reasons. Among starters will be “The Oireachtas Team”, led by Fine Gael TD Jimmy Deenihan. Deenihan’s Leinster House running colleagues including Lucinda Creighton, Mary Upton, Barry Andrews, James Reilly, Nicky McFadden, Brian O’Domhnaill, Fidelma Healy Eames, Frank Feighan and Damien English, all of who are running on behalf of various charities close to their hearts.

Lord Mayor Gerry Breen will get the 31st running of the Lifestyle Sports adidas Dublin Marathon underway in Fitzwilliam Street Upper at 9am this morning, and the first runner home will be expected in Merrion Square North shortly after 11am. Regular race updates will be available on FM104 and all results will be available on www.dublinmarathon.ie after 5.30pm.

Something to do with the Family this Weekend!

2010-10-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the extension of the LUAS green line to Cherrywood the RPA have organised a family fun day on Saturday the 16th October which is free of charge for all the family. The events run from 11am to 6pm. Entertainment includes a vintage tram and samba band at the St. Stephens Green Stop, face painting at the Balally stop, make your own instrument at the Sandyford stop, paint you’re your own canvas at the Leopardstown stop and storytelling and lantern making at Carrickmines stop. An organic food market will take place at Brides Glen the terminus stop where there will also be a teddy bears picnic and a toy swap shop. For times, details and lots of other events log onto www.luas .ie

Open House Dublin

2010-10-10T05:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the fifth Open House Dublin organised by the Irish Architecture Foundation, where over 100 Dublin buildings from all eras open their doors to the public. free guided tours to each of the buildings are given by professional guides. Details of participating buildings can be found at the Architecture Foundation website.I think we will try to get Ariel House on the list for the 2011 event !

Michael Bublé Plays Aviva Stadium

2010-09-23T23:51:00.000-07:00

Michael Bublé; If you “havnt met him yet” then maybe you can sort that out with a trip to The Aviva Stadium this weekend.
He’s the newly crowned Best International Male Artist from the 2010 Meteor Awards. He’s had his entire tour in May sell out in 55 minutes; he’s fast becoming one of the most popular artists in the music business. For all his top covers of classic tunes his song “just havnt met you yet” is the tune that has really put him on the map with immense radio play. He has 6 albums in the Irish charts at the moment and his current album Crazy Love has been certified platinum NINE times.
His concert will be the first live gig to be played at the Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Road where he will play to almost 100,000 over the two nights 24th and 25th of September 2010.
If you are going to the concert, enjoy! Being on the doorstep of the stadium, the Ariel House staff look forward to being serenaded as we work over the weekend!

Failte Ireland Horse Show Opens at the RDS

2010-08-04T07:13:00.000-07:00

We all love the Horse Show. This annual RDS event is a Dublin institution. A celebration of Ireland's affinity with the horse, from the best show horses to the best international show jumpers. It is one of Ireland's largest events, a highlight of the summer, each year welcoming tens of thousands of people Ireland and all over the world.

From August, 4th to the 8th, 2010 the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show will take over the entire RDS complex in the heart of Dublin. One of the top international equestrian events in the world, the Show is a wonderful day out, offering something for everyone - whether you are a horse enthusiast or not!

The 5 day festival includes:

International show jumping
Live music
Blossom Hill Ladies’ Day
Over 300 shopping stands
Crafts & art exhibition
Restaurants & bars
Kids’ entertainment and magic shows

Aviva Stadium Kick Off

2010-07-31T03:59:00.000-07:00

The first game to be played at the Aviva Stadium will take place today, Saturday 31st of July 2010. The game will be an historic rugby match between two composite provincial teams, Leinster/Ulster team against a Munster/Connacht selection.

As Ariel House is officially the closest hotel to the stadium we are soaking up the Lansdowne Road atmosphere already this morning!

Leinster and Ulster were the first representative teams to play at the old Lansdowne Road nearly 133 years ago on December 16, 1876.
Both provinces were also on hand to play the final game, 'The Last Stand', at the world famous stadium on New Year's Eve 2006, when Leinster beat Ulster 20-12 in the Magners League.

While they were rivals on both of these occasions, they will be joining forces as a Leinster/Ulster selection will play a Munster/Connacht team for the first ever game in the Aviva Stadium.
The game will form part of the provincial pre-season calendar and present Irish rugby stakeholders with the opportunity to be the first to witness rugby returning home to the iconic Aviva Stadium.

The Aviva Stadium will play host to some of the top teams in world rugby during the GUINNESS Series in November this year when Ireland are scheduled to play four internationals for the first time against World champions South Africa, followed by games against Samoa, New Zealand and Argentina.

KBC Music In Great Irish Houses

2010-06-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

There is a saying that life begins at 40, but in the case of Music in Great Irish Houses, life actually began exactly 40 years ago when the seeds of the Festival were planted in one of the most iconic of Ireland‘s Palladian style mansions . Ever since that first concert in Castletown House, Celbridge, then the home of the Hon. Desmond Guinness, the Festival has attracted artists of the calibre of renowned guitarist John Williams who played in the first week at another historic Irish building, Carton House, setting the tone for the Summer musical celebration ever since.

Ariel House congratulates the Festival and its management on their 40th Anniversary. We are really proud to be associated with KBC Music in Great Irish Houses and the home from home for the musicians performing at the festival.

The Concert Schedule for this years Festival, along with booking information can be found on www.musicgreatirishhouses.com

2010-05-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

Ariel House Homemade Brown Bread

Ingredients:

½ lb Wholemeal flour
¾ lb Self raising flour
3 oz oats
¼ oz sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp bread soda
1 tsp salt
1 egg
Milk - enough milk to make a wet dough

Method:

Mix all dry ingredients. Add egg and milk ( enough to make a wet dough. Bake in loaf tin lined with parchment for 35-40 mins at 350 degrees F. Turn out and tap – should sound hollow if cooked

"A breakfast worth staying over for" The Irish Times 1st of May 2010

2010-05-01T00:28:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to be tipped as " a breakfast worth staying over for " by journalist Sandra O'Connell in the Irish Times this morning. Below is what Sandra has to say about Ariel House. The entire article can be viewed online.

The phrase “guest house” has fallen out of fashion, usually in favour of “town house” or “boutique hotel”. Whatever appellation you use for Ariel House, on Lansdowne Road in Dublin, it’s a gem of a place for breakfast. For a start it’s all cooked to order, “so it’s not sitting on a buffet from 7am until someone eats it at 10am,” says general manager Deirdre McDonald. All jams, chutneys and relishes are home-made. The breads, including scones and banana bread, are freshly baked each morning. “We have been asked so many times for our brown-bread recipe that we put it on the website,” she says. Cereals and fruit salad come in Nicholas Mosse pottery, the organic yogurt is from a farm in Tipperary, the apricots and prunes are stewed daily and the French toast comes with creme fraiche. The porridge changes with the seasons. At the moment it comes with cream, honey and walnuts; in winter it is served with a warm berry compote or stewed apple and cinnamon. “We know from customer feedback that our guests come back to us specifically for our breakfasts,” says McDonald. “They get so much they can skip lunch.”

Ariel House, 50-54 Lansdowne Road, Dublin 4, 01-6685512, a guesthouse in Ballsbridge, Dublin. From €69 per room, including breakfast for two. Family rooms sleeping five cost €109, including breakfast

Alexej Gorlatch - A profile of an Interesting Guest

2010-04-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ariel House are delighted to welcome Alexej Gorlatch, winner of the AXA International Piano Competition 2009 as a resident this week. Alex will tonight perform his debut Dublin recital at The National Concert Hall, in association with the AXA Dublin International Piano Competition. Winning first prize in the Dublin Competition in May 2009 has been the most significant achievement in his spectacularly promising career so far. Born in Kiev in 1988, Alexej began studying the piano at the age of seven. He is now a student of Professor Karl- Heinz Kammerling at the University of Music and Theatre in Hannover. He has been winning prizes since he was eleven in competitions all over the world and has also given solo recitals in the Carnegie Hall in New York, the Salle Cortot in Paris and the Kioi Hall in Tokyo and has played with orchestras such as the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, the NHK Orchestra in Japan and the German Kammerphilharmonie. Further engagements include a return to Carnegie Hall, a recital in the Peoples' Symphony Concert Series, New York , the Wigmore Hall, London and also in Berlin with the Berliner Philharmonie.
This is a wonderful opportunity to hear this brilliant young pianist who stands at the threshold of his career.

Presented by Dublin International Piano Competition in association with the Friends of the National Concert Hall

Dublin Sightseeing Tour - Kids Go Free

2010-03-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to experience the attractions of Dublin City is to take a hop on hop off bus tour. It’s also a great way to get your bearings for a first time visitor to Dublin. At Ariel House we recommend the Dublin Bus Sightseeing Tours. All tours offer live commentary by our experienced tour guides

On Saturday 27th March 2010 Dublin Bus launched "KIDS GO FREE" on the Dublin Bus Hop on Hop Off tour. 2 children under 14 can travel for free with a fare paying adult. With many Irish Families planning a "Staycation" this summer Dublin Bus would like to encourage them to take the Hop on Hop off City Tour. Discover Dublin through the eyes of your children. Have a fun day out with all of the family.

For further information see http://www.dublinsightseeing.ie/

Grand Canal Theatre Dublin - Opening Today

2010-03-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

Ariel House would like to send our warmest congratulations to all at the Grand Canal Theatre, Dublin on their opening night. This brand new 2,111 capacity purpose built theatre was designed by world renowned architect Daniel Libeskind and is an outstanding addition to Ireland’s Theatre world and to our locality.

The Opening Night on March 18th features the Russian State Ballet with stars from the Bolshoi. The new Season Brochure is available to view or download on www.grandcanaltheatre.ie

The Grand Canal Theatre will be presenting the best of National and International Theatre, Musicals, Drama, Opera, Ballet, Family Shows & Classical Concerts and will have the facility to accommodate world class West End and Broadway productions for the first time in Ireland. Shows already on sale include Whistle Down The Wind, the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hairspray featuring Michael Ball and we have just announced that the Scottish Opera will visit Dublin for the first time with La bohème in June.

Ariel House is ideally located for those attending performances or events at the new theatre (20 minutes walking or 5 minutes by taxi!. Contact Ariel House for superior accommodation near Grand Canal Theatre and for the best rates available.

Lá Fhéile Pádraig

2010-03-16T01:23:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day
Today promises to be a fun filled day in Dublin City with the Grand Parade kicking off festivities at 12noon. With the Parade theme being ‘Extraordinary World’, the much anticipated annual favourite, the festival Parade features newly commissioned, highly original and inventive street theatre troupes, artists, giant puppetry, dancers and marching bands from Ireland and across the globe.

We will be serving Irish Coffee's in the Drawing Room to warm up our Guests on their return.

Guinness Storehouse St. Patricks Day Celebrations 2010

2010-03-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

CALLING ALL PATRICKS, PADDYS, PATS, PATRICIAS….

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE INVITES ALL PATRICKS IN FOR FREE TO CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE will once again present an exciting one day festival on St. Patrick’s Day. As well as a host of live music entertainment, food and a unique GUINNESS experience to enjoy, Ireland’s No. 1 visitor attraction is inviting all Patrick’s in free of charge. Patrick’s must present official photo ID at the point of purchase to gain free admission.

Highlights of the GUINNESS STOREHOUSE St. Patrick’s Day Festival will include live rock from U2 tribute band, Rattle and Hum, a traditional Irish Céilí, live DJ’s, street performers, dancers, caricaturist, face painters, plus complimentary GUINNESS and food tasting. All under one roof!

The ultimate St. Patrick’s Day experience at GUINNESS STOREHOUSE is free of charge to all Patrick’s and for everyone else, standard admission rates apply. Adult tickets cost €15 and those who purchase a ticket online at www.guinness-storehouse.com can also avail of a 10% discount off adult tickets.

For full terms and conditions and details of St. Patrick’s Day at GUINNESS STOREHOUSE Festival log onto www.guinness-storehouse.com

Ariel House is located just minutes from the Guinness Storehouse. If you are looking for accommodation near the Guinness Storehouse then contact Ariel House for the best available rates.

Aviva Stadium Update

2010-02-13T05:37:00.000-08:00

Photos taken this week - 08th of Feb show the stadium is taking shape, and sources say they are on schedule to open on May 13th.

This time next year the Stadium will be hosting the six nations games - England and France.

Ariel House is located just minutes from the Guinness Storehouse. If you are looking for accommodation near the Guinness Storehouse then contact Ariel House for the best available rates.

7Up Christmas on Ice

2009-11-11T04:05:00.000-08:00

7Up Christmas on Ice Returns to the RDS
13th November - 17th January 2010

Another reason to stay in Ariel House...
The RDS is minutes walk from Ariel House, and as Christmas on Ice is celebrating their 7th year in the RDS there are many fun activities to choose from

WEEKEND FAMILY FUN
Lots of fun for all the family
Skating with Santa and Snowfall every hour
(Let it snow, let is snow!)

SILENT DISCO
Every Tuesday Night Dance with hundreds of people all dancing, skating & singing but apparently to no music...
Skate the night away

DECKS ON ICE
Every Sunday Night FM104 will be broadcasting live

You better get your skates on!

*Special Rates for all Skaters*

Contact Ariel House, a B&B near the RDS for the best rates available.

Profile of a regular guest at Ariel House - Patrick Palmer, Artist

2009-10-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

Patrick Palmer's exhibition at the Tom Caldwell Gallery in Belfast opens on October 13th 2009. It is a big retrospective in honour of their gallery's 40th year in business, making it the oldest gallery in Ireland. Caldwell Gallery has represented some of the great Irish artists to date, including Colin Middleton, George Campbell, Tony O"Malley, Neil Shawcross etc...and their newest artist, Patrick! More than 40 artists featured will each be submitting one painting to show. The idea of a retrospective is quite interesting for all who embrace Irish art and will consequently enjoy the variety and selection covering so broad a spectrum of time; one will certainly appreciate not only the beauty of the paintings but enjoy observing the changes in styles and tastes.
We hope you and anyone who loves art will try to make it to Ariel House! All information is clearly spelled out below!

Ariel House Homemade Brown Bread

2009-10-11T01:05:00.000-07:00

Due to popular demand we have decided to share the recipe for our delicious homemade brown bread that we serve in our guesthouse. Our brown bread is freshly baked each day by Rose and Ben in the Ariel House kitchen. They also bake banana bread and fruit scones. Our freshly baked breads and scones can be found on the Breakfast Buffet each morning.

½ lb Whole meal flour
¾ lb Self raising flour
3 oz oats
¼ oz sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp bread soda
1 tsp salt
1 egg
Splash of milk
Method:
Pre heat the oven to 350 Degrees F
Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add egg and milk (enough to make wet dough)
Bake in loaf tin lined with parchment for 35-40 minutes
Enjoy with butter and homemade fruit preserve

Ariel House/TV3 Deal of the Day

2009-10-08T00:50:00.000-07:00

2 Night Dublin City Break for just €89pps

Enjoy two nights Bed & Breakfast at Ariel House, Dublin, in a Superior room, with a City Tour on the day of your choice and relax over Afternoon Tea in our Gracious Drawing Room after a busy day of sightseeing.

Ariel House is a family run Guesthouse located in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. The accommodation occupies three gracious Victorian mansions. Offering charm, character and an unrivalled dedication to hospitality

Whether you choose from our standard rooms, superior rooms or junior suites with Four Poster Beds, all bedrooms offer tea and coffee making facilities, Wi-Fi access and flat screen televisions

Enjoy the surroundings of our elegant Drawing room; Sink into an oversized arm chair, indulge in afternoon tea or enjoy a glass of wine. Simply relax with the daily broad sheet or plan your day with our carefully prepared guest concierge book - our recommendations and suggestions to enhance your stay in Dublin.

Located on Lansdowne Road on the doorstep of the new Aviva Stadium, Ariel House is minutes from the RDS and close to the O2. Also within walking of the city centre and beside Lansdowne Road DART Station.

To book this great offer call our reservations line on: 01 6685512 and quote TV3 deal of the Day or email reservations@ariel-house.net

Heres to Arthurs Day - Ariel House joins in the celebrations

2009-09-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

Arthurs Day, 24th September 2009

The celebrations begin in Dublin at 17:59 local time with a global toast to Arthur Guinness to mark the 250 years since he signed the 9,000 year lease on the St. James's Gate brewery and kick off the beginning of the Arthur’s Day global events. In Dublin thousands of people will be coming together to experience the live music events in over 30 venues across Dublin from intimate gigs in pubs to music venues and even a concert at the St. James’s Gate brewery itself. One of the most historic buildings in the brewery, Hop Store 13, will become a live music studio for Arthur’s Day where more than 2,000 guests from around the world will enjoy performances from global artists in honour of this remarkable milestone and the legacy that is Arthur Guinness. At 17:59 in and around the world, consumers will be joined by Artists and celebrities including Sir Bob Geldof, Guy Ritchie, Carson Daly, Jerry Hall and Sophie Dahl as they take part in this once in a lifetime moment and raise a GUINNESS to Arthur and toast the Arthur Guinness Fund. Arthur Guinness and his family were responsible for some of the most well known acts of philanthropy in Ireland and to honour and continue this legacy we are establishing the Arthur Guinness Fund. The aim of the Fund is to enable and empower individuals with skills and opportunities to deliver a measured benefit to their communities. The Guinness & Co. will donate €6 million to the Arthur Guinness Fund which will be active from September 2009. New artists joining the Arthur’s Day lineup today are: Sir Tom Jones, Calvin Harris, Razorlight, Richard Hawley, Black Swan Effect, Republic of Loose, Imelda May, David Gray, The Hot Rats, Jamie Cullum, Sugababes, The Kooks, The Blizzards, Golden Silvers, Jay Jay Pistolet, Mick Flannery, Dirty Epics, The Chakras, Cherbourg, Eoghan Colgan, Hoarsebox, Nat Jenkins, Noise Control and The Chapters.

Contact Ariel House, a B&B near Dublin City Centre for the best rates available.

Profile of a Regular Guest at Ariel House - A Biography of Patrick Taylor

2009-09-15T01:48:00.000-07:00

At Ariel House we are proud to be the Dublin Home from Home of Author Patrick Taylor. Born in 1941 and brought up in Bangor, Co. Down, Patrick Taylor managed to hoodwink the examiners in Belfast in 1964 and London in 1969 to become a physician and then a specialist Ob/Gyn. He spent 37 years in Canada, 31 working in the field of human infertility, teaching at a series of universities and churning out a string of research papers, more remarkable for their quantity than quality. These led to a misapprehension that his chosen genre was science fiction…at least according to scientific peer reviewers. Because so many people laughed at his research (take Infertility Treatment in the Lowland Gorilla, [Gorilla G. Gorilla] as an example) in 1989 he turned his hand to writing humour columns for medical and sailing magazines, a pastime he follows to this day.
A book of short stories Only Wounded: Ulster Stories was published by Key Porter Books of Toronto in 1997, four years before he retired a Professor Emeritus to write full-time. Two techno-thrillers, Pray for Us Sinners, and the sequel Now and in the Hour of Our Death (Insomniac Press. Toronto. 2000 and 2005) were followed by the first three novels in the Irish Country series, An Irish Country Doctor (2007 Hard Back. 2008 Trade paper) and An Irish Country Village (2008 Hard Back 2009 Trade paper) and, An Irish Country Christmas (2008 Hard Back). The fourth An Irish Country Girl will be published by Tom Doherty and Associates. NY., NY., in spring 2010.
Irish Country Doctor a Book of the Month Club novel of the month has also been published in German, Dutch, Spanish, and will be released in Czech. It is in 11 languages as a Readers Digest select edition and Village has been condensed in 5.
Both Doctor and Village have been and will be released by Brandon Press here in Ireland.
When Country Doctor made NY Times best-seller in both editions teams of mental health workers were needed to help him deal with post-traumatic shock, a symptom of which is that in 2008 he returned to Ireland and, now lives in Cootehall, Co Roscommon, with his partner, award winning oil painter Dorothy Tinman.
He is presently working on the fifth book in the series in those moments when he is not staying in the Ariel or in one of the four local pubs enjoying the craic and giving truth to the old adage, “a bird cannot fly on one wing.”

For Further information see http://www.patricktaylor.ca/

Aviva Stadium Tour - Photos

2009-08-21T06:06:00.001-07:00

More Photos from our Site Tour of the Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Road, Dublin 4

Walk Way Area over the Dart - Premium Level Entrance

Boutique Ballsbridge Group

Jennie & Deirdre (Ariel House) Fiona (Pembroke Townhouse) Cecilia (Butlers Townhouse)
Peter (Glenogra Guesthouse) Pat (Merrion Hall & Aberdeen Lodge)

View from Level 4

View from Level 3

View from Level 2

You can see from the above photos how close you are to the pitch.

We can feel the atmosphere already...

Roll on May 2010

Ariel House is located just minutes from Aviva Stadium. If you are looking for accommodation near Aviva Stadium then contact Ariel House for the best available rates.

Aviva Stadium Tour

2009-08-21T05:18:00.000-07:00

Ariel House Visits the

AVIVA STADIUM, Lansdowne Road, Dublin

Ariel House had our 1st tour of the Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Road, on Wednesday 19th of August.

Ariel House is located just minutes from Aviva Stadium. If you are looking for accommodation near Aviva Stadium then contact Ariel House for the best available rates.

Our tour began with a Presentation by Cailin Keaney, Sales and Marketing Manager of the Stadium. We were then taken on a 2 hour 'access all areas' tour of the stadium.

As you will see in the photos we were kitted out on all the safety gear, from Hard Hats to Boots!

Something we noticed during the tour, is that the stadium hasn't lost its intimacy - even when standing on the 4th floor we didn't feel a million miles away from the pitch.

As for the indoor areas - the spec is of the highest quality, very open plan giving great views of the pitch from all angles.

The stadium will not only be a 5star venue for Matches and Concerts it will be a great venue for conferences, meetings and corporate events.

The Stadium is due to open on the 14th of May, 2010

We cannot wait!

For more details visit;

http://www.avivastadium.ie/

The Six Nations Cup & Triple Crown Plate Come to Ariel House

2009-07-04T04:34:00.000-07:00

The Six Nations Cup & The Triple Crown Plate

Were on view in Ariel House last week.

Guests were delighted to see them & have their photos taken.

We are looking forward to see more triumphant victories for the boys in green in the coming months when they move into Aviva Stadium.

Ariel House is located just minutes from Aviva Stadium. If you are looking for accommodation near Aviva Stadium then contact Ariel House for the best available rates.

Ariel House Guesthouse, Ballsbridge - Welcome

2009-07-03T04:37:00.000-07:00

Located in leafy Ballsbridge, Ariel House is walking distance from Dublin city centre, and offers free wireless internet, car parking and warm hospitality. Ariel House is within a few minutes walk of the RDS and the AVIVA Stadium, Lansdowne Road

This four star accommodation was originally built for a wealthy merchant shipper and his family in 1850. Ariel House has stayed true to its antique roots while incorporating the best of the modern boutique hotel.

Ariel Guesthouse Special Offers

2009-07-03T04:25:00.000-07:00

2-Night Dublin City Leisure Break (Superior Double or Twin) from: €100 Book Now

Ariel House Summer Special (Valid until 31st August) from: € 95 Book Now