When was the last time you simply sat and watched the world go by?
There really is something to be said for putting aside all the distractions of everyday, enjoying the moment and allowing yourself to ponder.
Since Cadbury Twirl is bringing its Take Ten With Twirl pop-up on tour around Ireland this August — which invites members of the public to come chill out on a bean bag, place their phone in a signal-blocking pouch and write their thoughts in a notebook while enjoying a hot drink with a Twirl — we’ve decided to look at some of the best spots in Ireland for a bit of people-watching and daydreaming…
1. Farmgate Café in the English Market, Cork City
This café at the heart of the Cork’s English Market is best known as a breakfast spot (gotta love those bacon-stuffed breakfast baps) which affords a perfect view of the bustling forum.
2. Doneraile Walk in Tramore, Waterford
There are plenty of places along this popular 4.9km coastal route where you plop down and enjoy the view of sand dunes, lapping waves, historic sights and happy passers-by.
3. The Milk Market on Mungret Street, Limerick City
Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the people of Limerick are consistently drawn to this market for its street food, desserts, fresh produce, crafts and more. If you grab a table upstairs you can watch shoppers browse the stalls as you sip on a steaming cup of coffee.
4. Muriel’s Café Bar on Church Street, Belfast, Antrim
Located on a quiet side street in Belfast’s city centre, this quirky spot is ideal for luxuriating with a coffee or a cocktail while watching the occasional straggler wander past.
5. Dubray Café on Grafton Street, Dublin
On the top floor of Dubray Books you’ll find a sleepy little café that boasts one of the best views of Dublin’s busiest streets. With a host of hearty sambos, sweet treats and coffee from 3fe, you can blissfully while away a whole afternoon here without moving.
6. Kilkee Beach, Clare
Seasiders flock in their droves to the stretch of golden sand during the sunny season, with all its cliff walks and pretty pools. Allow yourself to be surrounded by your fellow man and enjoy the warm atmosphere of the place.
7. Sceal Eile on High Street, Killarney, Kerry
Found right at the centre of Killarney, this cosy little spot provides a wonderful vantage point from which to enjoy the town’s sights and sounds. Grab yourself a table by the window on the first floor and watch people go about their day while you chow down on Sceal Eile’s delish offerings.
8. Halpin’s Bridge Cafe on Bridge Street, Wicklow Town
This award-winning spot is found right next to the local bridge, affording views of the river and the main centre of activity in the town. Set yourself up at one of the tables outside for a front row seat of the world passing you by. And it’s dog-friendly too!
9. Harry’s Shack in Portstewart, Derry
This beach shack won Ireland’s Restaurant of the Year after only a few months in business and once you eat here you’ll see why. With its rustic wooden decor, a gorgeous seafood menu and a stunning exterior overlooking a long stretch of beach, we could definitely think of worse places for a bit of quiet contemplation.
10. Tigh Neachtáin on Cross Street, Galway City
Fans of whiskey would feel right at home here, since they happen to stock more than 130 different types of the stuff, but what we really love about this place is its position on one of Galway’s most exciting streets, where all human life can be seen.
Another way you can take a moment for yourself to simply ponder is by checking out Take Ten With Twirl at Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Cork on Saturday August 4, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, Dublin on August 18 or Eyre Square Shopping Centre, Galway on August 25.