Ireland has given the world so many wonderful things – Liam Neeson, of course, and loads of other stuff. Yes, Ireland is perhaps the most magical and mysterious nation on earth. No one would dare disagree – them would be fighting words.

Ireland is the spiritual home – and actual residence – of a wealth of infamous and adored authors, artists, and icons and an island full of ancient Celtic mysticism and traditions. Beloved by the millions who visit each year, Ireland never disappoints. With its traditional Irish music, scenic coastline and a limitless supply of Guinness, The Little Book of Ireland is the perfect companion, overflowing with craic and facts, stats and wisecracks, and a little bit of local lingo thrown in for good measure.

In a nutshell: This tiny tome is Ireland triple-distilled and fits perfectly inside the palm of your hand. There's only one thing left to do - Sláinte! Sean's Bar, in Athlone, is the oldest pub in Ireland. It's also widely believed that it's the oldest pub in the world – dating back to 900 AD.

Fancy a pint?