Ireland & The British Isles

Ireland & The British Isles

The ultimate goal: to celebrate and bring unity through education, good food and good spirits.

Neville’s Ireland and the British Isles

Neville grew up in Northern Ireland in the village of Lambeg in County Antrim 10 miles from Belfast where the influence of both Irish and Scottish cultures, cuisine and humour were fairly equal.  It’s appropriate that McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar would reflect his spirited upbringing and background and Donegal Square heavily brings to light the  Irish culture and heritage he is so very proud of.  Northern Ireland has always been troubled with the history of terrorism, violence and political unrest. The goal of this unique Irish destination in the heart of Historic Bethlehem was to bring light to what is at the heart of the country; a love for the arts, a love for their country, a love for their culture and heritage and a love of life.

The origin of Donegal Square remains a “Phoenix Rising” story — with many evolutions since its opening in 1985.  Neville started this business with not much in his pocket, a dream in his heart, and a vision in his soul to educate the community about his country and give immigrants from his homeland a place to feel at home — and get all of the delicious food, clothing and other goods they would typically get back home. 

When he opened Granny McCarthy’s Tea Room and Bakery in 1997, the goal was to further his vision and share the hospitality, foods and culture that he grew up with. The idea of a Pub…well that was always in the dream for future growth.  

The Celtic Classic Festival and CCA (Celtic Cultural Alliance) was founded by Neville and a few other cultural pioneers from the local Irish and Scottish communities.  The vision behind the festival and this newly formed organization was brought to life out of the desire to cross pollinate the different sides of the Irish and Scottish cultures.

A Little About Belfast

Belfast was a hub for the Irish linen, tobacco-processing, rope-making and shipbuilding industries in the early 20th century.  Particularly, Harland and Wolff, famously known for building the Titantic, was the world’s biggest and most productive shipyard. The city of Belfast also was a key player in the Industrial Revolution, bringing inward migration and making Belfast Ireland’s largest city at the beginning of the 20th century.

In present day Ireland, Belfast remains at the central part of industry and is fondly known for the arts, higher education, business and law, continuing to fuel the economy of Northern Ireland.

Tour Ireland with the Professionals

Ever thought about visiting Ireland but you aren’t sure where to go or what to do?  How would you like to have a personalized tour from someone who knows the awesome places to go in Ireland that aren’t necessarily on a standard tour?  You’ve come to the right place!  Donegal Square Travels is ready to show you around Ireland as if you were traveling with friends and family.  Tour Guides Neville Gardner and Gerry Timlin are ready to show you all over the country of Ireland, including whiskey tours, pub stops, the best site seeing you will ever do, and, of course, lots of shopping.  You will be sure to have lots of laughs with the humor of these two native Irishmen.

Traditional Irish Events and Celebrations