We visited Fred and his stone barn again after staying there in September, 2015 for three reasons: how he looks after you, the accommodation itself, and the location. We were welcomed with fresh home made bread and honey from his bees. He and his wife, Roseann, both said "welcome home" to us. The barn is huge and way more space than we need for us but it is everything you would want with the largest, hottest, strongest shower we experienced in our 1750 mile tour of the island. Clean all over, large fresh bath sheets, full bath downstairs and commode upstairs so you have easy access at night if needed. Kitchen is ready with the essentials for cooking.
We visit Ireland to experience the people and their culture and history. Fred has deep roots in his country and is happy to share his experience and thoughts about such subjects. This was especially interesting because of the centenary of the 1916 Rising. We were also able to observe him and the dogs moving sheep from one pasture to another. Another day we watched him work with the bees.
The location in Ireland 's ancient east is also superb. After seeing Newgrange this time, we both think Loughcrew beats it for the experience: no crowds, you can take pictures, and the site was not put back together as Newgrange was. Again, we had ForeAbbey, a seventh century ruin all to ourselves to explore. The heritage folks in that nearby valley have done a great job of maintaining a 3KM walk around the perimeter. In the old grave yard of St. Feichin's church there are stones with dates in the 1700's. And Weir's restaurant in nearby Mutifarnum truly deserves their 2015 Best of Ireland award. We made it there for lunch and had the best potato leek soup and gourmet lamb stew of both of our two visits. Finally, we went into Mullingar and there I was able to find my Irish lace curtains.
If we go again, we may explore Athlone and Trim, but we were so busy exploring other less crowded places and sitting and relaxing at the farm we just couldn't be torn away from it. Fred Butler and his family deserve ten stars. He also gives the best directions and helped us get our car back to Belfast airport within the appointed time.