https://visitwaterford.com/ Archives - Jim Murty’s TravelTravelTravel

Someone tell First Dates maitre d’hotel Fred Sirieix but Waterford blaa, blaa, blaa is not an Irish person droning on.

But a specialised bread that would raise his fellow Channel Four TV host Paul Hollywood’s interest.

All of which the French gastronome will discover when he takes his Tour de Fred series on the road for its second series in Ireland.

After sampling all that the north has to offer first time around, including the Mournes and Strangford Lough, Belfast, the Causeway Coast and the walled city of Derry, this time he’s heading south.

Fred will be exploring Wexford, Waterford and Cork for the new series.

Which he bills Tour de Fred – Part Deux.

All supported by Tourism Ireland’s International Programming Ireland Fund and Irish Ferries.

Filming for the five-part series, due to air on ITV1 and ITVX next year, has been taking place over the past few weeks.

Cycle of history

Viewers will see Fred explore and meet passionate locals in Wexford, Waterford and Cork.

And, of course, take part in a cycle challenge or two along the way.

Ah, mais oui, that’ll be the Tour de Fred bit them.

From beautiful coastlines and historic sites to artisan producers and vibrant towns.

Fred will introduce British viewers on a fun and exciting journey.

That’s crystal clear then

And just because we’re being helpful and Fred may be more Franglais despite his years in Britain.

We’re glad to clue him on Ireland’s sunny south-east.

And Waterford Blaa and how renowned Irish chef Kevin Dundon makes them.

Although being the foodie that he is and because blaa has a French connection then he might already know.

That it was introduced by French Huguenots in the late 17th century.

And such is its inextricable link with Waterford, on a par with its crystal, it has been recognised with Protected Geographical Indication status.

So that only blaas made in County Waterford can carry the name.

The word blaa is thought to come from the French word blanc, or white.

And blaas are enjoyed with various fillings, butter and jam and our favourites bacon.

Right said Fred

Fred, naturellement, fell in love with Ireland following his trip up north which was watched by two million Brits.

He said: ‘I am absolutely thrilled to be back in the saddle for a second series of Tour de Fred.

‘The first series was a real joy and now I get to explore a different region of the beautiful island of Ireland.

‘I’m excited to embrace all the rich history, incredible food and breathtaking landscapes of south east Ireland along the Copper Coast.

‘And, of course, meet the charismatic locals.

‘Joining me on the last leg will be my daughter Andrea.

‘And I can’t wait to bring viewers on this next adventure with us!’

Michael Collins (or Liam Neeson) slapped down a British apparatchik: ‘Seven minutes late? You’ve been keeping us waiting 700 years.’ Clock Irish history!

Poignant too that our story begins in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, a Viking stronghold from 914.

Where they’ve opened Ireland’s first Museum of Time.

Twin time: Kate and Matthew Kirwan

It is a welcome addition to Waterford Treasures, making it five museums now in the city‘s Viking Triangle.

The Fab Five

For more on Waterford’s origins then you can take in the Medieval Museum, the Museum of Silver, Bishop’s Palace and Reginald’s Tower.

The Bishop in question is Anglo-Irishman Bishop Charles Este.

With this exquisite Georgian building housing the oldest surviving piece of Waterford Crystal, from 1789.

And the Napoleon Bonaparte Mourning Cross, the only one of the original 12 that were made on his death.

While there’s a 4D Masterpiece in Glass Exhibit of the history of the city’s world-famous export.

Eight centuries of Reg

Reginald’s Tower is the oldest civic building in the country,

Reginald is likely to have been Ragnall Mac Gilla Muire, the last Hiberno-Norse ruler of the city.

It has been in continuous use for over 800 years although, alas, it’s closed just now for renovations.

Well, got to keep it secure from invaders.

Medieval and Silver, well we can probably work out what we’re getting.

Day out from Dublin

And the thing is prices for any, or all of the museums is well-priced, probably not much more than Medieval silver.

Waterford, on the south-east coast, is only a two-hour drive from Dublin.

Or a two-hour train ride with return tickets from Heuston for €19.15.

And no danger of missing your train back to the capital with all those timepieces around you… unless you want to, that is!

Clock Irish history in Waterford? It’s time well spent.