3 Best Shopping in The Southeast, Ireland

Home to potter Mary Lincoln, a poll of Irish Times readers a few years back agreed this is one of the most beloved, creative, and cleverly stocked craft shops in the country, with everything from Lynsey de Burca's silver jewelry to McNutt's fine tweeds and linens. You can even watch Mary work at the wheel and purchase some of her own beautiful, delicate designs.

One of Ireland's favorite sources for Irish handicrafts, the Kilkenny Design Centre sells ceramics, jewelry, sweaters, and handwoven textiles. This spot in the old stable yard opposite the castle also has a restaurant specializing in hearty Irish fare.

One of the best-known names in Irish ceramics, Mosse first set up his potter's wheel in an old flour mill in 1975. Since then, the shop's rustic floral-pattern pottery has become instantly recognizable for its "spongeware" designs. A visit to the shop, in a quiet village 16 km (10 miles) south of Kilkenny, allows you to see the pottery being made, and the adjoining factory shop often has good bargains.