WHERE: Call it the Normal People effect – Sligo has benefited from the global attention generated from the televisation of Sally Rooney’s book. Much of the show was filmed in the county including Streedagh Beach in North Sligo and Tubbercurry in South Sligo. An interesting way to explore Lough Gill, its islands, bays and forests is on a three-hour kayak tour, one of the many staycation offers, this one organised in tandem with Coopershill House, an Ireland’s Blue Book property. Stop for coffee, tea and cookies half way and enjoy the beauty of this stunning location. The staycation package includes two nights bed and breakfast with one four-course dinner on one evening, from €640 in total. Other key visitor destinations in Co Sligo such as Eagles Flying Bird Sanctuary, The Model arts centre, the Yeats Building and Carrowmore Megalithic Tombs have all reopened along with many great cafes and restaurants. For further information visit www.sligotourism.ie.

WHY: Butler Gallery, previously located at Kilkenny Castle, has moved to Evans’ Home, on John’s Quay, in the centre of Kilkenny City and opened last week after two years in construction. The new museum and cultural heritage site sits on the monastic site of St John’s Priory and is surrounded by walled gardens, in addition to those dedicated to sculpture, wildflowers and archaeology. Inside, meanwhile, there are seven collection galleries which will be used to display the Butler Gallery Collection of 20th-century Irish art, and one wing is dedicated to the work of renowned Kilkenny artists Tony and Jane O’Malley. The inaugural temporary exhibition in the main gallery is by contemporary photographer Amelia Stein. The exhibition titled “The Bloods” features a series of black and white portraits documenting members of the Irish defence forces. Also on display are rarely seen works by artists Paul Henry, Louis le Brocquy, Mainie Jellett and Mary Swanzy. With free admission, don’t leave without visiting the café with outdoor seating with views over the grounds; www.butlergallery.ie.

WHAT: EPIC museum on Dublin’s docklands is now offering free entry to children aged 16 and under throughout August and is a fun, interactive experience for children and kidults alike (listen to the whispering library, swipe through interactive quizzes and dance to Riverdance …). Five minutes’ walk from EPIC is also The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship. Step on board and visitors will be transported back in time, where a 50-minute tour shares the stories of the thousands who travelled to North America in search of the American dream. As for safety, with reduced visitor numbers, designated time slots, touch-free screens, increased cleaning, downloadable audio guides and cashless payments, visitors can relax knowing high standards are in place. www.epicchq.com

WHO: I’m hoping for blue skies and the chance to pack a picnic this weekend, though I am tempted to pre-order one from the chic Monkstown brasserie Bresson. As a traditionalist, a colourful blanket is a must. Cork-based Loominations has a new cotton “Awen” throw blanket in gorgeous jewel colours with symbolic meanings. In the centre is the palm of a hand inscribed with three flowing lines representing mind, body and spirit. Intricately interwoven are the moon, sun, a river and mountains. Floating around the hand are symbols including the horse of strength, the hare of fertility, the salmon of wisdom and the hound of loyalty. Available for €149, with free shipping from www.loominations.ie.

WHEN: Fancy an Indian this weekend? The much loved Jaipur Dalkey has just reopened after a summer refurbishment and is now styled as a restaurant gallery. On the walls, owner Asheesh Dewan has curated a collection of Irish and international artworks, while chef Sanish Jospeh has revamped the menu, adding many new dishes alongside classics such as tandoori jhinga char grilled jumbo prawns, Mary’s pani puri and Hugh Leonard’s butter chicken. Jaipur Dalkey, 21 Castle Street, Dalkey, Co Dublin; www.jaipur.ie/dalkey.

Pickle Restaurant has also reopened to guests, having offered its successful takeaway and delivery service during lockdown. Now open for lunch from Wednesday to Friday 12pm – 2.15pm, the restaurant is also offering an Early Bird service Tuesday to Friday and Sunday 3pm – 5pm, while dinner is available Tuesday to Saturday 5pm – 10pm and Sunday 3pm – 9.30pm. www.picklerestaurant.com