These documentaries about Ireland show a land steeped in rich history, stunning landscapes, and a culture as vibrant as its emerald hills, which has long captivated the imagination of people worldwide.
Its compelling story, from ancient Celtic traditions to the struggles for independence, has been a subject of fascination for documentary filmmakers.
Documentaries About Ireland
Through these documentaries about Ireland, you can explore the multifaceted tapestry of Ireland, from its picturesque countryside to its bustling cities, and delve into the complexities of its past and present.
Whether you’re interested in its folklore, politics, or the warmth of its people, there’s a documentary about Ireland to satisfy your curiosity and inspire your wanderlust.
On a personal note, my mother is Irish and I have always had a love for Ireland and its people.
The Story of Ireland (2011)
The Story of Ireland is a historical documentary series that explores the history of Ireland from its earliest days to the modern era.
Presented by Fergal Keane, a well-known Irish journalist and broadcaster, the series delves into the rich and complex history of Ireland, touching on various aspects of its history, culture, and heritage.
The series is divided into several episodes, each covering different periods in Irish history, from ancient times to the present day. It features a mix of expert commentary, dramatic reenactments, and on-location visits to historical sites and landmarks.
The Story of Ireland seeks to provide a comprehensive and accessible overview of the island’s history, highlighting key events and figures that have shaped Ireland’s past.
Throughout the series, you can expect to learn about topics such as the early Celtic societies, the Viking and Norman invasions, the Gaelic revival, the impact of English colonization, the Great Famine, the struggle for independence, the partition of Ireland, and the Troubles in Northern Ireland, among other significant historical events.
The Irish Pub (2013)
The Irish Pub explores the role and significance of the traditional Irish pub in the social and cultural life of Ireland. It provides a heartfelt and intimate look at these cherished establishments and the people who run them.
The documentary takes you on a journey through the country, visiting various pubs in both urban and rural settings. It features interviews with pub owners, bartenders, and patrons who share their personal stories and insights about what makes Irish pubs special.
The film captures the atmosphere, camaraderie, and character of these establishments, as well as the important role they play as community hubs.
“The Irish Pub celebrates the unique and enduring culture of these pubs, which have often served as gathering places for storytelling, music, and a sense of belonging. It explores the history, traditions, and warmth of these establishments, making it a heartfelt and visually engaging portrayal of Ireland’s pub culture.
This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland that offers a glimpse into the heart of Irish society and its deep connection to these establishments, which have often been passed down through generations.
Ireland, The Celtic Way (2013)
Ireland, The Celtic Way is a documentary series that explores the history, culture, and spirituality of Ireland, particularly through the lens of its Celtic heritage. The series is presented by Alexander Shaia, a cultural anthropologist and author.
Ireland, The Celtic Way takes you on a journey through the landscapes, ancient ruins, and spiritual traditions of Ireland. It examines the enduring influence of Celtic Christianity, the significance of monastic sites, and the connection between spirituality and the natural world.
The series also touches on the mythology, folklore, and art of Ireland.
Throughout the documentary, Alexander Shaia provides insights into the unique aspects of Celtic spirituality and how they have shaped Irish culture and history.
The series offers a captivating and contemplative exploration of Ireland’s rich heritage and the ways in which its Celtic roots continue to resonate in the modern world.
This documentary series is known for its meditative and philosophical approach to its subject matter, making it appealing to those interested in the spiritual and cultural aspects of Ireland and its deep-rooted Celtic traditions.
This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland if you have an interest in the cultural and spiritual side of Ireland.
Ireland’s Wild Coast (2017)
Ireland’s Wild Coast is a three-part nature documentary series presented by Colin Stafford-Johnson, an Irish wildlife cameraman and filmmaker. The series takes you on a breathtaking journey along the rugged and stunning coastline of Ireland, showcasing its diverse wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and unique ecosystems.
Ireland’s Wild Coast explores the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Irish coast, from the cliffs of Moher in County Clare to the northern coast of Northern Ireland.
The series features stunning cinematography and provides you with an opportunity to witness the rich marine life, bird species, and other wildlife that inhabit these coastal areas.
The documentary series not only highlights the scenic beauty of the Irish coast but also delves into the challenges and conservation efforts aimed at preserving this unique environment.
It offers an engaging and informative look at the natural wonders of Ireland’s shoreline, making it a visually captivating and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the natural history of the country.
This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland that explores the natural landscape of the Irish coast.
1916: The Irish Rebellion (2016)
The year 2016 marked the centenary of the Easter Rising, a significant event in Irish history. The Easter Rising took place in April 1916 and was a key moment in the struggle for Irish independence from British rule.
1916: The Irish Rebellion is a documentary narrated by actor Liam Neeson that provides a comprehensive look at the Easter Rising, its causes, key figures involved, and its impact on Ireland’s path to independence. It features archival footage, expert interviews, and dramatic reenactments.
If you have any interest in serious Irish history then this is definitely one of the best documentaries about Ireland you can watch.
Older Than Ireland (2016)
Older Than Ireland focuses on the lives and stories of a group of centenarians from Ireland. The documentary aims to provide an intimate and engaging portrait of a diverse group of individuals who have lived for more than a century, offering a unique perspective on Irish history and culture.
The centenarians featured in the film share their personal experiences, memories, and wisdom, reflecting on the significant events and changes they’ve witnessed throughout their long lives.
The documentary delves into various aspects of their lives, including family, work, love, and how they have adapted to the evolving world around them.
Older Than Ireland provides a heartfelt and sometimes humorous exploration of ageing and the passage of time, highlighting the resilience and spirit of its subjects.
It also serves as a historical document, capturing the oral history and personal narratives of a generation that has seen Ireland undergo significant transformations over the years. This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland that you will want to watch.
Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old (2014)
Living the Tradition: An Enchanting Journey into Old Ireland explores the traditional music and culture of Ireland, focusing on the people who are dedicated to preserving and passing down these age-old traditions.
The documentary offers a glimpse into the world of Irish traditional music, dance, and song. It features interviews and performances by a variety of musicians and artists who are deeply rooted in the traditional arts.
You can expect to hear and see traditional Irish music played on instruments like the fiddle, uilleann pipes, bodhrán, and more, along with Irish dance and singing.
Living the Tradition provides a rich and immersive experience of Irish cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of these traditions in Irish society and their role in connecting the past with the present.
The film captures the passion and dedication of those who are committed to preserving and promoting Irish traditional arts.
This documentary offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the enchanting world of Irish tradition and the vibrant cultural heritage that continues to thrive in Ireland. It is a tribute to the musicians, dancers, and keepers of this rich cultural legacy.
Out of these documentaries about Ireland, this is one of the best ones to watch if you have an interest in traditional Irish music.
Passport to the World: Ireland (2019)
Passport to the World: Ireland is a travel documentary that provides you with an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, culture, and attractions of Ireland. It features stunning cinematography, travel tips, and insights into various regions of the country.
It focuses on a different aspect of Irish culture, history, or geography. You can expect to see a variety of locations, from iconic landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway to historic cities like Dublin and Belfast.
It includes highlights of local traditions, cuisine, and festivals, offering a comprehensive look at what makes Ireland a unique travel destination.
Passport to the World: Ireland is designed to inspire and inform travellers who are interested in visiting Ireland or anyone who wants to learn more about the country’s rich history and diverse landscapes.
It provides an immersive and visually engaging exploration of Ireland’s many attractions and cultural highlights.
Rocky Road To Dublin (1967)
Rocky Road to Dublin blends elements of documentary, travelogue, and musical performance to provide a unique perspective on Ireland and Irish culture in the 1960s.
The film follows the journey of the director, Peter Lennon, as he travels around Ireland and explores various aspects of Irish life and society. It features interviews with a diverse range of people, from farmers to intellectuals, and provides insights into their thoughts and perspectives on the state of the country at that time.
Rocky Road to Dublin is known for its candid and critical examination of Ireland’s cultural and social landscape during the 1960s, touching on themes such as religion, politics, and the changing role of women in Irish society.
It also includes traditional Irish music and dance performances, showcasing the country’s cultural heritage.
The film is considered a significant and thought-provoking work, and it offers a unique and sometimes controversial view of Ireland during a period of social and cultural change. It provides an important historical and cultural document, shedding light on the complexities of Irish identity and modernization.
Ireland’s Wild Islands (2023)
Ireland’s Wild Islands takes a look at the islands of the west coast of Ireland that are still wild, remote, and rugged. The wildlife presenter Eoin Warner travels to these wild islands on a Galway Hooker which is a traditional fishing boat from Galway Bay.
At these islands, such as Aran, he explores the wildlife of the area that includes many species, from basking sharks and skylarks to the only reptile in the whole of Ireland and many others. There is a whole range of wildlife species there to see.
This is a wild region of the Atlantic that you may not have had the image of when thinking of the country but is a stunningly beautiful and remote place to explore. This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland that explores the western islands.
Adrian Dunbar’s Coastal Ireland (2021)
Adrian Dunbar’s Coastal Ireland is another documentary about (as the title suggests) the coast of Ireland.
It follows Adrian Dunbar, who is a famous Irish actor, director, and singer, as he travels along the Irish coast meeting local residents and exploring the history of the area and the dramatic beauty of the Irish coastline.
Along with the other similar films mentioned above, this is one of the more recent and best documentaries about Ireland that takes you on a journey along Ireland’s coast.
Ireland with Simon Reeve (2015)
Ireland with Simon Reeve is a great travelogue-style documentary series about Ireland where the host Simon Reeve travels around the country exploring the culture and history of Ireland.
He also delves into the traditional beliefs of the Irish and meets with many communities to talk about their views on Ireland. This is a good easy-to-watch one out of these documentaries about Ireland that gives good insight into the region, from its past to the present.
Rick Steves Ireland (2009 onwards)
Rick Steves’ Ireland is a travel television series created by Rick Steves, an American travel writer, author, and television personality known for his travel guides and travel shows.
The guidebook and TV series are part of his broader “Rick Steves’ Europe” series, which focuses on various European destinations.
Rick Steves’ Ireland, is a travel documentary show in which Rick Steves personally explores different regions and cities of Ireland. Through the TV series, you can get a visual tour of the country, with Rick Steves providing insights into its history, culture, and local experiences.
The show often includes visits to historic sites, interviews with locals, and a focus on the unique aspects of each region.
Tales of Irish Castles (2014)
Tales of Irish Castles is a documentary series exploring the history and stories associated with various Irish castles. It provides insights into the rich history, architecture, and cultural significance of castles in Ireland.
Castles in Ireland have played a crucial role in the country’s history, ranging from medieval fortifications to stately homes, and this series explores it all. This is one of the best documentaries about Ireland if you have an interest in castles and Irish history.
A Terrible Beauty (2013)
A Terrible Beauty: Culture and Resistance in 1916 is a docudrama film that features a combination of archival footage, dramatic reenactments, and interviews to explore the events of the Easter Rising in 1916 and their impact on Irish culture and society.
The documentary delves into the complexities of the Easter Rising, examining the motivations of those involved and the cultural and political repercussions that followed.
The title “A Terrible Beauty” is a reference to a line from the poem “Easter, 1916” by W.B. Yeats, which reflects on the conflicting emotions and consequences of the Easter Rising.
The Pipe (2010)
The Pipe focuses on the controversy and social conflict surrounding the construction of a natural gas pipeline in the rural village of Rossport, County Mayo, Ireland. The pipeline was part of the Corrib gas project, a significant industrial development in the area.
The documentary provides an in-depth look at the residents’ opposition to the project, environmental concerns, and the resulting protests and clashes with both the energy company and the Irish government.
It explores the broader issues of land rights, environmental activism, and the power dynamics between large corporations and small communities.
The Pipe is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves into the challenges and conflicts that can arise when big industrial projects intersect with small, close-knit communities.
Ireland
These documentaries about Ireland offer a diverse range of perspectives on the country, its history, culture, and the enduring spirit of its people.
Whether you’re interested in history, folklore, contemporary issues, or just the scenic beauty of the Irish landscape, there’s a documentary for you to enjoy.
For more on Ireland take a look at the 10 most famous landmarks in Ireland.
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