LEAVING Cooper family hands for the first time since Cromwellian days is Sligo’s historic Markree Castle, the latest in a quickly expanding list of Irish hotels and castles changing hands along with the likes of Adare, and Ashford, while Waterford Castle is also up for new ownership.

STENA LINE reports a rise in the numbers of people booking short breaks to Britain by sea.

Travel company 1800hotels.ie has today announced a new business partnership with Travco and Manor House Hotels.

Manor House Hotels has added three more properties to its chain.