Dermot O’Leary returns to explore Ireland’s culinary and coastal delights

Presenter Dermot O'Leary; with Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, during filming for a second series of 'Dermot’s Taste of Ireland', at Glenarm Castle. (Image: William Cherry/Press Eye)

Popular TV and radio presenter Dermot O’Leary has returned to the island of Ireland to film the highly anticipated second series of Dermot’s Taste of Ireland, set to air on ITV1 and ITVX in spring 2025.

Following the success of the first series, which captivated over 3.3 million viewers across Great Britain, the new ten-part series promises to showcase more of Ireland’s vibrant food scene, stunning coastal routes, and rich cultural heritage.

This time, Dermot’s journey takes him along the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, before venturing to Derry-Londonderry, Donegal, and Sligo along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way.

Produced by Rock Oyster Media and supported by the Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project, the series aims to inspire British holidaymakers to explore the island’s unique blend of culinary excellence and outdoor adventures.

A culinary and cultural journey

The first series saw Dermot immerse himself in the food and culture of Cork, Wexford, Dublin, and Belfast, meeting local chefs, food producers, and restaurateurs.

Series two builds on this, with Dermot diving deeper into Ireland’s gastronomic offerings while also embracing the island’s outdoor experiences, from boat trips to surfing.

“It’s great to get back to the island of Ireland to discover more of its delights and tell more of its stories,” Dermot said. “It’s somewhere I know so well, and call home, and yet, in some ways, I barely know it at all. I’m looking forward to seeing more of the island, meet our people, explore our heritage, swim in our seas, and of course … eat our incredible food.”

The series highlights Ireland’s thriving food scene, showcasing the creativity and passion of local producers and chefs. From traditional dishes to contemporary culinary innovations, Dermot’s journey underscores why Ireland is a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Boosting tourism to Ireland

The programme is part of a broader collaboration between Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland, and Fáilte Ireland, funded through the Shared Island Fund administered by the Department of An Taoiseach.

This initiative aims to strengthen ties between the Causeway Coastal Route and the Wild Atlantic Way, two of Ireland’s most iconic tourism routes.

Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, highlighted the impact of the first series and the potential of the second:

“The response to the first series of the show was extremely positive and we’re delighted to welcome Dermot back to Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland as he travels, films and shares his experiences with viewers in GB.

“Dermot grew up in Essex but spent summers with family in Ireland; with many second and third generation diaspora across GB, Dermot’s experiences will resonate with those discovering and rediscovering the island of Ireland, inspiring others to explore our iconic coastal routes for themselves.”

Tourism is a vital contributor to the economy of Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland. According to 2024 NISRA figures, overseas tourism to Northern Ireland alone generated £633 million, driven by 2 million international visitors, accounting for 58% of total tourism revenue.

Programmes like Dermot’s Taste of Ireland play a key role in promoting Ireland as a leading holiday destination, with Tourism Ireland’s international website, www.ireland.com, offering resources in seven languages across 21 markets.

A personal connection to Ireland

Dermot’s connection to Ireland adds an authentic and relatable dimension to the series. Having spent childhood summers with family in Ireland, his journey resonates with the millions of second- and third-generation Irish diaspora in Great Britain.

The series not only showcases Ireland’s landscapes and cuisine but also invites viewers to rediscover their own ties to the island or plan their next holiday.

Looking Ahead to Spring 2026

As Dermot explores the rugged beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route and the wild, windswept shores of the Wild Atlantic Way, viewers can expect a visually stunning and heartwarming series that celebrates Ireland’s people, places, and flavours.

With millions expected to tune in, the programme is poised to further boost Ireland’s appeal as a top travel destination for British audiences.

For more information on planning a trip to Ireland, visit www.ireland.com.