THE North Galway Foxhounds are the complete package, great hunting country on old pasture, natural coverts so wildlife thrive with some of the best limestone walls anywhere in the country that range from 30 to the mile, unparalleled hospitality, and show-standard plaited hunter hirelings that know their job. Their huntsman is quiet and composed with his smashing pack of hounds, many with Quorn and Meath foxhound bloodlines, some courtesy of Kenny and John Henry. The masters, hunt staff and hunt officers could not be more helpful, especially to visitors from the UK and the Fingal Harriers.

Field master Jackie Lee is one of the best horsemen in the country, who sends everybody away with a smile on their faces. And, as one would expect in this challenging country, there is a constant production line of talented riders and an industry of Sport Horse breeding and production that goes under the radar. So, if you want non-stop action, make your way to the North Galway Foxhounds, who on my visit were meeting at The Anglers Rest in the village of Headford, where the followers shared their custom also with Cillian and Tom Varley’s Bar across the road on the eastern shores of Lough Corrib and the day certainly lived up to expectations.