Imagine stepping into a new place and instantly feeling like you belong. That's exactly what happened to British chef Sam Moody when he moved to the Midlands in Ireland. But here's where it gets intriguing—what makes this region so welcoming, and could it be the next big destination for entrepreneurs and families alike? Let’s dive in.
In 2017, Sam and his wife Emily relocated to the Midlands, drawn by the opportunity for him to become head chef at Ballyfin Demesne. Freshly married and eager for an adventure, they embraced the change. Fast forward to today, and Sam now runs Bramley restaurant in Abbeyleix, Co Laois, alongside Emily. With a background in Michelin-starred kitchens—including earning one himself—Sam’s culinary journey has found a new home in this vibrant region.
The Midlands, encompassing counties Laois, Offaly, Longford, and Westmeath, is one of Ireland’s youngest and fastest-growing regions, with over 320,000 residents. And this is the part most people miss—50% of its population is under 35, making it a hub of energy and potential. Sam reflects, 'I love it here. The people truly make it special—they’re genuinely lovely.' From the moment they arrived, the couple felt embraced by the community, a stark contrast to the busier, more anonymous life they’d known in south London and other parts of the UK.
Sam’s experience isn’t unique. The Midlands is actively promoting itself as a place to live, work, and thrive. Here’s a bold statement—could this region be Ireland’s best-kept secret for work-life balance and entrepreneurial success? Efforts like the 'Midlands Ireland' showcase in Athlone highlight its appeal, bringing together businesses, educators, and innovators. Companies like Abbott Ireland, Ericsson, and TAPiTAG are putting the region on the map, while local enterprise offices offer support for startups and established businesses alike.
For Sam, the Midlands offers something rare: the space to succeed commercially while maintaining independence. 'We’re not tied to this restaurant. We don’t have to work 70 or 80 hours a week to make it work,' he explains. This balance has allowed the couple to raise their three children and even open their own restaurant. But it’s not without challenges—childcare, for instance, can be tricky. Yet, Sam notes, 'Everybody’s in the same boat, and there’s a real sense of community support.'
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question—is the Midlands’ slower pace of life a drawback or a blessing? Sam sees it as a welcome change, but what do you think? Could you trade the hustle of a big city for a more relaxed lifestyle? Let us know in the comments.
The region is also a hotspot for events, hosting major attractions like Electric Picnic and the Ploughing Championships. Plus, its focus on education, apprenticeships, and STEM initiatives ensures a bright future. With panel discussions on topics from sustainability to regenerative tourism, the Midlands is positioning itself as a forward-thinking destination.
So, would Sam recommend starting a business here? Absolutely. 'There’s so much opportunity. It’s exciting—just look at the number of restaurants opening up. There’s real momentum,' he says. Whether you’re a chef, an entrepreneur, or a family seeking a fresh start, the Midlands might just be the place to call home. But here’s the real question—are you ready to take the leap and discover what this thriving region has to offer?
