☘️February - December☘️
Arrive/Depart: Dublin Airport
SELF-DRIVE AND PRIVATE GROUP RATES AVAILABLE - PLEASE CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US
Highlights/Services & Notes:
10 nights accommodation at good standard 3/4* hotels, all rooms with private bath or shower.
Full Irish Breakfast at hotel each day, day 2 – 11 inclusive.
Musical Pub Crawl in Dublin on night 10
Strokestown Park House
Kylemore Abbey
Cliffs of Moher
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Foynes Flying Boat Museum
Star Outdoors – Kenmare Bay Salmon Experience
Bantry House & Gardens
Rock of Cashel
Trinity College & Book of Kells
Guinness Storehouse
Old Jameson Distillery
Harbour Queen Ferry
Garnish Island
Panoramic Tour of Dublin City
Services:
Modern Motor-coach with driver/guide x 11 full days (09h00-17h30 daily)
Admission to Strokestown Park House and Famine Museum
Admission to Kylemore Abbey and Gardens
Admission to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center
Bantry House & Gardens (April 1 - October 31)
The Harbour Queen Ferry to Garnish Island (April 1 – October 31)
Panoramic Tour of Dublin City
Guinness Storehouse
Old Jameson Distillery
Trinity College & Book of Kells
Hotels or Similar
The Gresham Dublin -2 nights -4 star
Trident Hotel Kinsale - 1 night - 4 star
Kenmare Bay Hotel Kenmare - 1 night -3 star
Dingle Benners Hotel Dingle -2 nights -3 star
Old GroundEnnis - 1 night -4 star
Hotel Meyrick Galway - 1 night -4 star
Westport Plaza Hotel Westport - 1 night -4 star
The Gresham Dublin -1 night - 4 star
☘️ 11 Day Pub Tour of Ireland along The Wild Atlantic Way
☘️ Discover the True Rhythm of the Emerald Island
☘️ Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Irish music and culture as you journey through the Emerald Isle.
☘️ Tap your toes to lively jigs in traditional pubs and learn the secrets of the bodhrán from local musicians.
☘️ Travel along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way, marveling at the Cliffs of Moher and soaking up the scenery.
☘️ Explore ancient castles and historic sites, like Blarney Castle, and kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of the gab!
SELF-DRIVE AND PRIVATE GROUP RATES AVAILABLE - PLEASE CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US
Upon your arrival at Dublin Airport, meet our driver/guide and transfer into the City for sightseeing.
Panoramic Tour Of Dublin
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Dublin City, discovering the north and south side of the River Liffey. This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe.
The south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde’s House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops.
Not so far from St. Stephen’s Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College, where the famous Book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library.
The university is facing the medieval district where Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found.
Visit Trinity College.
Trinity was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st on grounds confiscated from an Augustinian priory and is the oldest University in Ireland.
The Campanile, erected in 1852, was built on what is believed to be the centre of the monastery. Built to further the education of the ruling Anglo-Irish families, restrictions were imposed to prevent Catholic from attending courses. These restrictions were not fully lifted until the 1970’s. Trinity however admitted women in 1902, earlier than most British universities.
Most of the main buildings off the main square were built during the Georgian period, some of which replaced older buildings. Within its walls, you will be able to admire Parliament Square and its 18th Century edifices.
Trinity College has had many famous students such as Jonathan Swift and Samuel Beckett who later became a lecturer in French at the university. The Inter-denominational Church is very much worth a visit, should it be open during our visit.
Check into our hotel.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dublin.
This morning we visit the world famous Guinness Storehouse.
The Guinness Brewery
The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse.
Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story.
Visitors will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion.
The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once the tour has finished our group is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy their pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse.
Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, "Five" at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce.
Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford.
This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home.
Visit to Old Jameson Distillery
The Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield Village is located in the heart of Old Dublin.
This old barley storehouse, once the centre of Distilling in Dublin, was renovated in 1998 and converted into a museum where all the secrets of Irish whiskey’s distillation will be revealed.
An audio-visual show will introduce the history of this spirit and it is followed by a guided visit which will take our group through the various stages of whiskey distilling from grain intake to malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, maturation and finally bottling.
The visit culminates in the Jameson bar with an opportunity for all to taste the signature Jameson drink.
During the visit a number of volunteers are selected to take part in a tasting session to compare a Jameson whiskey with a Scottish Whisky and American bourbon. Participants will receive a Diploma for their achievement.
Dublin's Musical Pub Crawl
This afternoon we will enjoy the Musical Pub Crawl.
A great way to experience the Dublin pub scene and the rich heritage of Irish music is to venture on the Musical Pub-Crawl.
The tour will be led by two professional musicians who will perform tunes and songs, while telling the story of Irish Music. The tours normally start in St John Gogarty’s Pub in Temple Bar.
This can be changed to suit our groups requirements. Lasting 2 hours approximately, the group will have plenty of time to enjoy the music while enjoying a drink (in each pub of course!).
This evening join a "Mighty" session in Temple Bar.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dublin
This morning depart Dublin for Cork via Tipperary
Visit to Rock of Cashel.
Possibly the most photographed site in Ireland, the Rock of Cashel towers over the town of Cashel from its perch on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone.
Once the seat of the Kings of Munster. St. Patrick visited the rock in 450, while Brian Boru was crowned the first high King of Ireland here in the tenth century.
Granted to the church in the twelfth century, by the O'Brien clan, today the impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque chapel and high crosses.
The Vicars Choral has been recently restored and its basement houses a small museum of artefacts found on the site. One of the leading visitor attractions in Ireland, in 2011 it was visited by Queen Elizabeth II on her historic first visit to the Republic of Ireland.
A guided tour is strongly recommended. Continue onto to Kinsale in Co. Cork, Check into our hotel.
Kinsale
Kinsale is a picturesque historic port town located at the mouth of the River Bandon in County Cork, known for its colorful buildings, narrow winding streets, and rich maritime history. It’s one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations, especially loved for its vibrant culture, gourmet food scene, and stunning coastal scenery.
Highlights & Attractions
Charles Fort: A star-shaped 17th-century fort built to protect the harbor. Offers stunning views and insight into Kinsale’s military past.
James Fort: Located on the opposite side of the harbor from Charles Fort, this 1607 structure predates Charles Fort and provides a fascinating contrast.
Kinsale Harbour: A beautiful spot for sailing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view of boats bobbing on the water.
Desmond Castle: A tower house built around 1500, which has served various purposes—including as a customs house, prison, and now a wine museum.
Spend an evening enjoying music in The Spaniard Inn or any of the great music houses in town.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Kinsale.
This morning we depart Kinsale for Kerry via Skibereen & Bantry in West Cork.
Visit to Bantry House & Gardens (please note this is only open April – October)
Bantry House
Bantry House is the ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry. The title lapsed in 1891 but the House is still owned and lived in by the direct descendant of the 1st Earl of Bantry, Egerton Shelswell-White and his family. It has been open to the public since 1946.
The House has an important collection of art treasures mainly collected by the 2nd Earl of Bantry on his Grand Tour. The treasures include a unique collection of French and Flemish tapestries, furniture, and carpets and objects of art.
The Garden is laid out in the Italian style over seven terraces, with the house sitting on the third terrace. A Parterre was created facing south surrounding a wisteria circle which again surrounds a fountain.
From there rise the famous Hundred Steps, a monumental staircase built of local stone, set amidst azaleas and rhododendron.
From the top garden at the top of the stairs, stunning views over Bantry Bay await the visitor. Bantry House hosts a number of events including classical and traditional music festivals, food festivals, outdoor theatre, and is a popular location for filming. A small cafe is open in the house during the season.
Continue along the Beara Pensinsula to Glengarriff and take a short ferry ride to Garnish Island. (Cost of Ferry is included in your Tour price)
Garnish Island
Visit to Garnish Island (Ferry & Garnish Island only running from April – October).
The Harbour Queen Ferries provides a regular service to the Gardens of Ilnacullin on Garnish Island. Ferries depart from Glengarriff Pier every 30 minutes during the season (April 1 – October 31).
The ferries are purpose built enclosed water buses which will whisk you to the island in safety and comfort. Garinish is a unique Island that plays host to a multitude of plant variations, and the blanket of Summer colouring which covers the Island creates a rainbow of colour.
The Island has a wonderful history and its unusual micro climate allows a range of exotic subtropical plant species to flourish.
There are a number of walks and interesting buildings on the Island. On route to the Island you will enjoy the magnificent views of the bay and also pass Seal Island with its colony of harbour seals. The seals are very photogenic and are happy to pose for photos!
Continue on to Kenmare in County Kerry for another "Mighty" Session & evening of entertainment.
Kenmare
Kenmare (Irish: An Neidín, meaning “the little nest”) is a picturesque and peaceful heritage town located at the head of Kenmare Bay, where the Ring of Kerry meets the Ring of Beara. Nestled between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Caha Mountains, Kenmare is a haven of natural beauty, rich history, and warm Irish hospitality.
Character & Atmosphere
Kenmare is known for its tidy streets lined with brightly painted buildings, artisan shops, cozy cafés, and gourmet restaurants. It has a welcoming, small-town charm and is especially loved by those seeking a quieter, more authentic Irish experience while still enjoying easy access to major scenic routes.
Key Attractions & Activities
Kenmare Heritage Centre: Offers insight into the town’s history, including the impact of the famine, lace-making, and local legends.
Stone Circle (Druid’s Circle)
A mystical Bronze Age stone circle located within walking distance of town, believed to have been used for rituals over 3,000 years ago.
Holy Cross Church
A beautiful neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century with stunning stained glass windows.
Food & Drink
Kenmare has earned a strong culinary reputation, with many award-winning restaurants emphasizing local, organic, and seafood-based cuisine. You’ll find excellent fine dining options as well as traditional pubs serving hearty Irish fare.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Kenmare
This morning we will explore the scenic area of Kenmare.
Star Outdoors for the Kenmare Bay Experience Cruise
Visit to Star Outdoors for the Kenmare Bay Experience Cruise on Kenmare Bay - See seals, castles and get history of salmon from hatching on Kenmare River to Ocean & back. (Duration approx. 45 minutes).
Salmon Smokery Tour – Demonstration & including tasting (Duration max 30 minutes).
Lunch - Buffet of local Kenmare Bay fish products from mussels to white fish options, local meat products such as corned beef, black pudding etc, local cheeses, honey, brown bread.
Alcoholic and soft drinks, Tea / Coffee can be added at a supplement per person. (Duration 1 hour) Total time for full experience can be from 2 to 2.5 hours.
Molls Gap & Ladies View
Depart Kenmare for Dingle Peninsula via Ring of Kerry.
Enjoy a short stop at two of the Ring of Kerry’s most spectacular beauty spots.
Molls Gap and Ladies’ View- Molls’ Gap is a spectacular photographic viewing point on the famous Ring of Kerry Tour. The visitor is presented with a magnificent view of Death Valley.
Close by is the famous Ladies View viewing point with gives a different perspective of this magnificent countryside, with the 3 Lakes of Killarney all surrounded by the Kerry Mountains. Ladies View received its name from Queen Victoria, who was so impressed with the view that she insisted that her ladies-in-waiting should also visit here.
Inch Beach
Continue onto Dingle Peninsula for lunch at Sammy’s Restaurant (optional) on Inch Beach - a long beach bordered by dunes and made famous by David Lean’s movie “Ryan’s daughter,” admire the Iveragh Peninsula and Rossbeigh Beach.
This afternoon we will explore the Dingle Peninsula.
The Dingle Peninsula
Some of the finest coastal scenery to be seen in Ireland can be found in West Kerry, on the Dingle Peninsula, the most northern of the Kerry Peninsulas.
This peninsula is famous for its Celtic, pre-Christian monuments and Christian churches. It is also a ‘Gaeltacht' (Irish speaking) area, where the Irish language and traditional ways of life are preserved.
Dingle town itself is a thriving fishing town and offers plenty of opportunity for shopping or simply savouring the atmosphere of a typical country Irish town with its plentiful pubs, narrow streets and busy harbour.
The road around the Peninsula is truly spectacular. It passes through a chain of Mountains, called Slieve Mish...
Enjoy an evening of more "Mighty" Music & entertainment in Dingle.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dingle
Dingle Peninsula
Free days coaching to explore the Dingle Peninsula starting with Slea Head - From Dingle, drive around the coast to Slea Head.
Here the blue of the marine landscape surrounds the Blaskets Islands, deserted since 1953. In the distance are the two rocky Skellig islands, where the ruins of an early Christian Monastery can be found.
The Dingle Peninsula will charm you with its villages painted in bright colours and will bewitch you with the dramatic beauty of its landscapes.
Beehive Huts & Dunbeg Fort.
The road between Dunquin and Slea Head is dotted with beehive huts, forts and church sites.
Prehistoric Dunbeg Fort is on a cliff top promontory with a sheer drop to the Atlantic and has four outer walls of stone. Inside are the remains of a house and a beehive hut as well as an underground passage. Beehive huts are circular stone buildings shaped like a beehive which was lived in by the Kerry monks.
Lunch at Paudi O’Se’s (optional)
Continue around the peninsula exploring some of Ireland’s nicest & picturesque local shops, pubs, cafes etc.
Dingle
There is so much to do in town! You can take the day leisurely visiting the local shops, restaurants, or make a point of seeing just how many of the towns 52 Pubs you can visit in one day! But, don’t wear yourself out as you will not want to miss the evening craic at the local Sessions!
Sitting on the west coast between the emerald green folds of Slievanea mountain and the flinty-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Dingle is a place that feels both wild and warm-hearted, far-flung and friendly.
It’s spectacular natural beauty is ripe for exploring, but it’s the town’s quiet moments that often stay longest in the memory: chats with locals about the mercurial weather, traditional pubs warmed by open fires and plates of super-fresh seafood served outside in the tang of the sea air.
“The quality of life in Dingle is very good,” says Bec Hoban of Outwest clothing store. “Things are nice and slow, the madness and the rushing you get in big cities isn’t really a thing here! People say hello to you in the street and wish you well.”
Since the 1960s, Dingle has drawn people from all over the world: adventurers, artists, musicians, drop-outs and curious travellers. Some stay and make their homes here. Some leave but feel compelled to return.
But this mix of global influences, Irish language speaking traditions, farmers, fishermen and locals make Dingle feel simultaneously up-to-the-minute and gloriously down-to-earth.
There are hip coffeeshops, local brewhouses, artisan ice cream emporiums and even a surf store, but they meld perfectly with a raft of jolly-coloured houses, old-style hardware store pubs, fishing boats, music shops, knitwear stores and Irish craft galleries.
“Even though Dingle will never lose its history, it puts its own twist on things – it’s innovative,” says Micheál Flannery of The Fish Box, “there’s amazing food and amazing cafés here – it really has it all.”
In Dingle itself, there’s lots to keep you occupied for a day or two. Try the Dingle Boat Tours for a quick one-hour tour around Dingle Harbour.
You’ll get to see what the guides describe as “the only Irish-speaking all-girls boarding school in the world”, but you’ll also hear about the history of Dingle itself, as well as tales of the much-missed dolphin, Funghie – a long-time resident of
Dingle Harbour.
For a more substantial experience at sea, book in for a Catch and Cook food experience with the Dingle Cookery School, or the fast-paced, uber-exhilarating
Dingle Sea Safari.
The town itself is a gorgeous place to wander with its brightly coloured buildings, friendly locals and hilly streets. “One of the best things you can do in Dingle is just grab a coffee in the morning and have a walk around,” says Micheál Flannery.
Lovely little art and craft galleries abound, but make sure to pop into An Díseart, where a set of glorious Harry Clarke stained windows can be viewed for a small donation in the chapel.
It’s hard to find a bad pub in Dingle. And on a rainy day, there are few things nicer than pulling up a stool beside the fire and waiting for the music to start.
A good place to kick off? Make it Dick Mack’s – it’s got a young, lively crowd and is usually packed to the rafters, but on a quiet day you can really appreciate the beauty of the 19th century front bar with its polished wood and long counter.
The brewhouse here also runs brewery tours, with samplings of their latest beer.
Over on Main Street, Foxy John’s is equally popular with a half-pub, half-hardware feel and live music.
There’s a definite change of pace at Curran’s pub across the road – which dates back to 1871. Sitting here with the afternoon light spilling onto the flagstones while the locals chat around you is a moment to cherish.
Return to Dingle for another "Mighty" Night of Music & Craic!
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Dingle
Today we will depart Kerry towards County Clare.
Foynes Flying Boat Museum
En route to Clare, stop in Limerick for a visit and Irish coffee at Foynes Flying Boat Museum.
From 1939 to 1945 Foynes was the centre of the aviation world for air traffic between the United States and Europe. Located 35 km west of Limerick city on the Shannon estuary, the Foynes Museum recalls this era with a comprehensive range of exhibits and graphic illustrations.
The museum features the original Terminal Building including the authentic 1940's cinema; the Radio and Weather Rooms, complete with transmitters, receivers and Morse code equipment. The exhibits feature an introduction to the first transatlantic passenger service from Foynes during the war years and the only full sized replica B314 flying boat.
Irish Coffee was invented in Foynes. Chef Joe Sheridan made the first in 1942 to warm up some damp and miserable passengers. Since then Irish Coffee has become one the most popular welcoming drinks in the world.
Continue onto County Clare for Lunch at Durty Nelly’s (optional) – One of Ireland's most famous pubs!
This afternoon visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. (Admission cost is included in your Tour price)
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Bunratty Castle is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland.
Built in 1425 and plundered on many occasions, it was authentically restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings and tapestries capturing the mood and the style of the times.
The castle hosts evening medieval banquets and takes the participants back to the time that the castle entertained its visitors with fine food, wine and song.
Within the grounds of Bunratty Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century life is vividly recreated.
Set on 26 acres, the impressive park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting. Meet and chat with the Bean an Ti (Woman of the House) and various street characters including the Policeman and Schoolteacher.
Enjoy the tastes, scents, sights and sounds of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and of course the pub!
Continue to Ennis for another "Mighty" Night of Music & Craic! in a local pub .
Ennis
Ennis (from the Irish Inis, meaning “island”) is a lively market town located on the River Fergus in County Clare, in western Ireland.
Known for its narrow medieval lanes, strong musical heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, Ennis serves as a cultural and commercial hub for the region.
Ennis is often called the traditional music capital of Ireland. The town is famed for its live traditional Irish music sessions, which take place nightly in many local pubs.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Ennis.
The Cliffs Of Moher
Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. (Admission to the Cliffs and the Visitors Center is included in your Tour price)
Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland.
On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara.
To the south of the cliffs is Hag's Head and was once the site of a castle. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O' Brien's Tower.
Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru (he who defeated the Vikings in battle), built a Tower at the cliffs in order to enjoy some tea with his lady friends. The Tower is adjacent to the sea stack, Breanan Mór, which stands over 70 metres above the foaming waves and is home to some of the Burren’s wildlife.
Doolin
Continue onto Doolin for lunch and a session.
Doolin is a charming small seaside village on the north-west coast of County Clare ~ set against the rugged Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the spectacular bare limestone landscape of the Burren. Traditionally a fishing village, Doolin is now renowned world-wide as the traditional music capital of Ireland.
The Burren
This afternoon we will explore the Burren region.
The Burren, part of which forms the 100 square km Burren National Park, is a unique place. It is a Karst limestone region of approximately 300 sq. km, which lies in the North West corner of Co Clare.
It is composed of limestone pavements, which have been eroded to a distinctive pattern. This pavement is criss-crossed by cracks known as grykes in which grow a myriad of wild flora and under which are huge caves and rivers which suddenly flood when it rains.
The Burren contains dozens of megalithic tombs and Celtic crosses as well as a ruined Cistercian Abbey dating back to the 12th century.
You will discover small villages abandoned during the famine period and green roads on which you can walk for miles without ever seeing a car.
The flora on the Burren is a mixture Arctic and Mediterranean and rare flowers such as gentian, orchids and bloody cranesbill are the rule rather than the exception. The Burren is truly an exceptional part of Ireland.
Continue onto Galway for another "Mighty" evening of music & Craic! in a local pub.
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Galway.
This morning you will explore the Connemara region.
Connemara is a land of lakes and rivers, bogs and mountains. A land of small villages where Gaelic is still the spoken language and where little has changed little since the beginning of time. It is without a doubt the wildest and the most romantic part of Ireland.
Connemara is a vast peninsula bordered by the arid and rocky coastline of Galway Bay in the south ~ a land characteristic for its stone walls and thatched cottages.
Killary Harbour
On its northern shore the land is harsher and more secret, with spectacular views of the Ocean and the beautiful fjord of Killary Harbour, as well as the steep mountains overlooking numerous lakes and large bog areas. Connemara is a real paradise for Nature lovers and those in search of strong emotions.
Visit to Kylemore Abbey. (Admission is included in the cost of your Tour)
Kylemore Abbey is located in the Kylemore Pass in Connemara.
A. Mitchell Henry built the House in 1868, after having spent his honeymoon in the area. The architecture is best described as neo-gothic and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period.
One of Kylemore Abbey's most famous features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church.
Today, the abbey is home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns. They bought the house in 1920, having fled their convent in war-torn Belgium in 1914. They established a private school for young girls, which today is the renowned Kylemore Abbey International School for young girls.
Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor centre, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants.
This afternoon we will depart Connemara towards Westport in County Mayo, through the coastal town of Clifden. Enjoy and evening of "Mighty" Music in Matt Molloy’s pub in Westport!
Westport
Few places combine natural beauty, 18th century elegance and incredible outdoor activities quite like Westport. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way in a rugged corner of County Mayo, this genteel town is the kind of destination that serves up such a myriad array of activities that it’s hard to know where to start…
Overnight, bed & breakfast at our hotel in Westport.
Today’s journey from Westport to Dublin offers both a scenic and deeply reflective experience as you travel through the heart of Ireland, stopping in County Roscommon to visit Strokestown Park and the Irish National Famine Museum. This historic site offers a rare and compelling window into Ireland’s troubled past, highlighting the stark contrast between the privileged Anglo-Irish landlords and the poverty-stricken Irish tenant farmers during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Strokestown Park House, built in the early 1700s by Thomas Mahon MP, is a striking example of a Palladian-style manor that served as the ancestral home of the Mahon family for nearly three centuries. The Mahons were part of the Anglo-Irish ascendancy—Protestant landowners who lived in opulent estates while overseeing vast tracts of land, much of it farmed by Irish Catholic tenants. The estate was granted to Mahon’s grandfather, Nicholas Mahon, in return for his allegiance to the British Crown during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland, a detail that underscores the colonial and often exploitative foundations of such properties.
The house itself has been remarkably preserved and includes a variety of rooms that transport visitors back to life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore elegant drawing rooms, a schoolroom, and a child’s bedroom, complete with toys, books, and mirrors from that era—offering an intimate look at the daily lives of the wealthy Anglo-Irish class. These rooms tell a story not only of affluence and privilege but also of isolation, decline, and ultimately loss, as the Mahon family’s fortunes diminished and the estate passed out of their hands in 1979.
The National Famine Museum
In striking contrast, just a short walk from the house lies the National Famine Museum, housed in the original stable yards. Opened in the 1990s, the museum seeks to tell the story of those who had no estates, no voice, and whose lives were irreparably changed—or ended—by the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s. The museum presents a powerful narrative that focuses on the catastrophic consequences of poverty, colonial policy, and landlordism during the potato blight, which resulted in the death or emigration of over one million people.
One of the museum’s most compelling aspects is its use of real historical documents discovered at Strokestown, including eviction notices, letters, and estate papers. These records give voice to the struggles of tenant families, some of whom lived on the Mahon estate and were forcibly removed from their homes. Particularly harrowing is the story of the Strokestown tenants who, in 1847, were escorted by Mahon’s agents to Dublin on foot before being shipped to Canada—many of whom died during the journey or shortly after arriving. This contrast between the grandeur of the “Big House” and the suffering of those who lived and labored under its shadow is at the heart of the Strokestown experience.
The Final Mighty Session In Dublin
After an emotionally powerful visit, the journey continues eastward toward Dublin, where the mood can lighten again with an evening immersed in the city’s famously lively pub culture. Music, storytelling, and friendly conversation—what the Irish call craic—await you in one of Dublin’s many traditional pubs. This vibrant evening helps to balance the day’s earlier themes with a joyful celebration of Irish resilience, culture, and community spirit.
You’ll conclude your day with an overnight stay in Dublin, complete with a full Irish breakfast, reflecting the hospitality and tradition that have endured across centuries of Irish history.
Overnight, bed & full Irish Breakfast at our hotel in Dublin.
After a final full Irish breakfast we depart for Dublin Airport for our group’s departure flight home.
