Walking tour Dublin:

Step back into one of the most defining moments in Irish history on a walking tour of Dublin that traces the footsteps of the 1916 Easter Rising. As you move through the city streets, you’ll visit iconic locations such as the General Post Office, the heart of the rebellion, along with Moore Street, O’Connell Street, and other key sites where volunteers fought, planned, and ultimately surrendered. Along the way, powerful stories of bravery, sacrifice, and loss bring the events of that fateful week to life, revealing how ordinary streets became battlegrounds and how the Rising forever changed Ireland’s path to independence. This immersive walk through history offers a moving and unforgettable way to experience Dublin, where echoes of revolution still seem to linger in the air.

Kilmainham Jail:

Rising above the heart of medieval Dublin, Christ Church Cathedral is one of the city’s most atmospheric and historic landmarks. Beneath the cathedral lies one of the largest medieval crypts in Ireland and Britain, a vast, candle-lit space where centuries seem to linger in the shadows. The crypt houses ancient artifacts, mummified remains, and echoes of Dublin’s past that many visitors describe as deeply unsettling yet fascinating. Above, the Bell Tower has called the faithful to prayer for over a thousand years, its bells once used to warn of invasion, fire, and unrest. Today, their deep tolling still resonates through the city, and some say through time itself. With its soaring stonework, hidden passageways, and heavy sense of history, Christ Church Cathedral is a place where the sacred and the mysterious exist side by side.

Temple Bar:

Bursting with energy and character, Temple Bar is the beating heart of Dublin’s cultural and social life. As you wander its cobbled streets, you’ll be surrounded by colorful pubs, lively music spilling from doorways, and a vibrant mix of street performers, artists, and storytellers. By day, Temple Bar reveals its creative side with galleries, bookshops, and historic corners tucked between the bustle; by night, it transforms into a whirlwind of laughter, live traditional music, and unforgettable craic. Steeped in history yet pulsing with modern life, exploring Temple Bar offers an exhilarating taste of Dublin’s spirit—where every corner hums with energy and every visit feels like a celebration.

Itinerary is subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions out of our control.

Activity Level: Moderate

Glendalough 

Glendalough has been a place of pilgrimage since the 6th century when St. Kevin lived there as a hermit and ascetic, attracting followers and establishing a monastery there.  Little is known for certain about Kevin, since the many stories we have were first written centuries after his passing. These stories and myths continue to fascinate and offer inspiration today.

St. Laurence O’Toole was abbot in the Glendalough monastery and initiated reform before being appointed Archbishop of Dublin in 1162. It is believed that he remained a monk at heart and returned to Glendalough on retreat frequently.

Wicklow Jail:

Wicklow Gaol is a historic prison located in the town of Wicklow in Ireland, which gained notoriety for the brutality of the prison wardens, and the harsh treatment suffered by its inmates, many of them who were imprisoned for crimes as petty as stealing a potato. The prison was closed down in the 20th century, however there are tales that some of the spectral inmates never left.

In 1798, almost a century after Wicklow Gaol first opened, the Irish Rebellion of 1798, known also as the Rising, broke out. This was a local uprising against British rule in Ireland, which ended in defeat for the rebels. County Wicklow was a major area of conflict, and its gaol was used to imprison rebels who were captured. Many of them were executed and their corpses disposed of by throwing them into waters offshore from fishing boats. Several prominent rebels were also imprisoned in Wicklow Gaol. Two of the most famous inmates of Wicklow Gaol during this time were William “Billy” Byrne, and James ‘Napper’ Tandy.     

You will do an investigation this evening of the Jail.

Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity level. Moderate

Vinegar Hill

The most famous site of the 1798 Rebellion, its current peace, serenity and spectacular views belies its background as one of the bloodiest battlefields in Irish history.  20,000 men, women and children faced 10,000 members of the Crown forces in a battle that lasted only four hours, but left 1,500 dead in a county distraught.

Carrigbyrne Hill:

During the 1798 Rebellion, the area around Carrigbyrne Hill was used as a camp by the United Irishmen, who were in the process of marching on New Ross. The insurgents, who had recently captured the town of Wexford, stopped and camped at an area called “Camp Field”, a day before the Battle of New Ross took place. The next day, in New Ross, over 2,000 Irish rebels were killed as the town’s garrison held out long enough for British reinforcements to arrive.

Waterford

Staying in Waterford tonight, we get there early enough to have the afternoon and evening off.

Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity level: Moderate/hard

Waterford Crystal:

A visit to the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Ireland’s most celebrated crafts. Here, centuries of tradition come to life as master craftsmen demonstrate the skill, precision, and artistry behind each dazzling piece of crystal. As you move through the factory floors, you’ll witness molten crystal being shaped, cut, and polished by hand, transforming raw material into works of breathtaking beauty. The experience ends in the stunning retail galleries, where light dances through intricate designs that have made Waterford Crystal famous around the world—an unforgettable blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and Irish pride.

Midlton Distillery

With a distilling history dating back to the 19th century, Midleton’s renowned bounty has been said to have drawn whiskey into being.

From its beginnings on the banks of the crystalline Dungourney River, Midleton Distillery’s links with the land run deep and long.

Of course whiskey is also the lifeblood of a people and their aspirations. And this town has always been a pioneering community, from the moment the Murphy family started to distil here in 1825.

Cobh Titanic Museum

On April 11th 1912, 123 passengers came to the busy harbour town of Queenstown (now known as Cobh), to board Titanic bound for New York.
Four days later they would find themselves fighting for their lives in one of the worlds most tragic maritime disasters.
With knowledgeable guides and immersive audio visual displays, we will take you on a unique and emotive journey back in time.

Itinerary is subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions out of our control.

Activity Level: Easy

Charles Fort

Charles Fort is a trace italienne fortification, a bastion fort with one section of the outer wall built in star fashion. It is located at the southern end of the village of Summer Cove, on Kinsale harbour, County Cork,. First completed in 1682, Charles Fort was sometimes historically referred to as the "new fort" - to contrast with James' Fort which had been built on the other side of Kinsale harbour before 1607.

Béal Na Bláth

Head west from the service station  in the small village and through sweeping bends of rough-surfaced country roads, and you come upon a shallow ditch, arguably one of Ireland’s most pivotal historic sites. 

On the left-hand side of the road, looking west, stands a Celtic cross and close by is a short white concrete pillar with a black cross engraved. 

This is the site of the ambush where Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins died and where the Civil War reached a critical moment on August 22, 1922. 

Collins Center

Michael Collins House, Clonakilty is now a museum dedicated to Irish patriot and revolutionary hero, Michael Collins. We learn about the “Big Fella” himself, his life story entwined with the history of the fight for Irish independence. The museum is presented in an accessible manner through guided tours, interactive displays, audio visuals, artefacts and more, bringing the history to life. For those looking to delve into the history further information boards, history talks and the highly qualified tour guides will more than happily engage in debate and answer any questions you may have.

Itinerary subject to change due to weather or other conditions out of our control.

Activity Level: Easy

Ring of Kerry

What can we say about the Ring of Kerry that has not already been said. We will start by visiting the famous Bog Village and from there we will visit Waterville where the one and only Charlie Chaplin came on vacation. We will visit forts and sites of ancient interest but we will also see Molls Gap and Torc waterfall, we might even get to visit Ross Castle too. But you will stay in lively Killarney, so you can enjoy the night life there.

Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond out control.

Activity Level: Easy

 Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

You get to visit the acclaimed 15th iconic Bunratty Castle  - the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland.
The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. Take a tour of this iconic fortress; hear and see how the lords and ladies of this castle lived; hear stories of battles and bravery and enjoy stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside. They roam around the folk park and learn how everyday people lived in times gone by. 

We will pop down to Durty Nelly's pub for a drink before we leave for Galway.

Galway City:

Lively, colorful, and full of soul, Galway City is a place where music, food, and culture spill joyfully onto the streets. As you stroll through its winding lanes, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of bustling street musicians, from traditional Irish tunes to modern melodies that create an ever-changing soundtrack. The city is renowned for its outstanding restaurants, offering everything from fresh Atlantic seafood to cozy pubs and award-winning dining, alongside a wonderful mix of unique shops, artisan boutiques, and local crafts. With its warm atmosphere and creative spirit, Galway captures the heart of everyone who visits and invites you to linger, explore, and soak up the famous Galway charm.

Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond our control.
Activity Level: Moderate

Athlone Visitors Center

Trace the footprints of the generations who shaped this place. From early settlements and warring chieftains to foreign invaders and local heroes. This site on the River Shannon is the centre of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Hill of Uisneach

The Hill of Uisneach has featured in nearly every significant Irish Event - be it political, cultural, or religious. The story of Uisneach is the story of Ireland. From our earliest ancestors to the medieval high kings; from the saints and scholars of early Christianity to the freedom fighters and political leaders of the modern era: All have left their mark on the Hill of Uisneach.

Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Moderate to hard

Strokestown House

Encounter the voices of the famine through original documents produced by people whose lives were tied to the Strokestown Park Estate.

Discover what simple everyday objects, from farming tools to worn-out shoes, can tell us about the lived experience of famine at different levels of Irish society.

Learn about the political, social, economic, and environmental factors that played a part in the Great Irish Famine and contributed to its devastating human cost.

Fitzpatrick's Castle Hotel:

Perched high above Dublin Bay in the elegant coastal village of Killiney, Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. This beautifully restored castle-style hotel features an inviting indoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, and a relaxing spa, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. Guests can enjoy exceptional dining across two restaurants, offering everything from refined cuisine to relaxed, casual fare, as well as two stylish bars where you can savor a drink while taking in the welcoming atmosphere. With its stunning views, warm hospitality, and excellent amenities, Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel provides a truly memorable and indulgent Irish stay.

Itinerary subject to slight change depending on weather and other conditions beyond our control.

Activity Level: Easy

After a hearty breakfast in Clontarf Castle we will transport you back to Dublin airoport.  We will wish you a safe flight home and hope to see you again soon!