Group Travel Tour Operator and DMC for Ireland
Ireland’s Ancient East
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Newgrange, Co Meath ©Chris Hill Photographic 2009, Tourism Ireland
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The River Liffey in Dublin ©Tourism Ireland
This tour takes you through Ireland’s Ancient East delving into its diverse history and culture. Visits include a trip to Ireland’s vibrant capital, Dublin, with a guided tour of the exciting sights of this beautiful city including Christchurch and St. Patricks Cathedrals, the iconic Ha’penny Bridge and the fascinating Dublin Castle. There is also free time to soak up the Dublin atmosphere and visit one of it’s many attractions – we recommend the Guinness Storehouse!
This diverse tour also gives you the opportunity to head back in time to explore some of the most important moments in Ireland’s history. A tour of the dramatic Trim Castle (of Braveheart movie fame!) before delving even further into history with a visit to Newgrange, a Neolithic site older than the pyramids, will give you a glimse into Ireland’s unique past.
Visits to more modern Irish pastimes are also included with trips to the unique Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens. From horses to horticulture, The Irish National Stud offers a unique experience including visiting some of Ireland’s most famous race horses and world-renowned Japanese Gardens. Afterwards you will visit the Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre, a contemporary shopper’s paradise! Also onsite is the Museum of Style Icons which hosts numerous collections and artefacts relating to Stars of the Silver Screen.
With such varied attractions, Ireland’s Ancient East is sure to have something for everyone!
Dates
Dates throughout 2022 & 2023
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Depart the UK
Travel to Dublin by coach and ferry. Arrive in Co. Meath and check into your hotel.
Day 2
Morning Sightseeing in Dublin and afternoon free
Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin city sights – Christchurch and St. Patrick’s Cathedrals, Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland, Temple Bar, The Iconic Ha’penny Bridge and the fascinating Dublin Castle. The afternoon is free to explore and enjoy the city further.
Day 3
Powerscourt Estate and Wicklow Mountains
Today, visit the impressive Powerscourt Estate where you’ll explore the beautiful landscaped gardens. At 121 m high, Ireland’s highest waterfall is also located on the estate. After lunch travel onto Glendalough, a glacial valley famous for its 6th century monastic settlement and start of the ‘Valley of the Two Lakes’. Pass the Wicklow Gap, enjoy stunning scenic views of Wicklow’s countryside and the two Blessington Lakes.
Day 4
‘Valley of the Kings’
A chance to visit Newgrange, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage ancient royal burial site, dated 3,200 BC, older than the Egyptian pyramids! Afterwards, head north to the site of the Battle of Boyne, the location of one of the most pivotal battles in Irish history between the Catholic King James and the Protestant King William. Finally, you will visit the churchyards of Monasterboice, home to some of the best examples of Celtic high crosses in Ireland.
Day 5
Return to the UK
After breakfast start your journey home either by ferry or fly to your local airport.
Suggested Hotels
Trim Castle Hotel, Co. Meath ****
Overlooking the magnificent Trim Castle, this four star hotel is only 40 minutes away from Dublin and offers a comfortable base to explore Ireland’s East. The hotel has 2 restaurants, onsite shop, café, bar and rooftop terrace. All 68 well appointed bedrooms come equipped with tea/coffee facilities, a flat screen television and a telephone. Lift to all floors. Free of charge coach parking available.
Dunboyne Castle Hotel, Co. Meath ****
This luxury hotel is nestled in the village of Dunboyne and surrounded by countryside, just 12 miles from Dublin. The hotel has a lift, restaurant, lounge bar and large terrace area surrounded by its private landscaped gardens. For relaxation, the hotel’s hydrotherapy pool and spa area can be accessed for a small supplement. Dunboyne village offers a couple of typical Irish pubs and local shops. Ample parking available.
The Royal Hotel, Bray ***
Situated just 25 minutes’ drive from Dublin’s city centre, the family friendly Royal Hotel and Merrill Leisure Club is situated in the heart of Bray, Co. Wicklow. The hotel is surrounded by breath taking scenery, wonderful mountain walks and historic houses and gardens. It is only a 5-minute walk from Bray seafront and guests have free access to the hotel’s swimming pool, sauna, and spa bath.
The Royal Hotel offers 125 en suite bedrooms, each including tea & coffee facilities, toiletries, hairdryer, TV and free WIFI. Guests can dine in McGettigan’s Bray restaurant & bar, which offers a modern Irish dining experience and award-winning food. The bar offers a variety of beers, wines and spirits, as well as local bands performing every weekend. Coach parking and lift access is available at the hotel.
| Dates | 5 days / 4 nights |
| 2022 dates | From £295.00 per person |
| 2023 dates | Prices on request |
Prices include return ferry. If you would like a price travelling by air, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Single room supplement available upon request.
