2019 Irish Castle Tours by My Ireland Tour

Arrival	Departure	Price Per Person	Availability
Sun 05 May 2019	Tue 14 May 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 19 May 2019	Tue 28 May 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 02 Jun 2019	Tue 11 Jun 2019	€ 2390	1 Space Left - Book Now!
Sun 16 Jun 2019	Tue 25 Jun 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 07 Jul 2019	Tue 16 Jul 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 21 Jul 2019	Tue 30 Jul 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 04 Aug 2019	Tue 13 Aug 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 18 Aug 2019	Tue 27 Aug 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 08 Sep 2019	Tue 17 Sep 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 22 Sep 2019	Tue 01 Oct 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 06 Oct 2019	Tue 15 Oct 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 20 Oct 2019	Tue 29 Oct 2019	€ 1990	Spaces Available - Book Now!

Tour Name	Duration	Price per person	Group Size
6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019	6 days / 5 nights	€995	Max. 26 ppl	Details
10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019	10 days / 9 nights	€1,190 to €1,690	Max. 26 ppl	Details
15-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019	15 days / 14 nights	€1,985 to €2,485	Max. 26 ppl	Details
7-Day Castles and Backroads Tour 2019	7 days / 6 nights	€1,395 to €1,595	Max. 26 ppl	Details
10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 2019	10 days / 9 nights	€1,990 to €2,390	Max. 26 ppl	Details
8-Day Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019	8 days / 7 nights	€2290	Max. 8 ppl	Details
8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Dingle Version	8 days / 7 nights	€2,490 to €2,690	Max. 8 ppl	Details
8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Ring of Kerry Version	8 days / 7 nights	€2,390 to €2,690	Max. 8 ppl	Details
6-Day Discover Northern Ireland 2019	6 days / 5 nights	€895 to €995	Max. 26 ppl	Details
Customized Private Tour	Any duration	Any budget	2 - 100 ppl	Details

Arrival	Departure	Price Per Person	Availability
Sun 05 May 2019	Tue 14 May 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 19 May 2019	Tue 28 May 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 02 Jun 2019	Tue 11 Jun 2019	€ 2390	1 Space Left - Book Now!
Sun 16 Jun 2019	Tue 25 Jun 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 07 Jul 2019	Tue 16 Jul 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 21 Jul 2019	Tue 30 Jul 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 04 Aug 2019	Tue 13 Aug 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 18 Aug 2019	Tue 27 Aug 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 08 Sep 2019	Tue 17 Sep 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 22 Sep 2019	Tue 01 Oct 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 06 Oct 2019	Tue 15 Oct 2019	-	fully booked
Sun 20 Oct 2019	Tue 29 Oct 2019	€ 1990	Spaces Available - Book Now!

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Thatched cottages of Adare Village in Limerick, Ireland

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

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The Antrim Coast

The idyllic Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland

En route to The Giant's Causeway you will travel along the legendary Antrim Coast, a route whose views are so stunning that it is considered a destination in its own right. Prepare to be amazed: here you will find some of the greatest coastal views any travel photographer could hope to capture.

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Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are made up of 3 islands dotted in front of Galway Bay. The largest of the 3 is Inishmore, home to Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric fort. There are many ancient relics and monuments spread across the 3 islands.

The people of the islands are some of the last remaining people in Ireland to speak the naive Irish language of Gaelic.

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Belfast Tour & Murals

You will be joined by a local specialist guide on a city tour of Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland. You will see and hear all about the history of this once troubled city including the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road and Nationalist Falls Road.

After two decades of peace, Belfast lives up to its reputation as a welcoming, outward-looking city.

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Belleek Pottery

Travelling along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower, you will reach Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world dating from 1857. Today, the visitor centre still displays pieces which date from those early samples over 150 years ago. Touring the pottery, meet and chat with the craftspeople as they produce ceramics which will be exported across the globe.

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Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

Blarney Castle Website

Situated five miles north-west of Cork city, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour of Ireland. It is best known for the famous "Blarney Stone" which visitors are encouraged to kiss, in accordance with a tradition which spans the centuries.

Built 600 years ago by Cormac MacCarthy, one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Blarney Castle has attracted millions of visitors who continue to flock here in the hope that they will be gifted with the power of persuasive and elegant speech - or, as we call it in Ireland ... Blarney.

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The Burren

The Burren Website

A limestone plateau covering 250 square kilometres, The Burren takes its name quite aptly from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". While in one sense very fitting, the name does not do justice to what experts have more justly termed "one of the world's most stunningly unique natural heritage regions".

In another missed opportunity to describe the outstanding beauty of The Burren, and not without a certain relish, Oliver Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

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Bushmills Distillery

In the village of Bushmills, you will visit the old distillery, which was first permitted to distil whisky in 1608 by King James I. Enjoy a whisky tasting in what is thought to be the oldest licensed distillery in the world. Although its grant to distil was given in 1608, it is believed that spirit was probably made here 200 years before that!

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Carrick-a-Rede

You will visit and can choose to cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge which spans an eighty-foot-deep chasm connecting Rock Island to the mainland. Suspended almost 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago.

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Charles Fort

Charles Fort Website

At the southern-most tip of Summer Cove, on Kinsale Harbour in Co. Cork, awaits the unyielding presence of Charles Fort, a star-shaped stronghold protecting the harbour from sea invaders since its completion in 1682. In recent decades, Irish heritage organizations have restored the fort to the impressive standards it now displays.

Heritage Ireland notes: As one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. The most significant of these are the Williamite War 1689-91 and the Civil War 1922-23. Charles Fort was declared a National Monument in 1973. Across the estuary is James Fort designed by Paul Ive in 1602.

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Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral Website

Christ Church Cathedral, founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

You will also have a unique opportunity to visit the Belfry and ring the Cathedral bells. Please note: Getting to the Belfry in Christ Church Cathedral involves climbing 86 stone steps in a medieval building and crossing the roof at the South transept – quite the experience!

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Clonmacnoise Medieval Monastery

Clonmacnoise Medieval Monastery Website

Perched on the banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is perhaps the foremost of Ireland's monastic cities. For those interested in early Christianity, it is a must-see destination. Enclosed within the ancient city walls are various ecclesiastical ruins including a cathedral, seven ancient churches, three high crosses, round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian graveslabs in Western Europe - all remarkably well preserved and fascinating to anyone, not just those with a special interest in Ireland's religious history.

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The Dark Hedges

More commonly known today as The Kings Road, the road from the North to King's Landing in the massively successful television show Game of Thrones. The Dark Hedges is a road of old, curvy beech trees, planted in the 18th Century.

Covering the road from sunlight the trees create an eerie atmosphere, ideal for the sometimes dark plots present in Game of Thrones. The road has become a very popular tourist attraction over the past number of years and are now seen by many as an integral part of their Northern Ireland Tours.

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Derry City Tour & Fortifications

You will be joined by a local specialist guide on a city tour of Derry and the famous city walls. The city fortifications are among the best-preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal. Standing at up to 25 feet tall and thirty feet wide, it is little wonder that these fortifications were never breached.

Your time here in Derry will cover the full richness of local history and culture, from throughout the centuries and more recently.

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Devenish Island

Travelling by boast across Lough Erne, you will reach Devenish Island and the ancient monastic settlement which was founded there some 1500 years ago.

Devenish Monastic Site was founded in the 6th century by Saint Molaise on one of Lough Erne’s many islands. During its history it has been raided by Vikings (837 AD), burned (1157 AD) and flourished (Middle Ages) as a parish church site and St Mary’s Augustine Priory.

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Dingle Whiskey Distillery

Dingle Whiskey Distillery Website

Producing whiskey on a modest scale to keep their production at a specialist level. Having manufactured whiskey, gin & vodka since 2012 and bringing hundreds of years of tradition to their methods. Their single malt whiskey has a deliciously unique finish which comes from being matured on the moist, mild south-west coast of Ireland.

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Drumcliffe

Drumcliffe Website

Visit Drumcliffe Cemetery in County Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of WB. Yeats. Found nestled between Ben Bulben mountain and Drumcliffe bay.

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The General Post Office

The General Post Office of Ireland

The General Post Office of Ireland had many homes before finally settling on its current location of O'Connell Street, on January 6th 1818. It is most famous for housing the Irish Rebels during the Easter Rising of 1916.

The building was destroyed by fire during the uprising and was left unattended until the Irish Free State government set about restoring it. The General Post Office now acts as a visitor centre and sheds an amazing light on some of Ireland's darkest days and the country it was to become.

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The Giant's Causeway

Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, known in Gaelic as Clochán na bhFomhórach or Clochán an Aifir, The Giant's Causeway is an area of 40,000 basalt columns, formed into a regular interlocking pattern by an ancient volcanic lava flow.

However, given the scale, the geometric regularity, and the sheer natural beauty of this feature, it is easy to understand why the ancients believed its origins to be more mystical than geologists would now have us believe.

According to Gaelic mythology, the causeway was built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool) so that he could reach Scotland and fight with his Scottish rival, Benandonner. As with all great rivalries, the outcome varies depending on whose version is being recounted.

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Glendalough Monastic Settlement

An ancient monastic settlement, Glendalough (meaning: Valley of the Two Lakes) presents today's visitors with a chance to walk not only through the idyllic hills of Ireland's East, but also through the rough-hewn landscapes of ancient Irish history. Founded in the Fifth Century by St. Kevin, the settlement would grow to be very powerful at its zenith some four hundred years later. By the start of the Fifteenth Century, this stronghold was in decline but the stone monuments and buildings remain as evocative and powerful today as they surely must have been then.

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Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park Website

Nestled in the Derryveagh Mountains of County Donegal, the Glenveagh National Park is a sprawling landscape of rugged Irish beauty. Covering nearly 25,000 acres, the park has some dramatic mountain scenery and protects the largest herd of red deer in Ireland.

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The Guinness Storehouse

The famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

Guinness Storehouse Website

Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse which you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.

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Hill of Tara

Situated close to the River Boyne. The Hill of Tara is an archaeological site located between the towns of Navan and Dunshaughlin in County Meath. According to legend it was the seat of the High King of Ireland. The Hill of Tara was in use as far back as the Neolithic era, from then until the 12th century it was used as a sacred and political centre.

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Visit a working Irish Farm

Farms and rural life have always been at the heart of Irish cultural life. And they have remained largely unspoiled by the ravages of time. Compared the to the modern, size-farming of North America, this visit will feel like a step back in time! We invite you to enjoy a homecooked lunch on a traditional Irish farm, meeting the local people whose families have worked this land for generations.

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Jameson Old Midleton Distillery

Old Midleton Distillery Website

The Old Midleton Distillery is home to Ireland's other globally-recognizable tipple, Jameson's Whiskey. While Jameson's is enjoyed by millions worldwide, you don't need to be a whiskey-drinker to enjoy this fascinating visitor experience. There is much to discover here for everyone.

The Old Midleton Distillery has the world's largest pot still, with a capacity of over 30,000 gallons! You won't get through it all but, after the tour you might like to enjoy a complimentary drop of the sweet nectar yourself. Well, since you've come all this way...

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Kilkenny Castle

The location of the castle has been historically significant since Strongbow constructed the first building a wooden tower in 1195 to control a fording-point of the River Nore and the junction of several routeways.

Construction was completed in 1213 only to be recommenced in 1260, when the site's first stone structure was erected by William the Earl Marshall.

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Killary Fjord

At Nancy's Point just outside Leenane Village you will board the "Connemara Lady" for a spectacular 90 minute cruise on Ireland's only fjord. Cruising the sheltered Killary Harbour fjord is the ideal way to take in the dramatic sweep of the landscape, as you pass between the Twelve Bens and the Maam Turk mountains to the South, in County Galway, and the Mweelrea mountains to the North in County Mayo. Not to mention the views out to the Atlantic at the mouth of the fjord.

The fjord's sheltered waters are perfect for mussel farming and you will see the ropes at several points on the fjord. You will also see some circular salmon farms, closer to the shore. Sheep dot the hills and now ramble freely over the remnants of potato ridges which stand testimony to The Great Famine of the 1840's. Return to Abbeyglen Castle via the rugged and lonely Inagh Valley.

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Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey Website

Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcoming visitors from across the globe.

Among Kylemore's many notable attractions are the unmistakable Victorian Walled Gardens, restored in 2000 and now open to the public visitors. As a heritage garden, this beautiful space is worked using only Victorian gardening methods. Only seeds and strains from the 1800s are ever planted here.

The building of Kylmore Castle was inspired by Margaret Henry, to whom the Gothic Church still stands in tribute, serenely secluded in Kylemore's woods. It was Margaret's husband Mitchell Henry who produced, from little more than desolate bog land, the beautiful attraction we now know as Kylemore. Following Margaret's death in 1874, Henry returned to Kylemore to live, and he remained here until his passing in 1903.

Kylemore has something for everyone, no matter what your age - visitors can enjoy the restored rooms of the Abbey, The Gothic Church and the Gardens. Many make use of the shuttle bus service between the Abbey and Gardens, but it is a very pleasant walk along the tree-lined avenues, too. For our little visitors there is a play trail, colouring in the restaurant - and don't forget to make a wish at the Giant's wishing stone.

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Lissadell House & Gardens

Lissadell House & Gardens

Lissadell House was built in 1833 by Sir Robert Gore Booth and WB Yeats was a frequent visitor to the house in the 1890's. Today Lissadell House is the home of the Cassidy Family who have lovingly restored the house and gardens to their former glory. The Cassidy's will welcome you with a guided tour of their house & gardens.

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Loughcrew Gardens

In County Meath visit the Loughcrew Gardens for a breathtaking spectacle from 17th and 19th century and pleasure gardens for a relaxing afternoon.

The main gardens are approximately six acres in area and include a lime avenue, extensive lawns and terraces, plus magnificent herbaceous and physic gardens. The gardens play host to wall routes of various lengths, a medieval moote and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House.

Loughcrew Gardens Website

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Lough Erne Boast Cruise

To reach the Devenish Island monastic site, we will be travelling by boat across the beautiful Lough Erne, a journey taken by all visitors to this sacred place across the centuries, from faithful pilgrims to marauding invaders.

The lough comprises two great lakes to make up the second largest lake system in Northern Ireland. A beautiful, tranquil place - don't forget your camera!

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Louis Mulcahy Pottery

Louis Mulcahy Pottery Website

Witness and experience for yourself how Ireland's world famous, high quality pottery is created at one of the counties most loved potteries.

Once described as 'the Godfather of Irish craft' by The Craft Council of Ireland, Louis Mulcahy along with his wife Lisbeth have, worked to develop an aesthetically and technically advanced pottery studio/workshop that is a joy to behold.

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Macroom Castle

Situated in the old market town of the same name, Macroom Castle was once the home of Sir William Penn, whose son was later to found the state of Pennsylvania.

Understood to have been constructed in the reign of King John (1199-1209), the castle was built on the site of an earlier stronghold. During the 1960s, large sections of the structure was deconstructed for safety reasons. What remains gives a unique insight into a long-passed ancient world, constructed almost three hundred years before Columbus set sail for the New World.

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The Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher Website

They are one of the most popular and frequently most eagerly anticipated attractions on any of our Ireland Tours, and the views will not disappoint. Rising to a height of 203 metres, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun you will not find.

Another thing you will not find is the visitor centre; at least, until you get close, you won't find it. Designed very cleverly to blend into the local landscape, this extensive attraction is all but invisible as you approach the cliffs themselves. Inside, it is large, modern and informative. An immensely popular tourist attraction, and with good reason.

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The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens

Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens Website

Just over a mile south of Kildare town, The Irish National stud is perhaps the biggest tourist attraction in this part of Ireland. In her historic 2011 visit to Ireland, Queen Elizabeth II fed her passion for all things equestrian by visiting the stud which is home to some of the world's finest horses. Owned by the Irish government, the stud breeds competition-quality stallions for breeding programs the world-over.

Hourly guided tours of the stud bring you face-to-face with renowned stallions and feature a visit to the intensive-care unit for newly-born foals and visitors between February and June can even see foals being delivered.

The Japanese Gardens provide opportunity to meditate on your time in Ireland so far, and add a very pleasant side note to the main attraction, the stud itself.

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Newgrange

Located just outside the town of Newry in the royal County of Meath, Newgrange is a 5,200 year old passage tomb. An archaeological wonder, its chamber and passage perfectly align with the Winter Solstice.

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The Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel Website

Ireland has more than its fair share of outstanding archeological sites, but the Rock of Cashel is arguably the most impressive. The 'rock' from which it takes its name is in fact a limestone hill, covered in luscious green, rising from the plain which characterises the surrounding area. The word 'cashel', by contrast, is derived from the Irish gaelic word caiseal, meaning stone fortress.

In both respects, the Rock of Cashel lives up to its title. The rock itself is vast and imposing, and one can only imagine the difficulties it would have posed for attackers throughout the ages who had designs on the stone fortress above. The masonry of the fort itself is no less spectacular and is remarkably well preserved almost a full millennium after its original construction.

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Slieve League Cliffs

Slieve League Cliffs are found on the South-West coast of County Donegal. Known to be one of the highest Sea-facing cliffs in Europe. Take in the stunning view, depending on the clarity of the day of course, of Donegal Bay and the Sligo Mountains.

A place of Christian pilgrimage for hundreds of years and a port for Monks journeying back and fourth to Iceland, Slieve League is a wonder to behold.

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St Patrick's Cathedral

St Patrick's Cathedral Website

St Patrick's Cathedral was founded in 1911 and is the Church of Ireland's National Cathedral. It is home to many ancient artefacts and memorials charting its history.

Today visitors to the Cathedral can enjoy different concerts and events as well as a traditional Eucharist. Many visiting choirs, from around the world, can also be seen preforming here.

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Titanic Belfast Exhibition

Titanic Exhibition, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Titanic Belfast Website

An extensive multimedia tribute to the world's most famous ocean liner, The Titanic Experience is located at the top of the slipway from which the ship made its first and only descent into the Belfast Lough and the waters of the Irish Sea beyond. Opened in 2012 for the centenary of the ship's launch and tragic demise, the museum has rapidly become Ulster's most visited tourist destination, outstripping even The Giant's Causeway.

Cleverly put together, the attraction encapsulates more than simply the scale of the ship, more even than the scale of the disaster which befell it; drawing on all the sights, sounds and smells of the age, the museum recreates all facets of this most fascinating period of history, bringing to life the experiences not only of the passengers, but also of the ship workers who realized this vision of early twentieth-century engineering.

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Irish Pubs and Traditional Music Sessions

Pubs (public houses) play a huge part in the culture of Ireland, and have done throughout the ages. Sometimes busy, often noisy, but always friendly and welcoming places to meet the locals. In a pub, you will see a full cross section of Irish society - its a place where people from all classes, ages, interests and backgrounds can mix.

Irish pubs are known for their music, and you will see on this a lot on your own visit to Ireland. A trad session (or traditional music session) is an informal gathering of musicians (almost always in a pub) who play traditional folk music together, not as a formal performance, but more in the style of what jazz, funk and rock musicians would call a 'jam' session; structured and based around a familiar tune, but relatively free-flowing and with a small degree of improvisation (mainly in harmony).

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Trim Castle

Trim Castle Website

Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30 year period, finished in 1206.

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Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Website

Ireland's most prestigious university is arguably its most attractive, too. Covering no less than 16 hectares, the college buildings and grounds are a poetic tribute to the best of Victorian architecture. Receiving its charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, Trinity remained exclusively protestant until 1793. Today, such prejudices and exclusions are long gone, and Trinity enjoys a global reputation as a leading institution for learning, teaching and research.

The Book of Kells

Visitors to Trinity College will generally have to queue to see The Book of Kells, but it is a wait which few regret: if you are interested in artefacts of this kind, then this ancient document will really breathe life into the history you will discover during your tour of Ireland. This, the world's best-known illuminated book, was produced by monks in 800 A.D. and was moved to Kells in Meath from its original location on the Island of Iona. It is now located in the Old Library of Trinity College where it draws half a million visitors annually, making it Trinity's most popular attraction.

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Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery

Visiting Tullamore D.E.W whiskey distillery, you can learn about the art of Irish whiskey-making and discover the secret that gives Tullamore D.E.W. its unique complexity with a tour of Triple whiskey tasting.

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Ulster American Folk Park

Your route will take you via Strabane and Omagh in County Tyrone to the Ulster American Folk Park to an open-air museum located on the restored boyhood home of Judge Thomas Mellon, founder of the Pittsburgh banking dynasty. The Park's permanent exhibition, called 'Emigrants', examines why two million people left Ulster for America during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries.

Ulster American Folk Park Website

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Ulster American Folk Park

Your route will take you via Strabane and Omagh in County Tyrone to the Ulster American Folk Park to an open-air museum located on the restored boyhood home of Judge Thomas Mellon, founder of the Pittsburgh banking dynasty. The Park's permanent exhibition, called 'Emigrants', examines why two million people left Ulster for America during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries.

Ulster American Folk Park Website

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The House of Waterford Cystal

Waterford crystal is known the world over for its quality and, throughout a history which dates back to its establishment in the South-East of Ireland in 1783, it has been a landmark of its own in this part of Ireland. Today, Waterford Crystal is no less recognisable than its sister-brands, Wedgewood and Royal Doulton.

The visitor centre is a modern building on The Mall, a tour of which teaches visitors how crystal is made. Undoubtedly the most popular part of the tour is the blowing room, where the crystal glasses, vases etc. are 'blown' into shape.

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Why our smaller group sizes are better for you

We only offer Small Group Tours

Even our largest tours take just 26 guests. But many other companies accept up to 50 people per tour. So, why did we take this big step to limit our tours to such small group?

Our focus is on you

With a smaller group, our driver-guides have time to get to know you, explore your questions in detail and share their experiences with you.

Spread Out and Relax

Space to spread out on the coach. Our small group tours use 34 seater coaches but only sell 26 spaces, giving spare seats for you to spread out.

Speedy Check-ins

Checking in and out at each hotel is much faster and more enjoyable in a smaller party. Breeze through check-in in no time.

A close-up personal experience

Experience each attraction up-close and personal. In a small group, there is more time to ask questions and see what interests you personally.

Relaxing Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. After all, nobody enjoys being part of a herd, especially on vacation. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

Cherish each Moment

Relax and enjoy the moment. Savour each meal. Capture every photo opportunity. Cherish every memory with a small group of people you can really get to know.

Better service for you

Just look at our amazing reviews to see for yourself. Our guests consistently list smaller group sizes among the top reasons why they would book My Ireland Tour again. The smaller numbers mean we can really deliver the best in service and attention throughout your whole experience.

See tours with max 26 people
2020 Tours
See Mini-Group tours with max 8 people
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2019, Ring of Kerry Version
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2019, Dingle Version
- 8 day Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2020

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Why our Mini group sizes are better for you

We offer two types of tour sizes: Small Group Tours (limited to 26 passengers) and Mini Group Tours (limited to 8 passengers and adults only).

Our Mini Group tours offer a stark contrast to some comparable tours with other companies, which can have have around 50 people per tour. So we thought we should take a minute to explain why we've designed tours limit to such small groups.

Our Mini Group Tours offer the ultimate in a personal experience of Ireland. For those who want to really get up close and personal with all the experiences Ireland has to offer. From local culture to hidden vistas, to experience everything first hand in your own bespoke experience of every place you stop.

The Difference a Mini Group Group Makes to you:

More Personal Attention

With such a small party your driver-guide gets the chance to really know you and understand your interests, allow you to really experience the bits of Ireland that interest you most.

Adults Only

We all love children. But sometimes it's nice to enjoy a little quiet time without them. That's why our Mini Group tours are for people 18 years old and above. The hotels, attractions and other visits will, of course, have an abundance of children but on the coach, at least, you can expect your down time to be that little bit more relaxing.

A close-up personal experience

In such a small party each attraction can offer you a personalised experience, where the guides can focus on the aspects that really appeal to you. Time to delve deeper, time to tailor the experience to you.

Spread Out and Relax

Space to spread out on the coach. Our mini group tours use 9-seater Mercedes-Benz coaches but only sell 8 spaces, giving room for you to spread out.

Go places a large coach cannot

From farm stays to remote locations, the small numbers allow us to go to places a large coach cannot. From hidden locations to unique accommodations, you'll see a side of Ireland only accessible in such a small party.

Speedy Check-ins

Such a small tour group makes an incredibly easy and enjoyable tour experience. Photo stops just take a minute, meals are personal and relaxing, hotel check-ins are a breeze. Enjoy a personalised experience with such a small select group.

Better service for you

Just look at our amazing reviews to see for yourself. Our guests consistently list smaller group sizes among the top reasons why they would book My Ireland Tour again. The smaller numbers mean we can really deliver the best in service and attention throughout your whole experience.

See Mini-Group tours with max 8 people
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2019, Ring of Kerry Version
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2019, Dingle Version
- 8 day Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019
- 8 day Ancient Ireland Tour 2020
See tours with max 26 people
2020 Tours

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Our 2019 Tours of Ireland

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

6-Day Iconic Scenes Hub-and-Spoke Tour

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour. Read more...

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 2019

€995 per person
6 Days / 5 Nights
Max. 26 Guests
Hub & Spoke Tour
Luxury Transport
No sales pitches

2019 Tour

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

6-Day Discover Northern Ireland Tour Exclusively Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tours of Ulster. Picturesque towns and untamed coastlines. Read more...

6-Day Discover Northern Ireland Tour 2019

Northern Ireland
6 Days/5 Nights
€895 to €995 per person
Max. 26 Guests
Premium Hotels

2019 Tour

A farmer with his sheep, photographed on an Ireland Tour

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

7-Day Castles and BackroadsStay in Castles

On this 7-day adventure, see the true face of Ireland as you explore not only the top tourist attractions, but also the road less travelled.Read more...

7-Day Castles and Backroads Tour 2019

Stay in Castles
7 Days/6 Nights
€1,395 to €1,595
Max. 26 Guests
Luxury Transport

2019 Tour

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Our most popular tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this unmissable 10-day adventure. See Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. Read more...

10-Day Iconic Scenes Tour 2019

€1,190 to €1,690
10 days / 9 nights
Max. 26 Guests
Most Popular Tour
Fully Inclusive Package
No sales pitches

2019 Tour

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour Stay in Castles

Stay in Ireland's historic castles and romantic country manors on the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer. Live like royalty for 10 days. Read more...

10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 2019

€1,990 to €2,390
10 days / 9 nights
Max. 26 Guests
Stay in Castles
Luxury Tour Package
No sales pitches

2019 Tour

Ross Castle, as viewed on our Ireland tours

Show Tour Description Mini-Group Tour

8-Day Ancient Ireland Small Group Size

An exclusive mini-group tour for 8 Guests. Discover Ireland's hidden secrets and stay in a luxury castle on this unique journey through ancient Ireland. Read more...

8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Ring of Kerry Version

€2,390 to €2,690
8 Days/7 Nights
Max. 8 Guests
Adults Only

2019 Tour

Dingle Peninsula features, as viewed on our Ireland tours

Show Tour Description Mini-Group Tour

8-Day Ancient Ireland Small Group Size

An exclusive mini-group tour for 8 Guests. Discover Ireland's hidden secrets and stay in a luxury castle on this unique journey through ancient Ireland. Read more...

8-Day Ancient Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019, Dingle Version

€2,490 to €2,690
8 Days/7 Nights
Max. 8 Guests
Adults Only

2019 Tour

Show Tour Description Mini-Group Tour

Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour Mini Group Size

Visit Ireland's historic landscape and delve into its tranquilly on this mini group tour. Read more...

8-Day Historic Ireland Mini-Group Tour 2019

Max. 8 Guests
€2290
8 Days/7 Nights
Adults Only

2019 Tour

Show Tour Description Small-Group Tour

15-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Northern & Southern

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 15-day tour. Spend five magical days in Ulster, and then 10 more in Eire. Read more...

15-Day Iconic Scenes Tour 2019

15 Day/14 Night
€1,985 to €2,485
Max. 26 Guests
North and South
Four-Star Hotels

2019 Tour

A coastal path near Dublin, can be visited on our singles tours of Ireland

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Solo Ireland Tours For Independent Travellers

My Ireland Tour welcomes many solo travellers on all of our tour packages. Experience this friendly and welcoming culture. Read more...

Solo Travel & Singles Tours of Ireland

8 - 26 Guests
7 - 15 Days
Great Value
Individual Rooms
Luxury Transport

Solo Tours

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Custom Private Tours Bespoke for your group

Set your own budget, set your own pace. Let us create a bespoke tour package for you and your group. Read more...

Customize your own Private Tour

Made to Measure
Private Group
Any Accomm.
Any Duration
Tell us your needs

Private Tours

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★Thanks you to our Guests for your Amazing Reviews★

See all reviews

Julie Heiple

Reviewed in March 2019

What a marvelous experience! My husband and I were on the 5 day Northern Ireland tour from March 20-25, 2019 and enjoyed every minute of it! Our tour guide, Nigel O'Connor, was so professional and attentive to the group, always conscious of our schedule for the day but also allowing for slight changes as necessary. For example, two guests wanted to attend St. Michael's early mass one morning and that request was accommodated with an alternate pick up location for them.

Thanks so much for a terrific, memorable vacation!

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M Mackiw

Reviewed in November 2018

Our 10 day trip to Ireland was a special memory for our group of seven. We were able to experience the beauty of Ireland, its historic sites and peaceful green-quilted country-sides far better than if we were on our own.

My Ireland Tour staff were very professional and extremely helpful in planning our itinerary. The comfort of a small coach bus as well as the accommodations they selected made our trip thoroughly enjoyable.

George, our driver, was fantastic! Each day he shared with us his extensive knowledge of Irish history. With his great sense of humour and superb driving skills, we were unquestionably in good hands! We would very highly recommend My Ireland Tour! Thank you for a truly memorable experience!

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Jeff Mahoney

Reviewed in October 2018

In looking for and planning an Ireland trip for our entire family travelling from multiple areas, I came across My Ireland Tours. I'm glad I did! Working with Kristel, we worked out a 10 day private tour across most of Ireland. Everything was first class, from the selected sights to the different lodging locations and the perfect size tour vehicle. Our driver Brian was wonderful and provided a wealth of knowledge along the way. He made for a very wonderful travel companion and we are pleased to now include him as family! If you are looking for a first class experience, I would highly recommend My Ireland Tours as your first choice in planning a trip of your lifetime!

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Denise Garland

Reviewed in October 2018

Ireland has been a dream of mine for 100 years. Well, it seems like that long! But the trip, land, castles, cliffs, rock fences, coach and of course our tour guide, Alan, and our new coach friends was breathtaking and absolutely wonderful!

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Nesta Rovina

Reviewed in October 2018

Recently returned from a wonderful 6 day tour. Our driver/guide, Kieran, was outstanding in every way. I learned so much about Ireland and its history. The group was really fun together - it somehow blended seamlessly. Martina arranged everything perfectly, including our stay after the tour in Dublin. Thanks so much for a truly exhilarating time. I hope to return!

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Barbara Allen

Reviewed in October 2018

We loved everything about this tour! Dublin was great, people so friendly, so much to do. The tour covered all we wanted to see on our first visit. Beautiful country. We were lucky to have mild weather. Pleased with accommodations, especially in Dublin.

The Limerick hotel was ok, not as accessible to see much of Limerick. Tony our tour guide is the best guide, must request Tony on any visit!!! My Ireland Tour was great to work with and has been recommended to many friends since our vacation. Thank you to Martina & Tony & team!

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Included in your Deluxe Castles Tour of Ireland 2019

9 nights accommodation

1 night in a superior quality hotel and 8 nights luxury accommodation in Castles & Country Manors

9 Full Irish Breakfasts

For every morning of your tour you can enjoy a delicious Full Irish Breakfast

1 Pub Lunch

Irish pub lunch in The Blind Piper Pub in the village of Caherdaniel

9 Evening Dinners

All Three Courses with Choices on Each Course + Tea or Coffee

Group Airport Transfers

3 Group transfers to your hotel on the day you arrive and depart

All local taxes

All local Irish taxes are included within your tour prices

Irish Driver-Guide

Professional, Experienced and Knowledgeable Irish Driver-Guide (one person) for 10 days

Porterage

Porterage of one large suitcase per person

Luxury Air Conditioned Coach

35 seater coach limited to a maximum of 26 passengers for additional space and comfort. See our Tour Vehicles

Admission to all Attractions Included on the Itinerary:

Belleek Pottery

Trim Castle

Kylemore Abbey

Cliffs of Moher

Blarney Castle

The Rock of Cashel

Trinity College

Christ Church Cathedral

Guinness Storehouse

Not Included

Air fares to & from Ireland
Gratuity for the Driver-Guide (one person)
Travel Insurance
Lunches except:
- Blind Piper Pub Lunch on Day 7
Beverages except Tea / Coffee with Breakfast & Evening Dinner
Laundry
Room Service
Telephone Charges

No hidden extras, no daily sales pitches

There are no hidden extra charges such as fuel surcharges or credit card fees. There are no daily sales pitches or unexpected additional costs waiting for you once you arrive in Ireland. You pay the listed tour price and your Driver-Guide (one person) focuses entirely on your vacation enjoyment.

You are on holiday, after all.

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2019 Tours

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About our tours

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2019 Tours

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Custom Private Tours

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10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 2019 Stay in real Irish castles

Only 2 Dates Left in 2019:

Sun 02 Jun to Tue 11 Jun 2019

Sun 20 Oct to Tue 29 Oct 2019

Key Tour Information

Why this Tour?

Dublin & The East

The North-West

Wild Atlantic Way

Cork, Kerry & South

Tour Dates And Prices

Deluxe Castles Tour Prices 2019

Detailed Tour Itinerary

The Tour Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Ireland

Day 1 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 2: The North West Staying in Lough Eske Castle

Day 2 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 3: Derry Staying in Lough Eske Castle

Day 3 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 4 Staying in Ballynahinch Castle

Day 4 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 5 Staying in Ballynahinch Castle

Day 5 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 6 Staying in Cahernane House Hotel, Killarney

Day 6 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 7 Staying in Cahernane House Hotel, Killarney

Day 7 Itinerary

Included Today

Day 8 Staying in the Killashee House Hotel

Day 8 Itinerary

Day 9: Dublin Staying in Killashee House

Day 9 Itinerary

Day 10 Departure Day

Included Today:

Accommodation

Tour Accommodation Stay in luxury Irish Castles

Luxury Transport

Luxury Transport

Compare our 2019 Tours

Reviews Of My Ireland Tour

★Thanks you to our Guests for your Amazing Reviews★

Google Reviews

5.0 out of 5 Stars from 145 Google Reviews

Facebook Reviews

5.0 out of 5 Stars from 169 Facebook Reviews

What Makes Us Different

What makes us different?

Small group size

Best Value

Top Rated

Family Run Business

Irish Driver Guide

Experts in Irish Tours

No Sales Pitches

Guaranteed to Run

Why our smaller group sizes are better for you

We only offer Small Group Tours

Our focus is on you

Spread Out and Relax

Speedy Check-ins