Set out on a captivating journey from Dublin to explore Ireland’s ancient wonders. Discover the 5,000-year-old passage tomb of Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the impressive Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, and visit the historically significant Hill of Tara, once the seat of Ireland’s High Kings. This comprehensive tour offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich past, leaving you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 8-hour tour from Dublin exploring the ancient wonders of the Boyne Valley, including Newgrange, Trim Castle, and the Hill of Tara.
- Visit the 5,000-year-old Newgrange passage tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its intricate stone carvings.
- Explore the impressive ruins of Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, featured in the film Braveheart.
- Discover the Hill of Tara, the historic seat of the High Kings of Ireland, offering panoramic views.
- Enjoy a traditional Irish pub lunch as part of the tour experience.
Tour Overview
This Dublin attractions tour offers a comprehensive 8-hour experience for up to 8 participants. Priced from $758.80 per group, the private tour includes a live English-speaking guide and pickup service.
Guests should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the start time. The itinerary highlights ancient wonders in the Boyne Valley, including megalithic tombs, hill forts, and Trim Castle.
Visitors can take panoramic photos at the Hill of Tara and discover Ireland’s pre-Celtic and medieval history. A traditional Irish pub lunch is included.
Advance booking is required for Newgrange tickets, which aren’t part of the tour package.
Exploring the Boyne Valley
The Boyne Valley, located just north of Dublin, is renowned for its ancient wonders that date back thousands of years.
Visitors can:
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Explore megalithic tombs like Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb predating the pyramids of Egypt.
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Discover hillfort ruins that offer panoramic views, like the iconic Hill of Tara – the seat of the High Kings of Ireland.
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Tour Trim Castle, a well-preserved Norman castle featured in the film Braveheart, and learn about Ireland’s medieval history.
These prehistoric and medieval sites provide a glimpse into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage, drawing travelers from around the world to this picturesque region.
Megalithic Tombs and Hill Forts
As visitors explore the Boyne Valley, they’ll encounter an array of awe-inspiring megalithic tombs and hillfort ruins that offer a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.
The iconic Newgrange tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back over 5,000 years and features intricate stone carvings.
Nearby, the Hill of Tara was the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, with several well-preserved hill forts like Rath Maeve.
Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, also stands as a testament to the region’s medieval history.
These archaeological wonders provide a captivating look into Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
Trim Castle (Braveheart Castle)
Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, stands as a remarkable testament to the region’s medieval history. Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive stone walls, towers, and courtyards, which were the setting for the 1995 film "Braveheart".
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Discover the castle’s great hall, where important meetings and feasts took place during the Middle Ages.
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Climb to the top of the keep for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the River Boyne.
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Uncover the castle’s strategic importance, as it guarded a crucial crossing point on the river and protected the Norman settlement.
The Hill of Tara
Perched atop an ancient grassy hill, the Hill of Tara commands a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
This historic site was the seat of the High Kings of Ireland for centuries, making it a significant place in Irish history and mythology.
Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient royal complex, including the Stone of Destiny, where monarchs were crowned.
The hill offers excellent photo opportunities, with sweeping vistas of the Boyne Valley.
Sweeping vistas of the Boyne Valley make the Hill of Tara an excellent spot for photography.
A stop at the Hill of Tara provides a glimpse into Ireland’s rich past and is a highlight of the Dublin Attractions tour.
Pre-Celtic Origins and Medieval History
Beyond the panoramic vistas of the Hill of Tara, the Dublin Attractions tour explores Ireland’s rich pre-Celtic origins and medieval history. Guests will:
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Uncover the mysteries of megalithic tombs, remnants of Ireland’s ancient civilizations predating Celtic influence.
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Step inside the impressive Trim Castle, a well-preserved 12th-century Norman castle and filming location for the movie Braveheart.
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Gain insights into Ireland’s medieval past, from the rise of powerful dynasties to the architectural wonders that dot the Boyne Valley landscape.
This immersive journey through time offers a captivating look at Ireland’s formative eras.
Lunch at a Traditional Irish Pub
After exploring the medieval sites and ancient wonders, the tour makes a stop at a traditional Irish pub for a hearty lunch. The pub offers a cozy atmosphere, where guests can enjoy local culture. The lunch menu features classic Irish dishes, such as:
| Dish | Description | Price |
| — | — | — |
| Shepherd’s Pie | Minced lamb, vegetables, and mashed potatoes | €12.95 |
| Fish and Chips | Battered cod with crispy fries | €13.50 |
| Irish Stew | Slow-cooked beef, potatoes, and vegetables | €14.25 |
Guests can pair their meal with a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish whiskey, completing the authentic Irish experience.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the Dublin Attractions tour is straightforward. Guests have the option to:
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Reserve now and pay later, with no commitment until the final payment
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Cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Make their booking at least one month in advance to secure Newgrange tickets
The tour provider requires the one-month advance booking for Newgrange, as tickets sell out quickly.
With a flexible booking policy and clear cancellation terms, travelers can plan their trip with confidence and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Recommended Clothing and Footwear for the Tour?
The tour guide recommends comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is advised as the weather can be unpredictable. Bringing sun protection and rain gear is also suggested to ensure a pleasant experience.
Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized to Suit Our Interests?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit your interests. The tour provider offers flexible options, so you can discuss your preferences with the live English-speaking guide to create a personalized experience.
Are Audio Guides Available for Self-Guided Visits at the Sites?
Audio guides aren’t provided for the self-guided visits at the sites. However, the tour guide can provide informative commentary during the tour to enhance the experience. Customized tour options are available if you’d like to focus on specific interests.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch at a traditional Irish pub, so guests don’t need to pack their own meals. The tour price covers all meals and entry fees.
Is There an Option to Add Additional Stops or Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour offers customized options where guests can add additional stops or extend the duration. Customers should inquire about these possibilities when booking to ensure the tour meets their specific needs and interests.
The Sum Up
This comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient wonders of Ireland’s Boyne Valley. From the UNESCO-listed Newgrange passage tomb to the impressive Trim Castle and the historically significant Hill of Tara, this day trip from Dublin showcases the country’s rich heritage. Travelers can also enjoy a traditional Irish pub lunch, making this an unforgettable and well-rounded experience.
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