Private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail With Winterfell Strangford Lough Ferry

The Ards Peninsula in Northern Ireland offers a unique blend of history and fantasy. Travelers can explore the region’s strong connections to Saint Patrick while also visiting the iconic Winterfell, a filming location from the hit TV series Game of Thrones. This customizable tour provides an enriching experience, taking visitors to significant landmarks like Down Cathedral and Inch Abbey. With picturesque views of Strangford Lough, the trail showcases the area’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. But what else can this private tour unveil?

Key Points

• Explore the historic Ards Peninsula on a private tour focused on St. Patrick’s legacy, including visits to Down Cathedral and the largest statue of the saint.
• Discover the Winterfell filming location from Game of Thrones, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the world of Westeros.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a customizable itinerary to tailor the experience to your personal interests, with the option to extend the tour duration.
• Experience the scenic Strangford Lough by ferry, enhancing your journey through Northern Ireland’s picturesque landscapes.
• Benefit from round-trip transfers, including hotel or cruise ship pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail offers a full-day, customizable tour that focuses on landmarks associated with Ireland’s patron saint.

The tour highlights key sites like Saint Patrick’s grave, Winterfell from Game of Thrones, Inch Abbey, and the largest statue of Saint Patrick. Visitors will also get to explore the Down County Museum and have admission to the Down Cathedral and Saint Patrick Center.

With the flexibility to adjust the itinerary, guests can tailor the experience to their interests and pace. This private tour provides an intimate look into Northern Ireland’s history and culture.

Transportation and Logistics

For this private tour, round-trip transfers from central Belfast are provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The tour also includes free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise ship, allowing for seamless transportation.

Seamless transportation with free pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise ship.

For those seeking an even more luxurious experience, there’s an option to upgrade to a VIP chauffeur package in a Mercedes Benz for an additional £30.

This flexible transportation arrangement allows guests to focus on the tour’s highlights without worrying about logistics, contributing to an overall relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Exploring Saint Patrick’s Legacy

As the centerpiece of this private tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore Saint Patrick’s influential legacy across Northern Ireland.

The tour highlights several key sites associated with the patron saint, including:

1. The Down Cathedral, where Saint Patrick’s grave is located, offering a chance to pay respects at this sacred place.

2. The Down County Museum, which provides insights into Saint Patrick’s life and the early Christian history of the region.

3. The impressive 111-foot statue of Saint Patrick, the largest such monument dedicated to the saint, standing as a testament to his enduring impact.

Winterfell and the Game of Thrones Connection

While exploring Saint Patrick’s legacy, visitors on this private tour also have the opportunity to visit the iconic Winterfell, a filming location from the hit HBO series Game of Thrones.

This iconic castle was featured prominently throughout the show’s run, serving as the ancestral home of the Stark family.

Tour participants can walk the same grounds as their favorite characters, gaining a deeper appreciation for the show’s stunning visuals and immersive world.

With flexible scheduling and no crowds, this private experience offers a unique chance to step into the world of Westeros while also uncovering Northern Ireland’s rich Christian heritage.

Down Cathedral and the Saint Patrick Center

The tour also includes visits to Down Cathedral and the Saint Patrick Center, two important sites that provide deeper insight into the life and legacy of Ireland’s patron saint.

Down Cathedral is the official burial site of Saint Patrick, where visitors can pay their respects at his grave.

The Saint Patrick Center, on the other hand, is an interactive museum that explores the story of Saint Patrick through multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences.

Key highlights include:

1. Seeing the large statue of Saint Patrick outside the cathedral

2. Learning about the mythology and history surrounding Saint Patrick

3. Engaging with the multimedia displays at the Saint Patrick Center

Inch Abbey and Its Historical Significance

Inch Abbey stands as a captivating historical site along the Ards Peninsula, offering visitors a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s rich monastic past. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey’s impressive ruins evoke a sense of timelessness.

Guests can explore the remains of the church, chapter house, and cloisters, all built with the region’s characteristic grey stone. The site holds particular significance as the location where Saint Malachy, a close friend of Saint Bernard, held a synod in 1157.

Today, Inch Abbey provides a peaceful retreat to reflect on the area’s deep spiritual heritage.

Customizing Your Tour Experience

Visitors to the Private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail can customize their tour experience to suit their interests and preferences.

Visitors to the Private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail can customize their tour experience to suit their interests and preferences.

The tour offers several options to enhance the journey:

1. Extend the tour duration for an additional £40 per hour, allowing more time to explore the attractions at a leisurely pace.

2. Add an entrance fee to visit Castle Ward, a Game of Thrones filming location, for those interested in experiencing the show’s iconic settings.

3. Guests are encouraged to tip their guide, who provides invaluable insights into Northern Ireland’s history and culture throughout the tour.

Booking Information and Reviews

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail, allowing guests to plan their journey with confidence.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the tour, providing flexibility.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.

Customers have praised the relaxed atmosphere and lack of crowds at the attractions, resulting in a 5.0 rating based on a single review.

Tips for the guide are encouraged to show appreciation for their expertise and personalized service throughout the day.

Common Questions

Is Food and Drinks Included in the Tour?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. The tour price covers private transportation, admission fees, and a knowledgeable guide. Guests can purchase food and drinks at their own expense during the tour stops.

Can the Tour Be Done in a Different Language?

The tour can be conducted in various languages upon request. Clients can communicate their preferred language to the tour operator, who’ll then provide a guide fluent in that language to ensure a seamless and informative experience.

Are Professional Photographs Taken During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include professional photography. However, guests are welcome to take their own photos throughout the experience to capture memorable moments. The guide can offer tips on the best vantage points for great shots.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Prices are reduced for groups of 3 or more people, providing a more cost-effective option for those traveling together. Guests should inquire about group rates when booking the tour.

Can the Tour Be Extended for More Sightseeing?

The tour can be extended for more sightseeing at an additional cost of £40 per hour, at the guide’s discretion. This provides flexibility to customize the experience and explore more of the region’s highlights.