100 Best Things to do in Ireland

Often referred to as the “Emerald Isle”, Ireland is a place of renowned natural beauty, with a rich, diverse history that can be discovered through its many ancient castles, historic towns and sea-side villages. Expect a warm welcome from the locals - whose legendary hospitality, traditional music and famous beer make this one of the most charming islands in the world. 

1. Cliffs of Moher (Liscannor)

With over 1 million visitors a year, the spectacular Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous natural beauties - rising dramatically to 120m above the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, visitors are rewarded with stunning views as far as the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara.

Wildlife is abundant here and you can find Ireland’s only mainland breeding colony of Atlantic Puffins. Take a 1-hour cruise to see these incredible birds up close, along with Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Choughs.

Ireland’s most prized national treasure, The Book of Kells is a beautifully illustrated gospel book containing four of the New Testament gospels in Latin. Dating back to around 800 AD, The Book of Kells can be seen on display in the grand Old Library of Trinity College, in the heart of Dublin.

Take the official 30-minute tour to learn about the fascinating five hundred year history of the building, delivered by students of the college.

Wild rugged seascapes, winding cliff-side roads, ancient castles and fairy lore - Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way epitomises the spirit of the Emerald Isle whether you drive, cycle or hike its 2,500km of coastal road. As the longest defined coastal touring route in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way stretches from Londonderry Derry in the north, all the way to Kinsale in the south, with many different itineraries to choose from. Plan your own epic route, or follow one of the three or four-day guides from the official website.

One of Ireland’s six national parks and encompassing around 250 square kilometres, The Burren in County Clare is home to spectacular rock formations, cliffs, caves and fascinating archeological sites - with over 2500 recorded monuments. Book a one-day hiking tour of the park’s most famous peak - Mullaghmore Mountain - to discover the unique flora and fauna native to The Burren.

Discover the history behind Ireland’s most famous beer - Guinness - at the St. James’s Gate Brewery in the heart of Dublin. From the life of founder Arthur Guinness to the ingredients that make a pint of the “black stuff” popular all over the world, a trip to the Storehouse is an essential part of a trip to the capital city. Skip the queues by joining a 75-minute connoisseur tasting session, which ends in the famous 7th floor Gravity Bar - where you can enjoy 360 degree views of Dublin.

Centred around the impressive 19^th century Glenveagh Castle, the Glenveagh National Park is the second largest in the country, stretching over 16,000 acres. With a wealth of wildlife - including red deer - the park’s many walks, hikes and gardens showcase natural Ireland at its very best. Be sure to bring along a good hiking backpack!

Book a 30 minute castle tour to hear the history of the house and the exotic walled gardens in the grounds.

Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to give those - who brave the slight vertigo-inducing position required in order to place your lips upon it - the gift of eloquence, or as they say in Ireland, the “gift of the gab”.

Opinion varies on the exact story behind the myth of the stone - with some saying that it was a gift to the Irish from Scotland in return for sending men to help King Robert the Bruce defeat the English during the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, while others claim it was brought back to Ireland during the Crusades. Whatever the history behind the legend, famous faces from all over the world have made the journey to kiss the stone - including Winston Churchill and Mick Jagger.

Book a one day tour to discover the fascinating history behind the castle, gardens and the stone.

Indulge in a little sightseeing and shopping on Dublin’s most famous street. Grafton Street not only features world-famous shops but also historical building and beautiful architecture. Now a popular spot for street performers, musicians and entertainers, examples of Grafton Street’s traditional businesses can still be found in between the high street names - including the famous Bewley’s Grafton Street Café.

Pick up a free Dublin Street map from the tourist office on Grafton Street, where the friendly staff offer advice and tips on the best hidden destinations.

Rugged mountains that sweep to sparkling lakes, woodlands packed with an abundance of wildlife and hiking trails which lead to hidden waterfalls - Killarney National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Featuring the highest mountain rage in Ireland - McGillycuddy's Reeks - and the 15th Ross Castle, the National Park is best explored by foot. The Muckross Lake Loop, which includes the impressive Torc waterfall, takes roughly 3 - 5 hours following the official trail.

Stunning scenery and fascinating history awaits at Glendalough - one of Ireland’s most beautiful locations. Home to the Monastic Site with Round Tower, the “Valley of the Two Lakes” has several challenging walks and trails for the more adventurous traveller. Join a 6-day guided walking tour to experience everything this incredible area has to offer.

Experience a true Irish pub atmosphere at Johnnie Fox's, one of the oldest pubs in Ireland. Established in 1798, the pub is famous for its traditional music sessions, storytellers, house bands, dancers and award-winning seafood kitchen. The pub is only about 30 minutes away from Dublin city centre.

The 19th century Muckross House stands on the banks of the beautiful Muckross Lake, Killarney. Visited by Queen Victoria in 1861, the house and its surrounding gardens are exceptionally well kept, but it’s the traditional farms dotted around the estate that make this a truly unique experience - transporting visitors back to rural Ireland in the 1930’s and 40’s. Take a tour of the house and then follow the map of the traditional farms to experience life in the early 20th century.

Now a busy museum, the former prison of Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin offers a fascinating look at the history of some of Ireland’s most famous revolutionaries - including the leaders of the Easter Risings. Book a 90-minute guided tour in advance to beat the crowds and experience what life was like behind bars for the prisoners held, and later executed, here.

The Iveragh Peninsula - more commonly referred to as the Ring of Kerry - is a tourist trail in County Kerry that features some of the finest driving scenery in Ireland, incredible beaches and ancient monuments. Visitors can also experience the breathtaking views by canoe or kayak - joining one of the exciting water day tours that set off from Killarney.

Holding one of the finest collections of Celtic art in Europe, the historic site at the Rock of Cashel was the former seat of the old kings of Munster - whose ancestors later handed the main fortress over to the church. There are several ancient buildings to explore, including the Romanesque chapel - said to be the best example in Ireland. Book ahead to guarantee a place on one of the 45-minute tours, ending with the stunning view of Tipperary from the rock.

The largest and most impressive example of Palladian-style houses in Ireland, Castletown was once the home of the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. The famous palace-like building was carefully restored and opened to the public in 1967, showcasing exquisite furniture, decor and artworks from the previous owners. Join one of the free 45-minute tours to learn about the history of the house and the families that once lived here.

Considered the finest beach on Ireland’s east coast, Brittas Bay in County Wicklow is a gorgeous 2 mile stretch of powdery sand, backed by large sand dunes. Home to an array of wildlife, the beach and dunes are a favourite of nearby Dubliners during the summer months. Surfers can enjoy the Irish Sea waves, or beginners can take a morning surf lesson with the local training school.

18. Portmarnock Golf Club (Dublin)

Considered the best golf course in Ireland, and often included in round-ups of the best courses in the world, Portmarnock Golf Club has a stunning scenically setting on the east coast, just 10 miles north of Dublin.

Try your hand on the link’s 27 holes - including the famous 15th hole - before relaxing in the historic club house.

Explore the beautiful gardens of Garnish (or Garinish) Island in Glengarriff Harbour, Bantry Bay. Take the 30-minute ferry from Glengarriff Pier and walk amongst the unusual plants to discover what makes these picturesque gardens world famous. Don’t forget to visit the Martello tower on the south of the island for a breathtaking view over Bantry Bay.

20. Slieve League (Carrick)

Three times higher than the peaks of the Cliffs of Moher, the mountain of Slieve League in County Donegal offers incredible walks and views - including the famous "One Man's Path" track. Take a one-day “Highlander Tour” to experience the outstanding beauty of this area with a safe and trained guide.

One of Dublin’s most popular free attractions, the beautiful Botanic Gardens are a place of peace and tranquility, set in a spectacular glass building. Home to over 20,000 types of living plants, with many more dried specimens, the garden is a horticulturalist dream. Download one of the free audio tours as your companion while you wander amongst the rare plants.

The three islands of Inis Mor, Inis Meain and Inis Oirr make up the Wild Atlantic Way’s spectacular Aran Islands - one of Ireland’s most unspoiled destinations. Similar to the landscape of the Burren, the limestone islands offer endless activities for adventure seekers but the best way to explore is by bike. Rent a mountain bike and cycle the 1 hour loop to the prehistoric hill fort of Dun Aonghasa.

Dominating the skyline, the Sugarloaf Mountain was once used as a milepost for pilgrims making their way to the monastery at Glendalough. In present times, the mountain is a popular hiking spot, with an easy 1-hour hike to the top, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Travel back in time to the 15th and 19th centuries at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park - Ireland’s most authentic medieval castle. Take a stroll around the charming village in the park, wander the colourful gardens or join one of the daily tours of the castle to find out more about the lives of the people who lived and worked here.

One of the world’s most important historic sites, Brú na Bóinne contains three passage tombs - Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth. In addition to the tombs, almost 100 other monuments have been recorded in the area, as well as some of the finest examples of megalithic art in Europe. Jump on a day-tour from Dublin to see the best of Newgrange and Knowth, and discover the Hill of Tara and the exhibitions of the visitor centre too.

Galway’s main shopping street is packed full of stores, pubs and high-street names, housed in a range of historic buildings including Lynch’s Castle - now a branch of the Allied Irish Banks. More of a townhouse than a traditional castle, the building still features an interesting and somewhat grim history - being the spot where the Lord Mayor had his own son hung for violating the law. Join one of the 90-minute walking city tours to discover the secrets of this old-world street.

Explore the stunning scenery of the narrow mountain pass of Dunloe in Killarney. This has been one of the most popular visitor spots in Ireland for decades, and with the option to see the gap by horse-drawn carriage, boat or horseback, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Book a four-hour boat and pony tour to see the best of the lakes and the gap.

The National Cathedral of Ireland, St Patrick’s in Dublin has been a holy site for over 1500 years. Gulliver’s Travels author Jonathan Swift, who was Dean of the Cathedral in the 1700’s, is buried here – alongside notable churchmen and soldiers. Join one of the 2.5 hour guided tours of the Cathedral to learn about the history of Ireland’s most famous Saint and the building that bears his name.

Just east of Glandore in County Cork, the Drombeg Stone Circle is the most famous megalithic site in Ireland. Known by the locals as the “Druid's Altar”, 17 of the recumbent stones survive - reaching up to 2-metres high. Learn the history of the pagan rituals and how the stone age people survived on a one day tour of County Cork.

County Sligo’s striking mountain offers excellent hiking and, although not confirmed through excavation, is believed to hold the Neolithic passage tomb of Queen Maeve of Connacht within its mound, thought to date back to around 3000 BC. The one-hour hike to the top is steep, but rewards climbers with wonderful views of the the Ox Mountains.

One of several ancient hill forts on the Aran Islands in County Galway, Dun Aonghasa is generally considered to be an excellent example of barbaric monuments in Europe. Perched on the cliff edge of Inishmore, the site also offers spectacular views of the entire island. Hop on a one day Aran Bus tour to see the best of this 14 acre site.

Situated on the “King’s Island” on the River Shannon in Limerick, King John’s Castle has over 800 years of fascinating history to discover. After a multi-million euro investment was completed in 2013, the castle now features interactive activities and exhibitions - including a blacksmith's forge and a medieval campaign tent in the courtyard. Book your admission ticket in advance to spend a day exploring Ireland’s most famous castle.

Over 300 years old, the star-shaped Charles Fort is associated with some of the most important moments in Ireland’s history, including the Irish Civil War and the Williamite War. Created during the reign of King Charles II, the fort occupies more than 20 acres and is best seen as part of a one day tour of Cork.

Considered the “Jewel of Ireland’s ancient East”, Newgrange is a world-famous 5200 year-old passage tomb in County Meath, north of Dublin. A World Heritage Site, Newgrange reaches

85m in diameter and 13.5m in height and is surrounded by 97 kerbstones - some of which feature incredibly well-preserved examples of megalithic engravings. Visit the The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre to secure a place on one of the 2-hour guided tours that leave at regular intervals.

Famous for being the starting point for popular Irish band The Dubliners, O’Donoghue’s Bar has a long and closely-connecting history with traditional Irish music. Well known faces of those who have played the venue cover the walls and the bar is still one of the best places to catch live sessions in the city. Visit at 9pm on weekdays or 5pm on a Saturday to hear the next big thing in Irish music.

Covering Ireland’s varied and fascinating history from the Stone to Middle Ages, the National Museum of Ireland has a range of permanent and visiting exhibitions - from ancient Irish artefacts to Bronze Age gold. The museum takes roughly one hour to visit and is best seen by following the official downloadable floorplan.

At 59m, Dunbrody Abbey is one of the longest churches in Ireland, having been built in the 13th century. It is also one of the only churches to feature a full-sized hedge maze - featuring over 1500 yew trees and pebble paths. A one-hour guided tour of the Abbey and the maze can be booked in advance or visitors are given a self-guide sheet on arrival.

Declared a European Geopark in 2001 and a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2004, Ireland’s Copper Coast is an area of outstanding natural beauty - with secret beaches and hidden coves stretching over Ireland’s southern coast in County Waterford. Request a self-tour map of the coastal route or download one of the walking trail cards to experience the best of the region.

Built in the 1840’s to guide ships into Dingle Harbour, Eask Tower is made of solid stone and sits on top of Carhoo Hill - where it stands at 600 ft above sea level. The tower was later used as a look-out post during World War II. Start from Dingle and walk the 8-mile return route for incredible views from the top.

40. Spike Island (County Cork)

Home to Fort Mitchell - a star-shaped military fort dating back to the 18th century - Spike Island lies within Cork Harbour and covers 103 acres. Used as both a defence location, as well as a prison, Spike Island was originally home to an early monastic settlement. Take the short scenic ferry from Kennedy Pier in Cobh and spend two hours touring the island.

With a complex history dating back to as early as 930, Dublin Castle has long been the centre point of the city. It was the Vikings who originally built a fortification here - taken over by the Normans during the invasion, although it was the English who built the first elements of a traditional castle. Wander around the grounds for free or book a paid-for two-hour guided tour of the State Apartments and Chapel Royal.

Stretching for over 30 miles, the Dingle Peninsula is home to a range of outdoor activities and stunning coastal scenery. Explore Mount Brandon - Ireland’s second highest mountain - and take in the view of the uninhabited Blasket Islands to the West. Take a one hour boat tour to meet area’s most popular resident - Fungie the Dingle Dolphin.

Considered one of the best covered markets in Europe, and visited by Queen Elizabeth during her 2011 State trip, the English Market in the centre of Cork has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. Built in the mid-19th century, the market is now a multicultural hub for foodies, but is still most famous for its traditional butchers and fishmongers.

Join one of the popular 30 minute tours of Dublin’s newest and most compact museum - The Little Museum of Dublin. Featuring a collection created entirely by public donation, the museum offers an intriguing look into life in the capital over the past 100 years.

An excellent example of Robinsonian-style garden design, Mount Usher is home to one of Ireland’s finest collections of trees, shrubs and flowers. A 90-minute tour by one of the garden’s expert guides is the best way to discover the unmissable sights during each different season.

The newest of the great cathedrals of Europe, The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas - most commonly referred to as simply Galway Cathedral - is the largest building in the city. Constructed on the site of an old prison, the Cathedral is now a popular tourist destination and visitors can join one of the all-day hop-on, hop-off historic tours to view this and many more of Galway’s top sites.

The impressive Kells Priory is one of the biggest and best examples of medieval structures in Ireland. Founded in 1193, the Priory has suffered much over the years - including fires that destroyed much of the original buildings on three different occasions. Book an afternoon tour to climb the tower - be warned, the stairs are not for the faint of heart!

Spread over 100 acres, just outside of the city of Cork, Fota Wildlife Park is the second most popular attraction in Ireland - drawing just under 500,000 visitors each year. From the most recent additions to the Fota family - Asian lions - to the many other breeds of animals and plants, the wildlife park is the perfect day trips for families. Download the Fota Wildlife Park Map for free before you visit or for a more hands-on experience, join a behind the scenes day-trip.

Still in near perfect condition, the stone, upside-down boat structure of Gallarus Oratory was a place of early Christian worship by local farmers and is believed to have been built sometime around the 6th century. It’s status as a holy place is known throughout the world. Book a place on the popular Archaeological Day Tour to see this and other nearby monuments.

The picturesque seaside town of Ardmore in County Waterford is the perfect place to indulge in outdoor activities. Take a hike along the cliffs, learn to surf on beautiful Ballyquin Beach or try out a stand up paddle board at the activity centre.

51. Atlantic Drive on Achill Island (Westport)

Stretching for approximately 80 miles of the County Mayo coastline, the Atlantic Drive is a stunning route, best seen by car or bike but the area also offers a fantastic range of water activities - including scuba diving. Learn to dive in one day with a Discover Scuba course

Winding up amongst the hills of Clifden Bay, the Sky Road is famous for its jaw-dropping views of the sea and the islands of Turbot and Inishturk. Cycling the 17km loop from Clifden is one of the best ways to experience all that this fascinating region has to offer.

One of the most popular rock climbing locations in Ireland, Ailladie on the coast of The Burren in County Clare has roughly 170 climb routes - ranging from 8m to 30m. The climbing is considered relatively difficult but learners can start with a Climbing Hidden Tour.

Known as the spot of a viking massacre in 928 A.D, Dunmore Cave is a fascinating series of underground chambers where visitors can discover the finest calcite formations in all of Ireland. Spend one-hour exploring this world beneath the ground.

The 14th century Barryscourt Castle is an excellent example of a traditional Irish tower house and is one of the most popular visitor spots in County Cork. Explore the beautiful Tower House Gardens - designed and laid out as they would have originally been. Join one of the free hourly tours to learn about the history of the historic Barry family home.

The charming Dingle Harbour is the perfect place to explore the surrounding coastline and history of the town - having once been a major port during the late 13th century. These days, boat trips depart daily and you can discover the local history on one of the day tours that leave at regular intervals from the harbour.

Crossing both the borders of County Cork and County Limerick, the Ballyhoura Mountains offer thrill-seekers some of the best mountain bike trails in the entire country. There are just under 100km of trails to discover, from easy 6km routes to 50km Castlepook loop.

Smaller in size than some of Ireland’s other megalithic monuments but positioned beautifully overlooking Lough Cloonee Upper and Lough Inchiquin, the stone circle at Uragh is part of the stunning Gleninchaquin Park. There are many spectacular walks and hikes within the park, including the short mapped trek to the Stones.

One of the most popular tourist sites in Dublin, Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo make for an amazing day out for all the family. With an array of wild animals and a focus on learning, visitors to the zoo can book a private guided day tour to discover everything that happens behind the scenes.

Producing unique, artisan whiskey, vodka and gin, the Dingle Distillery has been offering customers independent distilling since 2012. Get a behind the scenes look at how the distillery works on a one-hour tour - where you’ll also be invited to taste some of the drinks.

At only 7 miles long by 2 miles wide, Valentia is a small island and one of the most westernly points in Ireland. With just 600 inhabitants, it’s a charming and peaceful place to explore - especially by bike. Hire one for the day from Kerry, cycle over the bridge and be rewarded with breathtaking views.

As one of the four main passage tombs in Ireland, the Carrowmore Megalithic Complex is a popular spot for tourists visiting County Sligo. Join a seven-day tour of Ireland’s most ancient mystical locations to see the tomb and many of the other surrounding sites.

Famous for its fine coral, the Blue Flag 2014 Coral Beach is a place of unspoilt natural beauty on the Galway coast, near the village of Carraroe. Perfect for swimming and snorkelling, it is also possible to charter a yacht for the day to explore the local coastline.

A hilly green peninsula in County Louth, the Cooley area is known for its excellent range of outdoor activities - from horse riding through lush glens to hiking amongst ancient Irish monuments. Make like the locals and spend an afternoon with a fishing rod on the calm waters of Carlingford Lough.

65. Dingle Peninsula (County Kerry)

An outdoor lover’s paradise, the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry ends just beyond the town of Dingle and is thought to be the most westernly point in, not just Ireland, but Europe. Explore the Cú Chulainn trail by horseback on a 1.5 hour trek and be rewarded with stunning views.

Located in Dublin’s Tibradden Wood, Ireland’s second Zipit course allows visitors to swing through the trees and offers incredible views of the city beyond. Enjoy an afternoon spent exploring one of several different routes within the forest, or for those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the wood has many enchanting walks.

One of the most popular points on the Wild Atlantic Way, the iconic bridge at Mizen Head allows visitors to cross the gorge below and spot wildlife including seals, whales and dolphins. Follow the route on the Wild Atlantic Way map and visit the old signal station to get a glimpse into the solitary life of the lighthouse keepers of old.

68. Donegal County Museum (County Donegal)

Located in an architecturally beautiful building, the Donegal County Museum was once part of a workhouse, but now showcases a wide collection of artefacts from County Donegal through the ages - particularly from World War I. Book a place on a two-hour bus tour of Donegal to see the Museum and the town’s other places of note.

Showcasing the works of some of Ireland’s most well known and loved writers, the Dublin Writers Museum can be found in a stunning 18th century mansion. From Yeats to Wilde and Joyce - every important name in Irish literature is here. Time your visit to coincide with the lunchtime theatre and reading events.

Beginning with a small memorial after the death of a soldier in the town, the County Carlow Military Museum now holds a large collection of military memorabilia - including a large portion of objects handed over by the Irish Defence Forces. Free short tours run regularly and offer insight and personal stories on Carlow’s past.

Believed to be the origin of the wooden roof beams found in Westminster Hall, Cratloe Woods are a lovely State-owned forest next to the small village of Cratloe. Follow the one-hour trail loop to see enchanting trees, birds and more.

The beautiful walled gardens of Malahide alone are reason enough to visit the castle - containing over 5000 different species plants. Inside, discover the history of the Talbot family, dating back to as early as 1175, through one of the expert 45-minute tours of the castle.

A simple but beautifully positioned structure, on the edge of the water in Galway Bay, the 16th century Dunguaire Castle has been restored to give visitors an idea of what life would have looked like in olden times. For a special treat, book a place at one of the special banquet meals that run from April to October - where you can enjoy live entertainment and local produce.

If you want to get a real feel for what life was like for Irish prisoners at the beginning of last century, take a trip to the imposing Cork City Gaol. You can wander down the halls and explore the former cells throughout the day, or for those who like a scare, book a private one-hour evening tour to meet the ghosts of the Gaol.

The horseshoe-shaped lake of Lough Gur has played a crucial role in the lives of the Irish who have lived near its banks for thousands of years. Over 6000 years of archaeology and history have been discovered here and with many walking routes to choose from, join one of the expert-guided walking tours which set off at 11am on Sundays.

Declared a National Monument, the 12th century, Cistercian, Jerpoint Abbey is a fine example of Romanesque ruins. Guided afternoon tours are by advance booking only but include a fascinating look at the history of the church and the surrounding Jerpoint Town ruins.

Located in a beautifully restored Victorian railway station building, the Cobh Heritage Centre gives an insightful look into the lives of the Irish immigrants who travelled by sea to reach faraway lands and start new lives abroad. Visitors can also trace their own family history during their trip to find out if they have Irish roots.

Clara Bog is one of the largest raised bogs in Ireland and one of the best examples or remaining bogs in Europe. The area is home to many wild animals and birds, which can be seen on one of the private guided tours of the bog or discovered at the Clara Bog Visitor Centre.

Offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, the Rock of Dunamase is an imposing rocky outcrop that has played an important role in the history of the County Laois area for hundreds of years. It’s an easy hike from the car park to the Rock, follow the information board at the bottom of the hill.

Animal lovers can spend the day visiting, learning and helping out with the donkeys that stay at Cork’s Donkey Sanctuary and throughout the country in the sanctuary’s rehoming program. It’s free to visit and walk around the sanctuary, or alternatively, you can adopt a donkey during your trip.

Voted National Geographic’s No.3 Garden in the World, Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow stretched for over 43 acres and includes the beautiful Powerscourt Waterfall. A short 6km drive from the entrance to the Estate, the waterfall is Ireland’s highest at 121m.

The official residence of the President, Áras an Uachtaráin is also used as a venue for State occasions and has welcomed people including the Obamas and Nelson Mandela in the past. Visitors can purchase tickets for a one hour tour of the main reception rooms, based on a first come first served basis.

The two islands of Great Saltee and Little Saltee lie off the picturesque coast of County Wexford and, although uninhabited by humans, are a popular breeding area for many birds. Visitors can take a one-hour boat trip to the island, where they can spot puffins, fulmars and more.

A neo-classical mansion with beautiful 18th century gardens, Emo Court in County Laois has become a popular tourist spot, with excellent woodland walks. Follow the 4.95 km Slí na Slainte loop walk to see some ancient trees.

Officially Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head in Dublin has been serving punters since 1198. To experience the full history and atmosphere of the pub, book a spot at an “Evening of Food, Folklore and Fairies” - a 2 hours and 45 minute night of entertainment, food and storytelling.

Experience the magic of night kayaking in County Cork with a 2.5 hour Starlight Moonlight tour on Lough Hyne. Watch the stars, spot native birds and gaze at the reflection of the moon and stars in the water as you paddle.

The ancestral home of the Lords of Dunsany - and with the family still living there - Dunsany Castle in County Meath is a wonderful collection of paintings and furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Join one of the three-hour walks of the house and the garden to hear about Lord Dunsany and the history of this fine home.

Also known as Burrishoole Friary, the ruins of the abbey and surrounding cemetery are situated on the edge of a peaceful tidal estuary near Newport in County Mayo. Cycle or walk the easy “Abbey Trail” for beautiful views of the Abbey and the surrounding countryside.

An excellent example of an Irish Court Tomb, the Creevykeel Cairn dates back to neolithic times and excavations have discovered four different burials within its stones. Drive the short 1.5 - 2 km past Cliffony and follow the signs to the carpark.

Holding over 1.5 million graves, Glasnevin is a huge cemetery that offers a unique, and sometimes sombre, look at the changing trends in grave memorials over the last 200 years. Join a 1.5 hour tour of the graves to discover the names and stories behind some of the cemetery’s most visited graves.

Now a visitor attraction, the Old Jameson Distillery is the original site where Jameson Irish Whiskey was distilled until 197. To get a behind the scenes look at the process, and try a tipple or two yourself, join a guided tour of the distillery, lasting one hour.

With the type of white sand and blue waters you would expect to find somewhere in the Mediterranean, rather than Ireland, the Blue Flag Kilmurvey Beach is a popular spot on the Aran Islands. Follow the “Ring of Aran” three-hour walking trail to see the beach and panoramic views of the sea.

93. Blennerville Windmill (County Kerry)

Tralee Bay’s most iconic structure, Blennerville Windmill was a main emigration point during the Great Famine. Located within the beautiful Tralee Bay Nature Reserve, hop on-board one of the Guided Nature Boat Tours to see birds, frogs and wetland mammals.

Situated on Church Street within the city centre of Dublin, St. Michan’s Church is famous for the underground vaults, where visitors can see the mummified remains of some of Dublin’s most influential and well known families from the past three centuries. Join the Dublin Gravedigger Ghost Tour to find out more about the Church and it’s mummies.

The small, picturesque village of Moneygall in County Offaly became famous in 2011, when American President Barack Obama visited to trace his Irish ancestral routes. Follow in the President’s footsteps and visit the The Ancestral Home and see where the Kearney Family lived before emigrating to America.

Follow the enchanting and mystical Fairy Walk through Knockma Woods, where the easy circular loop will bring you to the supposed spot of the Fairy Fortress. Look out for fairy houses and other (human-made) souvenirs amongst the trail.

The strange Irish Sky Garden - designed by artist James Turrell - sits within the 163 acres of grounds at the Liss Ard Estate in County Cork. Book an overnight stay at the charming Liss Ard Hotel to see the Sky Garden for free or pay the small entry fee as a non-resident.

Often referred to as the “Hole of the Sorrows” but actually named Poulnabrone Dolmen, this neolithic portal tomb is a popular stop in County Clare. Once you’ve visited the tomb, follow the 1.5 hour Carran Turlough Loop to see more of this area of natural beauty.

Ireland’s largest East Coast island is home to a rather unexpected animal - wallabies. The furry animals are thought to have been introduced on the private island by a former owner, and you can book one of the day boat trips from Skerries to see them up close.

Experience the beauty of Rossbeigh Beach in Killarney, County Kerry, by horseback. Join a two-hour trek through the Curra Mountain before hitting the sand of Rossbeigh for an unforgettable afternoon’s ride.