Steeped in history and culture and with amazing natural attractions, Ireland is a magical destination. Here are ten ideas for groups on the Emerald Isle.
1. Beyond the Trees
Take your itinerary to new heights at Beyond the Trees (pictured above), which is the first attraction of its kind in Ireland. Located in the 500-acre Avondale Forest Park in Wicklow, groups can embark on self-led or guided tours of the spectacular treetop walkway and viewing tower which rises 124 feet above the forest floor. There are also tours of 18th century Avondale House, the former home of barrister and keen naturalist Samuel Hayes who wrote Ireland’s first book devoted to trees.
2. Titanic Belfast
Following a £4.5 million refurbishment, Titanic Belfast has installed four themed galleries housing many artefacts.They include the violin belonging to musician Wallace Hartley who famously played on as the doomed liner sank on its maiden voyage, an original deck chair that’s one of only six left and a passenger’s pocket watch frozen in time at 1.37am when he perished in icy North Atlantic waters. The dramatic experience is the world’s largest Titanic attraction and has a dedicated group bookings advisor.
3. The Burren
In total contrast to Ireland’s rolling green countryside is the Burren, with its extraordinary moonlike landscape. A UNESCO Global Geopark, the rocky limestone terrain was formed millions of years ago and leads to the Cliffs of Moher, towering over the rugged coastline of County Clare. There is staggered coach parking for pre-booked groups and the best place to start a visit is in the eco-friendly visitor centre built into the hillside near the cliffs.
4. The Saint Patrick Centre
The life of Ireland’s patron saint, told through the voice of renowned Irish actor Ciaran Hinds, is part of a £300,000 exhibit at the Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick. From here groups can return to their coach and, accompanied by a local expert, continue on a journey to discover more about Saint Patrick. A tour takes in the first church in Ireland at Saul, where Patrick died, medieval Down Cathedral where he is buried and Down County Museum tracing the full history of the area.
5. Borris Viaduct Walk
For a scenic ramble with a difference head across the spectacular 16-arch Borris viaduct in County Carlow. With fantastic views of the Blackstairs Mountains and Mount Leinster, the viaduct is one of Ireland’s best examples of 19th century railway engineering. Originally constructed as a railway line from Bagenalstown to Wexford, passenger services ceased in 1931 and goods traffic continued until 1947. The viaduct has now been adapted for walkers and there are panels with interesting historical information about its construction.
6. Titanic Distillers
Get a taste of Ireland at Thompson Dock in the city’s Titanic Quarter. A selection of tours and tastings are on offer at the distillery and groups will hear the story of Belfast’s whiskey tradition, why it disappeared and how it has been revived. Naturally, these tours end with a tasting to premium Irish whiskey and the distillery’s award-winning Irish Vodka.
7. Trinity College
Modelled on Oxford and Cambridge universities, Trinity College Dublin was founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 and is Ireland’s oldest university. Step away from the bustle of the city centre to see ancient treasures within the scholarly walls. The most famous is the Book of Kells, a medieval illuminated religious manuscript. During a day out in Dublin it’s also a great place to take a restful break as the campus has a wide choice of cafes and restaurants.
8. Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms
Step back in time at and find out what it was like to live in rural Ireland in the 1930s and 1940s. The Muckross estate is set in beautiful Killarney National Park on the shores of one of Killarney’s three lakes. Groups can visit the grand mansion and landscaped grounds once visited by Queen Victoria and then stroll around the authentic farm buildings, including a labourer’s cottage, blacksmith’s forge and village school, meeting costumed characters and farm animals along the way.
9. Irish National Stud & Gardens
Enjoy two completely different experiences in one in Kildare. Each year over 300 foals take their first steps at the stud which is the birthplace of equine racehorse champions, and you will see them if you plan your visit between February and May. Year-round learn about the stud straight from the horse’s mouth on a behind-the-scenes tour and then visit the tranquil Japanese Gardens, the finest of their kind in Europe. Group benefits include fast-track admission and catering is also available.
10. English Market
Described by chef and TV presenter Rick Stein as the best covered market in the UK and Ireland, Cork’s English Market dates back to 1788 and takes its name from the Protestant - or English - corporation that ruled the coastal city at the time.
Open daily from Monday to Saturday, the colourful and atmospheric market is home to traders selling the best local produce including seafood, artisan bread and cheese. Pre-booked groups are welcome.
