Ireland’s Ancient East: 6-Day Self-Drive Tour
Six days trace a remarkable concentration of Irish history: prehistoric passage tombs, early Christian monastic sites, Viking streets, Norman strongholds and the story of nineteenth-century emigration. The route begins in Dublin, reaches north to the Boyne Valley, then turns south through Wicklow to Waterford and Wexford before returning via the Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny and Carlow. Included admissions at Glendalough, the Dunbrody Famine Ship and the Rock of Cashel give the journey a strong historical spine while leaving space for independent choices.
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Six days trace a remarkable concentration of Irish history: prehistoric passage tombs, early Christian monastic sites, Viking streets, Norman strongholds and the story of nineteenth-century emigration. The route begins in Dublin, reaches north to the Boyne Valley, then turns south through Wicklow to Waterford and Wexford before returning via the Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny and Carlow. Included admissions at Glendalough, the Dunbrody Famine Ship and the Rock of Cashel give the journey a strong historical spine while leaving space for independent choices.
Tour Highlights
Why book with us
Clear arrangements and practical support from planning through to travel.
Enough structure to make the trip easy, with room to experience it your way.
Thoughtful hotels, experiences and routes chosen to create a better journey.
Itinerary
Arrive in Dublin
Begin in Dublin with time for its Georgian streets, green spaces and historic centre. Admissions to attractions such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle or St Patrick's Cathedral are optional unless added separately.
Boyne Valley
Drive north into the Boyne Valley, an area shaped by prehistoric monuments and later conflict. Brú na Bóinne and the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre are suggested independent visits and should be pre-booked where required.
Glendalough and New Ross
Turn south through the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, where included visitor-centre admission supports your exploration of the monastic landscape. Continue towards New Ross and the Waterford/Wexford area; the Dunbrody visit may be scheduled today or tomorrow.
Waterford and Wexford
Explore Waterford's Viking Quarter, the historic town of Lismore or the Hook Peninsula according to your interests. Complete the included Dunbrody Famine Ship & Emigrant Experience at the time confirmed on your voucher.
Rock of Cashel and Kilkenny
Travel west to the Rock of Cashel and enter with included admission; Cormac's Chapel is specifically excluded. Continue to medieval Kilkenny before your final night in the Kilkenny or Carlow area.
Carlow to Dublin
Return towards Dublin, with an optional pause at Brownshill Dolmen if time allows. Continue to your departure point and complete any separate vehicle-return arrangements.
Clarity before you travel.
Accommodation
Five nights are arranged in the Dublin, Waterford/Wexford and Kilkenny/Carlow areas, with hotel and B&B categories available. Breakfast is included. All named properties are examples only, and the confirmed accommodation may be within approximately 25 miles/40 kilometres of the stated base. Private B&B bathrooms may not be en suite.
Transport
Transport and getting around
This is an independent self-drive tour. Vehicle hire is not included in the supplier service list and must be confirmed separately. The route crosses the Republic of Ireland only, although optional driving choices can change the overall mileage.
Important Information
Before you book
- Brú na Bóinne is suggested but not included and normally requires timed admission.
- Cormac’s Chapel is excluded from the included Rock of Cashel admission.
- The Dunbrody visit may fall on Day 3 or Day 4; follow the confirmed voucher time.
- Family and triple rooms, children and multi-room bookings are on request; pets are not accepted under the supplier terms.
Included & Not Included
Included
- 5 nights' accommodation in the booked hotel or B&B category
- Breakfast each morning
- Admission to Glendalough Visitor Centre
- Admission to Dunbrody Famine Ship & Emigrant Experience
- Admission to the Rock of Cashel, excluding Cormac's Chapel
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