Wild Atlantic Way Irish Music Tour

Wild Atlantic Way Irish Music Tour

We celebrate the old and new music of Ireland on our ten-day Music Tour getaway. We will explore the beauty and splendour of Ireland by day and by night we will enjoy sessions and private concerts with some of Ireland’s finest musicians. Bring your instrument and join in on the session or just relax and listen! Feb. 15th - 26th 2020

Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin Sightseeing and Welcome Reception

Stop At: DoDublin, 59 O'Connell Street Upper, Northside, Dublin, Ireland
Meet at the hotel and pick up your Hop On Hop Off tickets then take some time to explore Dublin on your own before a Welcome Reception in the hotel.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight in Dublin at a 4-star hotel.

Day 2: Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Christchurch Cathedral, Dublinia

Stop At: The Book of Kells and the Old Library Exhibition, College Green Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2 Ireland
The Book of Kells Exhibition is a must-see on the itinerary of all visitors to Dublin. Located in the heart of the city centre in Trinity College Dublin, the Exhibition displays the Book of Kells, a 9th-century manuscript that documents the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure and the world’s most famous medieval manuscript.

The Exhibition also features access to the Long Room, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, that houses 200,000 of Trinity College’s oldest books.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Dame St Dublin Castle, Dublin 2 Ireland
Dublin Castle was for 700 years the seat of British power in Ireland. Today you can still view the remains of the 13th-century structure as part of the guided tour. The present Dublin Castle dates from the mid-1700s and today is used by the Irish Government for state events such as the inauguration of the Irish President and state banquets for visiting dignitaries. Amongst the highlights are the Ladies Drawing Room, the Throne Room and St. Patricks Hall.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Christ Church Cathedral, Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Christ Church Cathedral is one of Dublin's oldest buildings, a leading visitor attraction and a place of pilgrimage for almost 1,000 years. Famous for its breathtaking beauty, magnificent architectural features and wonderful floor tiles, Christ Church is also popular as a venue and is host to many high profile concerts throughout the year. It is home to the tomb of Strongbow, leader of the Normans, who captured Dublin in 1170. The Medieval Crypt, the largest in Ireland, extends under the entire Cathedral and contains the mummified Cat and Rat, trapped in the organ in the 1860s.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Dublinia: The Heart of Viking and Medieval Dublin, St. Michael's Hill Christ Church, Dublin 8 Ireland
Dublinia is one of Dublin’s top visitor attractions with three exciting exhibitions all located at the historic crossroads of Dublin. There are three exciting exhibitions; Viking Dublin and Medieval Dublin recreate the city through life-size reconstructions, including a Viking house and a medieval fair while Death and Disease are also investigated. Finally unearth the city’s past at the new interactive History Hunters exhibition, visit an excavation site, and see medieval bugs under the microscope in the Lab. See Dublin from a new perspective and come away knowing more about its citizens throughout the ages!

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: O'Neills Pub, 2 Suffolk Street Dublin 2, Dublin Ireland
After a day immersed in Irish history and culture, we will enjoy an evening at O'Neills Pub where we will watch a live Irish music and step dancing show!
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Dublin at a 4-star hotel

Day 3: Belfast, Titanic Museum, SS Nomadic, The Dirty Onion

Stop At: Titanic Belfast, Queen's Road 1 Olympic Way, Titanic Quarter, Belfast BT3 9EP Northern Ireland
The Titanic Belfast visitor attraction extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition. Drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features you will explore the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. The journey goes beyond the aftermath of the sinking, to the discovery of the wreck and continues into the present day in the Ocean Exploration Centre.

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: SS Nomadic, Hamilton Dock Queens Road Hamilton Dock, Belfast BT3 9DT Northern Ireland
The SS Nomadic is known as Titanic's little sister. Built at the same time, by the same people, in the same Harland and Wolff shipyard as Titanic, Nomadic brought those boarding the great liner at Cherbourg to the ship. That was the start of an adventurous life, as she played a part in WW One and Two, carried many famous people to the great trans-Atlantic liners, became a floating restaurant in Paris and was saved from being scrapped by the people of Belfast. Now completely refurbished as a visitor attraction, you can walk in the footsteps of history, learn her story, and become part of the new chapter of her dramatic existence.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: The Dirty Onion, Apartment 3 54 Hill Street, Belfast BT1 2LB Northern Ireland
Live Irish music in one of Belfast's oldest buildings. This will be a night to remember at the legendary Dirty Onion!
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Belfast at a 4-star hotel

Day 4: Lough Neagh, Ulster American Folk Park, Sligo

Stop At: Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Craigavon Northern Ireland
Explore the sublime beauty of Oxford Island – a designated National Nature Reserve situated on the peninsula in the southern shores of Lough Neagh. From four miles of absorbing woodland trails to bird watching hides, unique boglands, rich wildflower strewn meadows and wildlife ponds, become immersed in the panoramic views of this stunning setting. Learn fascinating facts about the protection and enhancement of the natural environment, including local history and heritage. With an educational Discovery Centre featuring a delightful restaurant and artisan craft shop, this tranquil paradise is truly inspirational.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Ulster American Folk Park, 2 Mellon Road Castletown, Omagh BT78 5QU Northern Ireland
Immerse yourself in the story of the brave emigrants who made the journey across the Atlantic to America hundreds of years ago.

Wander through the thatched cottages and log cabins and meet costumed characters who will show you traditional crafts, tell you a few stories and maybe even share a bit of their good food.

Board a full-scale emigrant ship to experience the conditions faced by many as they set sail for a new life in America. With 30 buildings and exhibits to explore, masses of things for the kids to do, the Ulster American Folk Park is a wonderfully unique experience.
Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Thomas Connolly Sligo, 1 Markievicz Rd, Rathquarter, Sligo, Sligo Ireland
Thomas Connolly's pub was first licensed in 1861. There's a great account of Connolly's in the book The Irish Pub, by James Fennell and Turtle Bunbury. Connolly's storied past includes at least one visit from Charles Stewart Parnell during the pub's early days, plus Thomas Connolly himself becoming Mayor of Sligo in 1890 (the same year he acquired the premises). We will have a great Session here!
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Sligo at a 4-star hotel.

Day 5: The Quiet Man Museum, Cong, Ashford Castle

Stop At: The Quiet Man Museum, Main Street Co Mayo, Cong F31 TF64 Ireland
The Quiet Man Museum is a must for any Quiet Man enthusiasts. It is an exact replica of the White O’Morn cottage in the movie. Painstaking effort has ensured that all the furnishings, artefacts and costumes are authentic reproductions. The four-poster bed, the tables and chairs which Mary-Kate cherished, the thatched roof, emerald green half door and whitewashed front combine to charm all those who visit it.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Ashford Castle, Cong Ireland
The long established tradition of Afternoon Tea has been wonderfully preserved at Ashford Castle since 1868 - you’ll notice the original silver tea set displayed in the Connaught Room, which was presented to Lord and Lady Ardilaun to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in 1896. With spectacular views from the comfort of the castle’s elegant interior, take your time to savour every delicious moment.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Taaffes Pub, 19 Shop Street, Galway Ireland
Bustling and friendly, this 150-year-old cheery village pub is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. As you pass by its stone facade you can hear traditional Irish music passing through the windows. The bustling bar is well-known for its atmosphere and traditional Irish music which has been playing here for over 20 years.
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Galway.

Day 6: Galway Sightseeing Tour and Tigh Coili for Irish Music

Stop At: American House Eyre Square, Galway H91 PHK1 Ireland
Eyre Square ('An Fhaiche Mhór' in Irish) in the heart of Galway City, is officially known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. The square has a rich history dating back to medieval times when markets took place on the green in front of the town gates. In 1710, Mayor Edward Eyre officially presented the plot of land to the city. It remains a popular gathering place for visitors and natives alike and the grass areas are often packed on sunny days. There is also a playground here and seasonal markets take place throughout the year. A bust of the US President Kennedy, who was made a Freeman of the city, marks the spot where he made a speech to approximately 100,000 Galway people in 1963, on his last trip before his assassination.

Over the years, the square has undergone a number of name changes and facelifts to become the present square, which received the Irish Landscape Institute Design Award in 2007. There are a number of ornate fixtures in the park, such as the historic Browne family mansion doorway (1627) and the Quincentennial fountain (1984) which is a representation of the Galway Hooker, which is a traditional fishing boat unique to Galway.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: The Spanish Arch, Spanish Arch, Galway Ireland
Positioned on the left bank of the Corrib River, The Spanish Arch is one of Galway's historical gems, dating back to pre-medieval times.

The Spanish Arch was built in 1584 but is an extension of the 12th century Norman -built town wall, which stretched from Martin's Tower to the riverbank. It housed soldiers who kept watch and manned cannons on the roof. Constructed by Wylliam Martin, the 34th mayor of Galway, it was first known as Ceann an Bhalla ('the head of the wall') but later became known as the Spanish Arch. This misnomer is thought to be a reference to the former merchant trade with Spain and Spanish galleons, which often docked here. In medieval times, European ships carrying cargo of wine and spices sold their goods at the docks. In fact, Christopher Columbus visited in 1477.

In 1755, The Spanish Arch was partially destroyed by a tsunami. In the 1800s, the Eyre family added the Long Walk extension. Until 2006, The Spanish Arch housed the Galway City Museum, which has now moved to a new location 50 yards away behind the original museum building.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: 17 Claddagh Quay, The Claddagh, Galway, Co. Galway, H91 H2WK, Ireland
The Claddagh or 'An Cladach' meaning 'the shore', is a notable area in Galway, on the western side of the city. The Claddagh was once an ancient fishing village, dating from the fifth century. This community, most of whom sold their daily catches at market near the Spanish Arch, lived in thatched cottages. They sailed in the famous Galway Hooker boats and spoke Irish. They even had their own king, who led the fishing fleet and settled disputes in the community.

Today, the Claddagh area includes St Mary's Dominican Church, a national school and a community centre. The original village of thatched cottages were demolished in the 1930s and replaced by a council houses. The last true King of Claddagh, Martin Oliver, passed away in 1972 but the title is still used in an honorary and ceremonial context. The current king is Michael Lynskey.

Legend has it that this area was most famous for the Claddagh ring, which was created by jeweller, Richard Joyce. The story goes that he was kidnapped by pirates on his way to the West Indies and his master taught him jewellery craft. When he was released, he returned to Galway and set up his trade. The design of the ring symbolises love, friendship and loyalty and is of two clasped hands holding a crowned heart and is a popular souvenir for visitors to the city.
Duration: 1 hour

Pass By: Lynch's Castle, 40 Shop St, Galway, Co. Galway, H91 W400, Ireland
Lynch's Castle, situated between Shop Street and Abbeygate Street, which now houses the AIB bank, could easily go unnoticed. Yet it is a striking example of a medieval fortified house. The castle is four storeys high with embellished carved windows, gargoyles and ornamental mouldings and cornices. Built by the powerful Lynch family as a protection from raids, parts of the limestone building may date back to the 14th century but the bulk of it was built in the 16th century. The Lynches, of Anglo-Norman descent, were one of the powerful 14 tribes who ruled Galway.

The family was influential and feature prominently in Galway's history. In 1493 James Lynch Fitzstephen, then mayor of Galway, hanged his own son for the murder of a Spanish sailor. The Lynch coat of arms can be seen on the front of the building as well as coats of arms for Henry VII and the Fitzgerald's of Kildare. A large extension was added in 1808 and a carved doorway was added in 1933. Today, you can visit the ground floor during bank opening hours where panels explain the history and architecture of the building in detail.

Stop At: Tig Coili, 24 Mainguard Street, Galway H91 XR50 Ireland
Tigh Coili Pub in Galway City is one of the most popular bars in Galway and is famous for its traditional Irish Music sessions. Tig Coili is at the end of the main shopping street in Galway and is full of atmosphere. Tigh Coili has no TV’s or pool tables to distract you from the excellent Irish music and craic where you are likely to see well-known artists like Sharon Shannon join the session.
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Galway at a 4-star hotel

Day 7: Kinvara, Doolin, Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle

Pass By: Dunguaire Castle, Dungory East, Kinvarra, Co. Galway, Ireland
Dunguaire Castle and its history lie at the heart of Ireland’s literary revival in the early 20th century.

It was built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay. This restored 16th-century tower house sits on a rocky outcrop on the shores of Galway Bay.

Stop At: O'Connors Pub, Fisher Street, Doolin Ireland
We will enjoy lunch at the legendary Gus O'Connor's Pub in Doolin.

Several music & folklore collectors visited Doolin on different occasions to record local tunes, songs and stories. Seamus Delargy came as early as the 1920s and he was followed by three of the most famous Irish Folklore Collectors: Seamus Ennis, Ciarán MacMathuna and Breandan Breatnach. O’Connor’s Pub hosted many of these recording sessions in the 40s and 50s which were made for archive purposes but also for radio broadcasting. And thus, following the broadcast of these recordings, Doolin was literally put on the map as a hot spot for traditional music, a place where you could experience “the Pure Drop”.

When Gus & Doll O’Connor took over the pub in 1956, there weren’t many visitors to the area. But a global Folk revival peaked in Europe and America in the 1960s and music aficionados searching for the roots of Folk music started to make the journey to Doolin.

They discover an incredible wealth of traditional music indeed, but also a very warm welcome. This combination is the essence of O’Connor’s Pub and, through word of mouth, one of Ireland’s best-kept secret was unveiled.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Cliffs of Moher, Lislorkan North, Liscannor Ireland
Scenic cliffs stretching 700 feet over the rugged Atlantic coast. A short walk to O'Brien's Tower provides an excellent lookout on Ireland's beautiful western shoreline. The visitor centre hidden underneath the hillside houses an exhibition, two cafes, gift shop, toilets, first aid centre, information points and baggage store
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Bunratty West, Bunratty Ireland
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is a must on your itinerary to Ireland. This is your chance to experience a window on Ireland’s past and explore the acclaimed 15th century Bunratty Castle and the 19th century Bunratty Folk Park. Bunratty Castle Welcome to Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland. Built-in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th-century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Bunratty Folk Park Enjoy the sights, sounds tastes, scents, of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village street complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and of course McNamara’s pub! meet the village characters, sample some freshly baked bread by our resident Bean an Ti's (woman of the house) and for little visitors explore of quaint fairy village and pirate adventure playground

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet, Shannon Heritage Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty Ireland
Enjoy a night of medieval enchantment at Bunratty Castle in Ireland, with a 4-course feast fit for a king included. Be welcomed by a kilted piper as you cross over the drawbridge and into the castle. Witness a crowning before making your way to the banquet room with long oak tables, bench seating and candlelight. Listen to wonderful harp and fiddle music while you eat and drink wine, and then end the night with more medieval-themed surprises and music.

Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Bunratty

Day 8: Adare, Killarney National Park, Muckross House

Stop At: Adare Castle, Ireland
We will have a walking tour of Adare town and Adare Castle. This famous medieval castle is known for its storied history as well as its imposing architectural presence.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms, The Killarney National Park, Killarney V93 EW28 Ireland
Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms represent the focal point and nucleus of Killarney National Park. This is Ireland's oldest National Park, and it includes the world famous Lakes of Killarney, as well as the mountains and woodlands that surround them.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Killarney National Park Cork Road, Killarney Ireland
We will see the incredible beauty that is Killarney National Park as we drive through on a sightseeing tour stopping along the way for pictures.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in a 4-star hotel in Killarney

Day 9: Cork City Sightseeing Tour

Stop At: The English Market, 41 Princes Street, Cork T12 RW26 Ireland
Cork

Accommodation

Cork Bed and Breakfast

Cork Hotels

Cork Self Catering

Cork Hostels

Caravan & Camping

Places To Visit

Attractions

Cork Beaches

Cork Art Galleries

Cork Museums

Cork Racecourse

Greyhound Racing

Whats On

Cork Cinema

Cork Theatre

Cork Festivals

Cork Pubs

Cork Restaurants

Cork Nighclubs

Things To Do

Cork Golf

Cork Film Trail

Shopping

Walking

How To Get Here

Cork Car Hire

Cork Taxi

Cork Bus Service

Cork Ferry Service

Cork Trains

Cork Parking

Cork Weather

Cork Towns

Cork City See & Do

Blackrock Castle

Cork City Clocks

Cork City Bridges

City Hall

Cork Butter Museum

Cork Public Museum

Cork City Gaol

Elizabeth Fort

English Market

Fitzgerald's Park

Red Abbey

National Monument

Rory Gallagher Monument

Shandon Steeple

St Finbarrs Cathedral

University College Cork (UCC)

The English Market

Cork City

English Market

The English Market Cork has entrances on Princes Street, Patrick Street, the Grand Parade, New Market Lane and Mutton Lane. It is a covered market supplying mainly food produce, local and imported to the people of Cork, Ireland and many business through its time, such as fish, fruit, meat and vegetable.

Inside The English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

English Market

The origins of the market can be traced back to James 1st in 1610, but the present building dates from 1786. In 1980 it was destroyed by fire and was refurbished by Cork Corporation to an award-winning design by the Cork city architect T. F. MacNamara.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: The Farmgate Cafe, The English Market, Princes St, Centre, Cork, T12 NC8Y, Ireland
Perched above the English Market, The Farmgate Cafe is an amazing restaurant serving fresh foods from the market below. After lunch you will have the afternoon free to explore Cork City on your own.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Cork City at a 4-star hotel.

Day 10: Waterford, Medieval Mile, Special Musical Guest at our Farewell Reception

Stop At: House Of Waterford Crystal, The Mall X91 FXN4, Waterford Ireland
Originally founded by George and William Penrose in 1783, Waterford crystal is world-renowned for quality and beauty. Have you seen someone blow molten crystal into a vase? Check out the factory tour. Visitors are guided through the factory to see experienced craftsmen at work, creating new crystal pieces. The factory is open to tours, contact the company for details.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Medieval Mile Museum, 2 St Marys Lane, Kilkenny Ireland
The Medieval Mile is a discovery trail running through the centre of Kilkenny city linking the 13th-century St Canice’s Cathedral and the Anglo-Norman castle with much more in between.

The Medieval Mile isn’t just focused on ancient history. Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s most cosmopolitan cities, with many blooming festivals, eateries and a creative people resulting in an electric atmosphere.

The Medieval Mile Pass is the best value way to see all attractions of the Medieval Mile.

Along with free admission to attractions, the pass gives discounts in various cafes and restaurants along the mile, a free map of the Medieval mile and it is a great keepsake too!
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight in Kilkenny at a 4-star hotel.

Day 11: Goodbye and Return to Dublin

Stop At: Dublin Airport, Dublin, Ireland
We will say thank you and goodbye. Safe journey!
Duration: 30 minutes

Meals included:
• Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.