8 day tour of Irelands Ancient East

Accessible Ireland Tour Itinerary Dublin to Dublin – 8 Days / 7 Nights

Day 1 – Dublin to Kilkenny Highlights: National Stud & Japanese Gardens – The Shackleton Experience – Kilkenny City Begin your journey at the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in County Kildare, a tranquil and largely wheelchair-accessible attraction. Lunch at The Auld Shebeen, Athy, before continuing to The Shackleton Experience to explore the inspiring story of polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. Arrive in Kilkenny and check into the Pembroke Hotel, a modern, central, and wheelchair-accessible hotel.

Day 2 – Discover Kilkenny Highlights: Kilkenny City & The Medieval Mile Join local historian Brian Hogan for a private accessible walking tour of Kilkenny City and the Medieval Mile. No driver needed today — enjoy free time to browse local shops, visit the Kilkenny Design Centre, or relax in one of the many charming cafes.

Day 3 – Kilkenny to Cork Highlights: Cahir Castle – The Vee – Lismore Heritage Centre – Blackwater Distillery Depart Kilkenny with a photo stop at the Rock of Cashel (note: limited accessibility). Visit Cahir Castle, a Braveheart film location with good exterior access. Travel via the scenic Tipperary Vee to Lismore, where you’ll enjoy a virtual tour of Lismore Castle or try the Escape Room at Lismore Heritage Centre. Visit Blackwater Distillery in Ballyduff before arriving in Cork City.

Day 4 – Explore Cork: Choose Your Experience Highlights: Option 1: Cobh / Option 2: Cork Highlights / Option 3: Kinsale Coastal Tour Option 1: Take the scenic train from Cork City to Cobh, visit the Cobh Heritage Centre, and Titanic Experience. Option 2: Visit Blarney Castle (photo stop), University College Cork, and Nano Nagle Place. For families, try Blackrock Castle Observatory or Old Cork Waterworks. Option 3: Visit Kinsale and Clonakilty, including the Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance and DeBarra’s Folk Club.

Day 5 – Cork to Waterford Highlights: Kindred Spirits Memorial – Youghal Heritage Town – Copper Coast Geopark Visit the Kindred Spirits Memorial in Midleton, then explore Youghal’s heritage sites including St. Mary’s Collegiate Church. Continue along the Copper Coast Geopark before checking into the Tower Hotel in Waterford, featuring accessible rooms and pool hoist.

Day 6 – Explore Waterford Highlights: House of Waterford Crystal – Viking Triangle Museums Visit the House of Waterford Crystal to see master craftspeople at work. Explore the nearby Viking Triangle: Medieval Museum, Museum of Time, and Bishop’s Palace — all fully accessible and within minutes of your hotel.

Day 7 – Waterford to Wicklow Highlights: Dunbrody Famine Ship – Kennedy Arboretum – Johnstown Castle or Irish National Heritage Park Travel to New Ross to visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship, then continue to the Kennedy Arboretum. In the afternoon, choose between Johnstown Castle or the Irish National Heritage Park before checking into the Woodenbridge Hotel in Wicklow.

Day 8 – Wicklow to Dublin Highlights: Beyond the Trees – Glendalough or Powerscourt Gardens – Dublin Visit Beyond the Trees Avondale, an accessible treetop walk with spectacular views. Lunch at Heather Restaurant, then visit either Glendalough or Powerscourt Gardens. Conclude your journey at your Dublin hotel.