| May 2011 saw the historic visit to Ireland of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Her visit marked the first official visit by a British Monarch to The Republic Ireland since the formation of the state. The 4 day trip was full of historic firsts and marked the maturing of the state. By all accounts both the Queen and the spritely Price Philip had a great time.
We have put together a very special Ireland Self Drive tour that will allow you to follow in their footsteps and create your own bit of history whilst on your vacation in Ireland .
Activities
Entrance to Guinness Storehouse.
Tour of Croke Park.
Entrance to the National Stud.
Entrance to the Rock of Cashel.
Guided map of places to visit in Cork.
Falconry or Archery in Dromoland Castle
Guided map of places to visit in Dublin.
Other Inclusions
Full Irish Breakfast daily
Itinerary
DAY 1 and 2: DUBLIN AND BEWLEYS HOTEL BALLSBRIDGE
Arrive in Dublin and spend your first two nights in Bewleys Hotel Ballsbridge.
CROKE PARK TOUR (Tour times 11am, 1pm and 3pm)
During her visit, Queen Elizabeth made an historic trip to Croke Park, the home of the GAA. This was a hugely symbolic event as Croke Park was the scene of the killing of 12 Irish citizens by the British Army during the War of Independence.
Your tour of the stadium will include an exciting mix of Irish sporting and cultural heritage. You will visit the players dressing rooms, walk down the famous tunnel and out into the arena itself. You will get a tour of the VIP Facilities including the corporate suites, media centre and the Players Lounge. (Duration 1hr 20mins)
GARDEN OF REMEMBERANCE
Located in the centre of Dublin at the Northern end of O’Connell Street, the Garden of Rememberance is dedicated to the memory of all “those who gave their lives in the cause of Irish Freedom”. Designed by Daithi Hanly the Garden includes a large sculpture inspired by the legend of the “Childern of Lir”. (Duration: At your Leisure, about 20 mins)
GUINNESS STOREHOUSE EXPERIENCE (Open 9am – 5pm)
As I am sure the Queen would point out, a visit to Dublin would not be complete without a stop off at the Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Storehouse brings a true Irish Legend to life. Learn the history of this great stout from its humble beginnings in innercity Dublin to being a world renowned and much loved brand. The Storehouse stretches over 7 floors with the climax being the Gravity Bar where you will learn how to pull the prefect pint but more importantly you will get to them drink the brew. (Duration: Self guided about 1hr 30mins)
IRISH NATIONAL STUD
Her Majesty the Queen’s love of all things equine is well known and it is no surprise that she included the home of “See the Stars”, one of the world’s best known racehorses. Horse racing is in the Irish blood and The Irish National Stud is a true symbol of this proud tradition. If you have ever dreamed about being the proud owner of a thoroughbred horse this will be the highlight of your tour. It’s not all about horses as the Nation Stud also includes the stunning The Japanese Gardens. The Gardens are among the finest of their type in Europe and are a delightful infusion of East meets West. (Duration: Half a day).
DAY 3 and 4: CORK and THE CLARION HOTEL
ROCK OF CASHEL
Locals will tell you that Cashel was a thriving city ever before Dublin became the main city of Ireland and the Rock of Cashel stands as a testament to this belief. Having visited the site it is easy to see why the Queen included this stop off on her itinerary.
But don’t take our (mine and the Queens’s) word for it if you check out Tripadvisor you will find such comments as “Breathtaking Beauty”, “One of the best attractions in Ireland”, “Steeped in history and easy on the eyes” and simply “Amazing”. Enough said.
THE ENGLISH MARKET
A Cork institution, The English Market has been serving the good people of Cork since 1788. The market has changed over the years and today it is renowned for its wide and varied selection of the finest foods money can buy. You will find artisan butchers alongside mouth watering confectionary stalls sandwiched in between Corks finest cheese vendors. All of this takes place in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. The English Market really is a must see when visiting Cork and I am sure that Queen filled up her shopping basket before departing from the nearby Cork Airport.
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK
University College Cork, or UCC as it is better known, has been educating the youth of Cork and the surrounds since 1845. Originally one of the three Queens colleges of Ireland UCC site on the site of the where St Finbar’s school and monastery once stood, indecently St Finbar is the patron saint of Cork. The university combines the old with the new, the original limestone buildings blend in well with the new modern facilities on campus. Another good reason to visit UCC is the Lewis Glucksman Gallery which is located at the main entrance to the University. Dr Lewis Glucksman was a successful investment banker who in later life became a renowned philanthropist.
Day 6: Dromland and Dromoland Castle
What better way to finish off your royal tour then a nights stay in one of Irelands premier castles.I know that this was not on the Queen’s itinerary but then again she does live in a castle so I can understand why she left it out. Spend your last day being pamper in luxury, stroll around the beautiful grounds of the castle and indulge in a spot of Falconry.
Since the Queen's visit to Ireland, the royal themed vacation in Ireland has become very popular with newly weds planning their honeymoon, so do talk to one of our vacation specialists for more information.
Alternatively if you were prefer to embark on a more guided tour of Ireland then contact us and find out about our escorted coach tours, group vacation packages and fantastic rates on tours with private drivers.
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