the who tour ireland

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Niamh Rooney / September 13, 2019

Ireland and UK arena tour with full orchestra announced for spring 2020.

Tickets on sale Friday 20 September at 10am

The Who has one of the greatest rock legacies in music history, they’re one of the all-time great live bands, have sold over 100 million records world including 9 US & 10 UK top ten albums and 14 UK top ten singles in a career spanning six decades.

Now Fifty-five years after they made their first recordings, The Who is back with their first new album in thirteen years entitled WHO due for release on 22nd November 2019 and is preceded by BALL AND CHAIN , which is available on all streaming services now.

Following their triumphant return to Wembley Stadium in July, The Who will also embark on a full Irish and UK Arena Tour in March/April 2020.

THE WHO TOUR DATES:

• March 16 – Manchester Arena
• March 18 – Dublin 3 Arena
• March 21 – Newcastle Utilita Arena
• March 23 – Glasgow SSE Hydro Arena
• March 25 – Leeds First Direct Arena
• March 30 – Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
• April 1 – Birmingham Resorts World Arena
• April 3 – Nottingham Motorpoint Arena
• April 6 – Liverpool M&S Bank Arena
• April 8 – SSE Wembley Arena

Tickets go on sale Friday 20th September at 10am.

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No new dates have been issued, but the band say that they hope to play again when conditions allow.

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The Who have today (15) announced the cancellation of their UK and Ireland tour that had been scheduled for next month, after its original postponement from a year earlier. No new dates have been issued, but the band say that they hope to play again “when conditions allow.”

The band’s original tour had been planned to take place in March and April 2020. It was postponed because of coronavirus restrictions and then, within a few days, rescheduled for a year hence. Dates were due to start on March 5 in Dublin and to conclude in Manchester on March 29, incorporating an SSE Arena show at Wembley in London on the 22nd. At the time of the rearrangement, lead singer Roger Daltrey noted: “It may be the last time we do a tour of this type, so keep those tickets, as the shows will be fantastic.”

Unfortunately, The Who’s forthcoming UK and Ireland tour due March 2021 has now been cancelled. Customers can contact their point of purchase regarding refunds. https://t.co/zJLxO8DZLT pic.twitter.com/Y4i7SBBUkP ‘Oh! Darling’: The Story Behind The Beatles’ Song ‘Flashpoint’: The Rolling Stones Rock The World With ‘Undiminished Soul’ How Aerosmith Reclaimed The Rock Crown With ‘Get A Grip’ — The Who (@TheWho) February 15, 2021 ADVERTISEMENT googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display("div-gpt-ad-1654521106431-0"); });

Daltrey and Pete Townshend have now posted in a statement: “We are very sorry that we have to cancel our planned March 2021 UK and Ireland shows. Please excuse the delay but we wanted to wait as long as possible to see if we could indeed play them.

“However, as you can see the current situation makes this impossible. Thanks for all your wonderful support and we hope to see you in the future when conditions allow.” Customers can obtain refunds by contacting their ticket point of purchase.

In other Who news, a special edition of Record Collector magazine dedicated to the band, their recording history and legacy has been newly published. It features a comprehensive UK discography as well as a feature on The Who’s 100 most sought-after releases. There are also pieces on “must-own bootlegs” and the band’s history at the movies. The cover shot for the special edition is from a photo shoot done for Vogue in in 1969.

Listen to the best of The Who on Apple Music  and  Spotify .

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Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

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Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

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Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

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Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

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A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

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Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

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Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

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Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

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Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

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Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

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Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

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Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

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It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

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Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

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Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

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Black Taxi Tour Belfast

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Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

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Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

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Culloden Battlefield

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The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

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Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

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About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

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Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
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• Guinness Storehouse
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10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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THE 10 BEST Ireland Tours & Excursions

Ireland tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

2. Dublin Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse Guided Tour

3. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

4. Dublin Book of Kells, Castle and Molly Malone Statue Guided Tour

5. Dublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour

6. Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Guide and Little Museum Entry

7. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

8. Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

9. Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant's Causeway from Dublin

10. Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

11. A Unique and Fun 1 Hour city tour of Dublin

12. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

13. Guinness Storehouse Experience

14. Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

15. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

16. Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

17. 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake

18. Dublin Private Walking Tour

19. Shore Excursion From Cork: Including Blarney Castle and Kinsale

20. Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges and Belfast

21. Sustainable Dublin to Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway by Rail

22. Titanic Belfast Experience,Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin

23. Dublin Literary Pub Crawl

24. Dublin to Newgrange, Bru Na Boinne, Monasterboice Monastic Site

25. Private Tour:Ring of Kerry,Kerry Cliffs, starting in (from) Killarney

26. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

27. Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

28. Dark Dublin Guided Walking Tour

29. Connemara Day Trip Including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey from Galway

30. Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach

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Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Ireland is the land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. CIE Tours' vacations to Ireland help you experience the real Emerald Isle, whether you’re raising a pint with new Irish friends at a lively pub, following in the footsteps of your ancestors among the rolling hills and picturesque castles, or enjoying the best of Irish culture through tastings and authentic experiences. You’ll see Ireland in a whole new light.

• Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

• Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

• Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

• Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

• Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

• Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

• Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

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• Blarney Woollen Mills
• Blasket Centre
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• Bodmin Moor
• Bodnant Welsh Food Centre
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• Book of Kells
• Bosta Beach
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• British Golf Museum
• British Museum
• British Music Experience
• Brodie Castle
• Brú na Boinne Visitor Center
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• Cabra Castle
• Caernarfon Castle
• Callanish Standing Stones
• Canal Cruise
• Cardiff Bay Tour
• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Tour
• Castle Esplanade
• Castle Hill
• Castle Howard
• Castle Square
• Cathedral of St. Dude
• Cathedral of St. Vitus
• Catherine Palace & Park
• Cavern Club
• Cawdor Castle
• Charles Bridge
• Chester Cathedral
• Chester Walking Tour
• Church of St. Donat
• Churchill Barriers
• Clan Donald Centre
• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Corrib Cruise
• Crown Jewels
• Cruiser Aurora
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center
• Culross (Outlander)
• Culross Abbey
• Culross Palace
• Daliborka Tower
• Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farmhouse Visit
• Dartmoor National Park
• Derry’s Medieval Walls
• Dingle Bay Cruise
• Diocletian’s Palace
• Doge’s Palace
• Dome Cathedral
• Dominican Monastery
• Donegal Castle
• Doune Castle
• Dublin Castle
• Dubrovnik Walking Tour
• Dun Carloway Broch
• Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Dunrobin Castle
• Dunvegan Castle
• Edinburgh Castle
• Edinburgh Tour
• Eiffel Tower
• Eilean Donan Castle
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
• Evening Canal Cruise
• Falconry Exhibition
• Famous Blacksmiths Shop
• Field of Mars
• Firth of Forth
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Florence Walking Tour
• Fort Augustus
• Fort William
• Forth Bridge
• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
• Franciscan Monastery
• Fridheimar Tomato Farm
• Gavrilo Princip Museum
• Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Gediminas’ Tower
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• General Post Office Museum
• Giant’s Causeway
• Glamis Castle
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Glen Grant Distillery
• Glencoe Mountains
• Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
• Glenfiddich Distillery
• Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
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• Golden Circle
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• Goriska Brda
• Gothic-Baroque Cathedral of St. Mark
• Government Palace
• Gower Peninsula
• Grafton Street, Dublin
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• Lovespoon Workshop
• Luskentyre Beach
• Lynch’s Castle
• Machynlleth
• Malo Jezero
• Matthias Church
• Mayflower Steps
• Medieval Castle Banquet
• Mercato Centrale
• Merry Ploughboy Pub
• Mljet Island & National Park
• Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto
• Moscow University
• Mount Snowdon
• Mount Stuart House
• Nace Homestead
• Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Heritage Centre
• National Slate Museum
• Nelson’s Column
• Neolithic Tombs
• Nevsky Prospect
• Nine Glens of Antrim
• North Yorkshire Moors Railway
• Northern Lights
• Novodevichy Convent
• Old Market Square
• Old Royal Palace
• Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
• Olympic Stadium
• Orlando’s Column
• Our Lady of the Rocks
• Oxford Walking Tour
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Palace of Science and Culture
• Palace Square
• Palaces for the People
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Pembroke Castle
• Penderyn Distillery
• Peter and Paul Cathedral
• Peter and Paul Fortress
• Petrodvorets
• Piazza della Signoria
• Piccadilly Circus
• Pitlochry Pub Lunch
• Plitvice Lakes
• Politician Pub
• Poljanska Sora
• Postojna Cave
• Powerscourt House
• Prater Amusement Park
• Provand’s Lordship
• Rannoch Moor
• Rector’s Palace
• Red Deer Encounter
• Reykjavik City Tour
• Reynisfjara Beach
• Riga Castle
• Ring of Brodgar
• River Avon Cruise
• River Clyde
• River Moskva
• River Shannon
• Robba’s Fountain
• Roman baths
• Roman Forum
• Ross Castle
• Royal and Ancient Clubhouse
• Royal Castle
• Royal Castle of Hradcany
• Royal Cathedral
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• Royal Military Tattoo
• Royal Route
• Russborough House
• Russian Folklore
• Saxon Gardens
• Schiller Theater
• Schloss Charlottenburg
• Scone Palace
• Secret Lagoon
• Seine River Cruise
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Selska Sora
• Semper Opera House
• Senate Square
• Sergiev Posad
• Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Shepherd’s Museum
• Shrewsbury Walking Tour
• Skaftafell National Park
• Skofja Loka
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Skogar Folk Museum
• Slieve League Cliffs
• Smallest House in Britain
• Smolny Cathedral
• Snowdonia National Park
• South Pole Inn
• Spanish Steps
• Spean Bridge
• Speyside Distilleries
• Sponza Palace
• Square of the Five Wells
• St. Anastasia
• St. Andrews Castle
• St. Andrews Walk
• St. Anne’s Church
• St. Asaph’s Cathedral
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• St. Catherine’s Church
• St. Columba’s Cathedral
• St. David’s Cathedral
• St. Fagans Castle
• St. Fagans National Museum of History
• St. George’s Basilica
• St. Isaac’s Cathedral
• St. Isaac’s Square
• St. Jacobs Cathedral
• St. John’s Cathedral
• St. Magnus Cathedral
• St. Mark’s Church
• St. Mary’s Church
• St. Michael’s Mount
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• St. Patrick’s Grave
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• St. Peter and Paul’s Church
• St. Peter’s Church
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Step Dancing
• Stirling Castle
• Staff Picks
• Price (Low to High)
• Price (High to Low)

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Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

Discover the untamed nature and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western coast, with its spectacular ocean vistas, enchanting towns, and craftsmanship deeply rooted in tradition.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

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Taste of Ireland

Starting from $1,395

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. Taste of Ireland hits all of the "greatest hits" highlights—from Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

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Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

2024 Tours: Save $300pp - Use Code TARTAN300 2025 Tours: Save $300pp - Use Code EBD25300

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

Best of Ireland South

Starting from $1,845

Give us a week, and we'll tour the best of Ireland with you. Thrill at the amazing Cliffs of Moher and the gorgeous Dingle Peninsula on this perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. 

Starting from $2,445

Take your time on this Ireland tour, which explores the most acclaimed sights in the south and west, including the mountainous beauty of Connemara.

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Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

Ireland South Daytripper

Starting from $2,345

Turn your Irish vacation into a staycation. Set up your home base in the lovely village of Adare, then set out on day trips to see some of Ireland's top attractions. 

Irish Legends

Starting from $2,745

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites. 

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Irish Classic

Starting from $3,745

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour. 

Ireland at a glance

Euro (Sterling in Northern Ireland)

Optional 10-12% on dining

Avg.Summer Temp

Avg. winter temp, peak tourist season.

July & August

English & Irish

Must-have souvenirs

Irish whiskey

Aran sweaters

Waterford crystal

Local lingo

Craic (fun)

Banjaxed (broken)

Sláinte (cheers!)

So much beauty in one country as we travel from coast to coast…I truly was not ready to leave.

Explore your heritage

Want to visit the land of your Irish or Scottish ancestors? Enter last names from your family tree and we can guide you to tours that visit the place your family called home.

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The best of Ireland unlocked for you

Experience Ireland differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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5 million happy guests and counting

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Good morning

Maindin mhaith

Good evening

Tráthnóna maith

From exploring the rolling hills, to enjoying a pint of Guinness and listening to traditional folk music and Viking tales with the locals, Ireland welcomes you with open arms.

Enjoy Irish folk fun

Soak up Irish folk fun in a Dublin pub, where pints swing and locals sing along, and through a Galway street performance that will have you emptying your pockets into the busker's bucket. When planning a trip to Ireland, we always plan for some spontaneous craic-filled experiences.

Explore Waterford's History

Step into Ireland’s oldest city that has seen everything from Vikings to Victorians. We will discover the legacy of invaders turned settlers, tree-forged swords, towers that still stand tall and the ancient city walls that tried to keep them out.

Journey to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a natural masterpiece reserved for the best tours of Ireland. Beaten by the Atlantic for 350 million years, these unmanicured cliffs stretch as far as the eye can see. Take in the dramatic scene as wild salt wind whips around you.

Take in Connemara's 'savage beauty'

This romantic and desolate region certainly lives up to the title bestowed upon it by Oscar Wilde. Experience nature unlike anywhere else in the world when you explore the National Park, climb Ireland’s Holy Mountain or stand on the banks of Killary, the country’s largest fjord.

Walk down Grafton Street in Dublin

The energy on Dublin’s Main Street is electric. Meander freely down the road, exploring bustling cafes and shops, stopping occasionally to be wowed by street artist performance or a musician belting out a tune.

Our top 5 things to do in Ireland

Walk through the country’s oldest city and stand on the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. These are just some of the pinch me moments we’ll share with you on our trips to Ireland.

Books of Kells

See the Book of Kells on display at the Trinity College Library in Dublin. The book is a 9th century Latin manuscript that contains the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. It's the world's most famous medieval manuscript and and you'll also get to explore one of the world's most beautiful libraries.

The James Joyce Centre

The Georgian townhouse of the James Joyce Centre will deepen your understanding of one of Ireland's most celebrated writers and the Dublin that inspired him. Peruse art exhibitions, watch documentaries, see a recreation of his living quarters and let Joyce and his works come to life right in front of your eyes.

National Museum of Ireland

A museum with so much to inspire you, it spills into three separate buildings around Dublin. Stroll through their halls and admire the hoards of gold buried in Bronze Age Ireland and skeletons of the native giant elk, now extinct.

Best museums in Ireland

Ancient settlers, celebrated authors, iconic brewers. In Dublin, Trafalgar delves into Ireland’s layers of history and becomes acquainted with the people who have called it home through visits to its many museums.

Dublin coddle

Discover all the favorite ingredients of Irish cooking in one pot with tender potatoes, sausage and onions, cooked slowly in broth. As you mop up this rich and filling stew with rustic bread, you can’t help but feel content.

It’s no secret the Irish have a special place in their hearts for potatoes. This breakfast potato pancake dish is no exception. Soft, creaminess on the inside. Crisp and buttery on the outside. One plate and you'll fall in love too.

As the old saying goes, Guinness tastes better in Ireland. The beautiful dark brew is not known to travel well, making trips to Ireland incomplete without tasting it from a local tap. Better yet, head to the source and have a pint at the Dublin Storehouse.

Best food in Ireland

Ireland knows comfort. Whether it’s in a pot, on a plate or filling a pint, we'll share their national culinary treasures that will warm your heart and fill your stomach.

What to pack for Ireland

A portable charger

Entire days filled with exploration are a wonderful part of Ireland travel. Avoid the dreaded low battery by packing a portable charger so you can still capture the day with plenty of battery power on hand.

A water and windproof jacket

An umbrella won’t save you from mist, sea spray or wild Atlantic winds. Pack a water and windproof jacket and you’ll be protected from all weathers.

Waterproof shoes

Rain isn't a rarity here. Heading into the countryside you might find yourself amongst mud and puddles. Bring a pair of gumboots to really feel like a local.

Year round you are likely to need something to keep you warm in Ireland. A scarf has the added bonus of being able to protect your face if things get really chilly.

While we all like a good craic, some lively towns love weekend shenanigans with a boistrousness that can interrupt sleep. Pack a pair of earplugs to ensure you snooze soundly.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

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Czech Republic

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Netherlands

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2024 Masters: Round 3 tee times

Tee times are now available for the third round of the 2024 Masters Tournament. (Credit David Cannon/Getty)

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AUGUSTA, Ga. – Third-round tee times have been released for the Masters. Max Homa and Bryson DeChambeau will play in Saturday’s final group at 2:45 p.m. ET.

Scottie Scheffler, who’s tied for the lead with Homa and DeChambeau, will tee off 10 minutes earlier alongside Nicolai Højgaard, the Dane who was the youngest player in last year’s Ryder Cup and closed 2023 by winning the DP World Tour Championship. Scheffler is seeking his second Masters win in the last three years. He recently won his second consecutive PLAYERS Championship.

Cameron Davis, a member of the 2022 International Presidents Cup Team, will tee off alongside Collin Morikawa in the third-to-last group. They’ll be preceded by Ludvig Åberg and Matthieu Pavon, the Frenchman who won this year’s Farmers Insurance Open.

Other notable groups include:

• Tiger Woods, Tyrrell Hatton (12:45 p.m. Eastern). The five-time Masters champion Woods has set the record with his 24th consecutive made cut at Augusta National, and he now seeks a climb up the leaderboard for a chance to match Jack Nicklaus' record six green jackets come Sunday. Woods trails the lead by seven strokes into Saturday.
• Patrick Cantlay, Neal Shipley (a) (12:15 p.m.) Ohio State's Shipley has secured low amateur honors as the only of five amateurs in the field to make the cut. He'll play alongside world No. 7 Cantlay, who is still seeking his first major title. Cantlay is eight off the lead, with Shipley nine back.
• Akshay Bhatia, Shane Lowry (12:05 p.m.) Fresh off a victory at last week's Valero Texas Open that secured his first Masters berth, Bhatia kept the good times rolling with rounds of 72-75 to make the cut with three strokes to spare. He'll play alongside a popular Irishman in Lowry, also nine off the lead into the weekend.
• Sahith Theegala, Phil Mickelson (11:25 a.m.). Perhaps two of golf's most creative shotmakers and California natives, both enter the weekend at 4-over 146, trailing the lead by 10 strokes. Theegala finished ninth last year in his Masters debut; Mickelson is a three-time Masters champion.
• Joaquin Niemann, Min Woo Lee (11:05 a.m.). The effervescent Lee has quickly become one of the game's more colorful characters, and he carded 74-74 to make the cut despite a broken finger that he suffered in a gym accident less than two weeks ago. Lee and Niemann both trail the lead by 10 into Saturday.
• Rory McIlroy, Camilo Villegas (10:55 a.m.). Many eyes will be on McIlroy early Saturday, which he'll begin 10 strokes back, as he seeks to make a heroic run toward his first green jacket, which would complete the career Grand Slam. He'll play alongside a popular Colombian in Villegas, who won last fall's Butterfield Bermuda Championship to earn his first Masters berth since 2015.

Here are the full tee times for Saturday's third round:

9:35 a.m. : Rickie Fowler, Hideki Matsuyama (Japan)

9:45 a.m. : Thorbjørn Olesen (Denmark), Russell Henley

9:55 a.m. : José María Olazábal, Luke List

10:05 a.m. : Tom Kim (South Korea), Jake Knapp

10:15 a.m. : Si Woo Kim (South Korea), Adam Scott (Australia)

10:25 a.m. : Jon Rahm (Spain), Grayson Murray

10:35 a.m. : Chris Kirk, Tony Finau

10:45 a.m. : J.T. Poston, Keegan Bradley

10:55 a.m. : Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland), Camillo Villegas (Columbia)

11:05 a.m. : Joaquin Niemann (Chile), Min Woo Lee (Australia)

11:25 a.m. : Sahith Theegala, Phil Mickelson

11:35 a.m. : Adam Hadwin (Canada), Jason Day (Australia)

11:45 a.m. : Denny McCarthy, Vijay Singh (Fiji)

11:55 a.m. : Erik van Rooyen (South Africa), Will Zalatoris

12:05 p.m. : Akshay Bhatia, Shane Lowry (Ireland)

12:15 p.m. : Patrick Cantlay, Neal Shipley*

12:25 p.m. : Corey Conners (Canada), Harris English

12:35 p.m. : Brooks Koepka, Taylor Moore

12:45 p.m. : Tiger Woods, Tyrrell Hatton (England)

12:55 p.m. : Xander Schauffele, Eric Cole

1:15 p.m. : Sepp Straka (Austria), Matt Fitzpatrick (England)

1:25 p.m. : Kurt Kitayama, Lucas Glover

1:35 p.m. : Adam Schenk, Patrick Reed

1:45 p.m. : Byeong Hun An (South Korea), Cameron Smith (Australia)

1:55 p.m. : Danny Willett (England), Ryan Fox (New Zealand)

2:05 p.m. : Cameron Young, Tommy Fleetwood (England)

2:15 p.m. : Ludvig Åberg (Sweden), Matthieu Pavon (France)

2:25 p.m. : Cam Davis (Australia), Collin Morikawa

2:35 p.m. : Scottie Scheffler, Nicolai Højgaard (Denmark)

2:45 p.m. : Max Homa, Bryson DeChambeau

* Denotes amateur

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Ireland

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Ireland. There are 240 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 15 days. The month with the most departures is June, making it the most popular time to visit Ireland.

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240 fully guided tour packages in ireland with 7,916 reviews.

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

The pace was more than I anticipated. The hotel in Dingel had sub-par accommodations. The tour guide provided cheerful banter and Irish history.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

We just finished our tour of Ireland with overland and it was the trip of a lifetime. Our guide Eoin was absolutely amazing so knowledgeable charming and funny he was the unexpected bonus to our trip. I would use overland for all my travel if I could!!!!!

• Coach / Bus

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

Ally was our tour guide and John our driver. Both excellent in their jobs and lovely human beings. Keeping 45 people happy and enthusiastic is no easy feat but Ally and John were masters of their craft. The hotels were great, the luggage organization exceptional and the food provided top notch. There was time at each stop to allow everyone to feel they could explore at a relaxed pace. We saw things that we would never have found if we were on our own. Would not hesitate to take another tour with Trafalgar.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The Irish Highlights Trafalgar Tour was excellent. The tour director and driver were great and the events and scenery were amazing. The weather was very hot and it was good that fans were available in the rooms.

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The tour went as planned. The guide was excellent. Recommendations would be to extend the time to 8 or 9 days to maximize two days in Lahinch and Galway to experience more of the culture and scenery. One night in each of the cities does not allow for to that experience.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

The trip was amazing. Our bus driver/tour guide, Lee, was fantastic. He looked after us and shared his love and knowledge of Ireland so that we grew to love it too. Nothing was too much trouble. Our accommodation was perfect and the food and pubs were better than I had I had imagined. Can't recommend it enough.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

More information needed prior to booking about amount of walking involved. E.g.walk from B&Bs to centre of city and restaurants. And from bus parking to sites visited. It was also disappointing that group was scattered between 3 or 4 B& Bs well separated making meeting up for dinner at end of day difficult

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

There really aren't proper words to describe how incredible this tour was. My wife and I returned nearly 4 months ago and we have thought and talked about this trip nearly every day. We saw so many magical, mystical, emotion-evoking things that it's hard to even comprehend. From ancient ruins where High Kings were crowned, to watching passersby while having great food and drinks at a street side cafe, to walking along a serene riverfront, to sipping tea while watching the sunset from a castle, to enjoying superb cocktails with new friends in an amazing library bar. And, that, was just the first day! Experiences like feeling gale force winds against your face, as you stand next to a lighthouse on top of rocky cliffs that plunge down into the cold North Atlantic, are followed by strolls down winding streets lined with quaint shops, before ducking into a pub to enjoy some of the best musicians, fine ales or whiskies, delicious meals, and the nicest, friendliest people in the world. The accommodations were perfect and allowed us to get a good night's rest everywhere we went. And, the included breakfasts were sublime and filling, which was needed for days full of activities. Activities like walking through morning fog so thick that you could barely see your outstretched hand, before the fog began to lift and we were treated to the breathtaking views from the Cliffs of Moher along with the sounds of buskers playing the uilleann pipes. Just to start the day. We trekked through lush forests to see pristine waterfalls, lochs, mansions, and the haunting Muckross Abbey, believed to have inspired Irish author Bram Stoker in his writing of Dracula! We traveled the scenic Ring of Kerry, visited Molly Gallivans to learn about the history of weaving woolen sweaters and their importantly identifiable patterns, and even sample some locally made honey mead and poitin (Irish moonshine)! We walked barefoot on beaches, saw Clydesdale horses, sang songs, shared stories, and had the most amazing time. If you're a Star Wars fan reading this review, then I haven't even told you the best part. While some members of our group chose to stay on land and tour Valentia Island, we took a small boat, optional tour, out to the Skellig Islands (you know, where Rey and Chewbacca went to find Luke Skywalker in hiding)!!! We saw thousands of endangered birds that use one of the two islands as a sanctuary, and were joined along the way by a pod of many dolphins racing with our boat and jumping out of the water all around us! Cows, sheep, horses, cows, sheep, cows, and sheep. Did I mention cows and sheep? Ireland is a relatively small country. It's only 175 miles wide and 300 miles long. It has a population of 5 million people. It also has 5.5 million sheep and over 7 million cows. Wow! I haven't even mentioned Galway, Clonmacnoise, Puck the Goat King, the Charlie Chaplin statue, the Ford Model T statue, the scenic towns of Dingle and Lahinch, many more lighthouses, and so much more! All along the way, we learned a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country from our fantastic tour guides, Andy and Diarmuid. You guys ROCK! We can't wait to visit again!!!

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

Fantastic tour. Gregg looked after needs, worked tirelessly and ensured that all important points and places were covered. Great personality, very personable, knowledgeable and outgoing.

Introduction to Ireland

Our tour guide was Tiarnan....he was excellent and had a wealth of knowledge. I would definitely go with Globus again!! :)

Emerald Isle

Just returned from a 10 day "Emerald Isle" tour of Ireland and had a terrific experience. Our Tour Director Paul Barton added so much to the tour by telling us all about the various sites we passed by on our tour. His organization skills were great and his levity was just what the tour group needed to cause people to relax and enjoy themselves. The knowledge that he imparted to us about the history of the island and the Irish people really enhanced the tour. I simply can't say enough good things about Paul. Several of the OLD hotel rooms were less than enjoyable, however. The air line reservations were abominable with a 6+ hour layover in Newark before flying to Dublin. The coach driver (Shawn Kingston) was very professional and helpful. And his driving skills were phenomenal. I would definitely travel with those 2 again.

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

Gregg was by far our best tour guide we have ever had. He is extremely knowledgeable, kind and thoughtful. He is also entertaining and fun. My wife and I highly recommend Gregg for any tour experience.

The Best Of Ireland

The communication/paperwork could use a little fine tuning, but overall the value was definitely there. This tour brings you through absolutely spectacular areas of Ireland, with enough downtime to not feel too rushed. The hotels/food was nicer than we expected for the price.

5-Day Escape to the South West Small-Group Tour from Dublin

Great Tour!! This was a last minute booking for us so I didn’t have a lot of time to research. That was not a problem at all. The tour had so many great stops at very interesting and beautiful places. Our guide Marcus was Excellent! The perfect combination of history and humor. Our accommodations were very nice and we really appreciated being in the same location for the last three nights. I think this tour gave a nice mix of the famous spots you expect to see such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Blarney Stone and the out of the way stops like local pubs, Star Wars filming locations and very old whiskey distilleries. The coach we travelled in was comfortable with plenty of room. All around fabulous tour!

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Ireland

Exceeded my expectations. Culture, landscapes, language, history, activities…so much in just a week. Accommodations were very comfortable, food was delicious and plentiful, people were welcoming and generous. Our guide (Pat O’Mara) made the entir3 experience an absolute joy. He was knowledgeable, told stories and histories in a folksy and humorous tone. He was competent, flexible, and inspired with a clear love of his own country that made us love it too.

Mike was amazing! We had such a great group of people, Mike was so full of knowledge about the history and culture of Ireland, and it was so laid back. We got to explore each destination at a leisurely pace and enjoyed most evenings checking out the local bars. Highly recommend!

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

Regions in Ireland

• Southern Ireland (163)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (150)
• Munster (62)
• Ring of Kerry (31)
• Connemara National Park (8)
• Leinster (6)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Brian Kehew's Backstage Blog

24 Jul 2023

The Who Hits Back! Tour: St. Helens, Friday 21 July 2023

And yet another bus ride: A journey through the countryside from wherever we were ( Ed: Durham, Brian ) to St. Helens. We hear the charming Scouse-like accents all around us, and it definitely feels like The North: St. Helens is Liverpool-adjacent, so we’re right near that great city, but not in it. This town is a longtime center for glassware, always has and always will be: I see lots and lots of huge buildings with smokestacks still churning out glass products of all kinds. Today, we’re just down the road in a new-ish stadium. The home of the St. Helens Rugby Football Club (the 2022 Champions!), in their oddly-named Totally Wicked Stadium? It turns out, Totally Wicked is simply a branding thing, named after a company that sells smoking and vaping products.

The backstage and dressing rooms etc are pretty nice, the modern facilities help make the day a little better. It’s a step-up from where we’ve been, with less dirt and mud, but there IS some since it’s still raining on us everyday! We’re mostly loaded in when it starts coming down, and we suddenly realise our “tent stage” isn’t fully waterproof: It’s coming down a lot in places, others just a drizzle – but that’s no good for orchestral instruments and sheet music pages, for example! Something needs to happen. Luckily, the staging team (not our traveling crew but the local staff on-site) has two young guys without a fear of heights. They strap on harnesses and lift themselves to the top of the massive stage, and climb above to tape and glue all the spots we think are leaking. Hard to say if it’s working until we can test it – probably during the show. One of the guys says this is no big deal, it’s a “smaller stage” (of about 55 feet above ground) he calls it! He says the “big ones” are Pink and Harry Stiles, for example.

Once set up, the Who crew “pushes back” which involves moving or removing most of what we’d just set up!? Yeah, the opening bands often need room, so we try to leave microphone and light cables attached and just slide/roll things backward a few feet. Our support acts today are Standin’ Man – featuring a member or two of Slydigs, the group that opened our whole UK tour a few years ago. I must say I’m impressed by their songs and show – it was pretty good and well-received by this audience of (mostly older) rockers. Then Ali Campbell’s UB40 doing what they do so well. This is such a different thing, full reggae before The Who, but the audiences know most of the tunes and sing and dance along. A nice easy-going warmup.

Our lighting designer Tom Kenny spots a leak!

Meanwhile backstage, our crew has had hours to sit and wait – not uncommon but these shows have not involved any (a) orchestra rehearsals or (b) band soundchecks. So it’s a lot less-busy and we have to occupy time any way possible. Two of our guys find empty bathtubs in the backstage locker rooms and get some needed rest. I see a man bringing in many wooden signs, brightly-painted and psychedelic-looking artifacts: They’re a bit worn, but clearly show some sort of Tommy face image. Turns out, they are remnants from some sort of carnival ride that he’d bought. He promised to donate one to the Teenage Cancer Trust if Rog and Pete would sign them; which they did today. A nice-looking souvenir, so keep an eye on the TCT auctions, if they are online.

A nice mixed-age crowd has shown up, most of them very familiar with rain, so they’re set to go. The forecast is indeed downpour – and during our show. It starts off pretty well. “Are you ready for some ‘crock and roll’ ” Pete yells out! “We use this section, selections from Tommy , to show off our talented orchestra.” It’s a good version tonight, but a little sloppy here and there. I notice the same issue as other shows; most people in the front are seated, and then behind them are thousands of people standing and having a great night! Regardless, there are thousands here, maybe 8,000 and it’s nearly double what we’ve seen at some of these smaller shows. Pete jokes about it – playing the stadiums and festivals, they realise just how many people do come out, but they also see how many more it would take to actually fill a huge place like this. The whole floor and all the sides are full and it looks like a big mass of wet people tonight.

‘The Acid Queen’ is often an interesting one, as Pete does his modern vocal version, where he doesn’t sing as much as growl, but it gives it a tough, harder edge. Roger’s the opposite – doing all the songs a lot like the record, which is truly amazing, as his voice pretty much sounds just like Roger always did. A slight warmer sound, less boyish, but the notes and muscular tone are always amazing to us. People notice – as we’re used to “legacy” bands with singers that can’t cut it anymore – and Roger is the rare exception! Toward the end of Tommy , something happens. Onstage, we’re not quite sure what, but it soon becomes apparent that The Who PA has gone off! No sound for the audience, but they’re still rocking onstage.

There’s a scramble from our sound guys, looking for what caused it. All the amp racks have dozens of power amps that drive the big speakers: they all say “Please Wait” on the front screens; how polite, during a panic moment! Nowadays, everything is digitally/computer-controlled, so they can adjust and set the equipment from an overall laptop system out in the main house. I see guys throwing tarps over the power systems in the back of the stage, but it’s not really rainy right now, so that’s not likely the issue at all. But something shut off or restarted the whole PA system. Oops.

Video courtesy of the Gazzas

At some point in ‘Listening To You’, the PA comes back on with a burst, and the whole place cheers like crazy!! But Roger and almost all the band are “on ears” – listening over earbuds, so they don’t hear what’s really happening in the room; they have their own mix. Only Pete is natural, having “wedge” speakers on the floor near him, and he hears the guitar amps normally. He stops afterward and asks the audience “What was it on the screens that made you cheer so loudly?! Was it a picture of David Beckham??” So – Pete and Rog can’t really see the screens, which sometimes show a musician or film or image that they don’t see. And Pete, despite not being “on ears” didn’t hear the change when the PA went out. So everyone onstage was confused by the loud cheer. In the audience it went from big Who to no Who to Big Who again; worth a nice cheer . . . and Simon Law (guitar tech) went out to explain to Pete.

One of our crew spots Mr. Johnny Vegas on the side of the stage; he’s a local Northern comedian who has done quite well over the years. Despite the name, he’s from here, and happy to be decked out in Who-type clothing like much of the crowd tonight.

Pete and Rog are concerned about the rain, as it’s already drizzled a bit on everyone. “Roger’s like a shaman, with the rain,” Pete explains between songs, having had past experiences where Roger appears to have some control of it?! “Turn it off, turn it off” Roger starts to chant into the microphone. “Well, it hasn’t actually started yet,” Pete notes.

Video courtesy of Transeuropa

For ‘Who Are You’, there are three women who are coming onstage: They’ve been allowed to sign the lyrics ( @concertsigners ) for that famous song, which is nice. Rog and Pete welcome them warmly, having met them before the show and organised things to happen for this. It’s a little strange, though, as the one woman faces away from the audience and signs right to the other two, like a conductor? Usually, if we have one, there’s just one. But they all work together here and it’s an interesting moment, also good to be aware and present of those with significant hearing loss, who are not often thought-about during big shows. Of course, we always support causes for the deaf; we have several of them in our band!

As I mentioned, so many people were sitting down, but some people start standing in those seated sections, trying to have a good time. Pete sees the conflict and explains “If anyone wants to stand up in front, remember that there are old-age pensioners sitting down, who have paid a lot of money for their seats!!” Roger jokes “I’ve got MY seat” and sits down right on the stage, laughing. Pete continues “I think the solution is for everyone to get up . . . C’mon, if I can do it, so can you!” As if to demonstrate, he starts right into ‘I Can’t Explain’ with full force. And basically everyone does get up – and the mood is so much improved. This is our loudest crowd to-date on this Summer tour. Maybe the rain is helping, as everyone’s having fun, nobody’s “too cool” when being rained upon. Next up is ‘My Generation’, and the crowd is so wild that Roger just lets them all sing the first verse, and he stands there and just laughs as they do. It’s a LOUD crowd, lots of fun in that moment! Then he joins in for verse 2 and the rest.

‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is, as always, another stormer; it’s perfect music for a big show and noisy crowd. Pete even starts adding sustained feedback guitar over Zak’s drum break, that anticipation of the big crash and scream – it adds something totally new, and makes the big crash-back-in all the more powerful. After ‘Behind Blue Eyes’ (which is much better tonight than it has been recently) we’re into the home stretch, the final third of the show.

Video courtesy of Tony Cooper right there in the middle of the 8,000

The darkness has finally come, with the Northern sun finally set and our light show really starting to have an impact. From the stage, we’ve seen a lot of raindrops in the spotlights, but now the mist and moist air really make the stage lights more beamy and cool-looking. It really affects how the audience sense the mood as the lights change with the music. ‘Love Reign/Rain O’er Me’ – the parallel to being rained upon never ceases to happen in shows like this, making the song that much more impactful.

Video courtesy of the Gazzas 

These English crowds really resonate with the whole Quadrophenia album and styles. It’s local history in many ways, so maybe they feel it stronger here. Plus the later Mod movement (The Jam etc) really had its foothold in the UK more so than anywhere, and it continues. So, as Pete says, the orchestral parts really work best in Quadrophenia , and it’s a big, big set until we can close strongly with ‘Baba O’Riley’.

Seriously, a bigger, louder crowd was most-welcome to lift the mood tonight. I saw dancing going on all night around the perimeters, these people know how to have fun! I think everyone basically enjoyed the show, and the PA moment only made it more unique; easily forgotten a few minutes later and an absolutely enjoyable night for us.

Onward . . .

Tonight’s Set List

With Orchestra Overture 1921 Amazing Journey Sparks The Acid Queen Pinball Wizard We’re Not Gonna Take It Who Are You Eminence Front

Band Only The Kids Are Alright You Better You Bet Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere Substitute I Can’t Explain My Generation Cry If You Want Won’t Get Fooled Again Behind Blue Eyes

With Orchestra The Real Me I’m One 5:15 The Rock Love, Reign O’er Me Baba O’Riley

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE

Welcome to the home of guinness.

If you want to truly immerse yourself in the unique history, heart and soul of Ireland’s most iconic beer, there’s only one place to go – its home. The Guinness Storehouse contains seven unforgettable floors of sights, sounds and sensations in a building that has been brewing beer for over 250 years. Hopping with entertainment, this experience takes you on an immersive experience from grain to glass. From the artful brewing process to the iconic Guinness advertisements that have become pillars of Irish culture throughout the globe, there are so many special things to see. The 9,000 year lease signed and sealed in 1759 by Arthur Guinness himself is so impressive, it’s hard to find something even more special to top it. But there is.

VISIT THE STOREHOUSE

Exceptional Restaurant Experiences At The Guinness Storehouse

Plan Your Visit To Ireland’s Biggest Visitor Experience

Buy Tickets Now

THE GRAVITY BAR

Doubled in size in 2020, it provides you with unparalleled 360-degree views over one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A high point in Dublin, Gravity Bar must be experienced to be believed. With so much to see and do on the floors beneath it, it’s also the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy your complimentary pint of Guinness.

KEEP UPDATED WITH ALL THINGS GUINNESS

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Fontaines D.C. announce huge 2024 UK and Ireland headline tour 

The dates come ahead of their upcoming album ‘Romance’

Fontaines D.C. have announced details of a huge UK and Ireland tour, set to kick off later this year. Find ticket details below.

• READ MORE: Fontaines D.C.’s daring comeback single ‘Starburster’ is their most experimental work yet

Announced today (Friday, April 19), the new dates arrive in celebration of the band’s upcoming album, ‘Romance’ .

Grian Chatten and co. shared news of their fourth LP earlier this week, dropping the pummelling new single ‘Starburster’ and confirming that it will be arriving later this August.

Produced by James Ford ( Arctic Monkeys , Foals , Depeche Mode ), the release will mark the follow-up to 2022’s acclaimed ‘ Skinty Fia ‘ and will be shared via XL Recordings. Visit here to pre-order it.

The new tour dates are set to take place across the latter half of 2024, and kick off on November 20 with an opening night at The Halls venue in Wolverhampton. From there, the tour will continue with a gig at Alexandra Palace in London two days later.

Shows in Cardiff, Plymouth, Nottingham and Manchester are lined up for the remainder of the month, and the final three shows will take place during the first week of December.

The December shows include a gig at First Direct Arena in Leeds (3), Glasgow’s OVO Hydro Arena (4), and finally, a stop at the 3Arena in Dublin on December 6.

Recommended

Support for all dates will come from Sorry , and DIIV will also be joining the Irish band for the gig at Alexandra Palace.

Tickets go on sale next Friday (April 26) at 10am and will be available here . Fans who pre-order the album by 3pm on April 23 will also have access to pre-sale tickets. Check out a full list of new tour dates below.

Fontaines D.C. upcoming UK and Ireland tour dates are:

NOVEMBER 20 – Wolverhampton – The Halls 22 – London – Alexandra Palace 24 – Cardiff – Utilita Arena 26 – Plymouth – Pavilions 27 – Nottingham – Motorpoint Arena 29 – Manchester – Aviva Studios

DECEMBER 3 – Leeds – First Direct Arena 4 – Glasgow – OVO Hydro 6 – Dublin – 3Arena

The 9-date tour through November and December will follow a summer of extensive festival shows for Fontaines D.C., which includes performances at Glastonbury , Reading & Leeds , Fuji Rock, Pukkelpop Festival, and more.

The announcement of ‘Romance’ also came with the release of lead single, ‘Starburster’ – a song inspired by frontman Grian Chatten suffering a panic attack and accompanied by a sinister and cinematic video directed by Aube Perrie ( Megan Thee Stallion , Harry Styles , The Hives ).

Reviewing the track, NME noted how the band had “taken a perfect left turn” , adding: “Leaning on the Massive Attack trip-hop noir vibes first hinted at on ‘Skinty Fia’’s title track, ‘Starburster’ is a pensive art-rock beast that fuses elements of electronica and hip-hop more akin to their fellow striking countrymen (and recent collaborators ) KNEECAP .

“Bravado meets psychedelia as the frontman says he’s ‘over harder than a turned up challenger’ and ‘the pig on the Chinese calendar’.” it added. “The video, too – a fever dream of blood, animals and a cast of misfits trying to find their way – further supports their referencing of Shygirl and Sega Bodega as key inspirations.”

Speaking about the title of the album, bassist Conor Deegan said: “We’ve always had this sense of idealism and romance. Each album gets further away from observing that through the lens of Ireland, as directly as ‘ Dogrel ‘. The second album (‘ A Hero’s Death ‘) is about that detachment, and the third is about Irishness dislocated in the diaspora. Now we look to where and what else there is to be romantic about.”

He added: “This record is about deciding what’s fantasy – the tangible world, or where you go in your mind. What represents reality more? That feels almost spiritual for us.”

Since their third album, ‘Skinty Fia’, Fontaines D.C. have also covered Nick Drake’s ‘Cello Song’ for a compilation album .

In December, the band teamed up with Massive Attack and Young Fathers to announce the release of a limited edition 12” single to support Médecins Sans Frontières in their relief efforts in Gaza. The ‘Ceasefire’ EP will arrive on June 1.

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• Fontaines D.C.
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Taking the train in Ireland - what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great if under-appreciated pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160kph (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs between €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under 5s and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conducter of the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays between 7–9am and between 4:30–6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160kph (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a "quiet carriage", (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and between 3:30–7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as Asperger’s or autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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