Dublin to Newgrange, Monasterboice Small Group Guided Tours

Discover the captivating history of Ireland’s ancient heritage on a small group guided tour from Dublin. Venture beyond the capital to uncover the enigmatic passage tomb of Newgrange and the iconic Celtic High Crosses of Monasterboice. With an expert guide providing rich insights, this intimate journey promises a personalized immersion into Ireland’s prehistoric and early Christian past. What secrets lie waiting to be unveiled at these renowned archaeological sites?

Key Points

• Small group guided tour from Dublin to explore prehistoric sites, including Newgrange, Knowth, and the Battle of the Boyne.
• Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb, showcases intricate stone carvings and the annual winter solstice sunrise alignment.
• Knowth, known as the "Stonehenge of Ireland," features over 300 decorated kerbstones.
• The tour includes a visit to the 5th-century St. Bhuite Monastery, known for its well-preserved ruins and Celtic High Crosses.
• Transportation in a small minibus and entrance fees to Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne are included.

Tour Overview

This guided tour, titled "Dublin to Newgrange, Monasterboice Small Group Guided Tours," takes visitors on a full-day adventure from Dublin to explore the rich history and prehistoric wonders of Ireland.

The tour has a maximum group size of 16 travelers and departs at 9:00 am from the Molly Malone Statue in Dublin.

Highlights include visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bru Na Boinne, home to the ancient monuments of Newgrange and Knowth, as well as the historic Battle of the Boyne site and the 5th-century St. Bhuite Monastery with its Celtic High Crosses.

Exploring Newgrange and Knowth

The highlights of this guided tour undoubtedly center around the incredible prehistoric monuments of Newgrange and Knowth, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bru Na Boinne.

Newgrange is a 5,000-year-old passage tomb, renowned for its intricate stone carvings and the annual alignment of the winter solstice sunrise through its entrance.

Knowth, another passage tomb, features over 300 decorated kerbstones and has been described as the "Stonehenge of Ireland."

The tour offers a fascinating look into Ireland’s distant past, with guides providing engaging narratives to bring these ancient sites to life.

The Battle of the Boyne

One of the most significant historical events explored during the tour is the Battle of the Boyne.

This decisive battle took place in 1690 between the forces of King William III and King James II, and marked a turning point in the Williamite War in Ireland.

The guide provides insights into the conflict, explaining how William’s victory solidified his claim to the English, Scottish, and Irish thrones.

Visitors have the chance to walk the battlefield and learn about the strategic positioning of the armies, as well as the legacy of this pivotal moment in Irish history.

Discovering St. Bhuite Monastery

A 5th-century ecclesiastical site, St. Bhuite Monastery offers a glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian heritage.

Travelers on this tour will explore the well-preserved ruins, including the Celtic High Crosses that stand as testaments to the site’s spiritual significance.

The guide will share insights into the monastery’s history and the lives of the monks who once inhabited this peaceful enclave.

Visitors can wander the grounds, marveling at the intricate carvings and imagining the devotional activities that once took place here.

This stop on the tour provides a chance to connect with Ireland’s past and appreciate its enduring religious traditions.

Additional Stops

Along With the major highlights, this Dublin to Newgrange tour may also include visits to other notable sites along the way.

For instance, the tour may stop at the ruins of Mellifont Abbey, a significant 12th-century Cistercian monastery. Travelers may also have the opportunity to visit a local sheep farm, providing an inside look at traditional Irish agricultural practices.

These additional stops allow visitors to further enjoy Ireland’s rich history and culture, enhancing the overall tour experience.

The specific stops may vary, but the guide ensures a well-rounded exploration of the region’s most captivating landmarks.

What’s Included

The Dublin to Newgrange tour includes a range of convenient amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers are transported in a small minibus for the round-trip journey, ensuring a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation.

The tour is led by a qualified and friendly guide who provides insightful commentary on Irish folklore and history throughout the day.

Entrance fees to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne are included, allowing visitors to fully explore these prehistoric monuments.

For families, infant seats are available upon request, making the tour accessible to a wider audience.

Customer Experiences

Travelers have largely praised the organization and knowledgeable guides of the Dublin to Newgrange tour, highlighting the informative nature of the experience. Highlights for many were the visits to Newgrange and Knowth, where engaging narratives brought the ancient sites to life. However, some travelers reported last-minute cancellations and dissatisfaction with certain aspects, such as the time spent at various stops.

Planning Your Tour

First and foremost, travelers should book their Dublin to Newgrange tours well in advance to secure their preferred date and time. The tour operates daily, so availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Visitors should also consider the tour’s start time of 9:00 am and plan their transportation accordingly. While the tour includes round-trip transportation, travelers may want to arrive early to explore Dublin before the tour begins.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility concerns should inquire about accessibility options.

Since You Asked

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Vegan Dietary Requirements?

The tour can likely accommodate vegetarian or vegan dietary requirements if requested in advance. Guests should contact the tour operator to inquire about specific dietary needs and the ability to cater to them during the tour.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour does not offer customized itineraries. It follows a pre-set schedule, but travelers can discuss any special requests with the tour operator. The operator may be able to accommodate certain requests, depending on the feasibility and group size.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Time or Exploring on Our Own?

The tour doesn’t allocate dedicated time for free exploration. The itinerary is structured to maximize the guided experiences at the various historical sites. Participants can take photos and ask questions during the tour, but dedicated free time is not provided.

Does the Tour Provide Any Snacks or Refreshments During the Day?

The tour doesn’t include any snacks or refreshments. Travelers will need to bring their own food and drinks for the day’s activities. The tour focuses on providing transportation and guided visits to the historical sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Discounts for Children on This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify any age restrictions. However, it does offer discounted child tickets – children under 12 can join the tour at a reduced price. Families are welcome, and infant seats are available for transportation.

The Sum Up

This small group guided tour from Dublin to Newgrange and Monasterboice offers an immersive experience into Ireland’s ancient past. Visitors can explore the iconic Newgrange passage tomb, learn about the historic Battle of the Boyne, and discover the stunning Celtic High Crosses at the Monasterboice monastery. With a knowledgeable guide and a personalized itinerary, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s prehistoric and early Christian heritage.