Dublin Shore Excursion

This full day Dublin shore trip enjoys a leisurely pace while visiting some of the top sights outside of Dublin including the National Botanic Gardens and the historic Malahide Castle. Also included is free time in the charming seaside town of Howth.

After meeting your guide at the pier you depart for the National Botanic Gardens. Founded by the Royal Dublin Society in 1795, the 48 acre gardens lie on the bank of the River Tolka. In the gardens you will find a series of curvilinear glasshouses dating from 1843 to 1869. These stunning examples of artistic Industrial Age design were created by Richard Turner, who also designed the Botanic Gardens in Belfast and the palm house of Kew Gardens in London. The gardens here also have a palm house, built in 1884. Among the pioneering botanical work conducted within these glass walls was the first attempt to raise orchids from seed (1844). Pampas grass and the giant lily were first grown in Europe in these gardens.

In the early afternoon you travel north of Dublin, where the coast road gives spectacular seascape views, including rocky offshore islands such as the long strip of North Bull Island and the distant Ireland's Eye. When you reach pretty seaside town of Malahide, you enjoy a tour of its famous castle. The castle is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, and a must see for most visitors. Set on 250 acres of park land the castle was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles. The estate was founded in the 12th century by the Talbot family and was occupied until 1976. The castle contains much of the original furnishings and a unique collection of Irish historical portraits owned by Lord Talbot.

Later this afternoon you'll stop in the charming seaside town of Howth. While you are here you have free time for lunch in a local pub (meal not included) After lunch you can stroll the charming town and do a little shopping before returning to the pier.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs