Ireland's Ancient East

From our base in County Wexford, this tour highlights the rich history and heritage of this lovely corner of Ireland. From the lush soft hills of the Wicklow Mountains to medieval Waterford and creative Kilkenny, this tour includes it all. Tours are based on Sunday or Monday departures.

Irish National Heritage Park • Waterford Crystal • Avoca • Wicklow Mountains • Kilkenny Castle

Day 1 Afternoon ferry crossing from South Wales.

Day 2 A full day in Waterford. Founded by Viking traders in 914, the city has an exciting medieval flavour and riverside bustle. Meet your guide for a walking tour and explore the history of the city from the Vikings to the Victorians. Free time at leisure is then followed by a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal for a factory tour. Experience the various stages of the glass making process from the moulding to glass blowing and finally sculpting and engraving.

Day 3 Begin the day in Avoca, brought to fame by the TV series Ballykissangel, and home to the Avoca Handweavers mill and visitors centre where mill tours can be arranged. Continue through the scenic Wicklow Mountains National Park to Glendalough, an area renowned for its natural beauty and for being the location of an early Christian monastic settlement.

Day 4 A full day today with an excursion to medieval Kilkenny, known as the creative heart of Ireland and home to numerous specialist crafts-people. Visit some of the studios and shops in Kilkenny Design Craft Centre and see the famous Kilkenny Castle, restored in 1830s splendour. This afternoon, step back in time at the Irish National Heritage Park, located on the banks of River Slaney. Visitors will be guided through this fantastic large outdoor museum, where actors will bring the history of Ireland to life.

Day 5 Depart hotel following an early breakfast before this morning's ferry crossing and homeward journey.

All tours are tailored to your requirements and can be adapted for travel by coach and/or air as you prefer. Occasionally itineraries change. Please see our current brochure or contact us for the latest version.

Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club, Enniscorthy

Picturesquely located along the banks of the River Slaney and on the edge of the bustling market town of Enniscorthy. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation, attractive public areas and good hospitality.

• 4 star • 100 bedrooms • Lift

• Leisure facilities

• Indoor swimming pool

• Coach parking

Your tour includes:

• Return ferry crossings

• 4 nights half board in County Wexford with:
Tea/coffee and biscuits on arrival
Porter service
Full Irish breakfast
3 course dinner with choice and tea/coffee
Music on 1 night

• Walking tour of Waterford

• Waterford Crystal Factory Tour

• Visit to Kilkenny Craft Centre

• Guided tour of Irish National Heritage Park

For a quotation, or to enquire about this tour, fill in our online form, send us an email or call us on 01432 277666.