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IRELAND TOURISM GUIDE

The Old Jameson Distillery
Set in the heart of Ireland's thriving capital city, Dublin, The Old Jameson Distillery captures the imagination and the spirit of Ireland! Let our expert guides lead you through the fascinating story of JAMESON, the world preferred quality whiskey. Follow the path through malting, milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling and maturing.

The journey is completed with a visit to the JAMESON Bar where you can enjoy the ultimate whiskey tasting experience.

Powerscourt Gardens and House
Powerscourt Gardens are situated 19Km(12mi) south of Dublin in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains. The gardens were begun by Richard Wingfield in the 1740s. Stretching over 45 acres they are a sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statuary and ornamental lakes together with secret hollows, rambling walks, walled gardens and over 200 variations of trees and shrubs. There is much more to the gardens than is shown on this web site, including a Japanese Garden.

5km from the formal Gardens is Ireland's Highest Waterfall tumbling 135 metres into the Dargle Valley. Powerscourt Waterfall has been a major attraction since the 1760's and has been a favourite family picnic spot for years.

It falls into a hollow cut out by ice over 10,000 years ago. The Waterfall is fed by waters from blanket bog on top of the mountains above the valley. Peat often gives the water a brown colour, and the volume of water coming down changes dramatically a couple of hours after rain.

The Waterfall area is a natural haven for Wildlife: the Chaffinch, Cuckoo, Chiffchaff, Raven and Willow Warbler can be heard, and the nesting holes of the Tree Creeper can be seen in the trunks of the giant Redwood trees near the base of the Waterfall. Ancient Oak trees stand in the valley, as do Beech, Birch and Rowan.

Castletown House
Castletown is the largest and most significant Palladian style country house in Ireland. Built c.1722 for the speaker of the Irish House of Commons, William Conolly (1622- 1729) the designs of a number of important architects were used, notably Alessandro Gailiei, Sir Edward Lovett Pearce and later Sir William Chambers. The entire estate was sold by the Conolly-Carew family in 1965 to a property developer and in 1967 the house and some parkland were purchased by the Hon. Desmond Guinness. Both Mr Guinness and subsequently the Castletown Foundation, who acquired the house in 1979, devoted considerable effort and resources to maintaining the house and restoring the principal rooms to a high standard. Castletown was transferred to state care on 1 January 1994.

Aillwee Cave
Perhaps Ireland's most famous caves, with visitors centre. You can take guided tours of the caves, and learn about the caves in the limestone rock of the Burren's karst landscape.

Craggaunowen - The Living Past
At Craggaunowen - The Living Past, we come to the arrival of the Celts in Ireland. The story is told of how they lived, farmed, hunted and died. Visitors can, for example, see a replica of a Crannog (Lake Dwelling), Ring Fort and An Iron Age Roadway a nd an outdoor cooking site. Craggaunowen Castle which was built around 1550 is also situated on the grounds. A major feature is the Brendan Boat built by Tim Severin who sailed from Ireland to Greenland, re-enacting the voyage of St.Brendan, reputed to have discovered America centuries before Columbus. See animals such as Soay sheep, wild boar, Jacob sheep and Kerry Cattle.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Bunratty Castle was built in 1425 by the MacNamaras and then passed to the O'Briens who were Earl of Thomond. The Castle is furnished with mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings. Medieval Banquets are held in the Castle year round, subject to demand. Bu nratty folk park recreates rural and urban life in 19th century Ireland. Visitors can for example view farmhouses of various economic backgrounds, a watermill, church and village street. A new Irish show, Style-Stories of Irish Dance is held in the Folk Park from April to October. The walled garden at 19th century Bunratty House has been sensitively restored and the folk park vernacular gardens have been restored with the assistance of an ERDF grant through the Great Gardens.

King John's Castle
The Castle was built between 1200 and 1210 and was repaired and extended many time in the following centuries. The visitors centre at the Castle contains an imaginative historical exhibition which tells the story of the Castle. Archaeological excavations have revealed Pre-Norman settlements and evidence from the traumatic siege of 1642. The courtyard and castle display some of the trades and traditions of the 16th century with the aid of costumed characters. The castle offers panoramic views of Limerick city and the surrounding countryside.

Swiss Cottage
A delightful cottage orn?built in the early 1800s by Richard Butler, 1st Earl of Glengall to a design by the famous Regency architect John Nash. Its interior contains a graceful spiral staircase and some elegantly decorated rooms. The wallpaper in the Salon manufactured by the Dufour factory is one of the first commercially produced Parisian wallpapers.

Situated on an elevated site with access by stone steps. Please note that this is a very busy site and visitors may experience a delay during the Summer months.

Rock of Cashel
A spectacular group of Medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale including the 12th century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral. Attractions include an audio-visual show and exhibitions. Access for visitors with disabilities by prior arrangement. Guided tours available by request.

Emo Court
A house surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland which were first laid out in the 18th century and contain formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks with many very fine trees and shrubs.

Hill of Tara
This ancient site, and one of Ireland's premier attractions, was the symbolic seat of Ireland High Kings until the 11th century. Ring forts can be seen but unfortunately some were damaged by English searching for the Ark of the Covenant.

Newgrange/Bruna Boinne
Newgrange is undoubtedly one of Ireland most significant and most spectacular passage-grave (a passage tomb covered by a large mound). It dates from 3000BC. It has also the special quality in that on every 21 December the sun shines directly through it.

Muckross House and Gardens
Within Killarney National Park is Muckross House, a magnificent Victorian mansion and one of Ireland s leading stately homes. The elegantly furnished rooms portray the lifestyles of the landed gentry, while downstairs in the basement one can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the House. The Gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty. In particular they are noted for their fine collections of azaleas and rhododendrons, an extensive water garden, and an outstanding rock garden hewn out of natural limestone. Muckross House is also home to a number of skilled craft workers who can be viewed using traditional skills in the crafts of weaving, bookbinding and pottery. Access for visitors with disabilities to basement and ground floor.

Irish National Stud, Japanese Gardens and St Fiachras Garden
The Irish National Stud is set amid 958 acres of land. Part of this land is open to visitors, offering guided tours showing Vintage crop, Danolie and the Irish Horse Museum. The Japanese Gardens are situated in the grounds of the Stud Farm and are artistic, horticultural, religious, philosophical & historical. St. Fiachra Gardens was built to celebrate the Millennium. It features woodland walks, Monastic cells and a Waterford Crystal Garden.

Botanic Gardens
The rose garden and herbaceous borders were established in 1920. Construction of the Palm House began in 1839, and the Tropical Ravine, or Fernery, completed in 1889, is a fine example of horticultural Victoriana. The plants grow in a sunken glen overlooked by a balcony. Wheelchair access. [spam word detected] always to gardens. Closes for lunch.

The Blasket Centre
The Blasket Centre in Dún Chaoin, on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula, celebrates the story of the Blasket Islanders, the unique literary achievements of the island writers and their native language, culture and tradition. Sadly the Great Blasket was abandoned in 1953 as a result of the decline of its once vibrant population. Beidh céad míle fáilte romhat in Ionad an Bhlascaoid. Centre is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.

Glenveagh National Park and Castle
Some 16,540 hectares of mountains, lakes, glens and woods, with a herd of red deer. A Scottish style castle is surrounded by one of the finest gardens in Ireland, which contrast with the rugged surroundings.

Lockes Distillery
Lockes Distillery was licensed in 1757 and produced whiskey for over 200 years. Now open as a museum, it is the only sample left in Ireland of a typical small pot distillery.

Lissadell House
"That old Georgian mansion" in the words of W.B. Yeats. A fine example of Greek revival architecture owned by the Gore-Booth family. It was built 1833 by architect Francis Goodwin for Robert Gore Booth and his family.

To preserve the simple classical design there are no outbuildings near the house and no attic.

Rooms in the house on view include the Bow Room, the Drawing Room, the Gallery, the Anteroom, the Imperial Staircase, the Billiard Room, and the First Floor West Rooms which are devoted to the works of the poet William Butler Yeats and his brother, the painter Jack Butler Yeats.

Clonmacnoise
An early Christian site established by Saint Ciaran, in the 6th century on the banks of the River Shannon. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, eight churches, two round towers, three high crosses and a large collection of early Christian grave slabs. The original high crosses and grave slabs are on display in the Visitor Centre. There is an audio-visual show as well as a number of exhibitions. Access for people with disabilities to Visitor Centre. Please note that this is a very busy site and visitors may experience a delay during the summer.

Russborough House
Russborough was built for Joseph Leeson, later Earl of Milltown. Building began in 1741 and took ten years to complete. The architect was Richard Castle (Cassells). The house is built of granite and is in the Palladian style. Important features in the hou se include stucco ceilings by the Lafranchini brothers, marble mantelpieces, inlaid floors and lavish use of mahogany in doors, dados and staircase. The house which is beautifully maintained also contains fine displays of silver, bronze, procelain and f ine furniture.
By prior arrangement it may be possible to open the house on any day at any time from April to the end of October.

Wicklow Mountains National Park
The Wicklow Mountains National Park is among Ireland's finest and boast some of the country's most beautiful scenery. It encompasses 20,000 hectares of bogs, mountains, valleys, rivers, streams, lakes as well as plant and animal life.

Giant's Causeway
This geological phenomenon renowned for its columns of layered basalt is a world heritage site and a fabulous day visit from Belfast (1 and a half hours drive). Owned by the conservation charity The National Trust, it sits in an area of outstanding natur al beauty on the North Antrim Coast. Stones and north Antrim Coastal Path: Open all year

Wexford Heritage Centre
The prehistoric Celtic settlement of Loch Garman linked with the 9th century Viking settlement to form what is now Wexford. The present day narrow main street formed the market trail between the two communities. In the 12th and 13th centuries the the Normans stretched the town walls along the banks of the river Slaney and encompassed the, by then, unified township. One of the gates built at the time was the Westgate which, sensitively restored, is now a splendid heritage centre telling the town's dramatic st ory. A visit to the National Heritage Park is a must when visiting Wexford.

Lismore Castle and Gardens
The castle was built by King John in the 13th century. It was subsequently acquired by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1589 and since 1753 has been the home of the Dukes of Devonshire who reside there for five to six weeks per annum. For the remainder of the year, the fully staffed castle caters for small business conferences, holiday parties of up to 16 guests and is a particular favourite for large family gatherings. Leisure facilities include a golf course, salmon, brown and sea trout fishing and tennis. The staff including a butler and cook, provide a level of service associated with a more genteel era.

Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre
Once known as the the "Belleek Pottery Works Company" it first conducted business back as early as 1857 manufacturing heavy earthenware and has progressed over the years to become the highly acclaimed creator of fine Parian china which is known the world around.

Strokestown Park House and Famine Museum
Strokestown Park was the family home of the Pakenham Mahon family from the 1600s until 1979. The house retains virtually all of its original furnishings.

The Old Midleton Distillery
A tour of The Old Midleton Distillery is a journey through the story of Irish whiskey via an audio-visual presentation which is available in six languages. Follow the old distillery trail through mills, maltings, corn stores, stillhouse, warehouses and and kilns. View the largest pot in the world prior to sampling the renowned Jameson Whiskey in the bar. On offer too is an opportunity to become a qualified Irish Whiskey taster, with presentation of certificate. An elegant restaurant and craft shop are loc ated on the premises.

The Restaurant is closed for the Winter period, while the Craft Shop remains open.

Donegal Castle
Built by the O'Donnell chieftain in the 15th century, beside the River Eske, the castle has extensive 17th century additions by Sir Basil Brooke. The castle is furnished throughout and includes Persian rugs and French tapestries. Information panels chr onicle the history of the castle owners from the O'Donnell chieftains to the Brooke family.

Connemara National Park
Situated near Letterfrack, the Park covers some 2,000 hectares (4942 acres) of scenic countryside, rich in wildlife on the slopes of the Twelve Bens. Attractions include exhibitions, nature trails, audio-visual show. In addition there is a summer programme of walks, talks and special events for younger visitors.

Dublin Castle
Built between 1208 and 1220, this complex represents some of the oldest surviving architecture in the city, and was the centre of English power in Ireland for over seven centuries until it was taken of by the Irish Free State in 1922.

Glendalough
"The Glen of the Two Lakes" - A must in any visitors itinerary. This early Christian settlement, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, in this beautiful valley is one of the most important of such sites in Ireland. In spite of raids by the Vikings and centuries of neglect, the monastery, with its simple and austere buildings (notably the round tower and stone churches), remains in an impressive state of preservation. It was of immense importance to Ireland's religious beliefs but its importance dwindled after being overrun by the English in 1398.

Trim Castle
Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy began construction of the castle in about 1172 but the central tower - the keep - was not completed until the 1220s. This twenty sided tower is three storeys high and was protected by by a ditch, curtain wall and moat.

Cahir Castle
Once the stronghold of the powerful Butler family, the castle retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. It is one of Ireland's largest and best preserved castles. It is situated on a rocky island on the River Suir. The castle's attractions include an excellent audio-visual show which informs visitors of all the main sites of the area. There are several exhibitions.

Jerpoint Abbey
An outstanding Cistercian abbey founded in the second half of the 12th century. The church with its Romanesque details dates from this period. In the transept chapels the visitor can see 13th and 16th century tomb sculpture. The tower and cloister date from the 15th century. The chief delight of the Abbey is the sculptured cloister arcade with unique carvings. The Visitor Centre houses an interesting exhibition.

The Mizen Head Signal Station Visitor Centre
'The Mizen Vision!' Visitor Centre in the Keeper's house and the Engine Room, the famous suspension bridge, the 99 steps and the views up the South and the West coasts, combined with the exhilaration and excitement of the wild atlantic waves and ancient tortured rocks, guarantee a unique and authentic experience. in any weather the Magic of the Mizen is spellbinding.

Kilmainham Gaol
Built in 1792 it is Ireland most famous disused prison. It held throughout the years many famous Nationalists and Republicans in members of the Society of United Irishmen (1798), Young Irelanders (c1840s), Fenians and Land agitators, Parnell, Davitt. The leaders of the 1916 Ester Rising were executed here. The prison was closed in 1924. This building gives a good insight into the history of Irish Republicanism.

Cliffs of Moher
Just north of Lahinch, on the coast of West Clare, are the Cliffs of Moher. Natural ramparts against the might of the Atlantic, they rise in places to over 215m and stretch for almost 8km. It is here that the visitor can most easily get a feel for the wil dness of the terrain over which the Celts wandered. O'Brien's Tower, constructed in the early 19th century as a viewing point for Victorian tourists, is located on Mohers highest cliff. From its vantage point you can view the Clare coastline, the Aran Islands and mountains as far apart as Kerry and Connemara. The Cliffs can be visited daily, all year round.

Kilkenny Castle
A 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands which was the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde. Due to major restoration works, the central block now includes a library, drawing room and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendour as well as the beautiful Long Gallery. The old Castle kitchen operates as a tea room during the summer. A suite of former servants' rooms is the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art.

The Hunt Museum
The Hunt Museum has on display antiquities ranging from pre-dynastic Egypt to Irish archaeological works to fine art of the 20th Century. On display is the Antrim cross of about 800 A.D., a drawing by Picasso and the rearing horse attributed to Leonardo de Vinci. The collection is acknowledged as one of the most important private mediaeval collections in the world.

General Post Office (GPO)
Built in 1818 halfway along OConnell Street (formerly Sackville street), the GPO (right) became a symbol of the 1916 Easter Rising. Members of the Irish Volunteers and Irish Citizen Army seized the building on Easter Monday (24th of April) and Patrick Pearse read out the Proclamation of the Irish republic from its steps. The rebels remained inside for almost a week, but shelling from the British eventually forced them out. Inside the building is a sculpture of the legendary Irish warrior Cuchulainn, dedicated to those who died for their part in the Easter rising.

St. Stephen's Green
A beautiful park at the top of Grafton Street. An ideal place to rest after a days shopping in town and the lake, trees, and plants make it an ideal place to walk around.

Number Twenty Nine
Situated in the heart of Dublins fashionable Georgian streets, this is a unique museum - a restored four-story town house that reflects the lifestyle of a Dublin middle-class family during the period 1790 to 1820. The exhibition ranges from artefacts and works of art of the time, to carpets, curtains, floor coverings, decorations, paintwork, plasterwork, and bellpulls The nursery also includes dolls and toys of the era.

Bantry House and Gardens
The Hutchinson family built a mansion on the shore of Bantry Bay c 1740. The house was enlarged in 1765 by the White family. Many treasures can be viewed, extensive art collection and tapestries.

Custom House
No view of Dublins skyline is complete without a tableau of the Custom House, one of Dublins finest Georgian buildings. Designed by James Gandon and completed in 1791, it is beautifully proportioned, with a long classical facade of graceful pavilions, arcades, columns; a central dome topped by a 16 foot- statue of Commerce; and 14 keystones over the doors and windows, known as the Riverine Heads because they respect the Atlantic Ocean and the 13 principal rivers of Ireland. Although burned to a shell in 1921, this building has been masterfully restored and its bright Portland stone recently cleaned.

Guinness Storehouse
The brand new Guinness Experience, which opened in December 2000, is located in the heart of the Guinness brewery in Dublin. It is a dramatic story that begins over 250 years ago and ends in Gravity, the sky bar, with a complimentary pint of Guinness and enjoy uninterrupted 360 degrees panoramic views across Dublin City and its hinterland.

Trinity College Dublin
Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth. Trinity's lawns and cobbled quads provide a pleasant haven in the heart of the city. The Book of Kells is housed in the Old Library.

Trinity College Library - The Book of Kells
This part of the college houses 200,000 antiquarian texts, marble busts of scholars and the oldest surviving harp in Ireland as well as the Book of Kells.
Dublin Zoo
Established in 1830, this is the third-oldest zoo in the world (after London and Paris), nestled in the midst of the city's largest playground, the Phoenix Park, about 3km (2M) west of the city centre. This 12-hectare (30 acre) zoo provides a naturally landscaped habitat for more than 235 species of wild animals and tropical birds. Highlights for youngsters include the Children's Pets' Corner and a train ride around the zoo.

National Library of Ireland
This library contains a vast selection of books, manuscripts, records and maps. You may also trace your ancestors here at the Heraldic Museum in the Genealogical Office a few doors down at Nos. 2 and 3 Kildare Street.