Art & History Abroad Tours
Prehistoric Ireland
Further to the huge success of our Neolithic Orkney and Beyond tour, we have constructed a new tour to look at the Neolithic period in Ireland. Following in the footsteps of Ireland’s first farmers, after a lecture from Dr David Saunders on the first evening, the tour starts with an introductory visit to the prehistory section of Dublin’s Archaeological Museum and includes visits to the Brú na Bóinne valley which includes the world-renowned Newgrange Chambered Tomb and its neighbour, some might say, the even more beautiful Knowth Chambered Tomb.
The tour then moves to Sligo on the west coast of Ireland taking in guided tours of the Hill of Tara and the Loughcrew Megalithic Cemeteries on route. After a one-night stay in Sligo, which includes a second lecture from Dr David Saunders and a 3-course dinner with wine at the hotel, the tour winds its way back to Dublin taking in a guided tour of the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery before stopping for lunch at the picturesque Carrick-on-Shannon. Previous Neolithic tours have received rave reviews from clients fascinated by the knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject shown by our expert, Dr David Saunders.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Dr David Saunders
David is a prehistorian and expert in Palaeolithic cave art, with a doctorate from the University of Buckingham. He has spent more than a decade excavating important prehistoric sites, including Blick Mead within the Stonehenge World Heritage Site.
His interests range across prehistory, with particular expertise in animal movement and the different styles and meanings of prehistoric art. David’s deep knowledge of early human expression, combined with his active archaeological experience, brings ancient landscapes, images and evidence vividly to life.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrival in Dublin and Introduction to Neolithic Ireland
Fly from London Heathrow or Birmingham to Dublin and transfer by coach for check-in to the hotel for a two night stay. Evening welcome drink at the hotel, then a lecture from Dr David Saunders, followed by a group dinner with wine.
Day 2: Dublin’s Archaeology Museum and Brú na Bóinne
Morning tour to Brú na Bóinne, Ireland’s richest archaeological landscape, and famous for the spectacular passage tombs of Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth which were built circa 3200 BC.
We take a guided tour of Newgrange. Afternoon visits to the National Museum of Ireland, and to the Dublin Archaeological Museum to view the Prehistory and Bog Bodies exhibition which features a reconstructed Passage Tomb as a backdrop to the tools, pottery, and objects belonging to Neolithic farmers.
Please note: On Day 2, the afternoon tour starts at the visitor centre, then shuttle bus to the tombs. The passage and chamber at Newgrange is low and narrow and is not be suitable for visitors with claustrophobia or mobility issues. There is no actual access to the chambers at Knowth – external view only.
Day 3: Hill of Tara, Loughcrew and Journey to Sligo
Morning visit to the Hill of Tara with a guided tour of the Hill and chambers. As well as being important since the late Stone Age, all old Irish roads lead to this critical site – it was the seat of the high kings of Ireland in the Early Christian Period. Next visit to Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery, dating to 3000 BC. Cairn T is one of the largest tombs in the complex, and features some of the most beautiful examples of Neolithic art in Ireland.
Continue on to Sligo for a one-night stay. Talk from David followed by dinner at the hotel.
Please note: On Day 3, the Cairn T visit is subject to conservation works. The climb up is very steep – visitors should wear suitable footwear and take care on uneven ground.
Day 4: Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery and Return to Dublin
Morning guided visit to Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the oldest and the densest concentration of Neolithic tombs in the country, constructed almost 6000 years ago. Drive back to Dublin via Carrick-on-Shannon. Dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
Please note: On Day 4, the tour of Carrowmore is through meadow fields and mown pathways – care should be taken in wet conditions. Sturdy walking shoes/boots are recommended. Access to the Listoghil central tomb is by stepping over the low kerbstones.
Day 5: Dublin at Leisure and Return Home
Free time in Dublin before the return flight to London or Birmingham.
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Riu Plaza The Gresham Hotel, Dublin
Elegant four-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin offering a restaurant, bar, coffee bar, fitness centre, and modern bedrooms with TV, WIFI, safe, hairdryer, iron, and tea & coffee making facilities.
Hotel Website
Riverside Hotel, Sligo
Comfortable three-star hotel located a short walk to Sligo Abbey. Enjoy stunning views from the Mill Bar & Restaurant, terrace, and cafe. The modern bedrooms include TV, telephone, iron, and tea & coffee making facilities.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a demanding fitness rating and is designed for travellers who enjoy a more active pace of exploration. While it is not a walking holiday, you should expect busy days with extended periods on your feet and visits where conditions may be more varied. These may include uneven terrain, cobbled streets, archaeological sites, steep paths, steps, stairs, limited handrails or fewer opportunities to sit and rest.
A good level of fitness and mobility will help you enjoy the full experience of the itinerary. Please read the day-by-day itinerary carefully, as we highlight specific practical details wherever possible. This may include notes about ground conditions, stairs, walking distances, coach access or sites where lifts are not available.
If you have any questions about whether this tour is suitable for you, please contact our team before booking. We are always happy to talk through the itinerary and help you make the right choice.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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