All South East Ireland Tours & Excursions in 2026

Follow in the wake of lighthouse-keepers through the centuries with admission to the Hook Lighthouse on southeast Ireland’s Hook Peninsula. Travel independently to the building — a beacon for Waterford Harbour for over 800 years — and the world’s oldest working lighthouse. Then, enjoy a tour of the medieval tower: climbing the well-trodden stairs, hearing about past keepers, and admiring panoramic views from the balcony. Includes entry to the visitor center with its exhibits, shops, and café.

Explore the culinary landscape of Kilkenny on a 2.5-hour walking tour that celebrates local flavors and artisan craftsmanship. This daytime food tour invites you to sample everything from local cheeses and artisan chocolates to traditional Irish dishes and modern culinary innovations. Guided by local experts, you’ll uncover the stories behind Kilkenny’s passionate producers and discover hidden gems throughout the city. Don't miss the chance to bring home a taste of Kilkenny and experience the richness of Irish cuisine firsthand. - 2.5-hour guided culinary walking tour in Kilkenny - Taste local cheeses, chocolates, and traditional Irish fare - Discover artisan producers and family-run businesses - Available Thursday to Saturday (additional tours from April to October Tue & Wed) with private tours offered daily.

Discover the rich history of horology at the Irish Museum of Time, nestled in Waterford's Viking Triangle. This captivating museum, set within a stunning Gothic-style church, showcases the world's oldest Irish-made timepieces alongside exquisite international collections. Marvel at remarkable grandfather clocks, table clocks, and watches while exploring the craftsmanship of timepiece makers from the 17th century onward. Don't miss the new Black Forest cuckoo clock exhibit, featuring hundreds of unique pieces that highlight the artistry and engineering of this iconic craft.

Step inside a reconstructed Viking house for a virtual reality experience that is the first of its kind. Located in the heart of Waterford’s Viking Triangle, this immersive adventure transports you back over 1,000 years to when the Norse first settled Ireland’s oldest city. Explore daily life through cutting-edge 3D technology, meet costumed characters, and discover Viking history from inside an authentic timber house built within the ruins of a 13th-century friary.

Take a boat tour to see Hook Lighthouse from the Sea! We will take you on a breath-taking guided boat tour of the Waterford and Wexford Coastline, where you will enjoy tales of Vikings and smugglers as well as meeting first hand some of the marine life that we share the coast with.If you are lucky, you will see dolphins and seals, and plenty of sea birds. The Waterford and Wexford coast is steeped in Maritime History, you will hear where the term 'By Hook or by Crooke' came from, how in 1645 Irish rebels fought and sank the flagship of the English Navy, still lying today beneath the sands. Visit a sea cave where ancient people brought the bones of their dead to enable their passage to the other world, and to top your tour off, some high speed manoeuvres in our Rigid Inflatable Boat - 'Vadrefjord' Boat tour - approximately 1 hour on the water, a safety brief is mandatory prior to boarding. Arrive 30 minutes before your tour time to allow for equipment allocation and safety brief.

The history of hurling in Ireland dates back centuries and many consider this fast-paced field sport Ireland’s national game. Immerse yourself in the ancient sport during your time in Kilkenny and learn the basics during this experience that takes place in a traditional Irish pub. Receive a fascinating presentation on hurling's history and rules and gain a deeper appreciation for Irish culture.

Experience a private walking tour through the historic heart of Kilkenny. Discover a city whose remarkable heritage is centuries older than the history of the United States. Stroll through the medieval Old Town where cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and elegant architecture reflect the legacy of one of Ireland's finest preserved medieval cities. Which stories have shaped Kilkenny's rich cultural identity through the centuries? How did artists, craftspeople, and powerful families influence its remarkable heritage? Your professional guide will reveal fascinating tales of history, architectural excellence, and enduring cultural traditions while leading you through the city's most celebrated landmarks. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Few travelers leave Ireland without sampling some local brews, but this small-group tour offers an experience beyond the pub. Go behind the scenes at Smithwick's in Kilkenny and embark on a journey that reveals the craft and history behind one of Ireland's best-known ales. Taste four different ales and try your hand at mastering the perfect pour.

Get acquainted with Kilkenny’s rich medieval history on this audio tour around the city’s Medieval Mile Museum. If you’re new to Kilkenny, the Museum is the perfect way to get your bearings and learn about the city: the Museum is full of exhibits detailing the history of the city’s buildings and streets, from the smallest laneway to Kilkenny Castle itself. The Museum is also a landmark in its own way, built inside an impeccably-preserved 13th century church.

Every Thursday from March to October, delve into the beauty of Mount Congreve Gardens with a guided tour starting at 2:00 PM. Begin your journey at Mount Congreve House, just as the Congreve Family did, and enjoy an informative stroll through the enchanting woodland, fragrant walks, and historic walled gardens. Discover the estate's rich history through engaging stories shared by your guide, making for a delightful afternoon in one of Ireland's renowned gardens. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and is suitable for all garden enthusiasts. - Scheduled guided tours every Thursday from March to October at 2 PM - Explore the stunning woodland and walled gardens - Learn about the estate's history and former owners from an expert guide - Maximum group size of 30 for a personalized experience

A relaxing peaceful walk along the river blackwater. Get back to nature won this beautiful river walk.

Explore Ireland’s sacred funerary traditions at the country’s first Wake Museum on this unique small-group tour. Whilst most museum tours offer a broad perspective on a country’s history and culture, this guided experience delves deep into Irish wake traditions with expert interpretation of their origin, meaning, and context. Discover superstitions, ceremonies, and customs from early Christian times through to the current day.

This ticket gives you admission to one of the largest collections of plants in the world. Wander through the grounds of an 18th-century estate like the Congreve family once did. Families will be delighted with the seasonal activity trails and woodland playground. After the tour pop into the Stables Café for a coffee or lite bite.

Discover the highlights of Kilkenny on this private guided tour that’s designed for up to 15 people. Walk around the historic area of St. John’s before completing the medieval mile from St. Canice’s Cathedral to Kilkenny Castle. During the tour, pass by landmarks including St. John's Priory, the Butler Gallery, the Black Abbey, and more.

Explore southeast Ireland's sea caves on this small-group guided kayak experience from Waterford. Although you may not feel safe striking out into the ocean on your own, an accompanying guide ensures your safety and comfort. Paddle around the Hook Peninsula for stunning views that most tourists don't get to see and try your luck spotting local animal and plant life.

Discover the rich history of Cahir on this engaging walking tour that takes you through its most significant sites. Begin at St Pauls Anglican Church , built by John Nash architect to the regent King George. Visit Erasmus Smith school another John Nash building. Visit the Granary, linen and flax production in the 1800s. The town square with its imposing architecture, plaque to Crimean Bob, Venetian water fountain and Bianconis coach travels. See the site of the shop that sold tickets for the Titantic. Pass by the Castle and the Quaker mills that brought prosperity to the town. Stroll along the Mall , the Ha Ha, and immerse yourself in local tales. End your journey by the River Suir, surrounded by stunning Georgian homes and engaging stories of the past.

Explore the forest of County Wexford with a guide during this small-group woodland tour. Set out on a low-impact walk in the woods and learn about Irish folklore and ancient Celtic history. Do some light foraging, hear stories about how trees communicate, and learn about local traditions including which plants have been used as medicine.

️‍♂️ Get Ready to Escape Craggy Island – If You Can! Only at Lismore Heritage Centre Step into the hilarious and mysterious world of Craggy Island with this one-of-a-kind escape room experience at the Lismore Heritage Centre! Inspired by the chaotic charm of Father Ted, this interactive adventure challenges you and your friends to solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape the madness in under 60 minutes. Can you outwit the madness of Dougal, Mrs. Doyle, and Father Jack… or will you be stuck on Craggy Island forever? Perfect for: Groups of friends & families Tourists looking for something uniquely Irish Fans of Father Ted Team building & hen/stag parties Groups: 2–6 players Duration: 60 minutes Bookings: Essential – spots fill fast! Fun for ages 12+ Lismore Heritage Centre, Lismore, Co. Waterford

Discover Kilkenny city's famous medieval mile on this informative, humorous and engaging locally guided walking tour. Uncover history, legends, iconic sites and lively stories with a fun, local guide. Explore this city's enchanting maze of narrow streets, uncovering centuries of history, intriguing tales, and hidden stories that shaped this vibrant city. Learn about iconic landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House, St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower whilst following the footsteps of Normans, monks, knights, merchants and the fabled witch Alice Kyteler. Experience a captivating blend of storytelling, fun facts, Irish sayings and plenty of laughs, brought to life with engaging magic effects! This immersive 90-minute adventure is perfect for all ages, it is an unforgettable and entertaining introduction to Kilkenny's rich heritage, culture, and unique spirit. Lace up and bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to embrace the real 'craic' (Irish word for 'fun'!) of Kilkenny!

With tranquility and peace being the order of the day for some adventurers, The Irish Experience offers you the chance to Experience the Beautiful Southern Sunset along the visually stunning coastline of The Hook Peninsula in Ireland's Ancient East. This stunning natural area around The Hook Peninsula in County Wexford is very much steeped in jaw dropping history, with a rich heritage and diverse wildlife, all this surrounded by natural sea cliffs, caves, hidden coves and beaches. Your guide will see that he brings the area to life with his local knowledge! This beautiful set is framed for you by the stunning evening sunset • 3 hour (2.5 hours on the water approx) sunset escape from the riggers of real life • Fully Guided Sunset Experience • Local Guide  • Small Group Experience  • Snack and Drink Included

Leave behind the bumbling group tours and explore Kilkenny in a way that’s great for the whole family. With your guide leading the way, you’ll wander from absolute wonders like Kilkenny Castle to lesser-known gems like St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum—that will still keep the kids’ attention. Limited to just you and your crew, you’ll explore only where you wish, turning your day in Kilkenny into a customized, family-friendly adventure.

We are life time paddlers, sharing our passion, incorporating fun, learning and awareness of river and its surrounds . Our customers get personal attention and feel very safe and love our tours which are adapted to peoples energy and ability. You will paddle double kayaks up and back down through Kilkenny and see historical buildings which dominate the the City skyline. The tour can include white water paddling over a weir, playing in the rapids if that is of interest. If you prefer to stay dry, that's your choice of course and we do provide over-trousers to keep you pretty dry. If you prefer, one of our guides can paddle the double kayak with you for extra stability to ensure that we maximise your enjoyment and safety. Visual highlights include Kilkenny Castle, The Tholsel, St Francis Abbey, the old home of Smithwick's Brewery and St Canice's Cathedral. Hear about the importance of the Nore to Kilkenny and its milling history for centuries.

* 1.5 hours All-In of fun-filled Family Kayaking Adventures! * Young Family Friendly – Your small kids (from age 5) are sure to have a fantastic time! * Discover the rugged coast of Baginbun Bay, including sea caves and hidden sandy coves. * It is a beautiful, sheltered location & a truly magical family experience that you won’t forget! * Challenge you family and kids to get out of their comfort zone and into their adventure zone. They will thank you later! * Fully guided with expert kayaking guides who will bring the stunning surroundings to life! * Be comfortable in the fact that you will only be joined by other like-minded families with children. * Small Groups for the best experience we can deliver!

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Lough Derg while uncovering the childhood haunts of Shane MacGowan during this immersive eBike tour. Pedal through picturesque North Tipperary, visiting iconic sites like the Shane MacGowan murals in Nenagh, the family homelands in Carney and the Lough Derg shore at Skehanagh. With routes ranging from 33km to 62km, each option offers a unique glimpse into Shane's formative years and the musical inspirations drawn from this beautiful region. Perfect for music lovers and cycling enthusiasts alike, this tour combines rich cultural history with stunning scenery, all at a pace that suits you. - Choose from various routes: 2.5 to 4 hours covering 33 to 62 km - Visit significant landmarks tied to Shane's life and music - Enjoy comfortable eBikes tailored to your riding ability - End the tour with a drink at one of Shane's favourite spots in Nenagh or Borrisokane.