Discovering Ireland’s Ancient East with Irish Landmark Trust: A 7-night Itinerary
Ireland’s Ancient East is a fascinating region steeped in over 5,000 years of history, offering a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient castles, mystical monastic sites, and vibrant medieval towns, each telling a unique story from Ireland’s past. With its lush green countryside, charming coastal villages, and warm hospitality, Ireland’s Ancient East is an essential destination for history enthusiasts and travellers seeking an authentic Irish experience.
The Irish Landmark Trust has meticulously rescued and restored several unique heritage properties along Ireland’s Ancient East, offering visitors the chance to really experience a piece of living history firsthand. Why not consider exploring the region and staying at our unique properties along the route? Where else would you experience staying in a live conservation project on your holidays?
Properties to choose from include the charming Castletown Roundhouse and Gatehouse, located at the entrance to world famous Castletown House in Celbridge Co. Kildare. Also on the Castletown Estate, the fantastic Batty Langley Lodge, with its gothic architecture and setting beside the river offers a romantic escape steeped in 18th-century elegance.
A little further down the coast perched dramatically on the coast, the Wicklow Lighthouse provides a truly unique experience with breath-taking sea views and a taste of maritime history.
Lastly, the Salterbridge Gatelodge on the Salterbridge Estate in Co. Waterford, with its picturesque setting and classical design, offers a serene getaway in one of the most scenic parts of Ireland.
Each property, restored with care and attention to detail, invites guests to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and historical charm of Ireland’s Ancient East. By staying at an Irish Landmark Trust property you are helping us in our mission to save, share and sustain built heritage in Ireland.
To help you to plan your trip we have put together this itinerary, highlighting some of the best things to do in Ireland’s Ancient East over 7 days.
Day 1-2: Celbridge – Castletown Estate
Stay: Castletown Roundhouse ( sleeps 6), Castletown Gatehouse ( sleeps 2) or Batty Langley Lodge (sleeps 2)
Option 1: Castletown House: Castletown House and Local Walking Tour
Start your adventure by visiting the magnificent Castletown House. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic estate by taking a self-guided tour or joining one of the knowledgeable guides for a journey through time, from the commencement of the building in 1722 to the present day. To book your tour, click here.
Option 2: To further explore the area, consider embarking on a Walking tour of Celbridge. Celbridge Guided Walks, led by a local guide and House Manager at Batty Langley Lodge, Breda Konsadine. To book a walking tour with Breda and discover the fascinating stories of Celbridge, click here.
Option 3: Another great option is a visit to The Japanese Gardens and National Stud, which is about a 35-minute drive from Celbridge. The stud tour takes about 90 minutes, but plan to spend up to 3 hours there so you can really take everything in.
Once you’ve finished at the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, make your way to Kildare Village for a tasty lunch and some shopping. This cute shopping spot has a bunch of boutiques and outlets with both local and international brands. Grab a bite at one of the village’s restaurants or cafes, then browse the shops for unique finds and deals.
To save time, think about booking your tickets to the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens ahead of time by clicking here.
Option 4: Another option is to spend the day walking. You have several options to choose from, depending on your energy levels and preferences.
The Barrow Way
Take an invigorating walk along the River Barrow, starting at Lowtown, which is a 30-minute drive from Celbridge. The full stretch of the Barrow Way is 114km, but you can choose to walk as much or as little as you like – there’s no need to complete the entire route in one day. Enjoy the scenic views and fresh air as you stroll along the riverbank.
Donadea Forest Park
If you prefer a woodland setting, head to Donadea Forest Park, just a 20-minute drive from Celbridge. This lovely mixed woodland features a lake and many historical features, including the remains of a castle and a walled garden. Take a leisurely walk through the forest, admiring the diverse flora and fauna, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
The Bog of Allen
For a unique nature experience, visit Ireland’s largest peatland, The Bog of Allen, located a 20-minute drive from Celbridge. Explore the fascinating landscape and learn about the ecological importance of this vast wetland. Take a guided tour or follow the designated walking trails to discover the beauty and tranquility of this special place.
Option 5: Alternatively set off on an exciting cycling adventure along the Royal Canal Greenway, which opened in 2021 and stretches for an impressive 130km. To start your journey, make the short 10-minute drive from Celbridge to Maynooth, where you can join the trail.
From Maynooth, the route passes through the charming towns of Kilcock and Moyvalley before reaching its end in Longford town. With so much to see and experience along the way, this cycling trip promises to be an excellent day out. Take in the stunning scenery, stop for breaks in the picturesque towns, and enjoy the fresh air and exercise.
If you don’t have your own bike or aren’t a regular cyclist, don’t worry! You can easily hire a bike from Royal Canal Bike Hire, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
After a long day of exploring on two wheels, you might be ready to spend a relaxing evening back at your Irish Landmark Trust property. All of these accommodations are designed to be comfortable, cosy, and warm – perfect for unwinding with a good book or simply enjoying the company of your fellow travellers.
Where to Eat in Celbridge
Celbridge itself offers a lovely selection of dining options. For bistro-style dining, our guests highly recommend Sherwood Lane. If you’re in the mood for pub grub, check out The Castletown Inn.
Just a ten-minute drive from Celbridge, you’ll find The Cliff at Lyons, which features the impressive Mill Restaurant. This destination is perfect for a special occasion or a memorable dining experience. If you’re planning to visit Kildare Village for some shopping, you can also enjoy a meal at one of their restaurants, such as Saba or Dunne and Crescenzi.
Throughout Co. Kildare, there are numerous excellent dining options to suit every taste and budget. For a comprehensive list of recommended restaurants, cafes, and pubs in the area, visit the Into Kildare website. This resource will help you discover the best of Kildare’s culinary scene, ensuring that you have a fantastic dining experience during your stay.
When is a Good Time to Visit?
Celbridge and Co. Kildare offer a wide range of activities and attractions throughout the year, making it a great destination for a holiday or short break in any season. To help plan your visit, be sure to check out the comprehensive list of events on the Into Kildare website.
Day 3-4: Wicklow Head Lighthouse
Stay: Wicklow Lighthouse (sleeps 4)
Option 1: After checking into Wicklow Head Lighthouse and exploring your accommodation, head out to enjoy the Glen Cliff walk. This waymarked trail starts at Glen Beach, just outside Wicklow town, and follows the coastline south to Lime-Kiln Bay and the Lighthouse road before looping back to the starting point. The walk covers a distance of about four kilometres.
The Glen Cliff walk offers a fantastic opportunity to experience one of the most spectacular stretches of the Wicklow coastline. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Irish Sea, rugged cliffs, and diverse birdlife. The walk typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make to take in the scenery.
Option 2: Explore Wicklow Town Start your day by visiting Wicklow Gaol, where you can take an interactive tour that provides insight into the lives of 18th-century inmates who participated in the Irish Rebellion of 1798 and those awaiting transportation to Australia. For a truly memorable experience, consider taking a night tour.
After exploring the gaol, join the Wicklow Town heritage trail led by local historian John Finlay. This free tour, offered every Saturday during the summer months, covers the town’s history over 25 stops, from the arrival of St. Patrick in 432 to the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922.
In the afternoon, visit An Tairseach organic farm and ecology centre, founded by the Dominican Sisters in Wicklow Town in the mid-1990s as a response to the climate change crisis. The centre was established to promote care for the earth through sustainable living, environmental education, and earth spirituality. Explore the farm shop onsite and inquire about any courses or events that may be running during your visit
Option 3: Another option is to drive to Glendalough (45 minutes) and explore the monastic settlement. Choose from 9 hiking trails, depending on your fitness level. If you’re up for it, hike the Spinc Route (2.5 hours) for the best views of the waterfall, lakes, and scenery. Have lunch – pack a picnic or eat at the Wicklow Heather or the Glendalough Hotel. Explore the monastic sites and take a walk to the lake for photos. On the way home, stop at the Glendalough Distillery to buy whiskey, gin, or poitin. Take a scenic drive home through Wicklow National Park. From Glendalough, drive to Lough Tay (the Guinness Lake), a 25-minute route. Then, drive home to Wicklow (30 minutes).
Option 4: Drive to Greystones (30 minutes) and embark on the Greystones to Bray walk, which takes approximately 2 hours. This scenic coastal walk offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding landscape.
After completing the walk, take some time to explore Bray. Stroll along the promenade and treat yourself to an ice-cream, or visit one of the local restaurants for a bite to eat.
If you’re looking for more activities in Bray, consider some options including:
- Exploring Bray Head
- Visiting Killruddery House and Gardens
- Enjoying the arcades and amusements along the promenade
- Spend the afternoon at your leisure, taking in the sights and sounds of this charming coastal town before heading back to Wicklow.
Option 5: Wicklow is home to several stunning period houses and gardens, each offering a unique experience. While it may not be possible to visit all of them in one trip, here are some options to consider:
Powerscourt House and Garden (30-minute drive from Wicklow Lighthouse): Rated as the third-best garden in the world, Powerscourt is a must-see. The gardens span 47 acres and feature unique areas like the Italian Garden and Japanese Garden, as well as the impressive Powerscourt Waterfall.
Russborough House (70-minute drive from Wicklow Lighthouse): Located in Blessington, Russborough House is home to the famous Beit collection. This historic house and its beautiful gardens are well worth the journey.
Killruddery Gardens (30-minute drive from Wicklow Lighthouse): Killruddery Gardens offer a seasonal supper club with a menu inspired by ingredients from the garden and farm. They also have tea rooms, a pizza shed, and house tours available.
Mount Usher Gardens (15-minute drive from Wicklow Lighthouse): These stunning gardens offer guided tours, and you can enjoy lunch at the Avoca Café on site.
Option 6: Spend the morning at one of Wicklow’s beaches, such as Silver Strand (4.5km from Wicklow town) or Brittas Bay (12km from Wicklow town). To find out more about the local beaches click here.
Option 7: Drive to Avoca village (30 minutes) and visit the Avoca Mill and Handweavers. Then, head to Avondale House and Forest Park (10 minutes) for the Beyond the Trees treetop adventure and a tour of Avondale House.
Option 8: For golf enthusiasts, the Wicklow Golf Club is conveniently located right next to the Lighthouse. This stunning course offers beautiful views and a challenging round of golf.
After a morning on the greens, treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience. Co. Wicklow has several spa options to choose from.
Some popular spa choices in the area include:
- The Rainforest Spa at Summerhill House Hotel
- The Well in the Garden Spa at Macreddin Village
- Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort Spa
- Spend your afternoon unwinding and rejuvenating at your chosen spa before heading back to the Lighthouse for a peaceful evening.
Where to Eat Locally
Wicklow Town offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget.
One highly recommended restaurant by our guests is Blue Restaurant known for its delicious seafood and stunning views, this is a must-visit for food lovers. For a unique dining experience, consider trying a Farm to Fork food trail. These guided and self-guided tours showcase the best of Wicklow’s food and drink producers, connecting visitors with the journey from farm to fork. Guided tours include return coach travel to various destinations such as farms, historic houses, food and drink producers, and farmer’s markets. Some of the places you may visit include Russborough House, Daisy Cottage Farm, Coolattin Cheddar, BrookLodge, An Tairseach Organic Farm, and The Powerscourt Distillery.
Another interesting option is a foraging tour with Wicklow Wild Foods. During these tours, you’ll learn about the edible plants and fungi found in the wild and how to incorporate them into your cooking.
If you prefer to cook your own meals, there are several farmers’ markets in Wicklow where you can buy fresh, locally-produced ingredients.
With so many dining options available, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings during your stay in Wicklow.
When to Visit
Wicklow is a beautiful destination year-round, and the Lighthouse is always ready to welcome guests. Throughout the year, there are various events and festivals taking place across the county. Click here to see a comprehensive list of events.
One special occasion to note is National Heritage Week, during which the Wicklow Lighthouse opens its doors to the public. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the Lighthouse and learn about its history, even if you’re not staying overnight.
Day 5-6: Wexford
Stay: Salterbridge Gatelodge (sleeps 2)
Further South Salterbridge Gatelodge ( approximately 2.5 hour drive from the Lighthouse), is a great base to explore the sunny southeast.
Option 1: Explore Lismore. Lismore is a ten-minute drive from Cappoquin and you could happily spend a day here as there is plenty to do. For example, there are a number of guided walks to choose from. Choose from the Lismore town tour, Lady Louisa walk, Motte and Bailey or St Declan’s Way. Or visit Lismore Castle. The castle itself is a private residence, but the seven acres of walled gardens are yours to explore. Enjoy a picnic as part of your visit to the Gardens. Teena, the castle chef, prepares freshly made cakes, scones and savoury snacks to include alongside apple juice from the orchard. You can also order a selection of delicious whole 9-inch round cakes to collect from the Gallery to enjoy back at the Lodge later on. Picnics and cakes are available each Thursday, Friday and Saturday from June until August 2023 and must be ordered and pre-paid at least 24 hours in advance. Place your order here.
The Castle has a great selection of events on at different times throughout the year.
Lismore has some nice independent shops. For those who wish for something handmade and unique Lismore Goldsmith is the jeweller to visit. It is run by goldsmiths Úna O’Dwyer and Moritz Schurmann and is located on the main street. They stock an extensive collection of fine jewellery ranging from diamond solitaire rings to precious gemstone pieces, most of which are handmade and designed in their in-shop studio.
Lismore is famous for its biscuits and beautiful buttery shortbread. You can purchase some of the delicious Lismore Food Company range at the Lismore Heritage Centre or Supervalu, in Cappoquin. Wild Oats are a local producer of soap, bath milks, oils and candles. They make carefully blended skincare and wellness products. These products are available to buy at the Lismore Heritage Centre.
Option 2: Houses and Gardens. Visit Mount Congreve Gardens (40 minute drive), a 70-acre garden overlooking the River Suir. Mount Congreve Gardens is a special place to visit at any time of the year. They have a variety of events throughout the year. From Yoga on the lawn to Festive Afternoon Teas, there’s something for everyone in the family. Every Thursday, between March – October, there are guided tours of the gardens at 2:00 pm (weather permitting).
We recommended visiting Cappoquin House (5 minute drive) where you’ll be welcome to tour the house and five acres of gardens.
Alternatively, you could also visit Mount Mellary Abbey (10-minute drive), the first monastery founded in Ireland after the Reformation. Visitor tip – stop for a coffee in their lovely cafe!
Why not take some of the local walks in Cappoquin? There are four wonderful waymarked walking trails in Glenshelane. The Blue Trail (2 km, 45 mins, easy, blue) is looped on a flat gradient adjacent to the river and is suitable for all ages. The Green Trail (3.5 km, 1.25 hrs, moderate, green) is also a loop that will take the walker out a little further along the river. The Red Trail (9.5 km, 3.5 hrs, strenuous, red) is a long linear walk that takes you to the more remote parts of the forest, whilst the linear Grotto Walk (2.75 km, 1.5 hrs, moderate, orange) takes in the Scout Centre, the underpass under Lyre Bridge and the Grotto at Mount Mellary.
Option 3: Explore the Vee & Seaweed baths. Spend the morning exploring The Vee Scenic Drive, known for its stunning views of the Knockmealdown mountains. You can choose to drive, hike, or cycle in the area. The drive is about 16 miles long and takes you through the towns of Lismore and Clogheen. Stop at the famous “Vee” viewpoint to take in the panoramic vistas of the countryside and Bay Lough.
If you prefer hiking or cycling, check out the Knockmealdown Active website for information on various trails suitable for different fitness levels. The Lough Mohra Loop is a popular 7.5km moderate trail that offers beautiful views of the mountains.
After an active morning, relax at Solas na Mara Seaweed baths at Helvick Head (30 mins from the lodge) Seaweed baths are a traditional Irish therapy known for their healing properties. The warm seawater, infused with local seaweed, is rich in minerals and nutrients that can help soothe muscles and promote well-being.
Solas na Mara offers private bathrooms with modern facilities, including a steam box, rainfall shower, and relaxation area. The staff will guide you through the process to ensure you get the most out of your experience. After your bath, unwind in the relaxation room with a herbal tea.
Consider booking a massage or other treatment to complement your seaweed bath. Solas na Mara offers various therapies, such as hot stone massage, reflexology, and facials.
Option 4: Explore the Waterford Greenway. Spend your morning exploring the Waterford Greenway, a stunning 46km route that hugs the coastline from Waterford City, through the Comeragh Mountains, and on to Dungarvan (just a 15-minute drive from Salterbridge). You can choose to walk or cycle the Greenway, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
The Greenway offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and outdoor adventure. Along the route, you’ll find plenty of pit stops, including cafes, restaurants, and picnic areas, making it easy to take breaks and refuel. Whether you decide to tackle the entire 46km or just a portion of it, exploring the Waterford Greenway is a fantastic way to spend your morning.
After your morning on the Greenway, head to the Dungarvan Brewing Company for their brewery tour. This 90-minute interactive session will take you behind the scenes of the brewing process, where you’ll learn about the ingredients used and how the beer is made.
The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the brewery, explaining each step of the brewing process and sharing the history and philosophy behind Dungarvan Brewing Company. At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of their award-winning craft beers and ask any questions you may have.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day, take a leisurely drive back towards Dublin, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories made during your week exploring Ireland’s Ancient East. If time allows, stop by some charming villages or coastal towns for one last taste of Irish hospitality.
Final Thoughts
Ireland’s Ancient East is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the grandeur of Castletown House to the rugged cliffs of Wicklow and the historic charm of Wexford, this region offers something for everyone. Staying at the unique properties managed by the Irish Landmark Trust adds an extra layer of magic to your trip. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through time in Ireland’s Ancient East.
