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Explore the Emerald Isle by steam next Autumn

In September 2019, join us on this tour which takes in Killarney, in Ireland’s Lake District, and Galway Bay, with optional excursions to some of Ireland’s most popular attractions including Cork City, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands

You can choose to experience the whole of the main route by steam charter, with the added luxury of an on board bar, or join road coaches to see more of the stunning coastal scenery, with photo stops, on our ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ option.

Click here to view the holiday brochure online or fill in a form here to receive an email quote for your holiday.

Friday 6 – Wednesday 11 September 2019

2 nights in Killarney | 3 nights in Galway

Route map

Day 1 – Friday 6 September – Dublin to Killarney

Leaving Dublin around midday, steam hauled straight from the city centre we head across to the South West corner of Ireland to the wonderful Cathedral city of Killarney where we will be staying for the next two nights. Hauled by the magnificent Irish Express passenger locomotive No 85 Merlin, you will be treated to wonderful views of the verdant countryside.

During your two night stay in Killarney, it will become clear why this is one of the most loved destinations in Ireland. With its pretty, friendly town which lies in the heartland of the beautiful surroundings of the National Park and its stunning Lakes and Mountains, visitors cannot fail but to be impressed with the magnificence of it all.

Killarney Lakes

Day 2 – Saturday 7 September – Killarney, Cork or Kinsale

Killarney is the perfect base for visiting the rugged Wild Atlantic Way or the famous Ring of Kerry.

You can choose between one of two optional trips.  Either a steam hauled journey to the South East of Ireland where you can spend 3 or 4 hours exploring the city of Cork or Kinsale before returning to Killarney.  Alternatively,  for those wanting to see more of the wonderful coastal scenery of Ireland, we will be offering a coach trip around the ring of Kerry and then along the southern route to Kinsale where you will have a couple of hours to explore before joining the rest of the group at Cork for the return by steam to Killarney.

Kinsale Harbour

Day 3 – Sunday 8 September – Killarney to Galway

We leave by steam after breakfast still hauled by Merlin and head for the poetically famous city of Limerick where we change engines to the famous No. 4 Tank Engine which despite its size has proved capable of speeds well in excess of 60 mph both forwards and backwards!

During a lunchtime break in Limerick you will have time to visit the 800-year old King John’s Castle, one of the most intact medieval castles in Ireland. We then resume our journey, either by steam along the recently rebuilt line through Ennis to the West Coast city of Galway, or you can enjoy a trip by coach along the coastal route to Galway where you will re-join the other passengers in our hotels.

No 4 Tank Engine at Limerick

Day 4 – Monday 9 September – Galway, The Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands
You can choose to explore the vibrant Galway City independently, with its flamboyant arts scene and interesting past, or join us on a coach excursion to one of Ireland’s most famous attractions – either the majestic Cliffs of Moher or the dramatic Aran Islands.

Day 5 – Tuesday 10 September – Galway or Westport
Today we have the luxury of another day in Galway to either explore the city or discover more of the region. You can either travel by road coach, or join steam engine Tank No. 4 on an optional day trip to the far north West Coast of Ireland at Westport, a designated heritage town filled with Irish charm, boasting an array of characterful pubs and excellent seafood restaurants. Whichever method of transport you choose – unspoilt scenery and spectacular views are the order of the day as we cross the Emerald Isle through the Connemara National Park.

Connemara National Park

Day 6 – Wednesday 11 September – Galway to Dublin

After breakfast in your hotel we head West to East across Ireland back to Dublin. Arriving shortly after lunch, there is plenty of time to make your way homeward bound.

Click here to view the holiday brochure online or download your own version. 

For more information, or to book, please call the Booking Office on 01483 209888.  Alternatively, fill in the form below to register your interest in the trip, and a member of the booking team will reply with your holiday quote.