Getting to see Ireland’s gems of historical sites is definitely something I want to do more of. Being able to drive now has opened up so much more of the country to me and I plan to embrace it. I studied Celtic Civilisation as part of my degree, and so discovered a lot of interesting history of these amazing sites. They’re a great resource to bring kids to as well – they make a fantastic day out and they’ll be learning to boot. Many of these sites are now owned by the Office Of Public Works (OPW).
On a normal basis, these sites are mostly paid entry. However, on the first Wednesday of the month, they are free entry to the public which makes them a great free day out. AND from July 1st, they’re all free entry EVERYDAY for kids! Here’s a list of the sites waiting for you to discover them – great for days out when the kids are off and you’re needing something to do!
Cork
Desmond Castle (French Prison)
Donegal
Dublin
Dublin Castle, State Apartments
Galway
Kerry
Patrick Pearse’s Cottage (Teach an Phiarsaigh)
Derrynane House, National Historic Park
Ionad an Bhlascaoid Mhóir, The Blascaod Centre
Kildare
Kilkenny
Laois
Leitrim
Limerick
Louth
Mayo
Meath
Battle of the Boyne – Oldbridge Estate
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Newgrange and Knowth)
Offaly
Roscommon
Sligo
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
Tipperary
Roscrea Heritage (Castle and Damer House) and the Blackmills
Waterford
Wexford
Wicklow
**********
There’s a list that should keep you busy for a while. You can get more information about each one in the links attached, or on the Discover Ireland website.
Got any other free heritage days out to recommend? Let me know in the comments or over on Facebook.
Visiting Ireland is now firmly on my to do list. Looks and sounds fabulous x