There's nothing quite like the feeling you get as you step inside a 5,000-year-old monument. This is what Ireland's Ancient East is all about: experiencing history from the inside out. Ride the waves across to Spike Island in Cork, known as Ireland's Alcatraz, and once the largest prison in the world. Or walk in the footsteps of the Vikings through the narrow streets and medieval treasures of Waterford. A trip around Ireland's Ancient East brings history to life against a backdrop of unforgettable scenery.
Step into the Story
At first sight, Ireland's Ancient East is a tranquil and beautiful land of rolling green hills, charming towns and quiet waters, all framed by the River Shannon and the Irish Sea. But dig a little deeper and you'll discover a region that ripples with over 5,000 years of history. There are compelling characters and ancient mysteries, hidden stories and millennia-old myths. Explore Ireland's Ancient East, and you become part of the story.
Ireland's Ancient East Highlights
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Newgrange and Knowth)
The World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne is Ireland’s richest archaeological landscape and is situated within a bend in the River Boyne. Brú na Bóinne is famous for the spectacular prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth which were built circa 3200BC.
Powerscourt Estate
Located in the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow, Powerscourt Estate is a wonderland of exceptional walking trails, architectural beauty and the highest waterfall in Ireland.
Rock of Cashel
Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland.
Irish National Stud & Gardens
Fly to Cork, Shannon, Ireland West and Donegal and you’re right there. Or head to Dublin or Belfast and take the scenic cross-country route. Coming by ferry? Cork and Rosslare are your closest ports.