Dublin's Heritage Weekend
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Dublin Ferryport or Airport Arrival and Departure - 3 Nights/4 Days

Day 1/ Dublin
One of Europe's busiest Capital Cities, Dublin dates back 1000 years. Learn its "colourful" history by visiting Trinity College to see The Dublin Experience and the Book of Kells. Then through Temple Bar, Dublin's arty leftbank district to visit Dublin's City Hall now beautifully restored which houses many of the city's treasures including the Great Civic Sword and Mace and which tells the Story of the Capital through a multimedia exhibition. Contrast the power of civic office with the lifestyle of Dubliners at Dublinia at ChristChurch for an exciting, entertaining and accurate portrayal of Medieval Dublin. Last but not least nearby Saint Patrick's Cathedral, founded in the 12th Century and perhaps best known for its association with Jonathan Swift, Dean of the Cathedral between 1713 and 1745.

Day 2/ Dublin, Kildare & Wicklow
Within a short drive from Dublin is County Kildare, perhaps best known as Ireland's horse breeding country. A visit to the Irish National Stud, Japanese Gardens, St Fiachra's Garden & The Horse Museum with its Monastic cell, will give you insight into Stud Farm successes, while the Garden's "Life of Man" lends a tranquil end to an enjoyable visit. Crossing into County Wicklow and skirting the shores of Blessington Lake, your next experience can be the imposing Palladian mansion of Russborough House furnished with fine displays of antique treasures and home of the internationally famous Beit Art Collection. Heading east, stop at the pretty village of Enniskerry, in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains to visit Powerscourt House and Gardens. Laid out in the mid-18th Century, the Gardens stretch over 47 acres and are recognised as one of the world's great gardens. The Palladian house now incorporates an innovative shopping experience, terrace café and exhibition.

Day 3/ Dublin
Begin the day with a visit to the Bank of Ireland Arts Centre & Museum, one of the architectural landmarks of Georgian Dublin, which reflects both Irish history and the history of banking over the past 200 years. Then a leisurely stroll along the Liffey Quays will bring you into the heart of old Dublin for a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield Village and the nearby Chimney Viewing Tower which affords 360 degree panoramic views of the city. Then to Parnell Square and the Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane with its fine collection of modern and contemporary art with the newest, spectacular acquisition of Francis Bacon's 7 Reece Mews Studio. A complete change of pace will be a visit to the GAA Museum at Croke Park which celebrates Ireland's great national sports - Hurling and Gaelic Football. Impossible to leave without a visit to the new Guinness Storehouse, your personal introduction to the world's most famous creamy stout and an exciting re-telling of the Guinness story. See Dublin from the glass-domed Gravity Bar, perched high above the city. Overnight in Dublin.

Day 4/ Dublin
Time to enjoy a trip on the DART around Dublin Bay to the charming Heritage Town of Dalkey, its Castle and Heritage Centre, its literary connections and now home to such greats as Bono of U2 and popular writer Maeve Binchy. On to the pretty seaside town of Bray for a brisk walk along the Promenade and a visit to the National Sea Life Centre, which offers an unforgettable insight into the marvels of Ireland's native marine world. Evening departure from Dublin air or ferry ports.