5 of the best places to visit in Ireland when you travel by ferry

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Thinking of travelling to Ireland by ferry in 2018? The amazing thing about being able to bring your car on your visit to Ireland is that it opens up the country in a way flying doesn’t. So if you are booking ferry tickets to Ireland this year, here are some of the best places to visit in Ireland with a car.

1. Ireland’s Ancient East

While Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way gets plenty of exposure, the lesser known but equally interesting Ancient East encompasses our ferry ports of Rosslare and Dublin. Only a short drive from Rosslare port, Hook Head is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. Did you know the saying “by Hook or by Crooke” originated in this area? Find the story behind the saying while wandering through the two maritime towns. Closer to the capital, Lough Crew Cairns is an ancient site for history lovers in Meath. Lesser known than Newgrange, these passage tombs date back to 3,000BC.

2. Dinner in the Anglers Rest

A challenging spot to get to without your own car, the Anglers Rest in Dublin’s Strawberry Beds is a wonderful place to try some of Dublin’s finest seafood. Only 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Dublin Port, this hidden gem by the beautiful river Liffey showcases rural Dublin at its best.

3. The Carlow Garden Trail

Particularly close if you are sailing into Rosslare Port, the Carlow Garden Trail is one of the best things to do in Ireland if you take the ferry. There are some stunning gardens located in or around former stately homes in the county. Some even have plant centres were you can pick up some saplings to bring home.

4. The Rock of Dunamase

Even most Irish people don’t know about this place! Just off the N7 motorway, this ancient ruin dominates the surrounding countryside. Although lacking in the usual café and bathroom facilities, it is an unusual and beautiful spot for a walk on a clear day. The market town of Stradbally is nearby and contains plenty of refreshment options.

5. Night in an Irish Castle

If you want to do something special on your visit to Ireland, consider a night in an Irish Castle. Barberstown Castle is close to Dublin port, in the Kildare countryside. Its Victorian and Elizabethan dining rooms make for an unforgettable fine dining experience. The nearby Straffan Antiques is a treasure trove of Irish antiques and crafts to be explored (don’t forget there are no luggage restrictions on the ferry, so if it fits in the car you can bring it home!).

Having your own wheels really does open up Ireland, and lets you get off the beaten track. So book your ferry tickets today, we are look forward to welcoming you onboard.