The last two days have been hectic. After leaving Cork we headed north to Rock of Cashel which rises dramatically from the plains of Tipperary county. This was the seat of Kings and medieval bishops for 900 years, including Brian Boru who became High King of Ireland in 1002. After a tour of the site we visited a farm outside Kilkenny for a delicious lunch. On to the Irish National Stud, a state run bloodstock farm, founded in 1900. We had a guided tour, seeing some of their prize stallions and some foals. There is also a Japanese Garden on the site. That night we arrived back in Dublin, staying near the Grand Canal.
Our last day included a visit to Epic - the Irish Emigration Museum, a very well curated exhibition giving the stories behind the millions of people who fled Ireland over the past 3 centuries. Then to Christ Church Cathedral dating from 1034. I climbed up the Bell Tower and got magic views from the rooftop, and even got to ring the bell! It is then not far to the Guinness Storehouse for a self guided tour and an included pint of the brew. This is served in the Gravity Bar on the 9th level of the building, with glass floor to ceiling offering 360 degree views over Dublin.
As if we hadn’t packed enough into the day, we ended with a dinner and show at The Merry Ploughboy pub south of Dublin, where we had a massive meal and fantastic Irish Musicians and Dancing.
And so ends our Ireland tour. We have an extra night here (we need a rest) and have just had a wander around central Dublin. Tomorrow- off to Edinburgh.
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