Georgian & Victorian Splendours of Dublin Walking Tour

Experience the 18th century splendor of the former Houses of Parliament before walking through the squares and pathways of Trinity College, founded in 1592. Meander through some hallways in the National Gallery of Ireland before exiting into the tranquil and elegant square, park and terraces of Merrion Square. Also view the remarkable statue to Oscar Wilde.

The first stop will be in the leafy early 19th century cul-de-sac of Foster Place, to stand in front of the elegant former armory of the Bank of Ireland, which was erected when this institution took over the premises of the defunct Irish Parliament in 1803. The next stop will bring you into the courtyard of the remarkable old Parliament House (1729), which was the first building in the world to be erected for a two-house legislature. An internal visit follows to the House of Lords, probably the world's oldest parliament room in its original condition (dating from 1733).

After picking out some curiosities on College Green, you will then enter the hallowed gateway of Trinity College and pass through its elegant 18th and 19th century courtyards and greens. You will hear some of the fascinating history, as well as an occasional tall tale associated with the university. Hear about the early origins of the university and admire the Old Library building, now believed to be the largest single library chamber in the world (internal visits to the Old Library and the famous Book of Kells may be made independently after the walk). Cricket, rugby pitches and hideaway gardens are still as much part of the tradition as is the impressive teaching and residential blocks.

Upon leaving the campus, a stroll through the halls of the National Gallery of Ireland will bring you out, rather unexpectedly, into a district of splendid Georgian squares, long elegant terraces, tranquil parks and magnificent government institutions. The beautiful Merrion Square Park (Archbishop Ryan Park) will reveal many surprises, not least the remarkable statue to Oscar Wilde. See the Dail, the Irish Parliament building, a former aristocrat's mansion. On the opposite side of the street is the birthplace of the Duke of Wellington, the victor of Napoleon at Waterloo, before standing before the last magnificent public building erected by the British before their final withdrawal in 1922. Finally, the tour will bring you down into the atmospheric cellars of the Duke's old house to the Cellar Bar of the 5 star Merrion Hotel where you can then choose to raise a glass of wine or partake in a repast. This location is only a stone's throw from the shops and cafes of the Grafton Street area.

Note: Internal visits to Dublin Castle, the cathedrals and museums may be individually undertaken when tours end.

This tour does not offer hotel pick-up & drop offs. PLEASE NOTE: THIS TOUR ENDS APPROXIMATELY ONE KILOMETER FROM THE DEPARTURE LOCATION. Rates are in US dollars. Please reserve online or call 888-217-2297 for reservations or more information.