Grand Tour of Ireland - Southbound

Board the train in Dublin in the early afternoon, and savour a delicious afternoon tea as the train begins its journey.

Arrive in Cork and visit the Jameson Experience. A private tour explores the history of the whiskey-making process, before guests are invited to participate in a tasting session.

Back on board, your first dinner is served as the train continues to Charleville, where it will stable for the night to ensure a good night’s rest.

The day starts out with a private tour of Blarney Castle & Gardens where guests will have the opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. Enjoy morning coffee in Blarney House.

Lunch is served on board before continuing to the Lakes of Killarney. A pony-and-trap tour is followed by a boating excursion across Lough Leane.

Head back to the train for dinner.

This morning your journey continues north to Galway for a tour. Lying on the River Corrib, let yourself be enchanted by this romantic city.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Champagne and oysters set the scene for a fun-filled afternoon.

Revel in a traditional Irish experience at a charming local pub where you’ll learn to play the bodhran (Irish drum) and to pull your own pint of Guinness, before taking part in an Irish dance.

Afterwards, step into the city to explore at your leisure. Alternatively, spend the entire afternoon soaking up Galway’s bohemian charm at your own pace.

Return to the train for dinner as the train continues on to Athlone.

Breakfast is accompanied by stunning pastoral views from your cabin’s windows as the train continues to Westport.

Join the coach for an excursion to Ashford Castle. Activities include an interactive falconry experience plus a guided walk of the gardens, as well as a private lunch.

Afterwards, take a short transfer to the home of Joe and Mary Ann Joyce to enjoy an exhilarating sheepdog trial at their working farm.

Head to the Sheep and Wool Centre in the heart of Killary Harbour to discover the art of yarn spinning, then take to the outdoors to soak up the breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities to be enjoyed in this beautiful region.

Your journey winds back towards Dublin where you can enjoy an optional half-day tour of the vibrant Irish capital.

Key sights include Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells, the 12th-century St Patrick’s Cathedral and the lively Temple Bar district.

Rejoin the train and continue to Belfast. Here disembark for a famous Black Taxi Tour of the city and a private visit to The Titanic Experience. This fascinating attraction explores the history of the famed ocean liner.

This morning, the train journeys south to the historic Viking port of Waterford. Disembark to visit Curraghmore House, where you enjoy an exclusive tour of the house, grounds and stables before a classic afternoon tea.

The magnificent mansion boasts some of the finest neoclassical rooms in Ireland, while its expansive formal gardens include an intriguing shell house built by Catherine, Countess of Tyrone, in 1754.

You’ll then be escorted to the Bishop’s palace for a private after hours tour hosted by the director. Enjoy an unrivalled view of the finest collection of 17th century Irish silver, and marvel at the oldest piece of Waterford Crystal in the world with an exclusive glassmaking presentation.

Return to the train for a sumptuous dinner, followed by a performance by traditional local musicians in the Observation Car.

Breakfast is served as the train continues to Dublin, its final destination. Disembark for your onward travel arrangements.