On this tour, I'll take you through the streets of Ireland's capital city and tell you the story of how it evolved from a small Viking settlement to become one of the world centres of the digital revolution.
Did you know that Ireland's history can be reflected in three paintings I have chosen from the collection in our National Art Gallery? Admission to the gallery is free so please allow me to take you through the paintings, their history and their hidden meanings.
Royal Dublin Fusiliers Memorial Arch.
Tour begins. We will learn about the history of this city area. From a former leper colony to the fashionable location it is today - we will learn about how that came to be.
The Guinness story is not just about the iconic black porter. The history of the Guinness family is all about philanthropy and an exceptional care for their workforce. All will be revealed at this tour stop.
A walk through the park reveals lots about the people who have lived near and used the park from medieval times to the present day. Once the preserve of a wealthy few, the park is now a busy city centre amenity for everyone.
Dublin's most famous hotel has many stories to tell. What was Adolf Hitler's half brother doing in the hotel in the years before WWII, and what mischief did he get up to ? All will be revealed.
The Hugenot Cemetery is hidden behind locked gates today but its history goes back a long way. There's even a connection with Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe. What could that be ?
The seat of the modern Irish parliment - built by a member of the famous 'Geraldine' family - direct descendants of the first Norman invaders. Why did The Duke of Leinster build this iconic palace for himself and his family ?
A visit to the Oscar Wilde memorial. Oscar's only problem in life was that he was born at the wrong time. Let me explain why, when we visit his memorial in lovely Merrion Square Park.
Dublins finest gallery - full of fabulous works of art. Three paintings that tell the story of Ireland from the Norman invasion right up to the War of Independence in the early 1920's. I will show you these works of art and take you through their stories.
Home of the Lord Mayor of Dublin. Who are the most famous 'freemen' of Dublin ? What right are bestowed on 'freemen' ? Have there been many famous Lord Mayors ? All waiting to be revealed on this last leg of the tour.
Tour ends. At this point I can suggest some great eating and drinking establishments - all within a few metres of the last tour stop.
Royal Dublin Fusiliers Memorial Arch.
Guide fee and 3 hours of fun and interesting things you might not know about Ireland, Dublin, and the Irish in general !!
Transportation, food and beverages.
Dublin is a busy and noisy city. For that reason, in an effort to deliver a quality experience to my guests, I start my tours between 9am and 11am.