Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour small group tour max 15 people

Discover Ireland’s Iconic Pub Scene in Wicklow and Dublin

The Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour by Rural Pub Tours offers a full-day exploration of Ireland’s cherished pub culture. Priced at $111.22 per person, this 9-hour journey accommodates up to 15 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The tour begins in central Dublin with convenient pick-up and drop-off points, making it easy to join and depart.

We like how the tour combines scenic drives through the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains with visits to six rural pubs, each showcasing Ireland’s warm hospitality and lively atmosphere. An added highlight: the tour ends with live traditional Irish music in an award-winning pub, creating a genuine local experience. While alcohol isn’t included in the price, you pay as you go, giving flexibility to choose what suits your taste and budget.

This tour suits those eager to see the Irish countryside, enjoy authentic pub food, and listen to traditional tunes. It’s especially ideal for visitors who prefer a relaxed, small-group setting and want to learn about Irish culture from personable guides. One consideration: the tour’s physical pace involves some walking and vehicle travel, suitable for most but worth noting if mobility is a concern.

Key Points

• Full-day small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants
• Visits to 6 rural pubs in the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains
• End with live traditional Irish music in an award-winning pub
• Drive through scenic Irish countryside, including Wicklow’s stunning landscapes
• Pay as you go for drinks and pub food, allowing personalized choices
• Includes transportation from central Dublin with pick-up and drop-off

Scenic Drive Through Dublin and Wicklow Mountains

The tour starts with a drive through the Dublin Mountains, heading toward Wicklow Mountains National Park. This region is famous for its spectacular scenery, often called “The Garden of Ireland”. Travelers get to appreciate Ireland’s lush landscapes, rolling hills, and rugged terrain, making the journey itself an attraction.

The guide leads the group through a variety of countryside vistas, setting the perfect backdrop for well-timed stops at rural pubs. The scenery is a major highlight, with views that truly capture Ireland’s natural beauty. Expect a relaxed pace, giving plenty of time to take photos and soak in the environment.

Visiting the Blue Light Pub for Dublin Bay Views

The first pub stop is The Blue Light Pub, renowned for its breathtaking views of Dublin Bay. Here, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere, great Guinness, and traditional Irish music. This stop lasts about an hour, providing a perfect introduction to Irish pub culture while enjoying amazing scenery and the company of fellow travelers.

The Blue Light offers a chance to sip your drink while taking in one of Dublin’s most scenic vistas. Many reviews highlight the welcoming vibe and the quality of the drinks, making it a favorite early stop on the tour.

Exploring Johnnie Fox’s, a Historic Wicklow Pub

Next, the tour visits Johnnie Fox’s Pub, originally a farmhouse and one of Ireland’s most iconic pubs. Known for its diverse traditional decor and fantastic Irish music, this pub delivers a lively, authentic atmosphere.

Guests spend about an hour here, enjoying live performances and soaking in the unique ambiance. The pub’s characterful setting, combined with traditional tunes, makes it a standout stop. It offers both a taste of authentic Irish pub life and a chance to appreciate the country’s musical heritage.

Village Life in Roundwood and the Heart of The Garden of Ireland

Traveling farther into the Wicklow Mountains, the group stops in Roundwood, a village often called the “Heart of the Garden of Ireland.” During this 45-minute visit, travelers get to see a typical Irish village and visit a local pub, seeing everyday Irish life.

Expect to enjoy spectacular scenery along the way, with lush greenery and mountain views. The stop offers a glimpse into rural Irish community spirit, with a welcoming local pub atmosphere that many reviews praise.

Lunch and Local Pubs at Glenmalure Lodge

Midway through the day, the tour visits Glenmalure Lodge, an old hunting lodge that now functions as a pub. Here, guests can enjoy a delicious meal (own expense) in a cozy setting. The lodge’s charm adds a special touch to the day, and it’s a favorite spot for mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

The visit lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing ample time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and listen to more Irish music. The lodge’s picturesque location in the mountains makes it a memorable part of this scenic journey.

Evening in Rathdrum and Friendly Local Pubs

After dinner, the tour moves down to Rathdrum, a small community where you can chat with friendly locals in a small country pub. This hour-long stop offers a relaxed environment to connect and reflect on the day, with an emphasis on local hospitality.

The relaxed pace continues as the group heads to Bray, the final pub, known for its live traditional Irish music. The pub is award-winning and features a broad selection of local beers, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. This stop lasts about an hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for music, drinks, and socializing.

Authentic Irish Music and the Final Pub Experience

The tour culminates with live Irish music in an award-winning pub in Bray. Many reviews highlight how the music enhances the atmosphere, providing a genuine taste of Irish culture. Guests often enjoy singing along and practicing traditional Irish songs, making the experience lively and memorable.

This concluding part of the tour offers a perfect setting to relax, enjoy the ambiance, and reflect on the day’s adventures. Many reviewers mention the music as a highlight, often praising the quality of performances and the friendly, inclusive environment.

Convenient Transportation and Small-Group Atmosphere

Transportation is included in the form of an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable and scenic. The tour’s small group size (max 15 people) fosters a friendly, informal environment, allowing for better interaction with the guide and fellow travelers.

The meet point is centrally located in Dublin at Cork Hill, with the tour starting at 2:00 pm. The tour concludes back at the same starting point, making logistics straightforward for participants.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

One of the strongest points of this tour is the expert guidance provided by Shane, as highlighted in numerous reviews. He is described as knowledgeable, personable, and engaging, with a talent for sharing stories, Irish music, and local insights. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

The tour’s focus on authentic rural pubs and scenic drives makes it more than just a pub crawl; it’s a culture. The inclusion of traditional Irish music at the end and the chance to meet local pub owners add to the genuine Irish atmosphere.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is well-loved, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price, so participants should budget for drinks and food at each pub. The physical pace involves some walking and vehicle travel, which may not suit those with mobility issues.

The cancellation policy is strict; the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so planning ahead is essential. The tour runs in a small group setting, so booking well in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy scenic drives, lively pubs, Irish music, and cultural insights. It appeals to those looking for an authentic, relaxed day out that combines nature, history, and local hospitality. Perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers seeking an engaging way to see Ireland’s countryside and experience its pub traditions.

Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour in a Nutshell

In summary, the Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour offers a well-rounded scenic, cultural, and social experience. With expert guides, beautiful landscapes, and authentic pubs, it delivers a memorable slice of Irish life. The small-group setting creates intimacy, while the scenic drives and lively music provide plenty of highlights.

If you’re eager to step outside Dublin’s city streets and into the heart of Irish mountain country, this tour provides a great balance of relaxation, entertainment, and scenery. It’s a value-rich outing that truly captures the spirit of Ireland’s pub culture and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include drinks or food?
No, drinks and pub food are pay as you go. You can choose exactly what you want at each pub.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is capped at 15 people, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of interaction.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle transports guests between stops, starting and ending in central Dublin.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 73 days in advance, indicating high demand, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any physical requirements?
While the tour involves some walking and vehicle travel, it is generally suitable for most travelers. Those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Unfortunately, the tour is non-refundable and cannot be altered once booked.

This Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour combines scenic views, lively Irish pubs, and engaging guides for a rewarding day that authentically showcases Ireland’s rural charm and pub traditions.