Irish Republican Army, Civil War Dublin Private Walking Tour

Explore Dublin’s Irish Republican History on a Private Walking Tour

The Irish Republican Army, Civil War Dublin Private Walking Tour offers an immersive look into Ireland’s tumultuous journey toward independence. Priced at $191.99 per person, this 2 to 3-hour tour covers key sites related to the Easter Rising of 1916 and the Irish War of Independence. It attracts bookings well in advance, averaging 153 days ahead, underscoring its popularity among history enthusiasts.

This tour stands out for its private, personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide. It includes options for skip-the-line tickets to the GPO Museum, which is perfect for visitors wanting an in-depth museum visit with an audio guide. While the tour is pricey, the detailed storytelling and exclusive access make it ideal for those interested in Ireland’s political struggle and revolutionary figures.

The tour starts at the iconic Molly Malone Statue and takes you through historic Dublin landmarks, with the option to delve deeper into the GPO’s significance. The guided walk is tailored to your interests, with a flexible duration accommodating both a 2-hour overview and a 3-hour comprehensive experience.

Key Points

• Private guided tour focusing on Ireland’s fight for independence and the Easter Rising
• Two options: a 2-hour walk or a 3-hour tour with skip-the-line GPO Museum tickets
• Stops include Molly Malone Statue, St. Andrew’s Church, Custom House, Famine Memorial, and GPO
• Expert guides provide detailed commentary on Irish revolutionary history
• Pickup service available within Dublin city center, ensuring ease of access
• Tour prices start at $191.99, with a group size limited for personal attention

Starting Point at Molly Malone Statue in Dublin City Center

The tour begins at the Molly Malone Statue, located outside St. Andrew’s Church on Suffolk Street. This familiar Dublin landmark serves as the perfect meeting point for a walk through the city’s revolutionary sites. From here, the guide offers a warm introduction before leading you into the heart of Dublin’s historical district.

The meeting point’s central location near public transportation makes it easy to access, and the private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience. The tour ends back at the Molly Malone statue, maintaining a convenient start-to-finish route within Dublin’s compact city center.

Visiting St. Andrew’s Church and Its Revolutionary Connections

The second stop takes you inside and around St. Andrew’s Church, a site closely tied to Ireland’s revolutionary figures like Tom Clarke, Michael Collins, and James Connolly. The guide points out notable landmarks such as Trinity College and the Talbot Memorial Bridge, emphasizing their roles in Dublin’s political history.

This part of the tour lasts approximately one hour, allowing time for storytelling about the Irish Republic’s origins and revolutionary efforts. The guide’s expert commentary helps bring to life the stories of those who fought for independence, making this segment both educational and engaging.

Cross the River Liffey to See the Custom House and Its History

Next, the tour crosses the River Liffey to the area around the Custom House. This iconic building was occupied and burned in 1921 by the IRA, making it a significant symbol in Ireland’s fight for sovereignty. The 20-minute stop offers insights into the building’s wartime history and its role during the Irish conflict.

Standing outside the Custom House, visitors gain a clear view of its strategic importance during the Irish War of Independence. The guide explains how the IRA’s actions here marked a turning point in their campaign against British authorities.

Reflecting on Ireland’s Struggles at the Famine Memorial and James Connolly Memorial

Venture to the Docklands to visit the Famine Memorial, which depicts the suffering caused by Ireland’s Great Hunger. Nearby, the James Connolly Memorial commemorates the Irish revolutionary leader executed for his role in the Easter Rising of 1916.

Spending around 30 minutes at these sites, visitors are encouraged to reflect on Ireland’s historical hardships and the sacrifices made for independence. The memorials serve as poignant reminders of the nation’s resilience and revolutionary spirit.

Inside the GPO Museum with Skip-the-Line Access

Choosing the 3-hour tour option grants access to the GPO Museum, with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. While the guide does not accompany visitors inside, the audio guide offers an immersive experience through videos, audiovisual booths, sound effects, and memorabilia.

The museum houses the original Proclamation of the Irish Republic and features exhibits that recreate the atmosphere of the Easter Rising. Visitors can explore the barricades, weapons, and personal stories from 1916, gaining a rich understanding of the event’s significance.

Discovering the Long History of the Irish Republican Brotherhood

Embedded within the tour narrative is the story of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, a secret society that played a key role in Irish independence. The guide shares insights into the complex history of the IRA and revolutionary brotherhoods, highlighting their influence on the Irish struggle against British rule.

This background adds depth to the sightseeing stops, helping visitors piece together Ireland’s fight for sovereignty from multiple angles—military, political, and social.

Logistics and Group Size for a Personal Experience

The tour is limited to a maximum of 25 guests per guide, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunity for questions. The private setup makes it suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking a tailored experience.

Pickup from accommodations within the Dublin city center is offered, providing added convenience. The tour starts and ends at the same central point, with flexible timing depending on the selected option.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the 2-hour option provides a solid overview of Dublin’s revolutionary sites, it does not include museum access, which may be a downside for some. The 3-hour version with the GPO Museum offers a more comprehensive experience but is priced higher at around $400 for two people, according to one review.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no explicit physical requirements noted. However, participants should be comfortable walking through the city streets and standing for periods. The tour’s timing and pacing are designed to balance sightseeing and reflection, with some stops more substantial than others.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Cost?

At $191.99 per person, the tour offers in-depth historical commentary and exclusive access to the GPO Museum. For those deeply interested in Irish history, especially the Easter Rising and IRA, these features make the experience worthwhile.

However, one review mentions that the cost may seem high for the value if opting for the 2-hour tour without museum access. The guided storytelling and skipped lines are key benefits, but travelers should evaluate whether the price aligns with their budget and interests.

Final Thoughts on the Irish Republican Army, Civil War Dublin Tour

This private walking tour provides a detailed, personal look at the key sites and stories behind Ireland’s fight for independence. With knowledgeable guides and flexible options, it caters well to history buffs seeking an authentic and insightful experience.

The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets to the GPO Museum enhances the visit, offering a deeper understanding of the 1916 Easter Rising. While the price is on the higher side, the private nature, expert commentary, and careful itinerary make it a compelling choice for those passionate about Irish history.

This tour suits visitors eager for a personalized, in-depth exploration of Dublin’s revolutionary past, especially if they appreciate guided storytelling and exclusive access to key museum exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private guided walk through Dublin’s key revolutionary sites, expert commentary, and skip-the-line tickets to the GPO Museum (for the 3-hour option). Pickup from central Dublin accommodations is also offered.

Can I skip the museum if I choose the 2-hour option?
Yes, the 2-hour tour excludes museum tickets and focuses solely on the walking route around Dublin’s historical sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at the Molly Malone Statue outside St. Andrew’s Church on Suffolk Street and ends back at the same point in Dublin city center.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While no specific physical requirements are noted, the tour involves walking and standing, so it is best suited for most able-bodied individuals. The private setup allows some flexibility.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 150 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Booking early is advisable to secure preferred dates.

Is pickup available outside Dublin city center?
No, pickup is only offered for accommodations within 1.5 km of the meeting point in Dublin city center.

What is the cost of the tour?
The standard price is $191.99 per person, with a 3-hour tour with museum tickets costing more. Group discounts are available.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Rosotravel – Ireland City Tours, known for their personalized Irish experiences and city walks.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, for those with a keen interest in Ireland’s revolutionary history, especially the Easter Rising, the private guide, skip-the-line museum access, and central Dublin location make it a worthwhile investment.