London to Dublin by Ferry and Rail

Key Points

• Affordable 4-day trip from London to Dublin at $1,089.07 per person
• Includes train and ferry transportation, avoiding airport hassles
• Stay in centrally located Dublin hotels with breakfast included each morning
• Explore Dublin at your own pace using a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus ticket with live commentary
• Ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and a mix of comfort and scenic travel

London to Dublin Departure from Euston Station

This tour begins at London Euston Station, where travelers check-in at the Network Rail Mobility Assistance Reception. The departure is scheduled for 9:02 am with a direct train heading to Holyhead. Onboard, passengers enjoy reserved seats, a snack bar, and restrooms, making the journey comfortable. The train ride lasts approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes, passing through the heart of England and along the North Wales coast.

This train trip earns praise for its scenic views and smooth ride, although some reviews note that seats may not be reserved for return, so arriving early is advisable. The train staff are described as friendly and efficient, adding a layer of convenience for travelers. The journey culminates at the Holyhead ferry terminal, where a brief bus transfer takes guests onto the Irish Ferries Ulysses, a large cruise ferry ready for the 3-hour and 15-minute voyage across the Irish Sea to Dublin.

Crossing the Irish Sea on the Ulysses Ferry

The Ulysses ferry offers a standout experience with its spacious onboard facilities. Passengers have access to multiple restaurants and bars, a 2-screen cinema, and comfortable lounges. The ferry ride itself is often highlighted as relaxing and scenic, providing impressive views of the water and coastline as you approach Dublin.

The ferry’s large size and amenities make the crossing more enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate a leisurely journey. However, some reviews mention that the ferry ride can be crowded, so arriving early or securing a good spot is beneficial. The ride is seen as a key highlight of the trip, offering a scenic and comfortable passage en route to Ireland.

Arriving in Dublin and Hotel Accommodation

Upon arriving in Dublin, a Railtours Ireland host facilitates transfers to the hotel, which is either a 3-star or 4-star standard hotel centrally located in Dublin. The tour includes three nights of hotel stay with breakfast served each morning, ensuring a restful start to each day of exploration.

The hotels are praised for their location, which makes it easy to walk to many attractions, although some guests mention that certain hotels may be a bit tired or busy. The convenience of staying downtown allows for spontaneous exploration and easy access to Dublin’s top sights.

Free Time to Discover Dublin with Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

The 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a core feature of this package, offering live and multilingual commentary. The buses drive through key neighborhoods and landmarks, with drivers who are knowledgeable and engaging. This service allows flexible exploration, with the option to hop off at attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, Old Jameson Distillery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Book of Kells exhibit at Trinity College.

This bus tour provides valuable insights into Dublin’s history and culture, making it a great way to familiarize yourself with the city. The free tickets and professional guides contribute to the tour’s overall value and enjoyment. The reviews consistently mention how helpful and entertaining the drivers are, with many appreciating the informative commentary.

Exploring Dublin’s Top Attractions at Your Own Pace

With the hop-on-hop-off bus ticket, passengers can distribute their time across various attractions. Popular stops include the Guinness Storehouse, where the process of brewing Guinness is explained and a pint can be enjoyed at the Gravity Bar. The Kilmainham Gaol offers a historical look at Ireland’s past, while the Old Jameson Distillery showcases Irish whiskey craftsmanship.

The St. Patrick’s Cathedral is also a must-see, with its impressive architecture and historical significance. The Book of Kells exhibit at Trinity College provides a glimpse into medieval illuminated manuscripts. Reviews note that the hotel location makes it easy to walk or return quickly to the hotel after sightseeing.

Returning to London by Ferry and Rail

The journey back to London follows a similar route, with ferry departures from Dublin at 8:05 am, arriving at Holyhead by 11:30 am. Passengers then transfer via coach to Crewe, where they board a train heading to London Euston. The return trip generally arrives around 3:00 pm or later, depending on the day.

Travel times are consistent, with some reviews mentioning that the train ride can be somewhat long, but the entire process remains straightforward thanks to organized transfers. The ferry crossings are at the same times as the outbound journey, making this a reliable option for return travel.

Included Amenities and Hotel Details

This tour offers three nights in Dublin hotels rated as 3-star or 4-star standards, with breakfast included each morning. The package also features transfers from the Dublin ferry port to the hotel and a Dublin city tour with a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Group discounts are available for larger parties, and the tour is designed to avoid airport hassles, making it an appealing choice for travelers wanting a less stressful trip. The total cost per person is approximately $1,089.07, with booking typically happening 118 days in advance.

Tour Flexibility and Physical Considerations

This independent tour is suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, as some walking is involved and stroller accessibility requires a foldable stroller. It is ideal for those who prefer paced exploration rather than guided tours with strict schedules.

The group size is limited to 25 travelers, fostering a more personal experience. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is accessible to those with service animals.

Strengths and Limitations of the Trip

The main strengths of this tour are its scenic train and ferry journey, central Dublin hotel accommodations, and the flexibility of the hop-on-hop-off bus. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and good hotel locations.

Limitations include the length of the train ride, which some find a bit tiring, and the lack of reserved seats on the train for the return trip, leading to some crowding issues. Plus, the hotel quality may vary, with some guests describing their accommodation as tired or noisy.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic train and ferry rides and want the freedom to explore Dublin independently. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfortable, centrally located hotels and flexible sightseeing with easy access to major attractions. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking guided tours with fixed schedules or those preferring shorter travel times.

Final Thoughts on the London to Dublin by Ferry and Rail Tour

The London to Dublin by Ferry and Rail offers a relaxed and flexible way to experience Ireland’s capital while enjoying scenic travel through England, Wales, and the Irish Sea. The cost-effective package combines comfortable transportation, hotel stays, and self-guided exploration, making it suitable for independent-minded travelers.

While the length of the train journey may be a consideration, the ease of transport, combined with top Dublin attractions accessible via the hop-on-hop-off bus, makes this tour a solid choice for a short Irish getaway. It provides a good balance of scenic travel, cultural sightseeing, and comfortable accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the price of $1,089.07 per person inclusive of all expenses?
Yes, this price covers train and ferry transportation, hotel accommodations with breakfast, and the Dublin hop-on-hop-off bus. Food and drinks outside breakfast are not included.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 4 days, including travel time to and from Dublin and exploration days.

Are the hotel standards comfortable?
Guests stay in 3-star or 4-star hotels in Dublin, with positive comments about their location. Some reviews note that certain hotels may be a bit tired, but overall, they are considered well-located and comfortable.

How flexible is the sightseeing schedule?
The 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus ticket allows self-paced exploration, giving travelers the freedom to visit attractions at their own convenience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 16 years old cannot book independently and must be accompanied by an adult.

What are the main stops during the Dublin city tour?
Key attractions include the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, Old Jameson Distillery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Book of Kells at Trinity College.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Most reviews describe the train journey as pleasant but note that seats may not be reserved for the return, which can result in crowding.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are refundable up to 6 days before the start date. Cancellations made less than 6 days in advance are not refunded.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
This tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Stroller accessibility requires a foldable stroller.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is typically done 118 days in advance, and confirmation is received within 48 hours. For more details, contact the supplier at +35318560045 or [email protected].

This London to Dublin by Ferry and Rail offers a practical, scenic, and flexible way to enjoy Ireland’s vibrant capital without the stress of airport travel, making it a worthwhile choice for your Irish escape.