Beyond the well-trodden paths of the island’s famous landmarks, there lies a world full of peculiar museums, mysterious locations and unexpected activities. For those curious travellers looking for quirky experiences to add to their Ireland itinerary, we’ve got you covered with sights and ideas that aren’t to be found in your average travel guide.
Enchanting museums to discover:
To begin, a visit to the
Little Museum of Dublin will surprise you with its great collection of treasures that trace Dublin’s 20th century life. A guided tour is sure to make you giggle more than once too! Next, head over to the National
Leprechaun Museum of Ireland to get your fill of the folklore the island is so deeply associated with. And, just across the River Liffey, lies an artifact of peculiar intrigue: Napoleon’s toothbrush, a testament to the personal habits of one of history’s most iconic figures - to be found in the
Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.
With Dublin now in the rearview mirror, discover the
Museum of Time in wonderful Waterford for an journey through the science of timekeeping. Meanwhile, Foynes’
Flying Boat and Maritime Museum is absolutely worth your time: who knew that pioneering aviators, Hollywood icons and the birthplace of Irish Coffee could make for such a perfect blend! If all of that has made you a bit peckish, then Cork has you covered with the
Butter Museum - where interesting tales and facts are definitely spread thick!
Mysterious locations:
When thinking of mysteries and Ireland, our minds are drawn to the ancient archaeological wonders dotted across the island. With monuments older than the pyramids, you’ll be
spoiled for choice.
There are however, many other intriguing spots to discover, including the crypts of
St Michan’s, where mummified remains may just well send a shiver down your spine. You can also marvel at nature’s slow conquest at King’s Inn, where a voracious tree has enveloped a park bench.
The
Hill of Uisneach in
Westmeath is the perfect place to experience the spiritual heartland of Ireland. It’s a sight rich in lore, panoramic views and quirky sculptures. For more art and nature, don’t miss the
Sperrin Sculpture Trail - where giants await! And finally, if you haven’t heard the story of the vanishing lake, then make sure to head to Loughareema in
Ballycastle for an enigmatic geological experience.
One of the island’s unexpected sights is to be found in Howth when a royal visit in 1821 left more than just memories - meaning you can now literally stand in the footprints of King George IV. If you haven’t had your fill of footprints, you can step further back in time and walk alongside the 385 million year old ancient Tetrapod footprints on
Valentia Island. And on the theme of memorable gaits, don’t forget to pay homage to the silent film legend that is Charlie Chaplin, whose statue resides in Waterville, a once favourite holiday destination of his.
Did you say more?For one of the most unique journeys you’ll take on your trip to the island of Ireland, hop onto the only cable car here to reach the quirky but idyllic
Dursey island. If mysterious islands are your thing, a visit to
Spike Island is a must. Located off Cobh, it has been used as a prison four times over the course of 400 years, only closing down in 2004.
A visit to
Castletown Estate, in Ireland’s Ancient East, wouldn’t be complete (or as unconventional) without exploring the whimsical structures of Connolly’s Folly and the Wonderful Barn.
If
C.S. Lewis's enchanting worlds captivate your imagination, be sure to explore the very landscapes that sparked his creativity, including the magical
Narnia Trail. On the flip side, if your allegiances lie with J.R.R. Tolkien, then head to the lunar-like terrains of
the Burren!
Looking for a quirky and fun activity to experience with your loved ones? How about getting to know some fluffy alpacas? There are several
wonderful locations to learn all about these fuzzy camelids and their prized wool - and perhaps to even take one for a walk!. And if you’d like to experience something a bit more relaxing but just as unexpected, why not try out a
seaweed bath in Co. Sligo?
But that’s not all, check out these
10 secret spots across the island, as well as these
9 secret sights that boast some stunning landscapes.
Spooky Island:The island of Ireland is also well known for its many haunted spots, from castles and hotels to pubs! Start your spooky trail by visiting the Blarney Castle’s
Poison Garden, where each plant has a dark story to tell. Next, have a drink at the most haunted pub in Ireland:
Grace Neill’s, where over 400 years of history lurk. Many more
haunted sights and
creepy delights await those brave enough to seek them out!
What are some of your favourite quirky discoveries and recommendations here on the island?