My Guide to Accessible Ireland
In 2013, I had the enormous pleasure of visiting the gorgeous country of Ireland. While some may not think that a country that is so rich in history and ancient architecture, with its many castles, would be friendly to those that are differently abled; I’m here to tell you that it may be more accessible than you think! Here is my guide for your next accessible Ireland trip.
Accessible Ireland: Where to Stay
Admittedly, I was not using a wheelchair at that time. I was using a cane, however, and definitely had difficulty getting around. For that reason, my friends and I decided to hire a private driver/tour guide for our trip to make Ireland more accessible. Our guide arranged an itinerary and booked all of our lodging (we didn’t use accessible rooms as my abilities at the time were better than they are now).
As a result, I cannot personally recommend specific accessible accommodations. However, if you have limited mobility, then I highly recommend staying at the Pax Guest House, a bed and breakfast in Dingle. It is incredible with fantastic views, homey touches and great food. There is a step-free entrance, and it has 6 bedrooms on the ground floor (main level) that have walk-in showers. This was my favorite place I stayed during my trip to Ireland.
Accessible Ireland: Getting Around
Since my trip, I have discovered some tour companies that provide wheelchair accessible tours of Ireland. While I don’t have personal experience with these companies, I will list them here for you to investigate if you are interested in visiting Ireland (which I highly recommend)!
These companies are: Wheelchair Escapes (www.wheelchairescapes.com), https://www.toursfordisabled.co.il/en/tours/tourtoireland, https://personaltoursireland.ie/, http://www.scotland-for-all.co.uk/10.html.
Typically, companies such as these will provide accessible transportation, accommodation and tours of the sites visited. If you are looking for a stress-free way to vacation in Ireland, going with a company may be a good option for you.
What I can tell you, is that Ireland is amazing, from the people to the sites I thoroughly enjoyed my trip there. I spent 10 days touring Southern Ireland in early October and I wish I had more time to see more of the “emerald Isle”. In this trip report, I’ll let you know where I went, what I saw and give you information on their accessibility.
Wheelchair Accessible Places to Visit in Ireland
1. Dublin
Guiness Storehouse
While I’m not a big beer drinker, it’s hard to go to Ireland without visiting some kind of brewery or distillery. Guinness Storehouse had great accessibility with designated handicap parking, as well as ramps and lifts throughout the tour. I didn’t miss a thing!
The tour itself was very informative on how Guiness is made. At the end of the tour, you get a free glass of Guinness in an amazing 360-degree view bar that overlooks the city of Dublin. It’s a great way to end the tour.
National Museum of Ireland
We visited the archeology part of the national museum. My friend really wanted to see one of the exhibits that featured bodies found in the bogs of Ireland (and therefore preserved REALLY well). Because I had better mobility at this time, I was able to see all of the displays. For wheelchair users, there is a ramp to get into the building, but only the first floor is accessible as there are no lifts. There is also no designated handicap accessible parking. While I found the museum interesting and enjoyed my visit, it would be very difficult for a wheelchair user to visit.
City Tour
We had an early arrival flight, so our hotel would not be ready until the afternoon. Understanding that we would be very jet-lagged, but needing to make the most of our visit until our room was ready, our guide took us on a driving tour of the city.
We got to see the main highlights of Dublin without expanding much energy (which was nice). If we wanted to stop and get out to explore more, we could, but the tour was able to be adapted to our needs and energy levels. As this was a driving tour, it was accessible. Please note that we were not in an adapted vehicle, as I am able to transfer in and out of a regular vehicle if needed.
2. Wicklow County
After leaving Dublin and heading for the town of Kilkenny, we stopped in the Wicklow Mountains in route. It was early in the morning, and the fog had not yet lifted from the mountains, making it very mystical and special. We stopped at a graveyard and the remains of St. Stephen’s church.
There was a short, flat gravel path from the parking area to the actual ruins. We also had to cross a small wooden bridge. The site itself was grassy and mostly flat. Accessibility would depend on how well your mobility device does in grass. To go into the remains of the church, there were stone thresholds and some steps. The church was small however, and the views from outside were just as nice.
Rock of Cashel
This was another stop on the route to Kilkenny. Built on a limestone hill, the Rock of Cashel is the remains of an old church that is associated with Saint Patrick. It’s an impressive piece of architecture that now has good accessibility. Thanks to the gold star project, the site now has an accessible restroom and temporary ramps that can be put in place for wheelchair access inside of the buildings. The caveat is you must arrange these ahead of your visit. The views and history of this place are sure to delight anyone.
3. Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle
Located in the town of Kilkenny, this castle offers beautiful gardens (which are accessible) and limited accessibility inside the castle itself. The Ground Floor of Kilkenny Castle, which contains the Withdrawing Room, Dining Room and Entrance Hall, is fully wheelchair accessible as well as the Medieval room which is accessed by a ramp and lift. Disabled parking is available across the street and a handicap accessible toilet is available (but you have to contact staff to use it). Entrance is free for people with disabilities and their carers. When I was here, we had the rare opportunity to see a gypsy wedding party taking photos in the gardens. It was quite a sight.
4. Cork
Blarney Castle
When you think of Ireland, one of the things that comes to mind is the Blarney Stone (which if you kiss it is supposed to give you the gift of gab). This famous stone is located in none other than Blarney Castle. While the castle itself is not wheelchair accessible, the gardens and entrance to the park are. You may ask why visit, if it’s not accessible? Well, the gardens themselves are beautiful and offer great exterior views of the castle. There is also accessible parking and restrooms on sight. Entrance is free to those with disabilities.
Although difficult, I did climb the steps to the top of the castle. I was unable to kiss the stone however, as you have to lay on your back and partially upside down to reach it. The steps to get there are also narrow, steep and in a circular pattern. I admit that to come down them, I sat down on them and lowered my butt down to each next step as there was no railing and my balance was poor.
5. Kinsale
Driving Tour
Near Cork is the lovely little town of Kinsale. We drove through the town, taking in the sights and stopped at a spot overlooking Kinsale harbor. It was quite lovely and very accessible since we were driving.
Charles Fort
Just outside of Kinsale, this old fort was built in the seventeenth century and has a very long history. It is a star shaped fort and has many of its original buildings. There is a flat wooden bridge to cross to enter, and there are paths around the interior of the fort that are on a slope (the fort is on a hill). Unfortunately, the interior of the buildings are not wheelchair accessible, with the exception of the gift shop. It is still a very interesting place to visit and offers spectacular views of Kinsale Harbor.
6. Killarney
Killarney National Park
This Park contains thousands of acres of beautiful landscape, including an old castle. One of the most popular ways to tour the park is to take a jaunting cart ride (a small cart pulled by horses). This is how we saw the park when I was there, but I needed a lot of assistance to climb in and out of the cart (steps are involved). So, while someone with limited mobility may be able to experience this, they are not wheelchair accessible.
For wheelchair users, the Knockreer Circular Path is a great way to explore the National Park. Circling around some of the most accessible parts of the park, the 5km trail follows a smooth paved path suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and buggies. The route gives wonderful views of Lough Leane and the MacGillycuddy Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland.
Muckross House
Located within Killarney National Park, this HUGE Victorian mansion is quite the site. When I visited, we only had time to tour the gardens (which are accessible) so we did not go inside the mansion. Their website indicates that parts of the house are accessible.
Torc Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall, accessed by a short hike (200m) up a gravel path that has a little bit of an incline (so manual wheelchair users may need some assistance). It should be noted that there are some larger rocks along the patch that will need to be navigated, as well as two small steps at the very end of the path. The steps are uneven, with the right side of them being lower than the left. If you want to try to wheel over them, stay to the right. Part of the waterfall is visible without going up the steps, but to get the full view, you will need to get passed the steps. There are designated handicap parking spaces in the parking lot.
Ross Castle
Located on the edge of Killarney National Park, this 15th century castle has scenic views and tons of history. I enjoyed exploring it during my trip. Please note that only the ground floor is wheelchair accessible, and must be seen during an escorted tour that is arranged in advance.
Ring of Kerry
There are two options for taking the scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry. First is a jaunting cart, which as we discussed before, is not wheelchair accessible, but may be an option for people with limited mobility. The second option is to drive (or hire a driver).
The roads at times are narrow and winding, only allowing for one car to be in certain sections at a time. I suggest hiring a driver so you don’t have to worry about the road and can fully enjoy the spectacular views. A driver/guide can also give you a little bit of the history of the area and tell you what you’re looking at. Bus tours usually can’t make the whole drive as they are too large of a vehicle.
Staigue Fort
Located along the Ring of Kerry, this handmade stone fort is from the 1st century. There is a gravel path that leads to the fort, but the interior isn’t accessible to wheelchair users as there are large stones within the entrance, making it too narrow for a wheelchair to pass through. The fort is well preserved and if you like history and are in the area, it’s nice to view. There are no other structures inside the fort, so you are mainly looking at the interior of the circular walls.
7. Dingle
Inch Beach
Dingle was one of my favorite places as far as the scenery. While most of it was enjoyed by driving, we did make a stop at Inch Beach. The scenery did not disappoint but the water was freezing! To access the beach, there are free beach wheelchairs that you can request in advance by emailing environ@kerrycoco.ie and then pick up at the lifeguard station.
8. County Clare
Cliffs of Moher
A trip to Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Cliffs of Moher which were formed 319 million years ago. They are absolutely breathtaking! They are also wheelchair accessible. There is handicap parking and restrooms.
The visitor center is completely accessible with ramps and lifts to get between floors. They even offer shortened coin operated telescopes for you to get a better view. The main viewing area is wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended that the best view is from the exit of the visitor center on the first floor (not ground floor).
Access to the Hags Head viewing area and O’Briens Tower is quite steep. A hard surfaced wheeled access path is provided to these areas but at times the path has sections which have been damaged by storms and have uneven surfaces in parts. There is discounted admission for people with disabilities.
Poulnabrone Portal Dolmen in the Burren
A Portal Dolmen is a tomb, and this is one dated back to around 3000 BC. It’s 3000-pound cap stone is what holds the sides in place. When archaeologists excavated around the tomb, there were about 30 bodies discovered (both adults and children). Why these individuals were chosen to be buried here is unknown.
While there is a lot of mystery that surrounds these portal dolmens, they are marvels in engineering and add to the mystical feel of Ireland. This particular dolmen is one of the most photographed in Ireland and is located in an area called the Burren. The Burren is made up of limestone rock. As a result, although this site is accessible, expect a lot of bumps and uneven ground.
Manual wheelchair users may need some assistance. For those that use a cane or walker, make sure to wear good, sturdy shoes and watch your footing.
Bunratty Castle and Folklore Park
This Park shows what life was like in the times of long ago. There are several different structures within the park depicting everyday life, including the castle.
Accessibility at Bunratty Castle
Unfortunately, the castle itself is not wheelchair accessible as it’s a historic site and making changes to it in order to increase accessibility would alter its original design.
The rest of the park has accessible paths throughout as well as accessible restrooms. Please note that the paths may be uneven at times. There are also costumed actors throughout the park to demonstrate everyday life activities.
When I visited, I was only able to see a portion of the castle, as I got very tired from climbing the steps. The rooms within the castle contain artifacts that would have been used during the time when the castle was in use.
Banquets at Bunratty Castle
The castle is known for throwing a medieval style banquet and hosting “Irish nights”. As the banquet takes place inside the castle, it is not wheelchair accessible. The Irish nights are held in a separate location and are more likely to be able to accommodate wheelchair users (I did not attend this so not sure of the accessibility). If you are interested in enjoying a medieval banquet during your stay, the nearby Knappogue Castle Banquet offers a very similar experience and is fully accessible.
***Insider Tip: If you are in the town of Doolin, make sure to stop at Gus O’Connor’s pub. It has been part of the community since 1832. There’s a flat entryway to get in so it’s accessible. They offer great food, amazing drinks and spectacular music at night. If you go in the cooler months, you’ll be greeted by a huge roaring fire as you enter. I did not use the restrooms while I was there so I can’t speak to their accessibility. This was my favorite pub during my trip.
9. County Meath
Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne Visitors Centre
Newgrange is similar to Stonehenge in England, in the fact that it was built around the same time and from stone not native to the area. It also aligns with the winter solstice, when the sun shines directly into the structure.
That is where the similarities end, however, as the Newgrange megalithic monument looks nothing like Stonehenge. There are chambers inside the monument and the purpose is unknown, although thought to be related to religious ceremonies. The visitor center contains artifacts found in the area and gives wonderful information about the area before your visit.
How to Visit Newgrange
The only way to visit Newgrange is by a guided tour booked through the visitor center. Once it’s time for your tour, you will board a shuttle bus that will take you to the site. Please know that the interior of Newgrange is not wheelchair accessible as you have to descend a couple of steps in order to get inside.
The shuttle buses and exterior of the monument are wheelchair accessible. The visitor center is also fully wheelchair accessible and contains an accessible replica of the chambers inside of the Newgrange monument. I highly recommend a visit.
At the time I visited, although I used a cane, I was able to navigate the around 5 steps to go into the monument. It is truly awe inspiring to think of what they were able to build so long ago and the work it must have taken. I also thoroughly enjoyed learning all of the history in the visitor center.
Other Sites Near Newgrange
There is another special site nearby called Knowth. I did not have the opportunity to visit while I was there, but would love to see it if I get a chance to go back to Ireland someday. According to the visitor center website, “At Knowth nearly all of the tour is accessible except the small exhibition room and the top of the mound. The chambers of Knowth are not accessible to any visitors.”
When to Visit Accessible Ireland
As I mentioned before, I visited Ireland in October. It was cool weather and required that I dress in layers, but there were less crowds and cheaper prices. Choosing what time of year to visit Ireland will depend on what you are looking for in terms of weather, prices, and crowds.
Historically, the months of May, June and September are considered the best times to visit Ireland. However, in my opinion, whenever you can journey to Ireland is the best time to visit.
Ireland in the Spring (March – May)
Considered to be part of the shoulder season for visiting Ireland, spring will bring cheaper airfare and tour prices. The weather will be fairly mild with highs ranging from the low to mid-fifties. As late spring approaches, temperatures will gradually rise further.
During this time, there is less rain and plenty of sun allowing visitors to make the most of their day. In addition, the flowers are starting to bloom, and the sheep are having their lambs. Who doesn’t want to see baby sheep!?
Ireland in the Summer (June – August)
This season is the most popular with visitors looking for the best temperatures, which range from the mid to upper sixties. This season also offers the longest amount of sunlight for tourists to get the most out of their time visiting popular sites. It is also still fairly dry during this season.
The downside to visiting in the summer is that it is peak tourist season. You will be less likely to find deals on airfare, accommodations and tours. Attractions will also have more crowds to contend with.
Ireland in the Fall (September – November)
Fall in Ireland starts to bring more rain and cooler temperatures, but with that less crowds. Expect temperatures to top out around low to mid-fifties. As the season progresses, temperatures could stay in the forties. Rainfall also starts to increase in the fall.
This is also a shoulder season, where you may find better budget friendly deals than summer.
As I mentioned earlier, I visited Ireland in October. Temperatures were cool but tolerable, although the skies were overcast and cloudy on many of the days I was there. There was only one night on the west coast that stormed and had gale force winds (making walking with my cane almost impossible).
Ireland in the Winter (December – February)
Winter is low season in Ireland with the fewest number of tourists. It is also the coldest and wettest season in the country. Temperatures will range from upper thirties to low forties during this time.
While most of the precipitation you will encounter will be rain, it does occasionally snow in Ireland. However, snow tends to melt quickly and not stay on the ground for long.
Conclusions on Accessible Ireland
Although I only spent 10 days in Ireland, we were able to pack a lot in. Our driver/guide was excellent at time management without making us feel rushed in anyway. He was prepared every morning upon pick up from our accommodations, knowing the forecast and altering the itinerary so that the weather wouldn’t put a damper on our sightseeing.
We never missed a site due to weather; he just altered the order we would visit things in. Unfortunately, the company we used is no longer in business, however our experience goes to show just how nice it can be to do a private tour to get the most out of your trip. Our guide also made sure we had safe transportation if we wanted to go out to the pub at night to hear some local music (which I cannot recommend enough)!
I really enjoyed my trip to Ireland and hope to get back there someday to see even more. I hope that this has inspired to you to start planning your own accessible Ireland trip… you won’t regret it!
For even more tips on visiting accessible Ireland, click here.
