My husband and I are planning a genealogy trip to Ireland. There are no living relatives to visit. It's the places that we want to see. We will not have a car.
We land in Dublin and want to go to several ancestral towns: Roscommon City in Co Roscommon, Kilkelly and Swinford in Co. Mayo. What is the best way to get to these non-tourist areas? We are prepared to spend a few days. Then we go to Belfast, likely by returning to Dublin and taking the train. Is that the best way?
Thank you.
Posted by
Alexandria, VA
771 posts
There are trains that go from Dublin Heuston Station to Roscommon. (I checked on Google Maps.) Bus Eireann goes all over Ireland, and makes stops in Swinford and Kilkelly (buseireann.ie) Once you are in the town you want to be in, you could take taxis around. You probably know the Irish are super helpful, so asking at your accommodations or a tourist office, (or the local pub!) for more information should productive.
Have a great time. My husband has family in Mayo and Roscommon and we have spent time there with them. I have family from Roscommon, but like you, no living ancestors.
Posted by
Moncton NB
1039 posts
Its too bad you won't have a car. Its definitely the best way to see Ireland. Renting not an option?
Posted by
OP
Pennsylvania
11 posts
Thank you for your prompt and helpful replies. A car rental is not possible. A driver would be, but I don't know if this is feasible.
Trains are a good option for us, too.
Posted by
Alexandria, VA
771 posts
A fellow forum member posed this link a year or so ago: https://www.beautifulmeath.com/
I believe they used them for a few days. They seem to have one day, or multi-day trips, designed with you to meet your needs.
I bookmarked it because this question comes up a lot.
Posted by
OP
Pennsylvania
11 posts
Thank you for this private tour/driver tip. Note: The link has changed. The new site is https://www.customirishtours.com/