We are joining the Rick Steves 2 week Ireland tour on Sunday evening. Our itinerary just says Day 2 walking tour ‘including a stop at Trinity College …(to see) the Book of Kells.’
Will we also visit The Old Library and Long Room? I am a librarian and do not want to miss this. Should I plan to book a separate visit or will we see it on our Day 2? I read the renewal project has been pushed to 2025 so I gather the Library is still open.
I would contact Rick Steve's tour office directly. To me they would be the best source of information. Good luck and enjoy Ireland it is wonderful.
I haven't done this tour, but I'm sure somebody who has will reply.
I've been to Trinity, and the Long room is upstairs from the book of Kells. I can't imagine a RS tour wouldn't include at least time to go upstairs.
OP regarding the Long Room….
A fond remembrance.
Was there in the 1990’s traveling with friends who were sisters. The older one was ( is ) an avid reader.
As we climbed the stairs to the Long Room she was the last of the trio to reach the doorway. Her sister and I waited. My friend looked inside, turned to us and announced, “ This where I want to be buried!”
So so nice to have visited then. No crowds anywhere in any of the cities and towns we visited.
I am also a librarian and did not want to miss the Long Room. I just purchased tickets for my October trip to Dublin. When I went to the Trinity site it said "Important note: Most of the books in the Old Library have been removed for essential conservation. However, you will see the Book of Kells & 4 bays of remaining books during your visit". This is unfortunate, but conservation is important.
As others have said, call the office and check with them.
Bon Voyage, Francine
We were on this tour last August, and yes, the Old Library and the Book of Kells are both on the tour. Many of the books had been removed for restoration, but at that time, many were still on shelves. There is an interesting video looping off to one side showing the restoration process of each book. We had plenty of time to spend in both areas…although I could have spent the day in the library! I’m not sure where you’ll be staying, but you could always return during some free time. Lovely tour!
