Index

A

Aasleagh Falls: 355

Abbeys and monasteries: Cong Abbey, 348; Ennis Friary, 295; Glendalough, 148–149; Hore Abbey, 165–166; Monasterboice, 137–138, 479; Old Mellifont Abbey, 137; Reasc Monastery, 282–283; St. Mary’s Abbey (Howth), 126

Abbey Theatre (Dublin): 60, 90, 101, 481–482

Abortion: 477

Accommodations: See Sleeping; and specific destinations

Adams, Gerry: 365, 367, 473

Aillwee Caves: 308

Airbnb.com: 33

Airfares (airlines): budgeting, 5; carry-on restrictions, 10–11; cheap flights, 520; contact info, 503; Dublin, 116

Airlink (Dublin): 51

Airports: 520; Aran Islands, 343; Belfast, 397; contact info, 503; Cork, 209; Dublin, 50–51, 116; Kerry, 249, 288–289; Shannon, 294, 298–299; VAT refunds, 18

Ancestors, tracing: See Genealogical research

Ancient stone circles: about, 460–461. See also Archaeological sites

An Daingean Peninsula: See Dingle Peninsula

An Daingean Town: See Dingle Town

An Earagail: 449

Anglo-Irish Treaty (1921): 75

Annascaul: 260, 262

An Plassy (shipwreck): 340

An Post Museum (Dublin): 62

Antrim, County: 404–420

Antrim Coast: 404–405, 412–420; map, 416–417; transportation, 404–405. See also Portrush

Antrim Mountains and Glens: 420

Apartment rentals: overview, 33

Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall (Derry): 427

Aquariums: Dingle, 257–258; Salthill, 320

Aran Islands: 327–343; ferries, 303, 341–343

Archaeological sites: overview, 460–461, 477–478; Caherconnell Ring Fort, 306; Cahergal Ring Fort, 234, 243; Dún Aenghus (Inishmore), 332–333; Dunbeg Fort, 279–280; Gallarus Oratory, 283–284; Grianan Aileach Ring Fort, 446–447; Hill of Tara, 136–137, 457; Kenmare Ancient Stone Circle, 218, 220; Knowth, 131–132, 134–135; Leacanabuaile Ring Fort, 234, 243; Newgrange, 131–132, 133–134; Poulnabrone Dolmen, 306–307; Puicin Wedge Tomb, 262; Rock of Cashel, 162–167; Staigue Fort, 234, 238

Ardagh Chalice: 76, 479

Ardmore: 210–211

Arkin Fort (Inishmore): 334

Arlington Hotel (Dublin): 103

Art: overview, 477–480. See also specific art museums and artists

Ashford Castle: 348–349

Atlantaquaria Aquarium (Salthill): 320

Atlantic Telegraph Company: 242, 243

ATMs: 13–14. See also specific destinations

Audio Europe, Rick Steves: 10, 521

Avondale House: 149–150

B

Back Door travel philosophy: 39

Bacon (Francis) Studio (Dublin): 92–93

Bailey Lighthouse (Howth): 127

Ballinskelligs: 237

Ballyferriter: 270, 282; golf, 259

Ballyhack: 182, 183

Ballyvaughan: 308

Balscadden House (Howth): 127

B&Bs: See Bed-and-breakfasts

Bangor: 398–401; map, 399

Bangor Coastal Path: 400

Banks: See Money; and specific destinations

Banquet, at Dunguaire Castle: 309, 326

Barronstrand Street (Waterford): 179

Barry’s Old Time Amusement Arcade (Portrush): 408

Battle of Castlebar: 349–350

Battle of Kinsale: 196–197, 198–199, 463–464

Battle of the Boyne (1690): 135–136, 434, 466, 525; site of, 135–136

Beaches: Ardmore, 210; Bangor, 400; Bunbeg, 450; Carroll’s Cove, 235; Dingle, 262; Dun Laoghaire, 122; Inishmore, 333; Portrush, 405; St. Finian’s Bay, 237; Salthill, 320

Beal na Blath: 213

Beara Peninsula: 220–221; map, 221

Beatty (Chester) Library (Dublin): 68, 83–85

Beckett, Samuel: 90, 481

Bed-and-breakfasts (B&Bs): overview, 26–27, 30. See also specific destinations

Beehive huts (clochans): 279, 280, 283

Beer: 34–36; Dingle Brewing Company, 258; Guinness Storehouse (Dublin), 69, 96–98; Smithwick’s Brewery (Kilkenny), 156, 158. See also Pubs

Behan, Brendan: 90, 482

Belfast: 369–398; arrival in, 372–373; eating, 395–397; excursion areas, 398–403; helpful hints, 373, 376; itineraries, 370–371; layout of, 371–372; maps, 370, 374–375, 385, 393; shopping, 373; sights, 379–391; sleeping, 392–394; tourist information, 372; tours, 377–379; transportation, 372–373, 376, 397–398

Belfast Botanic Gardens: 389

Belfast City Hall: 384–386

Belfast International Airport: 397

Belfast Titanic Society: 378

Belleek Pottery Visitors Centre: 443

Biking (bike rentals): Belfast, 373, 376, 378; Dingle, 251, 258–259; Dublin, 53, 57; Galway, 315; Inisheer, 338; Inishmore, 330; Kenmare, 217; Kilkenny, 155; Kinsale, 192; Portrush, 408; Westport, 351–352

Bird-watching: the Burren, 300, 308; Rathlin Island, 419–420; Skellig Michael, 245–246

Birkenhead: ferries, 398

Birth control: 476–477

Bishop’s Gate (Derry): 430

Bishop’s Palace (Waterford): 178

Black Fort (Inishmore): 334

Blarney Stone and Castle: 211–212

Blarney Woolen Mills: 212

Blasket Islands: 280–281, 285–287; ferry, 253

Blennerville Windmill (Tralee): 288

Blessing of the Boats (Dingle): 249, 526

Bloody Foreland: 451

Bloody Sunday (1972): 100, 429, 430, 432, 434–436, 437, 473; Monument (Derry), 434–435

Bloomsday (Dublin): 52, 525

Blue Coat School (Derry): 427

Boating: Bangor, 400; Kenmare, 221; Rathlin Island, 419; Valentia Island, 241

Boat travel and cruises: Aran Islands, 303, 341–343; Belfast, 378; Blasket Islands, 286; Cliffs of Moher, 302; Cobh, 206–207; Dingle, 253, 286; Doolin, 301; Howth, 126; Kinsale, 193; map, 506–507; Skellig Michael, 244; Valentia Island, 241. See also Ferries

Bog Bodies (Dublin): 73–75

Bogs: about, 356–358

Bogside Inn (Derry): 437

Bogside Murals (Derry): 430–437; map, 431

Bollard’s Pub (Kilkenny): 158

Book of Kells (Dublin): 65–67, 68, 70–71, 478–479

Books, recommended: 523–524

Boyne River: 138, 142

Boyne Valley: See Valley of the Boyne

Braveheart (movie): 139, 141, 142, 152

Brazen Head, the (Dublin): 102–103

Brendan, Saint: 254, 295, 296, 317, 458

Brian Ború: 71, 124, 294, 459

Bridge End: 446

Bridget, Saint: 300–301

Britannic: 380, 381

British pound: 15

Broighter Hoard: 76

Bru Boru Cultural Centre (Rock of Cashel): 168

Brú na Bóinne: 131–135; tours, 130–131; Visitors Center and Museum, 132–133

Budgeting: 5–8

Bulman Bar (Summercove): 203–204

Bunbeg: 450

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park: 291

Burial mounds: See Archaeological sites

Burren, the: 304–308; botany of, 307; bus tours, 292; maps, 291, 305; planning tips, 290–291; selfguided driving tour, 304–308

Burren Birds of Prey Centre: 308

Burren Centre (Kilfenora): 305

Buses (bus travel): 505, 509–511; Antrim Coast, 404–405; Belfast, 376, 397; Dublin, 50, 53–54, 57–58, 116; map, 506–507. See also specific destinations

Bushmills Distillery: 416–417

Business hours: 12

C

Cabs: See Taxis

Caherconnell Ring Fort: 306

Cahergal Ring Fort: 234, 243

Cahersiveen: 237, 243

Cairnryan: ferries, 397–398

Car insurance: 514

Carnegie Arts Center (Kenmare): 217

Car rentals: 5, 9, 511–514; Dublin, 503–504

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge: 417–418

Carrickfergus Castle: 391

Carroll’s Cove: 235

Car travel (driving): 505, 515–519; Antrim Coast, 412; Belfast, 372–373; best three-week trip, 10–11; the Burren, 304–308; Cobh, 209; Connemara, 345–359; County Clare, 290–291; Derry, 424; Dingle, 249, 289; distances and time, 513; driving tips, 518–519; Dublin, 51–52; Dun Laoghaire, 119; Ennis, 294; Galway, 314, 326; Glendalough, 148; Healy Pass, 220–221; Kenmare, 217; Kinsale, 191; map, 346–347; navigating roundabouts, 515; Ring of Kerry, 231–237; road signs, 516; Sally Gap, 147–148; Slea Head Drive, 275–285; Wicklow Mountains, 145

Cash: See Money

Cashel (town): 168; eating, 169; sleeping, 168–169

Cashel, Rock of: See Rock of Cashel

Castlebar: 349–350

Castle Cove: 238

Castles: architecture, 462–463; Ashford Castle, 348–349; Blarney Castle, 211–212; Bunratty Castle, 291; Carrickfergus Castle, 391; Desmond Castle (Kinsale), 199; Dublin Castle, 68, 82–83; Dunguaire Castle, 309, 326; Dunluce Castle, 418–419; Glenveagh Castle, 448–449; Kilkenny Castle, 155–156; Leamaneh Castle, 306; Lynch’s Castle (Galway), 316; Minard Castle, 260–262; O’Brien’s Castle (Inisheer), 338; Trim Castle, 141–142

Castletownbere: 221

Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Waterford): 178–179

Cathedrals: See Churches and cathedrals

Ceilidh: 296, 334

Cell (mobile) phones: 9, 495, 498–499, 500–501

Celts (Celtics): 71, 73–74, 76, 255, 279, 282–283, 332, 413, 455–457, 478–479, 525

Centre for Migration Studies (near Omagh): 443

Ceol na hinse (Ennis): 295–296

Chalice of Ardagh: 76, 479

Chaplin, Charlie: 235

Charles Fort (Kinsale): 198

Chester Beatty Library (Dublin): 68, 83–85

Chorister’s Hall Medieval Museum (Waterford): 177–178

Christ Church Cathedral (Dublin): 86

Christ Church Cathedral (Waterford): 179

Churches and cathedrals: architecture, 464–465; Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Waterford), 178–179; Christ Church Cathedral (Dublin), 86; Christ Church Cathedral (Waterford), 179; First Derry Presbyterian Church (Derry), 427; Holy Cross Church (Kenmare), 220; Kilmalkedar church, 284–285; Long Tower Church (Derry), 429, 439–440; St. Benen’s Church (Inishmore), 333–334; St. Canice’s Cathedral (Kilkenny), 156; St. Cavan’s Church (Inisheer), 339–340; St. Columb’s Cathedral (Derry), 439; St. Enda’s Church (Inishmore), 333; St. James’ Church (Dingle), 255, 263, 265; St. Mary’s Church (Dingle), 255–257; St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral (Dublin), 62–63; St. Nicholas Cathedral (Galway), 319–320; St. Nicholas Collegiate Church (Galway), 316, 321–322; St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Dublin), 87; Seven Churches (Inishmore), 333–334

Claddagh (Galway): 318

Claddagh Records (Dublin): 88

Clare, County: 290–309; map, 291

Clare, Mary Francis: 219

Clare Museum (Ennis): 294

Clark (Harry) Windows of Díseart (Dingle): 255–257

Clew Bay: 355

Clifden: 359

Cliffs of Moher: 299–301

Climate: 8–9, 528

Clochans (beehive huts): 279, 280, 283

Clogher Head: 282

Clontarf: 123–124

Clothing sizes: 527

Cnoc Fola: 451

Coastal Path (Bangor): 400

Cobblestone Pub (Dublin): 94

Cobh: 205–209; maps, 190, 206

Coffin ships: 353–354; Dunbrody, 186; Jeanie Johnston, 93–94

Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas (Galway): 316, 321–322

Collins, Michael: 74–75, 82, 86, 100, 213, 471

Columba (Colmcille), Saint: 333, 427, 428, 444, 458

Columbanus, Saint: 458

Communication: 494–505

Confiance, MV (Belfast): 388

Cong: 345, 348–349

Cong Abbey: 348

Connemara: 344–359; bus tours, 344–345; selfguided driving tour, 345–359

Connemara National Park: 358–359

Connemara Regional Airport: 343

Connolly, James: 74, 95, 386

Connolly Station (Dublin): 50, 51, 115–116; sleeping near, 109

Consulates: 502

Coomakesta Pass: 235

Cork, County: 189–213; map, 190

Cork Airport: 209

Cormac’s Chapel (Rock of Cashel): 163–164

Corran Binne: 453–454

Corrib River: 318

Costs of trip: 5–8

Cottage rentals: overview, 33

Country houses: Avondale House, 149–150; Derrynane House, 238–240; Gardens of Powerscourt, 146–147; Kylemore Abbey, 358; Mount Stewart House, 402–403; Muckross House, 227–229; Rothe House (Kilkenny), 156

County Antrim: 404–420

County Clare: 290–309; map, 291

County Cork: 189–213; map, 190

County Donegal: 421–422, 444–454; map, 446–447; selfguided driving tour, 445–454. See also Derry

County Kerry: 214–243

County Kilkenny: 153–160

County Mayo: 344–360; map, 346–347

County Wexford: 182–188; map, 183

Court House Pub (Dingle): 255, 264

Craggaunowen Open-Air Folk Museum: 295

Crean, Tom: 260–261, 262

Credit cards: 9, 13–17

Croagh Patrick: 354–355

Croke Park Stadium (Dublin): 98–99, 100

Cromwell, Oliver: 174, 184, 185, 219, 260, 311, 465–466

Crooke: 185

Croppies Acre (Dublin): 98

Cross of Cong: 77

Cross of Murdock: 138, 479

Crown Liquor Saloon (Belfast): 387–388, 395

Cruises: See Boat travel and cruises

Crystal: 262; Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre, 173–175

Cultra: 389–391

Currachs: 278, 280, 296

Curragh Racecourse: 152

Currency and exchange: 13–14

Cushendall: 420

Customs regulations: 18

D

Dance: step dancing, in Galway, 320. See also Ceilidh

DART (Dublin): 54, 118–119, 124

Debit cards: 9, 13–17

Declan, Saint: 210

Defoe, Daniel: 190, 197

Derry: 421–442; eating, 441–442; helpful hints, 424–425; history of, 428–429, 432; maps, 423, 431; nightlife, 440; self-guided walks, 426–437; sights, 437–440; sleeping, 440–441; tourist information, 424; tours, 425; transportation, 424, 442

Derrybeg: 450

Derry Guild Hall: 438

Derrynane House: 238–240

Derry Walls: 426–428

Desmond Castle (Kinsale): 199

De Valera, Eamon: 74–75, 82, 96, 294, 471–472

Dick Mack’s Pub (Dingle): 256, 264

Dingle Bay Charters: 253

Dingle Brewing Company: 258

Dingle Crystal: 262

Dingle Harbor: 253, 256, 257, 258

Dingle Hillwalking Club: 252

Dingle Horse Riding: 259

Dingle Peninsula: 247–289; maps, 248, 250–251, 276; self-guided tour, 276–285; tours, 252–253; vs. Ring of Kerry, 236

Dingle Pitch & Putt: 259

Dingle Races: 249, 525

Dingle Regatta: 249, 525

Dingle Town: 248–275; eating, 270–273; helpful hints, 249–252; history of, 254; maps, 268–269, 272; nightlife, 263–265; self-guided walk, 253–256; shopping, 262–263; sights/activities, 256–262; sleeping, 265–270; tourist information, 249; tours, 252–253; transportation, 249, 275, 286

Dining: See Eating; and specific destinations

Discounts: See Money-saving tips

Distilleries: See Whiskey

Divorce: 477

Dog (greyhound) racing: 99, 321

Donegal, County: 421–422, 444–454; map, 446–447; self-guided driving tour, 445–454. See also Derry

Doolin: 301–303; ferries, 342–343

Doo Lough Valley: 355

Doonties: 262

Drake, HMS: 391, 420

Driminaught: 448

Driving: See Car travel

Drombeg Stone Circle: 196, 461

Druid Theatre (Galway): 316

Dublin: 46–117; at a glance, 68–69; arrival in, 50–52; eating, 110–115; entertainment, 101–103; excursion areas, 118–144; helpful hints, 52–53; itineraries, 47–48; layout of, 48–49; maps, 49, 60–61, 66–67, 80–81, 106–107, 112–113; self-guided walk, 58–64; shopping, 101; sights, 64–99; sleeping, 103–110; tourist information, 49–50; tours, 55–58; transportation, 50–52, 53–54, 115–117

Dublin Airport: 50–51, 116, 119

Dublin Castle: 68, 82–83

Dublin City Hall: 85–86

Dubliner, meeting a: 52–53

Dublinia (Dublin): 69, 87

Dublin Literary Pub Crawl: 56

Dublin Pass: 49–50

Dublin Writers Museum: 69, 89–90

Dún Aenghus (Inishmore): 332–333

Dunbeg Fort: 279–280

Dunbrody Famine Ship (New Ross): 186

Dunfanaghy: 451–453

Dunfanaghy Workhouse: 451

Dunganstown: 185

Dunguaire Castle: 309, 326

Dun Laoghaire: 48, 118–122; ferries, 117; map, 120–121; sights/activities, 120–122; transportation, 118–119

Dunluce Castle: 418–419

Dunluce Centre (Portrush): 409

Dunquin: 280–281

E

Eask Tower (Dingle): 258–259, 277

Easter Uprising (1916): 56, 74, 470–471

East Pier (Howth): 126

Eating: 33–36; budgeting, 6–7; tipping, 17. See also Markets; and specific destinations

Economy: 473–474, 476; Northern Ireland, 365; Republic of Ireland, 44

Electricity: 12

E-mail: 504. See also specific destinations

Embassies: 502

Emergencies: 12, 502

Emigration: Dunbrody Famine Ship (New Ross), 186; Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and Famine Museum (Dublin), 93–94; Queenstown Story (Cobh), 207–208

Enda, Saint: 333

Ennis: 292–299; eating, 298; map, 293; nightlife, 295–296; sights, 294–295; sleeping, 297–298; transportation, 298–299

Enniscorthy: 187–188

Ennis Friary: 295

Enniskerry: 146–147; sleeping, 147

Entertainment: budgeting, 7–8. See also Ceilidh; Music; Theater

Enya (musician): 444

Euro currency: 13–15

Evensong, in Dublin: 86, 87

Exchange rates: 15

Eyre Square (Galway): 311, 318–319

F

Falls Road (Belfast): 383–384

Famine: See Great Potato Famine

Far and Away (movie): 279, 280, 524

Ferries: 510; Aran Islands, 341–343; Belfast, 397–398; Blasket Islands, 286; Doolin, 301; Dublin, 51, 116–117; Hook Head, 182; map, 506–507; Skellig Michael, 244

Festivals: 52, 525–527

Films, recommended: 524. See also specific films

Finn McCool: 414, 457

First Derry Presbyterian Church (Derry): 427

Fishing: Cong, 348; Dingle, 253; Howth, 124, 126; Ring of Kerry, 235, 237; Trim, 140

Flag: Northern Ireland, 365; Republic of Ireland, 44

Folk music: See Music

Food: See Eating; Markets

Football: See Gaelic football

Four Courts (Dublin): 59

Foyle River: 422

France: ferries, 117

Francis Bacon Studio (Dublin): 92–93

Free Derry Corner: 429, 435

Fungie the Dolphin (Dingle): 257

G

Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA): 100, 469–470; Museum (Dublin), 69, 98–99

Gaelic football: 98–99, 100

Gaelic language: 274, 450, 482–486; place names, 483–484; pleasantries, 485; political terms, 486; pub and music words, 485

Gaiety Theatre (Dublin): 101–102

Gallarus Oratory: 283–284

Galway: 310–326; eating, 324–325; helpful hints, 314–315; history of, 311, 317; itineraries, 311; map, 312–313; nightlife, 321–322; sights, 316–321; sleeping, 322–324; tourist information, 314; tours, 315–316; transportation, 314, 326

Galway Arts Festival: 314, 525

Galway City Museum: 317

Galway Oyster Festival: 314, 526

Galway Races: 314, 525, 526

Garden of Remembrance (Dublin): 64

Gardens of Powerscourt: 146–147

Garnish Island: 220–221

Gate Theatre (Dublin): 64, 101

Genealogical research: 79, 156, 208, 443

General Post Office (Dublin): 61–62

Geography: Northern Ireland, 364; Republic of Ireland, 44

George Best Belfast City Airport: 397

Georgian House, no. 29 (Dublin): 69, 79–80

Ghost Walk Tour (Kinsale): 193

Giant’s Causeway: 414–415; Visitors Centre, 414

Girona: 389, 418

Glacier Lake: 234

Glebe Stone Circle: 461

Glenariff: 420

Glencree: 147–148

Glendalough: 148–149

Glens of Antrim: 420

Glenveagh Castle and National Park: 448–449

Glór Irish Music Centre (Ennis): 295

Gogarty’s Pub (Dublin): 102

Golden Mile (Belfast): 387–388

Golf: Ballyferriter, 259; Kenmare, 222; Portrush, 408

Gortahork: 451

Government: Northern Ireland, 365; Republic of Ireland, 44

Grafton Street (Dublin): 68, 80–81; eating, 110–111; shopping, 101

Grand Opera House (Belfast): 387

Great Blasket Centre: 286–287

Great Blasket Island: 285–287

Great houses: See Country houses

Great Potato Famine (1845-49): 95, 219, 228, 305, 355, 451, 468–469; Dunbrody Famine Ship (New Ross), 186; Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and Famine Museum (Dublin), 93–94; Strokestown Park National Famine Museum, 360

Gresham Hotel (Dublin): 63

Greyhound racing: 99, 321

Grianan Aileach Ring Fort: 446–447

Griffith, Arthur: 75

Guidebooks: 522–523; Rick Steves, 520–521; updates, 10, 53, 376, 522

Guided tours: See Tours

Guinness Storehouse (Dublin): 69, 96–98

Guinness World Records: 97

Gweedore: 445, 450

H

Hall of the Red Earl (Galway): 316–317

Hands Across the Divide (Derry): 438–439

Ha’ Penny Bridge (Dublin): 59, 89

Harry Clark Windows of Díseart (Dingle): 255–257

Healy Pass: 220–221

Heaney, Seamus: 481, 482, 523

Henry Street (Dublin): shopping, 101

Heritage Card: 20–21

Heritage Island Explorer Touring Guide: 21–22

Heuston Station (Dublin): 50, 51, 115

Hiking: Ardmore, 210; Ballyvaughan, 308; Bangor, 400; Cliffs of Moher, 302; Croagh Patrick, 354; Derry, 426–427; Dingle, 251, 252, 258–259; Giant’s Causeway, 415; Glendalough, 149; Horn Head, 453–454; Howth, 126–127; Kenmare, 221; Killarney National Park, 229; Kinsale, 193, 198; Mount Errigal, 449; Skellig Michael, 245; Trim, 142; Westport, 351–352

Hill of Tara: 72, 136–137, 457

History: 455–473

Holidays: 19, 525–527

Holy Cross Church (Kenmare): 220

Holyhead: ferries, 117

Hook Head Lighthouse: 182–183, 185

Hore Abbey: 165–166

Horn Head: 453–454

Horseback riding: Dingle, 259; Kenmare, 220–221; Ventry, 259, 278

Horse markets: 94, 357

Horse racing: 152

Horses, at Irish National Stud: 150–152

Hostels: overview, 32–33. See also specific destinations

Hotel Europa (Belfast): 387, 392

Hotels: overview, 24–27, 31; reservations, 28–29. See also Sleeping; and specific destinations

Howth: 48–49, 123–128; eating, 127–128; map, 125; sights, 125–127; sleeping, 127

Hugh Lane Gallery (Dublin): 92–93

Hurling: 98–99, 100, 457

I

Inch Strand (Dingle): 262

Inisheer Island: 337–341; ferries, 303, 341–343; map, 339

Inishmore Island: 328–337; eating, 337; entertainment, 334; ferries, 341–343; maps, 329, 336; sights, 332–334; sleeping, 335–337; tourist information, 330; tours, 331

Internet access: 504. See also specific destinations

IRA: See Irish Republican Army

Irish dancing: step, in Galway, 320. See also Ceilidh

Irish Ferries: 51, 117, 510

Irish Film Institute (Dublin): 88–89

Irish football: See Gaelic football

“Irish fry” breakfast: 27, 33–34

Irish language: See Gaelic language

Irish music: See Music

Irish National Heritage Park (Wexford): 187

Irish National Stud: 150–152

Irish Rebellion (1798): 46, 239, 467; National 1798 Centre (Enniscorthy), 187

Irish Republican Army (IRA): 362, 365, 366–367, 384, 432, 433, 435, 436, 438, 471

Irish whiskey: See Whiskey

Irish-Yankee vocabulary: 486–491

Iveragh Peninsula: See Ring of Kerry

J

James Fort (Kinsale): 198–199

James Joyce Cultural Centre (Dublin): 90–92

James Joyce Tower and Museum (Dun Laoghaire): 120–121

Japanese Gardens (Kildare): 152

Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and Famine Museum (Dublin): 93–94

John F. Kennedy Park (Galway): 318–319

Joyce, James: 82, 90, 481; Bloomsday (Dublin), 52, 525; Cultural Centre (Dublin), 90–92; Tower and Museum (Dun Laoghaire), 120–121

K

Keating, Sean: 480

Kenmare: 214–225; eating, 224–225; helpful hints, 215, 217; history of, 219; map, 216; nightlife, 222; sights, 218–222; sleeping, 222–224; tourist information, 215; tours, 217; transportation, 225

Kenmare Ancient Stone Circle: 218, 220, 461

Kenmare Golf Club: 222

Kenmare Heritage Centre: 218

Kenmare Lace and Design Centre: 218

Kennedy, John F.: 185–186, 318

Kennedy Homestead (County Wexford): 185–186

Kerry, County: 214–243. See also specific destinations

Kerry, Ring of: See Ring of Kerry

Kerry Airport: 249, 288–289

Kerry County Museum (Tralee): 287–288

Kevin, Saint: 148

Kildare: 151, 152

Kilfenora: 305–306

Kilkenny: 153–160; maps, 154, 157

Kilkenny, County: 153–160

Kilkenny Castle: 155–156

Kilkenny Design Centre: 156

Killarney: 226–227

Killarney National Park: 226, 229

Killarney Outlet Centre: 226–227

Killary Harbor: 355–356

Killeany: 333–334

Killybegs: 452

Kilmainham Gaol (Dublin): 68, 96

Kilmalkedar church: 284–285

Kilmurvey (Inishmore): 333–334

Kilronan (Inishmore): 330–331, 332, 334; eating, 337; map, 336; sleeping, 335–336

Kinsale: 190–204; eating, 201–204; entertainment, 203–204; helpful hints, 191–192; history of, 196–197; maps, 190, 194–195; sights, 193, 198–200; sleeping, 200–201; tourist information, 191; tours, 192–193; transportation, 191, 204

Kinsale Regional Museum: 199–200

Kinsale Rugby Sevens Tournament: 191

Kinvarra: 309

Kissane Sheep Farm: 229–230

Kite Studios (Waterford): 173

Knightstown: 237

Knock: 359–360

Knowth: 131–132, 134–135; tours, 130–131

Kylemore Abbey: 358

L

Lace: 219; Kenmare Lace and Design Centre, 218

Ladies View: 229

Lagan Boat Company (Belfast): 378

Lagan Legacy (Belfast): 388

Language: See Gaelic language

Larkin, James: 61, 95

“Latin Quarter” (Galway): 316–317

Laundry: 32. See also specific destinations

Leacanabuaile Ring Fort: 234, 243

Leamaneh Castle: 306

Leenane: 356

Leenane Sheep and Wool Centre: 356

Leinster House (Dublin): 78

Leprechaun Museum (Dublin): 93

Letterfrack: 358

Letterkenny: 447

Liberty Hall (Dublin): 59

Liddy, Pat: 56

Liffey River: 48, 58–59

Lindbergh, Charles: 281

Linen Hall Library (Belfast): 386–387

Lisbeth Mulcahy Weaver (Dingle): 262

Liscannor: 301

Lisdoonvarna: 303–304

Lispole: 262

Literature: 91, 480–482; Dublin Literary Pub Crawl, 56; Dublin Writers Museum, 69, 89–90. See also specific writers

Little Museum of Dublin: 82

Little Skellig: 243, 246, 277–278

Liverpool: ferries, 398

Lodging: See Sleeping; and specific destinations

Londonderry: See Derry

Long’s Horseriding Centre (Ventry): 259, 278

Long Tower Church (Derry): 429, 439–440

Lough Tay: 148

Lough Veagh: 448–449

Louisburgh: 355

LUAS: 54

Lusitania: 197, 199–200, 205, 207–208

Lynch’s Castle (Galway): 316

Lyric Theatre (Belfast): 389

M

McCourt, Frank: 482, 523

Macroom: 212–213

Mail: 504–505. See also specific destinations

Man of Aran (movie): 332, 524

Mansions: See Country houses

Maps: to buy, 521–522; legend, 2. See also Map Index

Maritime Museum of Ireland (Dun Laoghaire): 121

Markets: Belfast, 373; Dingle Town, 252; Dublin, 62, 101; Dun Laoghaire, 123; Galway, 314, 316; Howth, 124, 128; Kenmare, 215; Kinsale, 192; Tralee, 287

Matchmaking Festival (Lisdoonvarna): 303–304

Mayo, County: 344–360; map, 346–347

Meagher, Thomas Francis: 177, 178

Medical help: 12, 502

Medieval banquet, at Dunguaire Castle: 309, 326

Medieval Museum (Waterford): 177–178

Meeting House Square (Dublin): 88–89

Megalithic art: See Archaeological sites

Mellifont Abbey: 137

Mellon Centre for Migration Studies (near Omagh): 443

Merrion Square (Dublin): 69, 79

Messenger Bike Rally (Dublin): 52

Metric system: 527

Midleton Distillery: 211

Millennium Bridge (Dublin): 59, 89

Millennium Forum (Derry): 440

Millennium Walk (Dublin): 101

Milltown Cemetery (Belfast): 383–384

Minard Castle: 260–262

Mobile phones: 9, 495, 498–499, 500–501

Moher: See Cliffs of Moher

Monasterboice: 137–138, 479

Monasteries: See Abbeys and monasteries

Money: 13–18; budgeting, 5–8. See also specific destinations

Money-saving tips: 13; Dublin, 49–50; lodging vouchers, 23–24; sightseeing passes, 20–22

Monks’ Fishing Hut (Cong): 348

Moore Street Market (Dublin): 62

Mountain Man (Dingle): 251, 263

Mount Errigal: 449

Mount Stewart House: 402–403

Movies, recommended: 524. See also specific movies

Muckross House: 227–229

Muckross Traditional Farms: 228–229

Murals: Belfast, 382–384. See also Bogside Murals

Murrisk: 353

Museum of Free Derry: 434

Museum of Treasures (Waterford): 175–176

Museum of Vintage Radio (Howth): 126

Music: 36–37; glossary of Gaelic terms, 485; Belfast, 395; Cashel, 168; Derry, 440; Dingle Town, 263–265; Doolin, 302; Dublin, 88, 102, 103; guided tours, 55–56, 68; Dun Laoghaire, 122; Ennis, 295–296; Galway, 320, 321–322; Inishmore, 334; Kenmare, 222; Kilkenny, 158; Kinsale, 203–204; Portrush, 411; Tralee, 287; Waterford, 181; Westport, 350

N

Napoleonic Tower (Inisheer): 338–339

Nassau Street (Dublin): shopping, 101

National Concert Hall (Dublin): 102

National Gallery (Dublin): 69, 78

National Leprechaun Museum (Dublin): 93

National Library (Dublin): 79

National Maritime Museum of Ireland (Dun Laoghaire): 121

National Museum: Archaeology (Dublin): 68, 71–78, 477; map, 73

National Museum: Decorative Arts and History (Dublin): 69, 98

National Museum: Natural History (Dublin): 78–79

National Transport Museum (Howth): 126

National 1798 Centre (Enniscorthy): 187

Neale: 349

Newgrange: 131–132, 133–134, 477; tours, 130–131

Newmills Corn and Flax Mills: 447–448

New Ross: 186

Newtown: 142

Nightlife: budgeting, 7–8. See also Ceilidh; Music; Theater

Nomads (Travellers): about, 357

North Down Museum (Bangor): 400

Northern Ireland: 362–454; at a glance, 7; almanac, 364–365; currency, 15, 365, 368; map, 363; overview, xix–xxiii, 362–368; safety, 367–368; terminology, 367. See also specific destinations

North Pier (Bangor): 400

Northwest 200 Race: 406

Number Twenty-Nine Georgian House (Dublin): 69, 79–80

O

O2 Theatre (Dublin): 102

O’Brien’s Castle (Inisheer): 338

O’Casey, Sean: 90, 482

Oceanworld (Dingle): 257–258

O’Connell, Daniel: 59, 238–240, 403, 468

O’Connell Bridge (Dublin): 58, 68

O’Connell Street (Dublin): 58–64, 69; map, 60–61

Odyssey, the (Belfast): 379

Old Bushmills Distillery: 416–417

Old Jameson Distillery (Dublin): 94

Old Mellifont Abbey: 137

Old Midleton Distillery: 211

Olympic: 380

Omagh: 443

O’Malley, Grace: 355

O’Neill, Hugh: 196–197, 462–463

Organized tours: See Tours

O’Shea’s Merchant Pub (Dublin): 103

P

Packing checklist: 529

Paisley, Ian: 365, 367, 473

Palace Bar (Dublin): 103

Pan Celtic International Festival: 525

Parknasilla Hotel: 224, 234

Parnell, Charles Stewart: 63, 96, 149–150, 469

Partry: 349

Passports: 9

Patrick, Saint: 163, 457–458; Croagh Patrick, 228, 354–355; Day, 52, 525

Peace Bridge (Derry): 438

Peace Wall (Belfast): 383

Peace Wall (Derry): 430

Pearse, Patrick: 61–62, 71, 74, 386, 470

Peat bogs: about, 356–358

Penn, William: 212

Performing arts: See Ceilidh; Music; Theater

Phone numbers, useful: 502–504

Phones: 494–502

Pickie Fun Park (Bangor): 400

Pickpockets: 14, 52

Plain of Tipperary: 165–166

Playhouse Theatre (Derry): 440

Polish immigration to Ireland: 475

Political murals: See Bogside Murals; Murals

Population: Northern Ireland, 364; Republic of Ireland, 44

Portmagee: 237, 240–241

Portrush: 405–412; eating, 410–411; map, 407; sights/activities, 408–409; sleeping, 409–410; transportation, 411–412

Portrush Recreation Grounds: 408

Post offices: 504–505; General Post Office (Dublin), 61–62. See also specific destinations

Potato Famine (1845-1849): See Great Potato Famine

Poulnabrone Dolmen: 306–307

Power & Glory, The (Trim): 142

Powerscourt Gardens: 146–147

Prehistoric sites: See Archaeological sites

Pubs: 34–36; glossary of Gaelic terms, 485; Ardmore, 211; Belfast, 377; Cobh, 209; Derry, 440; Dingle Town, 255, 263–264; Doolin, 302; Dublin, 94, 102–103; guided tours, 55–56, 68; Dun Laoghaire, 123; Ennis, 296, 298; Galway, 321; Howth, 128; Inisheer, 341; Inishmore, 334; Kenmare, 222, 225; Kilfenora, 305; Kilkenny, 158, 160; Kinsale, 203–204; Leenane, 356; Portrush, 411; Trim, 142, 144; Waterford, 181

Puck Fair: 525

Puicin Wedge Tomb: 262

Q

Quays, the (Galway): 316, 321

Queenstown Story (Cobh): 207–208

Queen’s University (Belfast): 376

Quiet Man, The (movie): 348, 349, 524

R

Railpasses: 505, 508–509, 522

Rail travel: See Train travel

Rathlin Boathouse Visitor Centre: 419

Rathlin Island: 419–420

Rathlin Island Seabird Centre: 419–420

Reader feedback: 38

Reasc Monastery: 282–283

Rebel Tours of Dublin: 57

Red Hand of Ulster: 390

Reginald’s Tower (Waterford): 176–177

Rental properties: 33

Republic of Ireland: 42–360; at a glance, 6–7; almanac, 44; currency, 15; map, 43; overview, xiii–xix, 42–45. See also specific destinations

Resources from Rick Steves: 520–521

Restaurants: See Eating; and specific destinations

Ring forts: See Archaeological sites

Ring of Kerry: 230–243; map, 232–233; ring forts, 234–235; self-guided driving tour, 234–235, 237; tours, 217, 231; vs. Dingle Peninsula, 236

River Valley Riding Stables (Kenmare): 220–221

Robert the Bruce: 413, 420

Rock of Cashel: 160–169; maps, 154, 161; self-guided tour, 162–167

Romans, ancient: 42, 333, 413, 456, 457

Room and board: See Sleeping

Rose of Tralee International Festival: 287, 526

Rossaveel: ferries, 341–342

Rossville Street (Derry): 429, 432–435

Rothe House (Kilkenny): 156

Roundabouts: about, 515

Roundstone: 359

Roundwood: 148

Royal Portrush Golf Club: 408

Rugby: 98, 191

Ryanair: 116, 289, 503

Ryan’s Daughter (movie): 254, 262, 276–277, 281, 282, 524

S

Safety, in Northern Ireland: 367–368

Saints: See specific saints

St. Augustine Chapel (Derry): 427

St. Benen’s Church (Inishmore): 333–334

St. Canice’s Cathedral (Kilkenny): 156

St. Cavan’s Church (Inisheer): 339–340

St. Columb’s Cathedral (Derry): 439

St. Enda’s Church (Inishmore): 333

St. Finian’s Bay: 237; sleeping, 240

St. George’s Market (Belfast): 373

St. James’ Church (Dingle): 255, 263, 265

St. Joseph’s Convent and Díseart (Dingle): 255–257

St. Mary’s Abbey (Howth): 126

St. Mary’s Church (Dingle): 255–257

St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral (Dublin): 62–63

St. Nicholas Cathedral (Galway): 319–320

St. Nicholas Collegiate Church (Galway): 316, 321–322

St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Dublin): 87

St. Patrick’s Cross (Rock of Cashel): 163

St. Patrick’s Day: 52, 525

St. Stephen’s Green (Dublin): 69, 82; sleeping near, 106–109

St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre (Dublin): 81, 111

Sally Gap: 147–148

Salmon Weir Bridge (Galway): 320

Salthill: 320; eating, 326; sleeping, 324

Sandycove: sleeping, 122

Sandy Row (Belfast): 384

Sayers, Peig: 281, 286

Scilly Walk (Kinsale): 198, 203

Sciuird Archaeology Tours (Dingle): 252–253

Scotland: ferries, 397–398

Scuba diving: 420

Seasons: 8–9

Self-catering cottages: overview, 33

“Seven Churches” (Inishmore): 333–334

Shankill Road (Belfast): 384

Shannon Airport: 294, 298–299

Shaw, George Bernard: 69, 90, 91, 243, 481

Shopping: budgeting, 8; clothing sizes, 527; customs regulations, 18; hours, 12; VAT refunds, 17–18. See also Crystal; Lace; Markets; and specific destinations

Sightseeing: at a glance, 6–7; budgeting, 7–8; passes, 20–22, 49–50; planning tips, 18–20; priorities, 8. See also specific sights and destinations

Sinn Fein: 74–75, 365, 367, 383, 470–471

Skellig Experience Centre (Valentia): 237, 241

Skellig Michael: 243–246

Skelligs Chocolate Factory: 237

Slea Head: 280–281; eating, 273, 275

Slea Head Drive: 275–285

Sleep code: 25

Sleeping: 22–33; budgeting, 6–7; rates and deals, 23–24; reservations, 9, 28–29; types of accommodations, 24–33; vouchers, 31. See also specific destinations

“Sleeping Giant”: 282

Smartphones: 9, 495, 498–499, 500–501

Smithfield Village (Dublin): 94

Smithwick’s Brewery (Kilkenny): 156, 158

Sneem: 234, 237–238

Somme Heritage Centre: 402

South Pole Inn (Dingle): 262

Spanish Arch (Galway): 317

Spanish Armada: 42, 190, 281, 437–438

Special events: See Festivals

Spike Island (Cobh): 206–207

Sports: See Biking; Fishing; Gaelic Athletic Association; Gaelic football; Golf; Hiking; Hurling

Staigue Fort: 234, 238

Stena Line: 51, 117, 397–398, 510

Step dancing, in Galway: 320

Steves, Andy, weekend tour packages: 58

Stoker, Bram: 90, 91, 481

Stone circles: about, 460–461. See also Archaeological sites

Storm Beach: 261

Strokestown Park National Famine Museum: 360

Strongbow: 86, 156, 174, 178, 179, 459

Surfing: 237

Swift, Jonathan: 87, 90, 91, 467, 481

Synge, J. M.: 481–482

T

Tara, Hill of: 72, 136–137, 457

Tara Brooch: 76, 457

Taxes: VAT refunds, 17–18

Taxis: Belfast, 376; Dublin, 54; tipping, 17. See also specific destinations

Telephone cards: 500–502

Telephone numbers, useful: 502–504

Telephones: 494–502

Temperatures, average monthly: 528

Temple Bar (Dublin): 68, 88–89; eating, 114–115; shopping, 101

Temple Bar Square (Dublin): 88

Theater: Belfast, 389; Derry, 440; Dublin, 101–102; Dun Laoghaire, 122; Galway, 316; Kilkenny, 158; Waterford, 179

Theatre Royal (Waterford): 179

Theft alerts: 12, 26, 52

Time zones: 12

Tipping: 17

Titanic: 205–208, 369, 378–382

Titanic Belfast: 379, 381–382

Titanic Experience (Cobh): 207

Titanic Quarter (Belfast): 372, 379–382

Tone, Wolfe: 111, 430, 467

Torc Waterfall: 229

Tory Island: 453

Tour guides: 9. See also specific destinations

Tourist information: 493–494. See also specific destinations

Tours: Rick Steves, 522; Antrim Coast, 405; Belfast, 377–379; the Burren, 292; Cobh, 206–207; Connemara, 344–345; Derry, 425; Dingle Peninsula, 252–253; Dublin, 55–58; Ennis, 294; Galway, 315–316; Inishmore, 331; Kenmare, 217; Kilkenny, 155; Kinsale, 192–193; Knowth, 130–131; Rock of Cashel, 162; Valley of the Boyne, 130–131; Waterford, 173; Wicklow Mountains, 145–146

Tower Museum Derry: 437–438

Traditional Irish music: See Music

Trad on the Prom (Salthill): 320

Train travel: 505, 508–509; Belfast, 372, 376, 397; budgeting, 5–6; Dublin, 50, 115–116; map, 506–507. See also specific destinations

Tralee: 287–289

Transportation: 505–520; budgeting, 5–6; map, 506–507. See also Boat travel and cruises; Buses; Car travel; Ferries; Train travel; and specific destinations

Transport Museum (Cultra): 389–391

Transport Museum (Howth): 126

Travel advisories: 502–503

Travel insurance: 9

Travellers (nomads): about, 357

Travel smarts: 4–5

Trim: 138–144; eating, 144; map, 140; sights, 141–143; sleeping, 143–144

Trim Castle: 141–142

Trinity College (Dublin): 64–67, 68, 70–71; sleeping, 105–106

Trinity Old Library (Dublin), Book of Kells: 65–67, 68, 70–71

Trip costs: 5–8

Twenty-Nine Georgian House (Dublin): 69, 79–80

U

Ulster American Folk Park (near Omagh): 443

Ulster Defense Association (UDA): 367

Ulster Folk Park and Transport Museum (Cultra): 389–391

Ulster Museum (Belfast): 388–389

Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF): 362, 366, 367, 390, 470

V

Valentia Heritage Museum: 241, 243

Valentia Island: 240–243

Valley of the Boyne: 129–138, 477; map, 130; sights, 131–138; tours, 130–131. See also Trim

VAT refunds: 17–18

Ventry (town): 278

Ventry Bay: 277–278

Ventry Estate: 277

Verbal Arts Centre (Derry): 429–430

Victoria Square (Belfast): 373; eating, 396

Vikings: 46, 65–66, 76–78, 170, 174, 176, 458–459; Dublinia (Dublin), 69, 87

*Viking Splash Tours (Dublin): 58

Vinegar Hill: 188

Vocabulary, Irish-Yankee: 486–491

W

Waterford: 171–181; eating, 181; helpful hints, 173; history of, 174; map, 172; nightlife, 179; shopping, 173, 179; sights, 173–179; sleeping, 180–181; tourist information, 172; tours, 173; transportation, 181

Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre: 173–175

Waterford Museum of Treasures: 175–176

Watergate Theatre (Kilkenny): 158

Water parks: 320, 409

Waterville: 231, 235

Weather: 8–9, 528

West Kerry Craft Guild (Dingle): 262

West Pier (Howth): 126

Westport: 350–353; map, 351

Wexford, County: 182–188; map, 183

Whiskey: Old Bushmills Distillery, 416–417; Old Jameson Distillery (Dublin), 94; Old Midleton Distillery, 211

Wicklow Mountains: 145–150; map, 146

Wilde, Oscar: 90, 91, 481

Writers Museum (Dublin): 69, 89–90

Y

Yeats, Jack B.: 78, 92, 479–480

Yeats, William Butler: 79, 90, 91, 101, 127, 470, 481