Dublin to Kilkenny, Wicklow & Glendalough: Sheep Farm, Castle & Walking Tour

Summary

Wicklow’s green hills, Kilkenny’s winding lanes and sheepdog trials from Dublin

You’ll ride out from Dublin into Ireland’s lush southeast, wander medieval Kilkenny with a local guide, watch sheepdogs herd on a real Wicklow farm (with time to meet lambs), then walk among ancient ruins at Glendalough. It’s a day of laughter, fresh air, stories—and moments that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered how it feels to stand in Kilkenny with the smell of fresh scones drifting out from a corner bakery? We started early from Dublin—three pickup spots, so no mad dash—and our guide, Maeve, had stories for every street we passed. I didn’t expect to be laughing about Irish flat racing before 9am, but there you go. The drive through Kildare was all rolling fields and horses flicking their tails in the mist. You could almost taste the dew if that makes sense.

Kilkenny surprised me. There’s something about those cobbled lanes—maybe it’s the way sunlight bounces off the castle walls or how people nod at you like you belong there. Maeve led a walking tour (optional but honestly worth it) through secret-feeling alleys and past silversmiths hammering away in open workshops. I tried to pronounce “Butler House” with an Irish lilt; got a few laughs from locals for that one. Artisan cafés everywhere—if you get a chance, try anything with blackcurrant jam.

We climbed up into the Wicklow Mountains after that. The wind at the top of the Gap was sharp enough to wake you right up—my hair still hasn’t forgiven me. Then came my favorite bit: the sheep farm. Watching the collies zip across wet grass while the shepherd whistled—honestly, I could’ve stayed there all afternoon. He let us ask anything (“How do you even train them?”) and didn’t mind when some of us just wanted to pet lambs instead.

Glendalough felt quieter than I expected—a hush over old stones and round towers where Saint Kevin once walked (Maeve had tales for days). The lake was glassy and cold-looking; I just sat for a minute listening to birds and thinking about how many feet have crossed those paths since 600 AD. Sometimes travel is loud and busy but here it was just… stillness. Hard to explain but I keep remembering it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dublin to Kilkenny and Wicklow tour

• Depart from Dublin city
• Travel through County Kildare
• Stop at Kilkenny City for walking tour
• Visit Kilkenny Castle grounds and shops
• Drive to Wicklow Mountains Gap
• Stroll and take photos at Wicklow Gap
• Visit working sheep farm in Wicklow
• Watch sheep dog trials and meet farmer
• Explore Glendalough Monastic site
• Join guided walking tour at Glendalough
• Return to Dublin city

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Dublin to Kilkenny and Wicklow?

The tour lasts a full day with multiple stops including Kilkenny City, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Monastic Site, and a working sheep farm.

Is lunch included on this Dublin to Kilkenny tour?

No set lunch is included but there are plenty of chances to eat at artisan cafés in Kilkenny or get refreshments at Glendalough.

Are guided walking tours part of this Wicklow & Glendalough trip?

Yes, guided walking tours are offered in both Kilkenny City and Glendalough Monastic Site by your tour guide.

Can children join this day trip from Dublin?

Children over 2 years old can join; infants under 2 are not allowed on this tour.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup; instead there are three central meeting points in Dublin where you can join the group.

Do we visit an actual working sheep farm on this tour?

Yes, you’ll visit a working Irish sheep farm in Wicklow for a sheepdog demonstration and time with animals.

Is there free WiFi on board during travel?

Yes, all coaches offer free WiFi throughout the journey.

How much time do we spend at Glendalough?

You’ll spend around two hours at Glendalough Monastic Site including an optional guided walk.

What’s included

Your day includes coach transport with free WiFi from central Dublin pickup points, entry fees for all sites visited, guided walking tours in both Kilkenny City and Glendalough Monastic Site, plus a stop at a working Irish sheep farm with live sheepdog demonstration—and plenty of time for food or coffee breaks along the way before returning to Dublin in comfort.