Ireland isn’t usually the first place that springs to mind when thinking of a Christmas celebration destination but you may be surprised to know that it’s actually a fantastic place to visit, especially if you enjoy snuggling up with hot chocolates on chilly, wintery evenings. And Dublin, as the capital of the Republic, has plenty to do in and around the city to get you feeling festive.
Remember that it gets dark from around 16h00 to 16h30 in winter so you don’t need to head out late to see some of the Christmas lights on streets and pubs. Just don’t forget your warm clothes and, of course, waterproofs. We’re waiting for information on Dublin’s Christmas markets, which will hopefully be released soon. In the meantime, here are some of our suggestions:
Do an afternoon tea bus tour
Dublin’s Vintage Tea Trips are excellent year-around but, during December, they offer a special festive tour that is perfect for the littlies with Santa making an appearance and a delightful array of freshly made treats and tea. These are super popular so get in touch to make your booking now. Alternatively, take the standard tea tour – it’s special at any time of year. Get in touch with us to make your booking at sales@britishtips.com.
Enjoy a chocolatey pit-stop at Butlers Chocolate Café
Butlers Chocolates are synonymous with Ireland. You’ll see these delicious luxury chocolates in shops around the country. They also have several excellent cafés all around Dublin, offering great coffees, tea, and hot chocolate, and seasonal drinks – and each order comes with a free choccie!
Go to the Guinness Storehouse Winterland
Each year, the Guinness Storehouse is magically transformed into a Christmas wonderland for 5 weeks. Christmas decorations, festive menus, a big tree and ‘snow’ on the famous doors promise to make this a great visit. Dates and details have yet to be finalised but they have confirmed it’s happening in 2022 so watch the space! Get in touch with us to make your booking at sales@britishtips.com.
Take an afternoon-evening trip out to Malahide Castle for the Wonderlights festival
Hop aboard the train from Dublin’s Connolly station for the 30-minute trip to the attractive seaside town of Malahide. The village centre is attractive and has many great boutique shops and places to grab lunch (and raise a pint) before strolling up to imposing Malahide Castle. From 04 November 2022 to 03 January 2023, the Wonderlights festival is on Wednesdays to Sundays from around 5PM (prebookings crucial). We suggest starting off with a visit to the 800-year-old castle itself before visiting the garden and lights. And don’t forget to visit Avoca for some quality Irish souvenirs. Be aware that Malahide tends to be chilly and wet most of the year around so dress accordingly. Get in touch with us to book your return rail and tickets to Malahide Castle and the Winterlights festival at sales@britishtips.com.
Most importantly! Dress for the weather – and that means any weather. In Ireland, you get all seasons in one day but you’re most likely to get plenty of rain so don’t leave your hotel without your waterproofs and umbrella.
