Easy Access Blarney Stone and Castle Gardens Tour

Cork , Ireland

Easy Access Blarney Stone and Castle Gardens Tour

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(105 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This expertly curated tour offers unique access to Ireland’s must-see Blarney Castle & Gardens, home to the world-famous Blarney Stone. This wonderful tour also includes an enchanting walk discovering the picturesque village of Blarney as well as time to shop at one of Ireland’s oldest and most authentic Irish Woollen Mills.

- Beat the Ticket Line crowds – with our easy access tickets to Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Visit the 15th-century Blarney Castle home of the Blarney Stone
- Kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the “Gift of Eloquence” or named locally as the “Gift of the Gab”
- Enjoy a guided walking tour of the very picturesque Blarney Village
- Visit Ireland’s oldest and largest Irish craft goods shop
- Experience a fully guided tour led by an expert local English-speaking professional guide.
- Enjoy the best stories and highlights of Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Village

Available options

Easy Access Blarney Stone and Castle Gardens Tour

What's included

Local professional guide

Blarney Castle

Detailed itinerary

Discover the history and charms of one of Ireland’s most famous villages.

Stop 2

Enjoy unique access to Ireland’s must-see Blarney Castle & Gardens as well as the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone for the forever gift of eloquence better known as Gift of the Gab. This tour includes a fascinating guided walk to some of the Castle Grounds other highlights. Admission is included.

At end of tour enjoy the best hand crafting souvenir shopping in Ireland at the 19th century woolen mills. Admission is Free.

What's not included

Transportation

Food and Drink

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

76 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 4.8

29 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking, including over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, inclines, declines and stairs.

Participants should be in good health - consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.

Wheelchairs, motorised scooters or any other device to assist mobility are not recommended, as we cannot guarantee: that all footpaths/sidewalks/curbs will have suitable ramps.

Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older.

Not recommended for travellers with limited mobility

Meeting point

MEETING TIME: 15 minutes prior to departure
MEETING PLACE: The Village Square (which are the main public gardens in the Village), Blarney Village, County Cork
MEETING POINT: Meet your guide under the tree, in the middle of The Village Square (which is located in front of The Blarney Castle Hotel)

Important notes

"You cannot enter the venue with this voucher.
- To participate in your tour, you must first check-in with the guide 15 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
- You can only access the venues as part of your organised group tour. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated and missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled.

Health & Safety:
- This tour is not suitable for guests who require any device to assist with mobility.
- Participants should be in good health, consult first with your doctor if you have any medical condition or are not used to regular exercise.
- Wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking.
- Operates in all weather conditions.
- Anybody under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by somebody aged 18 years or older."

About Cork

Cork is a vibrant city in southwestern Ireland known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Nestled between rolling hills and a stunning coastline, it offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

English Market

A historic covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's a great place to sample Cork's culinary delights.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary for purchases

Blarney Castle

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

Historical 2-3 hours €20-€25

Cork City Gaol

A former prison that offers a fascinating insight into the lives of inmates and the history of Cork.

Historical 1-2 hours €8-€10

Fitzgerald Park

A beautiful public park with walking paths, a lake, and the Cork Public Museum. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free entry, donations welcome

Must-Try Local Dishes

Coddle

A hearty dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, often served with breakfast.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cork Sausage

A spiced sausage made with pork, often served with bread or in a sandwich.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns, served with crusty bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free upon request.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gougane Barra Forest Park Cycling around Fota Island Kayaking in Kinsale Harbour Picnicking in Fitzgerald Park Strolling through the English Market Enjoying a spa day at a local resort Visiting Cork City Gaol Exploring St. Fin Barre's Cathedral

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, longer days, and various festivals. Expect lively streets, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (IST: GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cork is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Cork Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Cork Kent Station

By bus

Cork Bus Station (Parnell Place)

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Cork, with frequent services covering the city and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Shandon The Lough Ballincollig

Day trips

Kinsale

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its colorful buildings, gourmet restaurants, and historical sites.

Blarney Castle and Gardens

8 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A medieval stronghold and home to the famous Blarney Stone, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Cobh

25 km from Cork • Half day to full day

A picturesque seaside town with a rich maritime history, known as the departure point for the Titanic.

Festivals

Cork Jazz Festival • October Cork International Choral Festival • May Cork Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the English Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience
Kiss the Blarney Stone early in the day to avoid long queues and enjoy the castle and gardens with fewer crowds
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Butter Museum and the Shandon Bells, for a unique and authentic experience
Try local specialties like coddle, black pudding, and brown bread ice cream for a taste of Cork's culinary delights
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene and friendly atmosphere