10 things to do in Ireland for £10 or less

Summer has finally arrived and with the promise of longer nights and warm days, there is no better time to explore the island of Ireland and its iconic landmarks. The vibrant isle has plenty to offer, be it an exhilarating trail following Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route – also the backdrop to the hit TV Series, Game of Thrones – or a cultural tour across Dublin by bike, stopping off to explore the museums, cafes and restaurants.

The Gobbins Coastal Path, County Antrim  
There’s no better way to experience Ireland and its dramatic landscape than on a self-drive tour along the Causeway Coastal Route. A must-see is the Gobbins Coastal Path in Islandmagee, County Antrim - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dramatic two-mile long path consists of a network of walkways, bridges and water-splashed gantries embedded into the black basalt sheer cliff faces. The pathway offers an exhilarating walk to awaken the senses, a mix of rugged beauty, spectacular views, flora and fauna. A short 40-minute drive from Belfast, the coastal path is situated close to the famous Blackhead lighthouse.
How: The Gobbins is open daily from 9.30am to 5.30pm with prices starting from £8.50 per adult and £6.00 for concessions.
For more information: www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

Trinity College, Dublin
The oldest university in Ireland, Trinity College was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I and sits in the heart of the bustling capital city. Spanning an enviable 40-acres, it has retained its ancient cobbled squares, gardens, parks and literary treasures, including the 9^th century illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, the books of Durrow and Armagh and the ancient Irish harp. Alumni’s include Jonathan Swift (Gulliver’s Travels), Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker (Dracula) and playwright Samuel Beckett.
How: Open Monday - Saturday, 9.30am – 5pm; Sunday (May - September) 12pm – 4.30pm; Sunday (October – April) 12pm – 3.30pm.
For more information: www.tcd.ie/

Rock and Roll Bus Tour, Belfast
Associated with everyone from Van Morrison to Ruby Murray, via Stiff Little Finger, Snow Patrol and more. The tour includes the Ulster Hall, where Led Zeppelin gave ‘Stairway to Heaven’ its world premiere and where The Clash provoked a riot in 1977; to the old Wizard Studios, where The Undertones recorded their punk classic ‘Teenage Kicks’; this tour is not to be missed by music lovers visiting the city.
How: Ticket prices start from £8 per adult.
For more information: www.ohyeahbelfast.com/events

Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens, Cork  
An Irish Heritage Trust property, Fota House sits on the picturesque Fota Island just off Cork Harbour. The property is a regency style great country home and a fascinating example of the contrasting lives of the masters of a former time and their servants. Built in the 17^th century, a tour of the house includes its award-winning Frameyard Garden and grounds. Cultural events run on site throughout the year.
How: A house and garden tour starts from £8 per adult. Open daily from May until September from 10am – 5pm.
For more information: http://fotahouse.com/

National Gallery and Irish Museum of Modern Art, Dublin
Housing some of Ireland’s finest art collections, the National Gallery is nestled in historical Merrion Square, made up of stately private houses and offices. It’s currently showcasing stunning works by Leonardo di Vinci and offers live recitals and tours throughout the year. For visitors who prefer a more modern take on the art world, head to the Museum of Modern Art, which offers live talks and events throughout the year.
How: Admission is free; opening times 9.15am-5.30pm & 11.30am – 5.30pm.
For more information: http://www.nationalgallery.ie/ & http://www.imma.ie/

Charlie Byrne’s Bookstore, Galway
A local treasure, this little bookstore was established in 1989 and is home to over 100,000 copies of new, second and third-hand books, discounted books (many £1) and out of print titles. Voted ‘The best bookshop in Ireland’, the store is a local gem and should not be missed.  
How: Opening hours 9-6pm, to 8pm Thursday and Friday; from noon on Sunday.
For more information: www.charliebyrne.com

Carrickfergus Castle, Belfast
Approximately a 20 minute drive from Belfast sits Carrickfergus Castle, one of the most well preserved medieval structures in Ireland. The Norman castle overlooks the Belfast Lough and has fended off enemies for over eight centuries and dates back to 1177. The fortress is still intact and features a recreated banqueting hall and impressive battlements throughout.
How: Prices start from £5 per adult. Open daily until September, 10am – 6pm.
For more information: www.ireland.com

The Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
One of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions is the Cliffs of Moher. Formed over 300 million years ago, the cliffs stretch across five miles of the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs help form part of many ancient myths and legends and are regarded as one of the world’s most important natural laboratories due to the rich fossil formations.
How: The cliffs are 1.5 hours by car from Galway. Admission is £4.80 per adult and free for children.
For more information: http://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Belfast
Located in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens is the Ulster Museum. History buffs can explore extensive fine art collections, archaeology, ethnology, botany, zoology, geology and more. The museum also showcases inspirational collections that represent the creativity, history, culture and people of Northern Ireland.
How: Admission fees start from £8 per adult. Open Tuesday - Sunday, 10am-5pm.
For more information: http://nmni.com/uftm

A bike-ride through Dublin  
Cycle through the heart of Dublin and see its many historical sites, shops, bars and restaurants. Meander through the city’s old cobbled roads or explore the Canal Way Cycle Route, passing Leeson Street Bridge and the modern Dublin Docklands. From there, it’s a short ride to Dublin 8 off the south quays, home to the iconic Guinness Storehouse or head north of the river to Phoenix Park.
How: Rent a bike for the day from £3.90.
For more information: http://www.dublinbikes.ie/