Evesham’s location in the UK makes it a fantastic option to try out a great Irish road trip. Overlooked compared to the famous Scottish North Coast 500 or the Three Peaks drive, an Irish road trip is one filled with so much scenic beauty, historic charm, and deep cultural richness.
Charting A Route
Naturally, start your journey by planning your route. There are many must-see destinations on the route, including the iconic Cliffs of Moher, the vibrant port city of Dublin, and the historic Ring of Kerry. We highly recommend using a navigation app to help you navigate rural Irish roads with ease.
We’ve taken the liberty of building a potential route for you. From Evesham to Dublin is a breeze, by plane or by ferry if you’re intending on bringing your own car. Starting in the vibrant capital, head south to the medieval charm of Kilkenny, before journeying to the culinary delights of Cork, not forgetting to visit the historic Blarney Castle – and its famous stone. From here, you can continue west to the scenic beauty of Killarney and the renowned Ring of Kerry, before moving north to the surf capital of Ireland – Galway – and the stunning landscapes of Connemara. You can continue to the historic city of Derry from Galway, then west to Donegal for some of Ireland’s famous rugged coastlines and traditional villages. The route encapsulates Ireland’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, offering an unforgettable, quintessentially Irish road trip experience.
What to Pack and Where to Stay
Ireland offers a variety of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, so it’s at your discretion and budget to choose where you stay. Plan overnight stays in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best places to rest after a long day driving. It can get cold in the countryside, so unless you’re taking a campervan, avoid sleeping in the car or camping too often as damp and cold conditions won’t make for much of an experience.
As mentioned, Irish weather can be pretty unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof gear. Your driver’s licence, insurance, and travel itinerary should be with you at all times, and consider a power adapter for your electronic devices, where long drives might be on the cards.
Extend Your Trip
An Irish road trip might tempt you to extend your road trip for several more months. While planning is essential, you should leave room for some spontaneity. Discovering hidden gems along the way, taking detours to explore some of Ireland’s quaint villages, and engaging with the famously welcoming locals are highly recommended and make a visit even more special.
Whether you want to earn some extra travel money through temporary work or simply immerse yourself in the rich Irish culture by sticking around, consider the legal implications if you choose to. Speak to immigration solicitors in Ireland, as taking some legal advice is crucial if you intend to stay beyond the limits afforded by your passport, even as a British citizen. There are plenty of visa options that allow you to work or simply spend longer in Ireland if you choose.
Photo by Martin Kallur (IG: @mkallur) on Unsplash
Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and historic sites are world-renowned making it surprising Irish road trips aren’t as famous as other UK routes. With some planning, some consideration for your length of stay and a goal of exploring without limits, you’ll be able to enjoy the Irish country to its fullest. Discover why the Emerald Isle is so loved for its natural scenery, its friendly people and its spirit of adventure and travel.
