Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland - 8 Days / 7 Nights
Northern Ireland is a country that has outstanding natural beauty to view; warm, welcoming people to meet; as well as a profoundly interesting story of peace-building and reconciliation to tell. Taking in sites of significance such as St. Patrick's grave and the historic Walls of Derry, Harland & Wolffe Shipyard, Hillsborough Castle, Stormont Estate, and the Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast, we will learn about some of the factors that led to Northern Ireland's infamy in the late 20th century. We will also visit the majestic Causeway Coast and enjoy the geologically stunning Giant's Causeway, and we will make a visit to Bushmills Distillery - the world's oldest licensed distillery.
Along the way we will meet local people, inviting them to share their stories with us, and we will enjoy great food and have opportunity to look around and explore the other sites and sounds of Belfast. This is a tour that is not to be missed. We look forward to you joining us.
Itinerary and Specifics
Included:
- Return flights to and from Dublin (for those purchasing the complete package)
- Full sized touring coach from Day 2 to Day 8
- Professional local tour guide from Day 2 to Day 8
- 4* Accommodation on a Bed & Breakfast basis in central Belfast
- All lunches from Day 2 to Day 7 on a 2 course basis
- Entrances to all attractions with guided services where possible
Not included:
- Dinners -You will be spoiled for choice given your hotel is so centrally located in Belfast
- Gratuities for tour guide and driver we typically recommend a minimum of $10 USD per person per day
- Travel Insurance - we do have exclusive rates on our site (www.globaldreamtravel.co.uk/trip-insurance) via our Insurance section
- Any personal expenses (shopping, souvenirs etc.)
Full Itinerary:
Day 1
June 11 2024- Depart USA
Depart on your international overnight flight.
Day 2
June 12 – Arrive in Dublin
Stop off at Hill of Slane on way north, followed by a stop at Monasterboice Monastery, to see the High Crosses.
Possible visit to Belfast City Hall on way to hotel (depending on time)
Day 3
June 13 – Belfast
Tour of Belfast with an emphasis on the areas most affected by the confrontations between Catholic and Protestant locals that came to be known as "The Troubles". See Shankill Road and stop at the Crumlin Road Gaol
Visit with Fr Martin Magill, Catholic Priest and Peacemaker on Falls Road
Travel to Stormont and tour parliament buildings with Brian Kingston MLA.
Day 4
June 14 Ireland – Ancient and Modern.
Start the day with a visit to Hillsborough Castle.
Visit Downpatrick stopping at Downe Cathedral/St. Patrick’s grave site, and Saul Church.
Visit to Hinch Distillery in Ballynahinch.
Rev. David Campton, Irish Methodist Minister, will join us for this day.
Day 5
June 15 – Londonderry/ Derry
Walking Tour of the historic walls.
Walk [as able] across the Peace Bridge in Derry.
Day 6
June 16 – Belfast
Worship at East Belfast Mission, and visit with Pastor of the mission to hear about EBM’s reconciliation work. Lunch at their cafe.
Visit to Titanic Experience
Day 7
June 17 – Causeway Coast Tour
Bushmills Distillery Visit
Stop off at Dunluce Castle.
Giant’s Causeway.
Day 8
June 18 – Transfer to Dublin for return flights
Return home with memories of the people and places of Northern Ireland.