Discover the Real Ireland with Local Guides
Connect with authentic local guides who know the hidden gems, the stories, and the experiences that make Ireland unforgettable.
Meet some of our guides
A curated network of local guides across Ireland — each one chosen for their expertise, their stories, and the kind of experiences you won't find in a guidebook.
Stephen Payne
Stephen Payne began his story with passenger travel & tourism back in 2003 and since then has gained almost unrivalled knowledge on showing the very best Ireland has to offer, from castles and country estates, to small remote beaches in Connemara and Kerry. Having been organising bespoke tours for just over 20 years, Stephen leaves no stone unturned when it comes to accommodation, food and lunches, points of interest stops, as well as small details such as tour diaries and giving a truly immersive Irish experience to everyone who travels on board. Having a Fáilte Ireland Irish National Driver Guide qualification means you're not just getting a driver, you're getting a knowledgeable, passionate storyteller who can bring Ireland's history, culture, music, landscapes and people to life as you travel around the country. From the ancient passage tombs of the Boyne Valley to the spectacular views along the Wild Atlantic Way, the breathtaking gardens at Powerscourt to the intricacies of the Book of Kells, the silence of the Famine Memorial to the wonderful Irish music in Tralee — Stephen has guided groups from all across the world and knows the nooks and crannies to make each and every journey one to remember forever.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Music Arts
John Britton
John Britton – Ormonde Language Tours Hello, I’m John Britton, founder and guide of Ormonde Language Tours in Kilkenny. I was born and raised in County Kilkenny, and I run a small independent walking tour company offering story-driven tours of the city. My goal is to give visitors a clear and engaging introduction to Kilkenny, helping you understand how the city developed from a Norman stronghold into the modern Irish city you see today. I lead every tour myself and keep groups small so the experience remains relaxed, personal, and interactive. As we walk through the streets of Kilkenny, I connect the buildings and landmarks you see with the people, events, and changes that shaped the city over more than 800 years. One of the unique aspects of my tours is that they can be delivered entirely in English, French, or German, allowing international visitors to explore Kilkenny’s history in their own language. I hold a Certificate in National Tour Guiding, a BA (Honours) in Language Studies, and a Diploma in International Hotel Management. Before becoming a tour guide, I spent over 20 years working in hospitality, including time in hotels in Ireland, the UK, Switzerland, and France. My aim is to offer visitors a welcoming and informative introduction to Kilkenny — the perfect starting point before exploring the city further on your own.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
Derek O'Keeffe
My journey in the Irish travel industry began early, shaped by a family love for the island’s landscapes and stories. Over more than 26 years, I have built a reputation for designing private tours that feel relaxed, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Recognised as Ireland’s 2025 Bespoke Tour Operator of the Year, I am trusted by travellers who value insight, care, and a genuine connection to the places they visit. Decades spent exploring Ireland’s quieter corners have given me an intimate knowledge of the country, from the dramatic Atlantic coastline to the understated charm of rural villages. I have an understanding of Irish history, folklore, and local life that turns each journey into a living narrative. With me as your guide, travel becomes more than sightseeing, offering moments of connection with the people, stories, and traditions that define Ireland. Known for tours that are refined yet unhurried, I brings together comfort, flexibility, and local insight in a way that feels natural and effortless. Our story and approach are reflected in every journey, whether travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way or through Ireland’s Ancient East, with guests experiencing the country at their own pace, guided by someone who knows Ireland not just as a destination, but as home.
- Private Driver Guide
- Cultural
- Food Drink
Martin Hurley
I’m a driver guide with over 20 years of experience driving tourists all over Ireland North and South.
- Private Driver Guide
- Photography
- Coastal
Seamus Ó Drisceoil
I have been collecting oral history and anecdotes from Cape Clear Island for the past 40 years and can provide an interesting walking tour ( or bus/car tour for smaller groups) anywhere on the Island. I like responding to questions as they usually bring up interesting stories from our rich Island history which also has various deep connections with far flung parts of the Globe. I am an O'Drisceoil, sharing the main Island surname from the ancient O'Driscoll Clan which ruled these parts for 600 years or so. I am deeply involved in INIS, Cape Clear Island & Fastnet Heritage Center. I am a regular guide with visiting bus tours and also play Irish traditional music regularly with the locals. I am a fluent daily Irish speaker, with a good knowledge of the more famous publications from the Island and regularly publish heritage themed articles on local websites and social media. I am a competent Spanish Speaker and not far off in French. My other local interests include small farming, tree planting, kayaking and supervision of the Island walking trails. I am also a founder of the local Island Distillery and can provide gin tastings for groups of 10 +. These involved the 3 different local gins, Classic, Aged and Lavender.
- Cultural
- Coastal
- Photography
Mireille Finnegan
Mireille( French) Finnegan( obviously Irish) L'Irlande est mon pays d'adoption. Membre de Atgi depuis 2009.Généraliste mais très attirée par les Arts, sportive et curieuse, je vous ferai partager mon amour de l'Irlande. Vous verrez, c'est contagieux! You can't forget to visit Northern Ireland and Scotland, as our history is linked since neolithic time. Outside of Ireland, i will be happy to show you the rest of Europe as a Tour Leader. Specially Spain, France and Swizerland where I spent the last three years. https://photos.app.goo.gl/rr5hwAwJ9dsJuN6s6 https://www.facebook.com/share/1MxCE599aX/
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Music Arts
Brendan J. Hynes
Brendan has lived in Galway for nearly all his life and can trace the origins of his family name back to the 9th century in South Galway. He is a graduate of NUI Galway in 2014 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Archaeology and Geography and is a Failte Ireland and I.T.M.I. qualified tour professional. He has been involved in tourism since 2006 leading visitors on journeys of discovery through some of the most beautiful settings in Galway, Ireland, and the world. For leisure he enjoys travelling, reading and photography. As an experienced tour professional, Brendan can work on extended tours on an International, National and Local basis; and as a city walking tour guide. He can also work with Cruise Ships (River & Ocean) as an on board or land based tour director/manager, host or escort. For individual and group tours, he can customize an itinerary to your interests and needs to maximize your time. His gateway airports are Dublin, Shannon and Knock. So come and explore with Brendan.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Food Drink
Michael Duggan
Glenbeg Tours offers private, luxury, extended, guided tours of Ireland
- Cultural
- Food Drink
- Historical
Joe McKinney
Hi there. My name is Joe McKinney and I'll be your Tour Guide for a nice leisurely stroll through Dublin City. I'm an Actor and Artist, and I work with Energy Medicines, including Reiki and Shamanic Practices. There's a lot of Energy in my City, with Poetry, Prose, Art and Rock'n'Roll. Join me in a ramble through Dublin City.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
Three steps to your Ireland
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