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.
Peter O'Connor
Medieval archery lessons with tall tales and a little history on the background and lifestyle od archery through the ages. Storytelling and actual loosing of arrows is open to all. Optional is learning, and having fun.
- Cultural
- Nature
- Music Arts
Ciaran Hayden
Ciarán Hayden is a fully qualified national tour guide based in Dublin and Wicklow, with a passion for bringing Ireland’s rich past and vibrant culture to life. A graduate of the Bord Fáilte National Tour Guide programme at the Portobello Institute in Dublin, Ciarán has spent the past three years guiding visitors through the stories, streets, and flavours that define the region. Specialising in modern Irish history and the elegance of Georgian Dublin, Ciarán blends deep historical knowledge with a natural gift for storytelling. His tours explore everything from cultural landmarks and hidden corners to the best of local food and traditional pubs, offering guests an authentic and immersive experience. He also brings a particular depth of insight into Huguenot Ireland, tracing the influence of refugee communities such as the La Touche family, whose Delgany branch played a significant role in the social and economic development of Wicklow. By weaving these narratives into the broader story of Ireland, Ciarán highlights the lasting legacy of migration, enterprise, and identity. His storytelling further extends to Ireland’s long and complex struggle for independence, from the uprising of 1798 through the revolutionary period of the early 20th century and into the present day. With a balanced and engaging approach, he helps visitors understand the people, events, and ideas that shaped the nation. Before becoming a guide, Ciarán served for 28 years as a firefighter — a career that shaped his calm presence, sharp insight, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Today, he brings that same dedication and energy to every tour, ensuring each group leaves with a deeper understanding of Ireland and a few great stories to tell.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Coastal
John Field
Hello ! My Dublin walking tours are a mixture of history, folk tales, mythology and song. James Joyce themed tours are a speciality. My previous working background was in IT where I was fortunate to have met wonderful people from all over the world whose cultures and stories have astounded me. I look forward to sharing Ireland’s stories and culture with you As we say here in our ancient Gaelic language - Fáilte go hÉirinn (Welcome to Ireland)
- Cultural
- Historical
- Literary
Eleanor English
I have been hosting guests in my farmhouse guest house for a number of years giving advise on the 'off the beaten track to visit. ' not necessarily in our brochures. l am a registered national guide ATGI . My Bike Tour of Cahir (Cahir to Cycle) will visit ancient sites which have huge value of interest to our history buffs and all in general.
- Cultural
- Cycling
David Matthews
A qualified National Tour Guide and member of the Association of Tour Guides of Ireland, I can work with an existing itinerary or help design the perfect Irish experience.
- Cultural
- Private Driver Guide
- Food Drink
Martin Haugh
Check out the wild Atlantic way with loophead walking tours on the West Clare loophead peninsula. We specialize in of the beaten track gems, places and treks you won't find without us. " Spectacular cliffs, smugglers cove, shipwreck, 10th century Church & graveyards, Saints tombs & blessed wells,19th century battery built by the British. And lots more. We can offer tours & stay @ 3* Stella Maris hotel ,and we'll look after all your needs. Just check out our website, loopheadwalkingtours.ie or call / WhatsApp @ 00353 86 8260987. Cheers Martin 😊 👍
- Hiking
- Adventure
- Walking
Brede Merrigan
Brede Merrigan is the founder and badged driver-guide behind Crystal Tours Ireland. Brede wanted to do the most important thing that she loves most in the world—showcasing the breath taking beauty of Ireland to visitors and ensuring they have the best vacation of their lives. With a heart full of Irish pride and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Brede built this company to offer more than just a tour; she offers a genuine connection to the land, its history, and its people. Brede absolutely adores what she does, and that passion is the crystal-clear foundation of every journey we create. She has assembled a remarkable team of professional, badged tour guides who share her vision and enthusiasm. Behind the wheel of our fleet of modern, comfortable vehicles, you'll find knowledgeable storytellers who are eager to share not only their extensive knowledge but also their own personal stories and local insights. They are the key to unlocking the real Ireland, taking you beyond the guidebooks to experience the hidden corners, the warm welcomes, and the inside stories that make this island so unforgettable. With Crystal Tours Ireland, you're not just seeing the sights; you're experiencing Ireland through the eyes of people who cherish it most. I also suggest you check out TripAdvisor and read the outstanding reviews our drivers have received since setting this up in April of 2025 - https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attraction_Review-g186616-d33054246-Reviews-Crystal_Tours_Ireland-Kilkenny_County_Kilkenny.html.
- Private Driver Guide
- Literary
- Photography
Peter Mullan
Failte Ireland approved regional and National tour guide. I hold both official tour guide medals. Cycling Ireland bike ride leader. Historian and author.
- Cultural
- Cycling
- Historical
Joe Hunt
Graduated with distinction from Liberties College. Tourist Guide and Business. -Full public liability insurance. -Qualified National Tour Guide. QQI level 6. -Member ITGA. -Qualified group cycle leader. My name is Joe Hunt. Why not join me for a ramble around my hometown of Dublin city. I provide walking tours for small and large groups. (also private tours) Emphasis is on a little bit of history and lots of interesting facts. City tours take between 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your choice. I like to have plenty of interaction and fun with my group. So come along and ‘Walk with Joe’ Interested in getting outside the city? Then join me for ‘Joe’s Big Day Out’. A full day exploring Dublins North or South coastline consisting of the trendy villages of Dalkey, Dun Laoire, Bray and Howth. Take an interactive tour of Dalkey Castle, and visit one of our Martello Towers dating back to the 1800’s. You will get plenty of opportunities to get that scenic Instagram photo on Killiney Hill, Colimore Harbour and Howth Head. Tour Options: Group and Private Walking Tours of Dublin Full day guided tours of Dublin Coastline Available as a step on guide for Dublin city coach tours Testimonials: Great experience, Joe obviously loves his city and his enthusiasm comes across in his stories and anecdotes. There was a lot of 'oohs' and 'wows' from the group as we learned new and interesting facts Joe was insightful, humorous and engaging blending the history into a conversational and interactive experience giving a very local experience! Me and my husband from South Korea had a wonderful time with Joe. His guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and shared many interesting stories about Dublin's history and culture. It was a really great time to explore the city and learn more about Dublin. Thanks for your time🙏 Joe is a brilliant passionate tour guide and has many stories that you will not read about in the guide books. He has an in depth knowledge about Dublin and has a warm and funny nature which made our tour very enjoyable. A fun, informative tour of Dublin. Joe is a natural storyteller who brings the nation's capital alive for those who let him guide them..... Great day out. Joe is very knowledgeable and makes the tour interesting and engaging. Highly recommend. Great tour today with Joe! Very informative and relaxing! Highly recomend! It was an absolute joy seeing the city with you! We had so much fun we lost track of time.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
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