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
Ultan O Reilly
Most tours in Galway walk you around for an hour and read you dates off a wall. That’s not what this is. My name is Ultan. I’m from Mayo, I’ve lived in Galway for six years, and I left a full-time job to do this because I’m a people person and this is what I love. Simple as that. Stroll to the Stout is built around one idea, the best way to understand a place is to do what the locals do. Pour a pint. Hear some trad. Watch the GAA. Talk to someone who actually lives here. The pint you pour yourself. The Polaroid you take home. The GAA. None of it is manufactured for tourists. It’s just Galway. Fáilte Ireland accredited, ITOA approved, and the only operator on the west coast of Ireland doing this. No headsets. No scripts. No passive afternoons.
- Cultural
- Food Drink
- Walking
Antonella Brunelli
Buongiorno! I am Italian and I live in Italy and during the Summer Season in Ireland. I am specialized in Art History and in Horticulture. I am a qualified National Guide in both countries.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Ilona
My main goal is to make sure my visitors to Ireland feel well looked after and have the best possible time while travelling around this country. I love to share stories and experiences that visitors won’t get in a guidebook or app.
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Nature
Liam McCauley
Whether you’re curious about Irish history, looking for outdoor adventures, exploring your family roots, or just want to slow down and take it all in — I’ll work with you to build an itinerary that fits your interests and budget. Each journey begins with a conversation, and from there, I’ll design your route, suggest ideas and make it seamless from start to finish. Whether it’s your first visit or a long-awaited return, I’ll help you discover landscapes, stories and places that speak to your interests — all at your pace.
- Private Driver Guide
- Historical
- Cultural
James Byrne
Walking tours of Sliabh Liag and South West Donegal. Local guide with local knowledge, I love this area so let me show you around!! ****I’m a qualified regional tour guide for the northwest of Ireland (ATU Killybegs, 2023), a member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland (ATGI), and I’m fully insured and I am also registered with Fáilte Ireland.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
Tony Keane
Hi, my name is Tony and as someone living on the Dingle Peninsula with involvement and employment in the tourism industry for the past 20 years, I decided to start a traditional pub tour in Dingle Town to showcase the amazing pubs we have on our doorstep to our visitors, it is the only tour of its kind. We have had a successful first year with over 30 tours and 170 people but now the focus is to grow the tour bigger and better for guests to Dingle in 2026 with more singing, storytelling, music, traditional Irish pub snacks and maybe even a bit of dancing who knows :) /
- Food Drink
- Cultural
- Historical
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
Patrick Mc Carthy
Hi I am Patrick Mc Carthy Professional driver & guide for 20 years. I have guided our visiting guest all around Ireland . North & South . We have numerous vehicle to accommodate various Group sizes. Based in West Limerick. Village of Foynes
- Historical
- Cultural
- Private Driver Guide
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