In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney | Private Car Tour

Belfast, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (2 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Professional guide
  • inclusion
    Live commentary on board
  • inclusion
    Bottled water

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks, unless specified
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Go to the front entrance of The Guildhall. You will be met there by your driver/guide.

Meeting point

Londonderry BT48 7BB, United Kingdom , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

Go to the front entrance of The Guildhall. You will be met there by your driver/guide.

Meeting point

Londonderry BT48 7BB, United Kingdom , United Kingdom

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Belfast Intl Airport
Europa Hotel
Please be weather prepared for all experiences. Ireland has a damp climate and weather can change in an instant. Good walking footwear is also recommended for all tours.

What to expect

1
Meeting Point

Go to the front gates of Belfast City Hall. You will be met there by your driver/guide.

2

Queen's University

The beautiful Lanyon Building at Queens is one of Belfast's landmark architectural gems, but adjacent to this is the Seamus Heaney Library, dedicated in his honour as both student and teacher.

Duration 30 minutes
3

The Crosskeys Inn

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We will take a detour to take in the panorama of Seamus Heaney's beloved South Derry, a living breathing map of the places celebrated in his work. We will stop at the ancient coaching inn at Crosskeys for some refreshments.

Duration 30 minutes
4

Lough Neagh Fishermens Co-operative Society Ltd

In his seminal poem 'The Lough Neagh Sequence' Heaney charts the astonishing journey of the Lough Neagh Eel from the Sargasso Sea, across the Atlantic and upriver on the Bann to Lough Neagh. On this visit you will see the existing Fishery which keeps the tradition of Eel Fishing alive in this community.

Duration 25 minutes
5

Bellaghy

We will take in the local GAA grounds where the Heaney's played Gaelic Football, then pass by the Forge at Hillhead, which features in one of Seamus Heaney's earliest poems from A Door Into the Dark.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Newferry Watersports Centre

We will not be taking to the water, but we will visit The Strand at Lough Beg, Seamus Heaney's 'favourite place in the world'. Here you will listen to his poem of that name that commemorates his cousin who was murdered during the Troubles.

Duration 30 minutes
7

Taphouse Bar and Restaurant

We will visit the award-winning Tap House Bar and Restaurant to enjoy a sumptous local lunch, prepared using locally sourced produce. Extra Cost.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
8

St. Mary's Church

When Seamus Heaney died in August 2013, he took the local community by surprise by choosing his native Bellaghy as his final resting place. He he lies, his gravestone facing westwards over his beloved Tamlaghduff with the simple epitaph 'Walk on Air Against Your Better Judgement'.

Duration 15 minutes
9

The Turf Man

Seamus Heaney's final public act for this community in Bellaghy was the unveiling in April 2008 of The Turf Man by artist David Annand. Inspired by his seminal poem 'Digging', Seamus said of the sculpture at its unveiling, 'it is the right image, in the right place'.

Duration 15 minutes
10

Seamus Heaney HomePlace

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Before we visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, we will stop for lunch at the adjacent Tap House Bar and Restaurant. The HomePlace is a purpose built museum the pays homage to the great poet and his lifetime's work. During your tour you can hear Seamus hauntingly reading his own poems as you take a journey through his life.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
11
End Point

Go to the front gates of Belfast City Hall. You will be met there by your driver/guide.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Minimum age is 16 years
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by InSite Tours Ireland

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace
  • icon
    Lunch at Tap House Bar is local
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking
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    Bring a camera for stunning views
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    Check weather and dress accordingly

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into the world of the renowned Nobel Prizewinning Poet, Seamus Heaney, with the exclusive "In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney" Private Car Tour by InSite Tours Ireland. This personalized experience offers a deep dive into the landscapes and inspirations that shaped Heaney's iconic works, guided by the knowledgeable Fergal Kearney. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland and the poetic legacy of one of its most celebrated literary figures.

What to expect?

Embark on a journey that will transport you to the heart of Seamus Heaney's world. Expect to be captivated by the stunning landscapes that inspired his poetry, as well as the intimate stories and insights shared by your guide, Fergal Kearney. This tour promises a truly immersive experience that will deepen your appreciation for Heaney's work and the rich cultural tapestry of Ireland.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for poetry enthusiasts, literature lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to the beauty and history of Ireland. Whether you are a devoted fan of Seamus Heaney or simply curious about exploring the landscapes that influenced his writing, this experience is designed to appeal to a wide range of travelers. Come with an open heart and a thirst for knowledge, and you will be rewarded with a profound and unforgettable journey.

Why book this?

Step off the beaten path and into the enchanting world of Seamus Heaney with this exclusive private car tour. Delve into the poet's life and work in a way that few have the opportunity to experience, guided by the expertise of Fergal Kearney. Gain a unique perspective on Heaney's legacy and the Irish landscape, all while enjoying a personalized and intimate tour tailored to your interests and preferences.

Good to know

As you embark on this immersive journey, be sure to bring your sense of curiosity and wonder. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the landscapes and be prepared to be inspired by the beauty of Ireland. Keep an open mind and heart as you listen to Fergal Kearney's stories and insights, allowing yourself to be fully present in the moment and soak in the magic of Seamus Heaney's world.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the "In the Footsteps of Seamus Heaney" Private Car Tour rave about the personalized and insightful nature of the experience. Many highlight Fergal Kearney's expertise and passion for sharing Heaney's legacy, making the tour both educational and emotionally enriching. Guests praise the tour for offering a deeper understanding of Heaney's work and the Irish landscape, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for both. Book this tour today and discover the magic of Seamus Heaney's world for yourself.

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