24.3.11

1916 Rising Walking Tour




One of the best things I’ve done in this city I’ve learned to call home is the ‘1916 Rebellion Walking Tour’ with Dubliner Lorcan Collins as the tour guide. Lorcan is a gifted story-teller with a fantastic enthusiasm for this specific and pivotal time in Irish history. In the two hours I spent in his company I learned more about 1916, or perhaps I gained a deeper understanding of it than all my years in school. The tour will appeal to a large audience as Lorcan makes an asserted effort to engage with everyone in the group.
As Lorcan brought the group along the route he pointed out numerous historical interest points that are not obvious to the uninformed as well as the more obvious landmarks such as the GPO and James O’Connell’s statue. Lorcan does not adhere to the ‘pretty’ areas of Dublin as he escorted us down some of the more ‘local’ streets to learn of their relevant to the Rising. However I felt this added to the authenticity of the tour. I must say I felt a sense of privilege to be on the tour when I became aware of some puzzled stares from passersby who must have been intrigued at the attention our group were giving to Lorcan with his larger than life personality.
Lorcan’s knowledge, passion and sense of humour makes this tour a must for both locals and tourists. The pace is very manageable for all ages.
All tours leave from the International Bar, Wicklow Street (10 min walk from Temple Bar Hotel). Monday to Saturday at 11.30am and Sunday at 1pm. The price is a very reasonable €12.