aran islands knitting tour

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• Lace Weight Yarn
• 4ply, Sock & Fingering Yarn
• Sport Weight Yarn
• Double Knit / DK Yarn
• Worsted & Aran Yarn
• Chunky / Bulky Yarn
• Yarn By Brand
• Stolen Stitches Yarn

Patterns & Kits

All patterns are delivered automatically as digital downloads. Wide range of sizes and tutorials included.

Kit Types  

Pattern type  , pattern by yarn  , books  .

• Needles & Hooks
• Yarn Winding
• Seasons Club
• Celtic Knits Club
• Blanket Club
• Galway Club
• Knit Basics
• Project Workshops
• Knit-Alongs
• Events & Retreats
• Celtic Knits
• Carol's Blog
• Welcome Guide

SUBSCRIPTIONS – Ensure you check the Term & Conditions box!

• American Express

10 Night Southern Knitting Tour 2025

Come join us in Ireland for an tour of the southern part of the country, including a trip to the aran islands. These tours are run by knittingtours.com and Carol will teach a morning class for the tour group.

The tour begins in Dublin and you'll travel down across to the south and up the west of Ireland.

Workshops Included

• Fairisle workshop With Pauline Gallagher - Dublin
• Anne O’Maille knitting Workshop creating unique Aran stitches Irish style - Galway
• Aran Islands Knitting Workshop with Úna McDonagh - Inis Oirr Aran Island
• Bread making workshop - Inis Oirr
• Knitting Class with Carol Feller in Kerry (including a copy of one of Carol's best selling books) - Killarney
• Traditional Knitting with Colour Class with Liz Spillane - Kenmare, County Kerry
• Visit to the Connemara Wool and Sheep Centre

This tour has 2 departure dates:

• 3rd April, 2025
• 11th September, 2025

How to Book

You can book your tour, and learn more about the tour from knittingtours.com.

Book Here (affiliate link)

Fairytales & Flowers Retreat

This is a very special 7 Night Fairytales and Flowers Retreat in Ireland! The ultimate relaxing knitting experience full of the magic of Irish Folklore, flowers and that all-important Fairy-tale Castle stay!

This 7 night tour with Knitting Tours starts on the 26th April 2025 and includes two days of in-person knitting workshops with me, Carol Feller.

You’ll start in Kildare at ‘The Keadeen’ Hotel, nestled in award-winning gardens with host Aoibhe Ní. Enjoy a fabulous Tunisian Crochet class (perfect for beginners) and discover how to make your own stunning shawl based on Irish legends.

Next, you will have a 3-night stay at Ballyseede Castle, sitting proudly on 30 acres of magical gardens and woodlands in Kerry. I will be your host here and we will enjoy two days of knitting, creating my Spring Coinneal Cowl with bluebell stitch! There will be Afternoon Tea, flower arranging, baking and whiskey tasting, all without leaving the castle!

On the way back to Dublin you will meet the fluffy and wonderful alpacas, before a yarn-spinning class with Trish Kerr of Irish Alpaca Yarns.

You will spend your final 2 nights in Dublin at the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, set in fabulous formal grounds. Finish your day with a trip to Ériu and discover their fleece-to-yarn experience.

Included in This Tour

• Complimentary private transfers on arrival and departure*
• Luxury coach with an experienced driver
• Experienced Guide/Tour Manager – Anne Marie Hayes
• All your Knitting and Craft workshops including materials
• Irish breakfast daily
• 3 course dinner each night
• Welcome Brunch
• Welcome Receptions in The Keadeen Hotel and Ballyseede Castle
• Castle Afternoon Tea
• Farm to Yarn visit to Ériu with talk, river nature walk, latest yarn colour palette show and tell and special gift
• An afternoon in the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens
• 3 nights with your Castle Host, Carol Feller of Stolen Stitches
• Classes featuring Carol's Spring Conneal Cowl with Bluebell Stitches
• Aoibhe Ní show and tell on Irish Legends and Clothing through the millennia
• Tunisian crochet shawl class incorporating Irish folklore and mythology
• Baking demonstration with the Ballyseede Castle Chef
• Flower Arranging at the Castle
• Whiskey Tasting at the Castle
• Adare village visit
• Hushabye Farm Alpacas Experience
• Irish Alpacas Spinning Class
• Dalkey Castle Living History Tour
• Maeve Binchy and other Irish Writers' Dalkey Literary Walk

Knitting/Craft Activities

• 2 days knitting with Carol Feller
• Discover Irish Mythology, History, St Brigid and their connections to Irish clothing through the milennia with Aoibhe Ní
• Irish Legends Shawl with Aoibhe Ní with an Introduction to Tunisian Crochet
• Spinning with Irish Alpaca Yarns
• Ériu Farm to Fleece Experience with a show and tell of their latest yarn palette and special gift
• Yarn and patterns are included in all workshops, you just need to bring your own needles, sizes will be advised

Tour Prices

Date: 26th of April 2025

€3799 per person sharing €4798 Single room (1 person)

Optional pre-night packages are available should you wish to spend a night or two extra in Dublin before the tour starts. 

This tour begins in Dublin on the 26th of April, 2025

You can book your tour below or click learn more to open the tour pdf with in-depth details on dates and daily activities. 

Book Here     (affiliate link)

Knit and Nature 2024

Reconnect with nature this October as we journey across the Irish landscape, exploring the connections between land and fiber. 

This 7 night tour with Knitting Tours starts on the  12th October 2024 and includes two days of in-person garment knitting workshops with me, Carol Feller.  

During this tour you'll be inspired by fleece to fibre farm experiences, including Galway Wool Safari and  Ériu farm in County Wicklow as well as staying in iconic locations such as Loch Lein Country House, Killarney and The Chancery, Dublin.

• Four star luxury accommodation
• Farewell Sparkling Afternoon Tea
• Traditional Irish Music Session
• Airfield Estate – Dublin’s sustainable farm and garden hub
• Ériu Farm meet the family, farm tour, river walk
• Glendalough Monastic Site and Lake
• Ahascragh Eco-Distllery tour, whiskey, cheese and chocolate tasting and Knit and Sip with a cocktail
• Jaunting Car Ride and Lake Cruise in Killarney National Park
• Sheepdog Demonstration at Kissane Sheep Farm
• The Swiss Cottage Visit – an idyllic fantasy of country life!

Your Knitting Activities

•  2 days in-depth garment knitting with Carol Feller of Stolen Stitches!
• Natural dyeing workshop with Malú Colorin
• Ériu farm Kingfisher palette show and tell, including free accessory pattern & skein
• This Is Knit store visit with welcome gift of Fishbone Mittens kit with Ériu Yarn
• Galway Wool Safari
• Visit to Hedgehog Fibres
• Ballyhoura Fibres talk with pop up shop
• Kerry Woollen Mills Experience

(Wool/patterns are included in all workshops - just need to bring your own needles and sizes will be advised).

Date: 12th October 2024

€3,799 per person sharing €4798 Single room (1 person) All pricing in Euros - you may choose to be charged in Euros or your own local currency. If you have friends or family that want to join you but do not knit, we offer a special non-knitter discount of €200!

Overnights for this Tour

• The Chancery, Dublin, Dublin City Centre, 2 nights
•  Limerick Strand Hotel, Limerick City, 1 night
• Loch Lein Country House, Killarney, County Kerry, 3 nights (exclusive)
• The Chancery, Dublin, Dublin City Centre, 1 night

Pre Tour Arrangements (Optional/Additional)

Package A 2 x Pre-Nights at The Chancery Hotel Arrival Transfer Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Ticket Per person sharing one room €499 Single Room (1 person) €799 Package B 1 x Pre-Night at The Chancery Hotel Arrival Transfer Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Ticket Per person sharing one room €310 Single Room (1 person) €479

This tour begins in Dublin on the 12th of October, 2024

Book Here    (affiliate link)

Knit Madrid 2025

Spend 7 nights in Madrid while taking in the local sights and the  Love Yarn Madrid Festival. 

In this tour we will stay in brand a new, sophisticated 4-star hotel, The NH Collection Madrid Gran Via which   is situated right in the heart of Madrid. From here, you will explore the very best of Madrid over the next 7 days as well as taking in the sights of the Love Yarn Festival. 

You'll also have 2 full cable workshops with me (Carol Feller) on 2-colour and reversible cables and your choice of festival workshop!

What's Included

• Transfers on arrival and departure (Barcelona Airport)
• Accredited English-speaking guide
• Breakfast daily
• Welcome Drinks Reception
• 2 full cable knitting workshops with Carol including materials.
• Wooldreamers Artisan Yarn Makers exclusive tour
• Don Quixote Adventure including the famous Windmills, Belmonte Castle and Museo Casa Dulcinea del Toboso
• Exclusive Tapas cooking class
• Afternoon in the fabulous city of Toledo
• Visit to the world famous El Rastro Market
• Exclusive Mont Reaga Vineyard tour and wine tasting
• Shuttle Service to and from Love Yarn Madrid festival
• Entrance to Love Yarn Madrid Festival and access to all social and market places
• 1 festival workshop chosen by you
• Local yarn store visits

Departure Date: 10 Feb 2025

To book your tour or to request further information, please use the booking form linked below.

This is an affiliate link

Knit Barcelona 2024

If you would like to enjoy 6 nights in Barcelona, with lots of knitting, yarn and sightseeing then this is the tour for you! You can get a preview of the tour from our 2023 review here .

So, if you're looking to visit one of Europe's most vibrant yarn festivals while taking some exclusive workshops with one of Ireland's most loved knitwear designers, all within a relaxed Spanish City with beachy vibes, then what are you waiting for?

What's included

• Two workshop with Carol Feller on colourwork knitting
• Finishing class and knitting circle with Lisa Sisk
• Luxury four star accommodation
• 3 hotel dinners
• 1 restaurant dinner
• Entrance to the Barcelona Knits Festival & shuttle service
• 1 festival workshop with advance booking online (exclusive to Knittingtours.com)
• Afternoon at Montserrat with scenic train and funicular ride
• 2 day Barcelona Express card
• Yarn store and studio visits
• La Pedrera Night Experience
• Guided Tour of La Sagrada Familia
• Flamenco show finale

14-19th of November 2024

Book Here  (affiliate link)

Kerry Manor Luxury Knitting Retreat 2025

If you would like to enjoy 7 days relaxing, and knitting in the Irish countryside knitting then this is the retreat for you!

The trip   begins on   the first day in Dublin, then the next day you'll travel down through Cahir and visit the local historic sites. That evening I'll   come   join you at the very luxurious Parknasilla Resort hotel in Kerry. The next several days will be knitting, sightseeing, learning and lots of fun! You can see the full itinerary on their website.

Over the course of a few days Carol will take you on a virtual mill tour of Ireland, looking at how they spin their yarn and the types of yarn that are produced. We'll then begin investigating cables and all the variations there are. This will all be put into practice with a couple of project where you'll have a chance to try out new techniques.

Included with the retreat is an exclusive Carol Feller yarn, pattern directions and a book from Carol.

• Transfers on arrival and departure by private luxury coach.
• Sightseeing in a luxury coach with an experienced driver and accredited guide
• The company of me, Carol Feller for 4 days!
• Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom facilities for 7 nights
• 1 dinner followed by traditional music session at Parknasilla Resort Hotel
• Irish Whiskey and Chocolate Tasting Event at Parknasilla Resort Hotel
• Optional touring

Workshops & Knitting Activities

• The company of your knitting host Carol Feller for 4 days
• Knitting with the locals on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula
• Visit Zwartables Ireland Sheep Farm
• Visit Cushendale Woollen Mill

This tour begins in Dublin in the 20th of September, 2025

10 Night South of Ireland Knitting Tour 2024

• Knitting with Wire workshop With Pauline Gallagher - Dublin Anne O’Maille
• Knitting Workshop creating unique Aran stitches Irish style - Galway
• AranIslands Knitting Workshop with Úna McDonagh - Inis Oirr Aran Island
• Spinning & Dyeing workshop - Inis Oirr
• Tunisian Crochet Demonstration with Aoibhe Ni - Dublin
• Basket Weaving Demonstration with Ciarán Hogan - Connemara

This tour has 3 departure dates:

• 15th April, 2024
• 8th July, 2024
• 16th September, 2024

Private Knitting Tours

We love knitting tours. There is nothing like sharing the love of knitting and yarn with other makers and it's even better when it's in person!

Throughout 2023, Carol will be teaching some exclusive workshops with private tours here in Ireland. For a list of other tours, please click here.

Private Tour List 2023

4th and 21st of September with Rowan Tree Travel in Mallow, Cork. 

6th - 7th of October with Knitting Tours in Galway.

10th - 11th of October with Rowan Tree Travel in Mallow, Cork. 

15th October with Knitting Tours and Carolyn Kempf in Killarney. 

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• 10 Night Ireland Knit the Wild Atlantic Way Tour

This Irish knitting tour includes many workshops and craft-based site visits in various destinations ranging from Inis Mor (Aran Islands) to Donegal to the picturesque Causeway Coast. There will also be an opportunity to visit these regions top attractions and most scenic locations.

• Tour Attractions

Tour Overview

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Start your knitting tour of Ireland in the historic city of Dublin where you will have the opportunity to see Trinity College Library and the famous Book of Kells before visiting the Constant Knitter, a local yarn store to meet a craftsperson for a short demonstration on their craft topic and informal chat.  On your second day in Dublin you will meet Lisa from ‘This is Knit’ for a knitting class on the Moebius Knitting method.  A highlight of your tour may well be the trip to Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands where we will experience traditional knitting and crafts with Una McDonagh. Continue to County Mayo where you we will visit the Museum of Country Life, an informative museum which displays the way of life of rural Irish people from 1850 with a strong focus on traditional crafts and trade. In Donegal, we visit Donegal Yarns and Studio Donegal, a hand-weaving and clothing manufacturing business, the stunning Slieve League Cliffs, Glencolmcille Folk Village along with enjoying a workshop with Irish designer Edel MacBride. The following day discover Ireland’s famous Causeway Coast, visiting the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle. See Belfast City and explore the famous Titanic Belfast museum and Mourne Alpacas. Before you return to Dublin for your final overnight, enjoy a spinning and tapestry workshop with Aine Dunne and pay a visit to the Irish Linen Museum for a guided tour.

What's included

• Transfers on arrival and departure by private coach (for arrivals prior to 10.30am on tour start date and departures on tour end date)
• Sightseeing as per itinerary in a luxury coach with an experienced driver and accredited guide
• Accommodation in rooms with private facilities for 10 nights
• Irish breakfast daily
• 5 hotel table d’hote dinners
• 1 farewell meal in Dublin
• Entrance to the following attractions: Titanic Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Slieve League Cliffs, Dún Aonghasa, Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery, Guinness Storehouse, Trinity Library and the Book of Kells
• Return ferry to Inis Mór, Aran Islands
• Inis Mór Guided Tour

Museum of Country Life

Workshops/knitting activities included in this tour.

• Spinning & tapestry workshop with Aine Dunne
• Knitting workshop with Edel MacBride from Knitfield
• Aran Island workshop with Una McDonogh
• Knitting workshop with Ciara Ní Reachtnín
• Knitting workshop with Lisa Sisk from This is Knit
• Mourne Alpaca farm visit
• Studio Donegal weaving demonstration
• Meeting with local designer at the Constant Knitter
• Important Note:  Attractions, Workshops and Demonstrations May Change According to Availability and Scheduling 

Tour highlights

Aran islands, giants causeway, guinness storehouse, trinity college & book of kells, the titanic museum, glencolumbcille folk village, slieve league.

Overnights for this tour

• Camden Court Hotel or similar, Dublin, 2 Nights
• Aran Islands Hotel, Inis Mor, 2 Nights 
• Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo, 1 Night
• Mill Park, Donegal, 2 Nights  
• Grand Central Hotel (or similar), Belfast, 2 Nights
• Camden Court Hotel (or similar), Dublin, 1 Night

Accommodation options

Optional pre-night packages available should you wish to spend a night or two extra in Dublin before the tour starts. Please see pricing section for details.

Tour itinerary

Day 1 - dublin sightseeing.

Begin your knitting tour of Ireland with a transfer from Dublin Airport to your hotel (for arrivals prior to 10:30am on start day of tour or pre-night packages). Meet with your guide and fellow travellers for an introduction and embark on your first part of the tour with a visit to the National Museum of Decorative Arts and History. Discover how Irish people lived in the past as you wander the recreated rooms showing typical furniture styles from the 17th century right through to high styles of the 19th century. The textile exhibition may be of special interest where ‘The Way We Wore’ section displays typical Irish clothing and jewellery from 1760s onwards. Our next stop is at Christ Church Cathedral for a guided tour of one of Dublin’s oldest operational buildings – over 1000 years old! The remainder of the day will be free for you to relax and refresh before your welcome dinner at your hotel. Overnight in Dublin, Dinner and Bed & Breakfast included.

Day 2 - This is Knit Workshop & Dublin Sightseeing including The Guinness Storehouse

First thing today we pay a visit to ‘This is Knit’, one of Dublin’s famous yarn stores for an informative talk on the developments in the Irish hand knitting scene over the years as well as a two hour ‘Moebius Knitting’ workshop on the stunning ‘Glenties Cowl’ pattern, designed by Lisa Sisk.  For this workshop you will be using Soft Donegal yarn from Studio Donegal in the northwest of Ireland. After your workshop we will stop at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse for a guided tour. This museum discusses the history of Ireland's most famous export, through various interactive exhibition areas including ingredients, brewing, transport, cooperage, advertising and sponsorship. This evening dinner is not included so that you can sample one of Dublin’s many restaurants and bars at your leisure. Overnight Dublin, Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 3 - Travel to Aran Islands via Tullamore D.E.W. Heritage Centre

After breakfast, it’s on to the coach again to travel to Tullamore D.E.W. Heritage Centre where you will discover how Daniel E. Williams went from stable boy to distillery manager, creating the whiskey which still bears his initials today.  We will enjoy lunch here before continuing to Rossaveal in County Galway for the ferry to Inis Mór (also spelled Inishmore), the largest of the three Aran Islands. On arrival, we will meet with some Aran Island locals for an introduction to Aran life which will pay special attention to the history of Dun Aonghasa in preparation for your visit the next day. Dinner will be served at the hotel accompanied by your hosts.  After dinner, enjoy a quick traditional Irish dancing lesson or if your tired feet are not up to the task, you can watch the instructor demonstrate some simple steps! Overnight Inis Mor (Inishmore), Dinner Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 4 - Another Day & Night on Inis Mór!

This morning, enjoy a knitting workshop where you will learn the traditional methods and stitches the way the Aran Islanders do it!  Then it’s off for a tour of Inis Mór with your local guide. The island is littered with more than 50 different monuments of Christian and pre Christian origin and you will pay a visit to the impressive cliff top fort of Dún Aonghasa. This historic fort consists of three terraced walls surrounding an inner enclosure, a platform on the edge of a three-hundred-foot high cliff. Please note that the walk to the fort is up a sharp incline and suitable footwear should be worn and is not recommended for those who may have walking difficulties. The views from Dún Aonghasa are breathtakingly spectacular. On your tour you will also visit some of the local knitwear shops on the island and enjoy a delicious meal at Teach Nan Phaidi! Overnight Inis Mor (Inishmore), Dinner Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 5 - Museum of Country Life & Knitting Workshop with Ciara Ní Reachtnín

We begin the day with the early morning ferry back to the mainland. From here travel through Connemara to the Museum of Country Life, an informative museum which displays the way of life of rural Irish people from 1850 with a strong focus on traditional crafts and trade.  After lunch (included), enjoy a knitting workshop with Ciara Ní Reachtnín who draws inspiration from Irish and Celtic mythology in her work. She will focus on 'An Bradan Feasa' also known as 'The Salmon of Knowledge'. Finally travel the short distance to Sligo where you will check into your hotel for tonight. Overnight Sligo, Dinner Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 6 - Travel to Donegal- Slieve League Cliffs and Glencolmcille

Today we travel to Donegal on Ireland’s northwest coast. First stop is a visit to the grave of W.B. Yeats at Drumcliffe Cemetery before journeying north to Donegal Yarns which is steeped in centuries of tradition of locally spun yarns. It operates a vertical production process from raw wool to a finished multi-colured fleck yarn. Next, it's onto Studio Donegal, a hand-weaving and clothing manufacturer committed to preserving traditional Irish hand-weaving. Here you will see the progression of hand-weaving from start to finish including the spinning, warping and weaving of the wool. Overnight Donegal, Dinner Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 7 - Edel MacBride Knitting Workshop & Free time in Donegal Town

Today meet one of Ireland’s finest knitwear designers, Edel MacBride, for a core knitting workshop including yarn pack, working the best of Irish moss, cable and Edel’s favourite Aran stitches. After your class and some lunch, it's on to the Slieve League Cliffs, one of the highest cliffs in Europe to enjoy some amazing views.  Next, we will travel the short distance to Glencolmcille, an area famous for its wealth of traditional Irish culture, music and prehistoric settlements. Take a tour of Glencolmcille Folk Village, a collection of several small cottages, called a ‘clachan’, resting on a hillside that overlooks the stunning Glen Bay Beach. Designed, constructed and conserved by local residents, the folk village is one of Ireland's longest running living-history museums. Overnight Donegal, Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 8 - Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast is rated as one of the top five road trips worldwide and when you see it you will see why! The road meanders around a stunning narrow strip of coastline between spectacular sea views and truly majestic high cliffs. We pay a visit to the Giant’s Causeway where around 60 million years ago, three great lava flows were laid down, cooling the basaltic plateau that makes an attention-grabbing photo opportunity today!  On your journey you will also visit the ruins of Dunluce Castle which is situated dramatically close to a headland that plunges directly into the ocean! Your tour today ends in Belfast City where the remainder of the evening is free to check out the local bars and restaurants. Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, standing on the banks of the River Lagan on the east coast of Northern Ireland. Overnight Belfast, Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 9 - Belfast Sightseeing, Titanic Belfast & Mourne Alpaca Farm

This morning, enjoy a visit to Mourne Alpacas outside Belfast, a family managed herd of Alpaca and pedigree Angora goats that produce high quality fleeces, so much so that their motto at the farm is “We breed for heat, not for meat!” Once you have been up close and cosy with the alpacas, and had a chance for plenty of photos and questions, we will move onto the fleece. While enjoying a cuppa after all your hands on with the alpacas and the fleece, you can get a chance to see, feel and purchase quality alpaca yarns and some blend yarns, in many natural colours of the alpaca and some stunning seasonal colour ranges created from natural dyes as well. Upon your return to the city, experience Titanic Belfast, one of Ireland’s newest and most popular museums, constructed on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was originally built. Galleries reconstruct scenes from Belfast at the time of its construction, the launch, the maiden voyage, the sinking and the aftermath. This museum is extremely interactive, with displays that bring each period of the Titanic to life. The remainder of the evening is your own to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Belfast. Overnight Belfast, Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 10 - Return to Dublin - Irish Linen Museum Lisburn & Spinning and Tapestry Workshop

Linen was an important industry in Ireland, particularly in the North of Ireland. So much so that Belfast was fondly referred to as 'Linenopolis'!  We will learn more about the fascinating linen industry by visiting the Linen Museum in Lisburn.  On your guided tour of the museum you will learn about the artefacts that are housed in the old Market House, a late seventeenth century building. Leaving Belfast, we travel to the Boyne Valley to meet Aine Dunne, a tapestry weaver and artist, resident and working from Drogheda. With Aine and her team, you will enjoy a spinning & tapestry workshop; here you will be introduced to hand spinning sheep’s wool by using a drop spindle and try your hand at weaving a sample piece on a four-sided tapestry frame loom. During your time with Aine you will gain insight into her designs, weaving methods and work schedule.  Return to Dublin where this evening your final farewell dinner will be served in a local restaurant. Overnight Dublin, Bed & Breakfast Basis

Day 11 - End of Tour

After your final Irish breakfast depart the hotel for Dublin Airport arriving in time to complete check-in formalities and that last minute duty free shopping.

Tour attractions

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. The largest island is Inishmore the middle and second-largest is I...

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and it is the largest urban area in Northern Ireland and the province of Ulster, always warm to tourists.

Dublin is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and at the centre of the Dublin ...

The Giant's Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. today is owned and managed by the National Trust and it i...

Guinness Storehouse has attracted over 4 million visitors from all over the world, The Storehouse is laid out over seven floors surrounding a glass atrium taking the shape of a p...

Trinity is located in the centre of Dublin, Ireland, on College Green opposite the former Irish Houses of Parliament. Library of Trinity College is a copyright library for Irelan...

In Castlebar, visit the Museum of Country Life. An open-plan building houses collections of domestic goods. Exhibits and a movie explain how Irish people made a living from the s...

Titanic Belfast is an unbelievable, unmissable experience. Located in the heart of Belfast, right beside the historic site of this world-famous ship’s construction. Titanic Belfa...

Glencolmcille Folk Village Museum is a cluster of several typical Irish cottages, known as a ‘clachan’, perched on a hillside overlooking the sandy cove of Glen Bay Beach in the ...

One of Ireland’s must see attractions, Slieve League Cliffs also known in irish as Sliabh Liag, situated on the southwest coast of Donegal, are said to be the highest and one of ...

Tour Prices

Non-Knitter Partners & Friend

Do you have a partner or friend that doesn't knit? They are welcome to come along, ask our sales representatives about our non-knitter discount!

Cancellation Penalties:

• Cancellation 60 days or more prior to itinerary start date – Full deposit is forfeit.
• Cancellation 59 days – 31 days prior to itinerary start date – 50% of total paid is forfeit
• Cancellation 30 days or less – 100% of total paid is forfeit

Postponements:

Should you wish to change your tour to one of our other available tours or to a different date, you can do so subject to availability. An amendment fee of €500 per person will apply. Within 60 days of the tour commencement date, cancellation fees will apply.

10 NIGHT ARAN ISLANDS, DONEGAL & CAUSEWAY COAST KNITTING TOUR

Pre tour arrangements (optional/additional): .

• 2 x Pre-Nights at Camden Court (or similar)
• Arrival Transfer
• 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Ticket
• Per person sharing one room - €375
• Supplement if single room is required - €125
• 1 x Pre-Night at Camden Court (or similar)
• 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Ticket
• Per person sharing one room - €233
• Supplement if single room is required - €68

Prices in other currencies are indicative only. Please note that we charge in Euro.

Detailed Enquiry Form

Please enter your vacation requirements in the form below. If your enquiry requires a more immediate response, please use the Tollfree & International numbers as listed down the page.

For customers based in North America, please note that as we are based in Ireland, we are 5 hours ahead of EST.

Detailed enquiry form

Party details, preferred accommodation.

Accommodation Types (you can select more than one option)

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Other tours you might be interested in.

7 Night Kerry Manor Luxury Knitting Retreat

9 Night Yarn Lovers Tour of Ireland

10 Night Southern Ireland Knitting Tour with the Aran Islands

(10 Nights)

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10 night south of ireland tour, 9 night yarn lover's tour.

Tour Dates: 10 Night South of Ireland with the Aran Islands (2021) - Knitting Tours

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South of Ireland Knitting & Craft Tour: An In-Depth Review

• Posted by The Irish Tourism Group on February 12, 2015 at 7:30am

By guest blogger Constance Hall

L ast November, a dream came true for me when I read about a knitting and craft tour that Irish Tourism had organized. Knitting, crafts AND Ireland, what more could anyone who loves fiber ask for? It had a long been a dream of mine to visit Ireland. Traveling alone can be a bit daunting so I kept putting off planning the trip I had long wanted to take. As I read more about the tour it seemed to be planned just for me. I knew though that I would be sure to find like minded new friends on the trip as we already had fiber in common and a love of Ireland. I signed up, this was going to be fun!

The itinerary was amazing. It was really well planned and included three knitting classes, two spinning demonstrations, basket and lace making too. Oh, AND entry into the Knitting and Stitching show in Dublin! Each knitting class was taught by an experienced instructor. The classes included the yarns that we needed and patterns with step by step instructions. We learned traditional Irish stitches all the while having tea and biscuits (cookies) scones and jam. We were all in heaven.

Our guide Fiona trying out some spinning!

The locations of each workshop were different and added to the charm. From a lovely hotel in Galway to Mairead Sherry’s living room in a traditional Aran Island house complete with peat fire. We felt we were seeing more of Ireland than you might see on a regular tour. Our tour driver Kenny was very good, didn’t hit anything and never left anyone behind. Fiona Lane was our tour guide and we felt very lucky. Her knowledge of Ireland and fun attitude made the days fun and relaxing. We didn’t have to worry about anything as she took care of every detail along the way.

Traditional Basket Making Demonstration with Joe Hogan

Carol Feller of Cork was one of our instructors. Her workshop included a signed copy of her book we got to keep and she brought the actual samples that were made for the book. She included lots of tips for pattern modifications. If you were a new knitter you could just focus on the stitches (and cookies) and knit along without worrying about the more advanced techniques. There was something for everyone whether you were a new knitter or a more experienced one.

Knitting Class with Carol Feller in Killarney

Anne O’Maille of Galway  also taught a workshop. She showed us yarns that are available locally and we used the yarns to knit some of the many patterns she provided. We had a great time shopping in her store in Galway where she has an enormous collection of hand knit Irish sweaters. These are still knit by women in Ireland with intricate cable patterns. She also sells the yarns we used in class. Galway was great fun. Such a walkable friendly city with sidewalk musicians playing on every block. Bakeries and cheese shops, book stores and all kinds of Irish goods to browse and buy. There are many pubs and restaurants with Irish music and great beers. You can walk along the main street and stop in for a beer and music without worrying about you safety. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming.

Anne O Maille’s Patterns and Samples

The high point of the trip was a visit to the smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oirr. We flew over in a small plane in just nine minutes from the mainland to the island. Coming in for a landing you could see the individual fields with the short stone walls surrounding each field. From the air it seemed like a very green jigsaw puzzle. Some of the puzzle pieces had a horse or sheep on them. O’Brians Castle perched up on the hill seemed to still be keeping watch over the island. Una McDonagh met us at the airport. We knew we were to have a knitting workshop with her but we didn’t know what treats she ready for us. It was a nice but chilly day and we were grateful for the hot tea and scones that she served us when we reached the craft center.

Inis Oirr, Aran Islands

They have a small gift shop at the craft center and a very informative display of traditional clothing once worn by the islanders. After our tea restored our energy we got down to knitting. The craft center is a wonderful resource for the island. The classroom space is roomy and well lit. Una was joined by Mairead Sharry and together they taught us how to knit a few of the traditional Aran Island knitting stitches. At the end of the class we were invited back to Mairead’s traditional thatched cottage. Her spinning wheel was set up next to the hearth so she could sit and spin with the peat fire warming her as she spun. It was easy to imagine how it would have been to sit and spin though a long winter with access cut off to the mainland and only your neighbors to rely on for weeks at a time. We were very lucky to be able to sit with her and imagine the past, as there are very few spinners still on the islands.

Mairead Sharry at her Cottage on the Island

Besides knitting and spinning this tour showed us many of the more standard spots that all tourists to Ireland want to visit. We saw the Book Of Kells, and the Cliffs of Moher. The Ring Of Kerry and Blarney Castle with its amazing Druid’s Circle. The Museum of Country Life has a wonderful display of crochet clothing and old weaving shuttles and bobbins. Kylemore Abbey, besides having a stunning house has the perfect property to walk off the effects of sitting on the bus and eating too much good food. It would have been perfect except for the rain and the very small hail stones that caught us between house and gardens. In no way did that spoil our walk in- between the trees with, it seemed, the fairies just hiding out of view.

Kylemore Abbey

The accommodations were very well chosen. Clean and safe, with welcoming staff, we were all very happy with each place we stayed. My favorite was the B & B on Inis Oirr. ?? She opened her house and made us feel very welcome. The breakfast was perfect and set us up for our return to the mainland. Some meals were provided on the tour and they were all good but more fun was going out some evenings and looking for a local place to eat. We had the best fish and chips in Galway and a personal goal was trying the dark beers in a pub or two or three. Of course the Guinness was a must but I have to say the Murphy’s beer was a favorite.

Kenmare Lace Demonstration with Nora

This tour was a great introduction to Ireland and the fiber and craft community on the island. The fiber community has a long history in Ireland and is making a revival with the renewed interest in traditional crafts. There are many places now on my list that are calling me to return and hopefully spend more time exploring. The itinerary for a new Knitting and Craft tour is now being offered this April with all new places to visit. Oh I can’t wait!

Get in Touch:

If you are interested in joining one of our knitting & craft tours, check them out here:

www.IrishTourism.com/knitting

Or give us a call for more information:

USA & Canada 1-877 298 7205

UK FreeFone 0800 096 9438

International +353 69 77686

Views: 4581

Tags: Cork , Crafts , Galway , Ireland , Kerry , Knitting , Tourism , Travel

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This seems a remarkable experience, Irish Tourism. Hats off to you for sensing the interest, and meeting it, in spades!

Thanks Gerry! We have two knitting tours. One that goes around the North of Ireland and the one that Constance talks about above. More info at www.irishtourism.com/knitting  

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Ireland Knitting and Craft Vacations

Irish knitting tours will help you to experience Irish craft with an emphasis on knitting through demonstrations and hands on workshops.

Knitting in Ireland is a tradition going back generations. A necessity at one time when pre-made clothes were difficult to come by and families made their own out of the materials readily available to them, sheep’s wool! Knitting and other traditional Irish crafts can easily be seen in the homes of most Irish families and on an industrial level through our many woollen factories and mills.

This knitting tour of Ireland will help you to experience Irish craft with an emphasis on knitting through demonstrations and hands on workshops. If you travel with us in October, your tour will include tickets to the acclaimed Knitting and Stitching Show in Dublin’s Royal Dublin Society (RDS) concert venue. Here discover many Irish craft providers offering specialist craft supplies that can’t be found elsewhere, displays from leading artists and workshops designed to introduce you to new and exciting craft projects.

In April your time in Dublin will include a two hour ‘Mobius Knitting’ workshop following the ‘Glenties Cowl’ pattern and an introduction to contemporary Irish knitting. In Galway your tour includes a knitting class with Anne Ó'Máille, visits to a number of knitting factories, a traditional Irish basket making demonstration an unforgettable overnight in Inis Oírr (Inisheer) on the Aran Islands where you will enjoy a knitting class, St. Brigid’s Cross Making workshop and unforgettable tour of this karst island. In Kerry you will meet Carol Feller, popular Irish knitting instructor and author. Non-Knitting attractions include the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, Trinity College and the famous book of Kells and Blarney Castle.

Discounts are available for those that do not wish to partake in the knitting classes but would like to tour Ireland.

Day 1: Dublin City Tour

Your tour begins in Dublin Airport with a transfer to your hotel. At 2pm, meet at Hotel reception and begin your tour with a panoramic tour of Dublin City. Visit the National Museum of Decorative Arts & History where you catch a glimpse of how Irish people in the past lived. Recreated rooms show characteristic furniture styles from the 17th century through to the refined splendour of Georgian Ireland to the high style of the 19th century. Of Particular interest to you may be the textile exhibition ‘The Way We Wore’ which exhibits the typical Irish clothing and jewelry worn from the 1760s to the 1960’s. Visit Trinity College which houses the famous Book of Kells.  Transcribed by 9th century monks, the intricacy of the designs in this famous book demonstrate the remarkable heritage and importance of craft in Ireland from its creation around the year 800 AD. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of the day will be free for you to explore the city at your leisure before meeting back at the hotel for your welcome dinner.

Overnight in Dublin, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 2: RDS Knitting & Stitching Show or Mobius Knitting Class (Depending on Departure Date)

April Departure : This morning enjoy a half day knitting workshop with the proprietors of ‘ This is Knit ’ a well-known knitting shop in Dublin city. The class includes an informative talk on the developments in the Irish Hand Knitting scene over the past ten years as well as a two hour ‘Mobius Knitting’ workshop following the ‘Glenties Cowl’ pattern, designed by Lisa Sisk, using Soft Donegal yarn from the mills of Studio Donegal in Kilcar. Participants will learn how to do a Mobius Cast On with 5.5mm 100cm circular needles (in US sizes this is Size 9 and 40 inches long) and also how to work a Picot Cast Off. This afternoon travel to Galway where the remainder of the evening is your own.  Overnight in Galway, Bed & Breakfast Included. 

October Departure: Today we will take you to Ireland’s biggest Knitting and Stitching Event, The Knitting and Stitching Show in Dublin’s RDS Concert Hall. An important date in Ireland’s craft calendar, the event will have hundreds of learning based practical workshops for improving your knitting and stitching skills, multiple galleries of textile artists’ work as well as hundreds of company exhibitors with new exciting products to help you with your knitting and stitching projects. This evening after an enjoyable day at the show we will take you onward to Galway where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure.  Overnight in Galway, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 3: Museum of Country Life, Foxford Woolen Mills & Anne O’Maille Workshop

This morning travel to Castlebar where you will visit the National Museum of Country Life, an essential stop on any craft tour of Ireland. This fascinating museum houses collections of domestic goods, once used as part of daily life from 1850 to 1950. Exhibits and an informative movie explain how Irish people made a living from the soil before the machine age. Next, the award winning Foxford Woolen Mills where your guided tour of the working mill will show master craftspeople at work on the pieces that Foxford delivers to customers all over the world. Travel back to Galway and enjoy an intensive Knitting Workshop with one of Ireland’s best known Aran knitters and designers, Mrs. Anne O’Maille of Ó'Máilles of Galway. Established in 1938, this shop became famous in the 1950s for outfitting the entire cast of the film The Quiet Man and has done a fabulous business ever since in Irish tweeds, knitwear, and Aran knits. Overnight in Galway, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 4: Craft in Connemara.

Set off for a tour of Connemara this morning, stopping first at Spiddal Craft & Design Centre where you can visit Maire Ni Thaidh’s Handweaving studio or any one of the many other craft shops in the centre. Travel onward through the Connemara countryside to Kylemore Abbey which is the most visited attraction in the west of Ireland. Thousands visit Kylemore to see the outstanding Abbey and to experience the natural beauty of the Kylemore’s Woodland and Lakeshore walks and Victorian walled garden. Our next stop will be Joe Hogan’s Basket Studio for a demonstration of traditional Irish willow basket weaving techniques and an introduction to modern basket designs and production. This stop includes tea or coffee with a traditional scone. Return to Galway where the evening is your own. You might decide to head into town and catch a traditional Irish Music session in any one of Galway’s traditional pubs or simply relax in your hotel. Overnight in Galway, Bed & Breakfast Included. 

Day 5: Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands

Depart your hotel in time to get the early morning flight or ferry (dependent on weather) to Inis Oírr (Inisheer), one of the famous Aran Islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay off the west coast of Ireland. On arrival you will be collected by your Aran Island Knitting Instructor Ann McDonagh and taken to the Aras Eanna arts & craft centre where you will enjoy welcome tea or coffee and scones. Enjoy a Knitting Workshop where you will learn traditional methods and stitches the Aran Island way. After some time to enjoy the Art Exhibition at the centre enjoy a guided tour of the Island. This evening check into your B&B accommodation and after some time to relax and get to know your hosts, you will be collected and taken to a local restaurant for a sumptuous meal. Your host can cater for all dietary needs, so please be sure to let us know of any special requirements in advance of travel. After dinner enjoy a traditional Irish music session in one of the local pubs. Overnight Inis Oírr, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 6: Another day on Inis Oirr (Inisheer)!

Today you will learn the traditional craft of Saint Brigid Cross Making . Saint Brigid is the patroness of Ireland and is also known as ‘Mary of The Gael’. Traditionally Saint Brigid Crosses were made on her feast day February 1st from rushes (reeds) and affixed in the house to ward off evil and danger from fire. After another delicious lunch we take the afternoon ferry or flight (dependent on weather) back to the mainland for another final night in Galway. The remainder of the afternoon or evening is free to explore Galway at your leisure. Overnight in Galway, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 7: Galway to Killarney.

Check out of your hotel after breakfast and commence your journey to County Kerry. Along the way stop at the Cliffs of Moher to admire the astonishing views and visit Kerry Woolen Mills , this 17th establishment has been crafting fine fabrics and yarn from wool for over 300 years. After you check into your hotel there will be an optional tour to Muckross House & Gardens and a stop at Muckross Weavers . For over 20 years, Muckross Weaving Workshop has produced a quality collection of woven items. Here you will be able to catch a glimpse of this age old Irish craft in process. Overnight in in Killarney, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 8: The Ring of Kerry

After breakfast enjoys a Knitting Workshop with Carol Feller, popular Irish knitter and author of the new book Contemporary Irish Knits which is included in the workshop. After lunch (included) take the Ring of Kerry . The road winds between the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountains, and the varied Atlantic coast. You will be amazed at the breathtaking views and you will stop for photos at the most dramatic scenes. On the return pass through the colourful village of Sneem and pause at Moll's Gap to view the Three Lakes of Killarney. Before you return to Killarney, visit Kenmare Lace where master lace makers demonstrate the traditional craft of Lacemaking. The demonstration consists of a talk on the history of Kenmare Lace and demonstrations in the making of Kenmare, Limerick, Carrickmacross, Bobbin and Irish Crochet lace. At the centre you can also see a display of antique Irish lace from the Poor Clare Convent, Kenmare. Overnight in Killarney, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 9: Dublin via Blarney

Today we travel the slightly extended route to Dublin via Blarney Castle & Blarney Woolen Mills Store. Cormac MacCarthy, a great Irish chieftain constructed Blarney Castle nearly 600 years ago and since then this remarkable fortress and its ‘stone of eloquence’ has been attracting thousands of curious visitors every year. Legend has it that if you kiss the stone you will never be lost for words and have as the Irish say, ‘the gift of the gab’. Built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was originally known as Mahony's Mills and provided valuable employment to the people of Blarney and nearby areas. In 1973 the business at the Old Mill had started to decline and it finally closed its doors. It was then bought by a local man Christy Kelleher, who started a souvenir business at the Mill.  Today Blarney Woollen Mills is Ireland’s Largest Irish Gift & Craft Store . Travel onward to Dublin where the remainder of the afternoon is free for your own personal sightseeing. This evening meet back at the hotel in time to experience an enchanting evening of Irish Folklore, Fairies and Storytelling while enjoying a candlelit traditional Irish dinner above Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head. Overnight in Dublin, Bed & Breakfast Included.

Day 10: Homeward Bound

After your final Irish breakfast depart the hotel for Dublin airport arriving in time to complete check-in formalities and that last minute duty free shopping.

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