Private Ennis Dark History Tour with Dr Jane O'Brien (1-6 people)

4.9 (14 reviews) 1 h 10 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

14 reviews

4.9

Exploring the "bow-ways" of Ennis on the Dark History Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Exploring the darker side of the town's history — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This is a private tour of Ennis with local expert Dr Jane O'Brien. Unlock the darker side of medieval Ennis on this Haunted History Tour. The towns chilling history, mythology, ghosts and more are all explored as we make our way through the atmospheric winding streets and bow-ways of the town. Co. Clare is rich in lore and legendary tales with many of the world’s most famous supernatural characters and stories finding their roots in the tales told across the centuries by our ancestors. Hear about the mythology and legends of the town – from stories of the banshee and death coach to the witch Biddy Early and her magical blue bottle. Discover the secret side of the towns past – the grime, crime and grim punishments. From tales of the Mad Monk to graveyard excavations this unique tour will reveal the town in a whole new light. Popular with both adults and children alike this historically accurate tour is an ideal activity for anyone who enjoys reliving the experience of our dark past.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Ghost Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Weather-Proof

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 10 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Operated by: Jane O'Brien

What is included

Included

Included: Local guide

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Stop 1

5 min

Starting at one of the town's oldest and most haunted buildings, the Old Ground Hotel encorporates a 1500's medieval towerhouse with a story to tell!
Stop 2

5 min

The old Gallows Green - hanging was one of many of the town's old punishments.
Stop 3

5 min

We explore this site of the old Ennis graveyard and stories from its past!
Stop 4

5 min

The old markets were not always peaceful affairs - we explore the tensions that could sometimes lead to what were known as the market murders!
Stop 5

5 min

We head down one of Ennis's bow-ways to explore how a town like Ennis was effected by poverty and famine, and the spirits from that time that still haunt these old laneways.
Stop 6

5 min

We recreate the sights (and smells!) of old Ennis brought to life through the narrow streets and old shopfronts of the town.
Daniel O'Connell Monument

5 min

This busy heart of Ennis was also once the site for the witchcraft trial of the infamous wise woman of Clare, Biddy Early!
Stop 8

5 min

Stories from the old Ennis orphanage and industrial school are brought to life with a tragic tale.
Stop 9

5 min

The old causeway of the town, once the location of a sighting of the banshee and death coach - figures from Irish folklore and mythodology that remained in strong belief into the 20th century in Ennis.
Stop 10

5 min

The 13th century Ennis Abbey is the foundations of the town, and home to many of the towns past residents, including the local ghost!
Stop 11

5 min

We end the tour at the top of Abbey St beside the O'Connell monument, our memorable exploration of the darker side of the town's history allowing us see it through new eyes.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We meet in the lobby of the Old Ground Hotel which is on the corner of O'Connell Street and Station Road (opposite the towns St Peter and Paul Cathedral).