Itinerary: Monday 20th July, Day Two

Full breakfast arranged from 7.30am

Guided bus tour arranged meet at the front of the hotel at 9.00am.
(tour approx. 2-3hrs with stops)
(do remember to pack vestments and music)

Dublin

Even in 140 A.D. Ptolemy observed that Eblana was a place of note. Ptolemy refers to the river Liffey as Oboka, meaning a delta. It was however not until 840 A.D. that Norse sea rovers landed here and built a base for their maritime expeditions that the area really began to develop as a town. The history of the area is really tied to the history of Ireland, never really settled, just like the name, the Irish called it Duibhlinn, the Norse called it Dyfflin, and the Anglo Normans Dublinne from which the present name derives.

A city steeped in history, it as fine wide streets, squares and parks with wonderful examples of Georgian architecture.

With the tour completed by approx. 11.45am., drop group with vestments and music at St Patrick’s cathedral.

Time to see the vergers and store music and vestments.

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Dedicated in 1192, the cathedral was originally built by the Norman, archbishop Comyn. This early Norman church was rebuilt in the first half of the 13th century, the building we see today.

Many interesting aspects to see, including the medieval chapter house door with an hole in it dating from 1492. It gives rise to the English phrase "chancing your arm".

The earl of Kildare cut the hole and through it stretched out his arm to grasp the hand of his enemy the earl of Ormond. By taking the initiative peace was restored between them and ever since the door as been known as the door of reconciliation.

Handel’s Messiah received its first performance in Dublin in 1742 sung by the combined choirs of St Patrick’s & Christ Church Cathedral`s.

After arranging storage of vestments etc coach will return group to the Harding Hotel, leaving St Patrick’s at approx. 12.30pm.

Lunch own arrangements

All choristers return to St Patrick’s cathedral by 3.30pm. Time to arrange rehearsals etc. Rehearsal in the cathedral choir stalls 4.00pm – 5.30pm.

Evensong service at 5.45pm

On completion of the service all choristers return to the hotel. Short walk approx. 8/10 minutes.

Evening meal own arrangements

Day 1

Sunday 19th July Day One

Arrive Dublin International Airport on Aer Lingus 132 at approx. 7.30am
Leaving passport control & luggage area, ready to depart by 9.15am

The journey from the airport into the city is not great (approx 7 miles) but with early morning traffic this could take 30/40 minutes.

Arrive centre of the city by approx. 10.00am

8-night stay at the Harding hotel.
Good quality 2-star hotel with all en-suite rooms, colour t/v and tea/coffee making facilities in each room and adjoining Irish bar.

Superbly situated next to Christ Church cathedral and just 7/8 minutes walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral, yet only 5 minutes walk from Temple Bar and 6/8 minutes walk from Trinity College/Grafton Street and central Dublin.

Time to unload and book in if possible (dependent on time of arrival)

We may need to lose some time in the city prior to arriving at the hotel: it all depends on when rooms are ready.

Lunch own arrangements

Rest of the afternoon to wander and acclimatise with the city.

Evening meal own arrangements.