Embarking on Pawsome Adventures: Ireland, Wales, and Medieval Memories with Arthur and Audrey (Part 3)
Living in Europe has a funny way of reshaping your sense of distance. Countries that once felt impossibly far suddenly become weekend plans. Of course, proximity means nothing unless you actually leave the house and go. So we did exactly that.
After a year of London life (read Part 2 here), we planned one of our most memorable adventures yet, a road trip through Wales and Ireland, with Arthur and Audrey along for the ride.
A Welsh Warm-Up
Before heading to Ireland, we decided to do a strategic pre-trip day out to South Wales. The plan was simple, tick off a few key sights early so we could spend more uninterrupted time exploring Ireland later.
From London, we drove to Wales to visit Caerphilly Castle and Cardiff. Wandering through these historic towns felt like stepping straight into medieval times, thick stone walls, towering ruins, and centuries of stories still standing strong. Wales, like much of Europe, has a way of making history feel incredibly close and tangible.
Crossing the Sea
A few weeks later, it was officially Ireland time.
We drove from London to South Wales, stayed overnight, then boarded a four-hour ferry across the Irish Sea. Arthur and Audrey were required to stay in the car for the crossing, but thankfully they had a cosy bed, warm blankets, and plenty of comfort. We were allowed to check on them every hour, and each time we found them exactly the same way, fast asleep and entirely unbothered.
Honestly, living their best little ferry lives.
Waterford and Viking Tales
Our first Irish stop was Waterford, a historic Viking town and home of the famous Waterford Crystal. We spent a couple of days exploring its fascinating past, learning how villagers once sheltered together inside fortified towers while Vikings pillaged the town, allowed to take whatever they wanted so long as lives were spared.
Ireland and Wales share an incredible richness of history. Cathedrals, churches, castles, and ruins appear around every corner, and the fact that so much of it still stands today is quietly awe-inspiring.
Much of our driving took us through rolling countryside, lush greenery, winding mountain roads, and frequent encounters with freely roaming cows, sheep, and goats who had absolutely no intention of moving off the road for us.
Cork, Castles, and Butter
Next stop was Cork, with an evening visit to the charming seaside town of Kinsale for oysters. Because when in Ireland, oysters are simply non-negotiable.
No trip to Cork is complete without visiting Blarney Castle, and we were delighted to discover just how dog-friendly Ireland truly is. Most ruins allow dogs on the grounds, and Blarney Castle was no exception. Arthur and Audrey joined us to explore the grounds, including a medieval kennel, which felt like it was made just for them. Naturally, photos were taken.
Climbing the castle itself was another story. The narrow, steep stairs meant we had to tie the pups at the bottom while David went up to kiss the Blarney Stone. From the top, we called their names, and below, they looked up, ears perked, patiently waiting. People nearby told us they were impeccably behaved the whole time, watching and listening for us.
Another unexpected Cork highlight was the Butter Museum. Yes, really. For a small entry fee and with free parking right outside, we learned all about the history of butter making, saw tools from different eras, and even viewed 2,000-year-old butter. Fascinating, and slightly horrifying.
Limerick, Step Dancing, and Old Passions
From Cork, we headed north to Limerick and stayed at a dog-friendly golf resort, using it as a base for day trips. One evening, we found ourselves in a pub enjoying oysters and Jameson while watching Irish step dancers perform right in the middle of the room.
A little-known fact about me, during my time in Montreal, I spent two years learning Irish step dancing, both soft and hard shoe. Watching those dancers brought back so many memories, especially seeing waitstaff and patrons casually weaving around them mid-performance like it was the most normal thing in the world.
The Cliffs, Galway, and Medieval Feasts
The Cliffs of Moher were next, dramatic, windy, and absolutely breathtaking. Arthur and Audrey came along, bravely facing the wind for a family photo that perfectly captured the moment.
From there, we visited Galway, another beautiful town, enjoyed more oysters, and even attended a medieval dinner and show at a castle. That night, the pups stayed behind at the hotel while we stepped briefly into the past.
One standout meal was at a waterside restaurant with a thatched roof, the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a storybook.
Dublin and Ancient Wonders
In Dublin, we visited Trinity College and its awe-inspiring library, home to the Book of Kells. We also did an adults-only tour of the Leprechaun Museum, which was far more immersive than expected, complete with storytelling and rooms designed to make you feel Leprechaun-sized.
On our final day in Ireland, we visited Brú na Bóinne, a prehistoric monument over 5,000 years old. Standing before something so ancient is deeply humbling. Unfortunately, the pups had to stay behind for this one, but it was an experience we’ll never forget.
Back Through Wales and Homeward
We returned via ferry to North Wales, visited Conwy Castle, and drove through Abergele, the town where David’s mum is from. From there, we took our time heading back to London, including a necessary stop in Worcester. Because honestly, that sauce is worth the detour.
Why We Travel This Way
We love road trips. But we love them even more when Arthur and Audrey are part of the journey. Ireland’s dog-friendly culture made such a difference, allowing us to share these experiences together rather than leaving them behind.
These trips shaped not only our memories, but also how I approach pet photography today. Adventures end, moments pass, and places change, but the stories you capture live on.
Stay tuned for Part 4, where I’ll share more adventures and how these travels eventually led us back home to Australia. 🐾