Forget about Dublin Castle - the most authentic medieval fortification in the city is in the village of Malahide. There you’ll find the recently renovated, but still-very-epic-looking, Malahide Castle. Built in the 12th century and held by the Talbot family for over 800 years, this magnificent monument has everything: lush gardens, fine period furniture, bloody history, and not one, not two, but five ghosts! You might want to bring a proton pack.

The award-winning guides at the castle will tell you about the Talbot family, and their connection with the history-making Battle of the Boyne. Make sure to check out the castle’s grounds before getting back to the bus - they’re so expansive that big shots like Eric Clapton and Radiohead have played here.

The next and final stop is Howth, a fishing village turned posh neighborhood. There’s plenty to see and photograph here, but nothing beats a good old game of spot-the-seal at the harbor. The grand finale is the drive to Howth summit, where you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the whole of Dublin Bay - minus the 30-minute climb. After all, you have some pint-lifting to do back in the city!