5/5
Discover Ireland
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Explore
A Journey Rooted in Heritage
At Day Tours by Locals, we believe the best way to experience Ireland is through the eyes of those who call it home. Founded by Henry Hegerty, a proud Galway native, our tours are shaped by local knowledge, lived experience, and a deep love for sharing the rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of this unique region.
We design every tour with a focus on connection, discovery, and authenticity, going beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re gazing out over the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, witnessing the impressive sheepdog demonstrations at Caherconnell Stone Fort, wandering through the picturesque streets of Doolin, or exploring hidden gems like Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory, each stop is carefully selected to bring you closer to the heart of County Clare.
Our small-group approach ensures flexibility and a personal touch, allowing each guest to feel welcomed, relaxed, and fully immersed in the experience. We’re proud to support sustainable tourism by collaborating with local businesses and communities, helping preserve the cultural and natural heritage that makes Ireland so special.
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With every tour, our goal is simple — to help you feel connected to Ireland, creating lasting memories that stay with you long after you leave.
This is the Gap of Dunloe. I personally love this photo - I once did a run there, and my grandfather is from there.
Meet your Driver Guides!
Henry Hegerty is passionate about Irish-American culture and more than willing to share his stories on all things Ireland, going back to the famine and the influence on Irish-American ancestry. Henry's motto is "treat me as an extension of your family while on tour." There isn't a road in Ireland that he hasn't travelled as a driver guide, and as a driver with Emerald Irish Tours on long-stay tours, his TripAdvisor testimonials are second to none. As he says, "Here today, gone tomorrow, but in between, we treat you like family.
Noeleen Prendgast is our cultural tour coordinator with an honours degree in heritage studies from Atlantic University, Galway. She shares a passion for all things Irish with her in-depth knowledge of Irish history, heritage, culture, and traditions, which expands into Irish-American genealogy. Noeleen's stories will resonate with Irish-American ancestors, one of whom is documented: how American Army trouser sent in a parcel of clothing home to Ireland by her grand uncle who fought in World war one saved her grandfather's life from British Army firing squad in 1919 in Cork Gaol. Noeleen's other passions are Irish Traditional Music and breeding Connemara Ponies which has been part of her family heritage for over 50 years. Noeleen is available for one on one cultural tours booked in advance.
Antony's got a wealth of experience behind the wheel and a real connection to rural Ireland. He's got a real passion for driving and farming! He's got the skills to handle both a combine harvester and an Executive Mercedes with ease. He's definitely a man of many talents! He's a treasure trove of stories from his farming days. I'm sure your tours love hearing about his experiences on the family farm and exploring the countryside with him as their guide.
Motto " your only as good as your last tour ".
Con is our resident golf expert. His local club, Athenry, welcomes member guests for a round of golf with Con While wives and partners have a shopping day out in Galway, everyone wins. With 30 years' experience as a driver guide, Con has a passion for Irish culture and heritage. Motto come as clients return to America as friends
