What's the craic?

I'm Rob Rankin, founder of Vagabond & Driftwood tours of Ireland.

If you're considering a trip to Ireland in September, I think you'll find it one of the best months to tour Ireland with us.

The weather in September can be settled and mild; I've included temperature averages below as well as ideas on what to pack.

All of the best attractions are still open; so exploring ancient castles and historic houses on one of is very much on the cards.

Whether you're seeking activity-filled Ireland tours — like Vagabond Cultural Adventures — or you'd prefer an easy-going cultural experience — such as Driftwood Journeys of Discovery — you'll find something that suits in September.

Now read on, intrepid September traveller!

Infographic about September in Ireland featuring cartoon sheep and facts about travel

🌤️ Ireland's Weather in September

The weather in September in Ireland can be very pleasant.

The average temperature high is 15° C / 59° F. The average low is 9° C / 48° F.

  Dublin in September
Avg. Temperature High 59°F / 15°C
Avg. Temperature Low 48°C / 9°C
Avg. Days p/m Clear Skies 14
Avg Sunrise/Sunset Time 06.50am / 07.50pm

When it does rain, showers tend to be light and temporary.

The upside to rain showers? Spectacular rainbows!

Rainbow hits the Cliffs of Moher in the background while yellow wildflowers grow amongst grass in the foreground, Ireland

Bright Evenings

Ireland is surprisingly far north - we're on the same latitude as Newfoundland in Canada!

This means that bright evenings stretch until 7:30-8:30pm - ideal conditions to catch a stunning sunset as you stretch your legs after dinner!

Warm Seas

Ocean temperature usually peak in Ireland around late August or early September.

If you're the wet and wild type, September could be the perfect month for you to take an tour filled with watersport opportunities, such as our 7 Day Magnetic North Adventure.

A dip in Ireland's seas is a sure way to invigorate the mind and body!


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🧳 What to Pack For September in Ireland

The word we like to describe Ireland's weather is 'changeable'.

Periods of rainfall and sun are driven by prevailing southwesterly breezes.

That can mean blue skies turning to cloud and then back to sunshine; often all in the space of an hour or less.

So, come prepared with a good quality rain jacket and the following packing list. You'll be ready for anything.

Packing List For September in Ireland

  • 2 Pairs of lightweight long synthetic pants such as nylon & polyester They dry quick and are way more breathable than cotton.
  • 2-3 T-Shirts Once again, synthetic is best.
  • 1 2 long sleeved shirts Good for those cooler days or to protect against the suns rays.
  • 1 Pair of shorts For when the sun does come out.
  • 1 medium weight long sleeved layer such as a fleece or pull over.
  • 1 lightweight good quality rain jacket, Gore-Tex or PVC coated nylon.
  • 1 Wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Bug spray Particularly in the late summer months.
  • 1 swimsuit For a refreshing dip in the ocean, or if youre taking part in one of our watersports activities.
  • 1-2 changes of comfortable clothes For when you reach your accommodation and want to go exploring, or simply enjoy a pint. No need for anything too formal in the evenings. The dress code is pretty casual.
  • Oh and dont forget your pyjamas!

As we say here in Ireland, there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!

Enjoy our helpful blog on What to Pack for Ireland

😋 What To Eat In Ireland In September

September in Ireland is harvest time.

Orchards brim with apples and pears. Try a traditional fruit crumble if you see it on a menu.

Gardens and greenhouses are bursting with vegetables in Ireland in September. Look out for tomatoes, herbs, freshly-dug potatoes and zucchini — we call them courgettes! — when you visit farmers markets and stores on tour.

Close up of blackberries

September is also the best time for wild food foraging.

Roadside hedgerows are full of wild edible fare - if you know where to look!

Try blackberries, hazelnuts, edible greens, and mushrooms*. They're abundant in September and so, so good for you.

*Always remember to consult an expert before eating anything wild, especially mushrooms.

💃 What's On In Ireland In September?

We love a good festival in Ireland. September is no different.

Here are some hoolies worth checking out if you find yourself in Ireland in September.

  • 💘 Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival: Looking for love? Or just up for some fun? 1000s descend on the small Clare town each year for music, dancing and, for the lucky few, lurve. Lisdoonvarna is Ireland's original matchmaking festival, having run for over 160 years.
  • 🎭 Dublin Fringe: The Fringe pushes artistic boundaries in venues across Dublin during mid-September. Choose from dozens of shows, art installations and street performances.
  • 🎨 Clifden Arts Festival: Celebrate local crafts , artists and artisan producers in the heart of Connemara. You'll find everything from pottery, to seaweed based cosmetics, to knitwear and paintings in this lively town along the Wild Atlantic Way. There are literary events, talks, film screenings and more.
  • 👨‍🌾 National Ploughing Championship: 'The Ploughin', as pretty much everyone in Ireland refers to this major annual agricultural show, is a celebration of Ireland's rural culture and the people, animals and machines who live the countryside life. The Ploughing Championships will be held in Ratheniska, county Laois, in September 2023 and 2024.

💚 Tours of Ireland in September 2024

Have we convinced you to tour Ireland in September?

The great news is that you've got plenty of tours to choose from.

Here are 2 tours from our stable that we wholeheartedly recommend as superb September options:

  • ⚔️ 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Ireland Tour: Fully refreshed for 2024, this easy-going itinerary is perfect for history buffs. Chase the waves along hidden coastlines to discover crumbling castles and the charming medieval towns of Waterford and Kilkenny. What's more, Ireland's southeastern region receives the least rainfall on average of any region in Ireland. So your chances of a dry(ish) September are high!
  • 12 Day Vagabond Great Irish Adventure Tour: While you're in Ireland, why not see the whole thing? Our 12 Day tour is the ultimate Ireland adventure. Enjoy 2 nights in Dingle, challenging hikes every day and the crowning glory: a chance to land on magical Skellig Michael island, located 12km/8 miles off the coast of Kerry. Best of all, there are five 12 Day departures in September 2024, so you have maximum choice!

Questions? We'd love to hear from you!

Why not get in contact? The best way to reach our friendly team is by email: enquiries@vagabond.ie


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