October is among the best months to visit Ireland, despite its unpredictable weather. It is quite mesmerizing to witness how the emerald state turns into the stunning colors of autumn.
A lot of interesting events and festivals also happen during this month and all of them showcases diverse and just a little quirky culture.
Ireland in October is a bit colder as winter approaches bit most attractions are still accessible and open for visits.
Things you'll find in this article
Ireland In October: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips
If you’re going to Ireland in October, make sure you plan things ahead to make the most of your stay. Here are a few things you might consider.
What is the weather like in Ireland in October?
Average Temperature in Ireland in October
8°C to 13°C (8 to 13 degrees Celsius)
Rain in Ireland in October
80mm over 24 days
Wind in Ireland in October
The average wind speed in Ireland according to the Irish meteorological office is 7 – 18 mph.
Sun in Ireland in October
There is an average of between 3¼ and 3¾ hours of sunshine each day. Irish skies are completely covered by clouds most of the time.
What to pack for Ireland in October
The temperature will continue to drop from the middle of the fall season until the end as it transitions to winter. During these times, you can expect more rainfall starting mid-October and a much cooler Ireland air. Be sure to consider these items if you’re not sure what to pack for Ireland in October and November.
Wool skirt – a wool skirt is great for those who don’t want to ditch those chic clothing pieces. You can also wear leggings underneath it. Check out this classic A-line wool skirt in Amazon.
Leggings – fleece-lined leggings will also save you from the dropping temperature. When buying one, be sure to choose a high-quality and opaque fabric like this listing in Amazon.
Fleece sweatshirt – Perfect for layering, a fleece sweater is also a good consideration. You can wear it on top of a jacket or just wear it as it is. This sweatshirt from Amazon should be added to your essentials.
Umbrella – Don’t forget to include an umbrella in your packing list to shield you from the rain. This compact travel umbrella from Amazon is a good option as it will easily fit in your luggage or in your everyday bag.
You can also check out our Ireland packing list for all season.
Where you should stay in Ireland in October
Although there are a lot of accommodations in Ireland that will fit any traveler’s budget, nothing beats the experience of staying in castle hotels in Ireland. So here are some of the affordable castle hotels that you can stay in Ireland for the month of October.
Cabra Castle Hotel still has the 18th-century castle vibes but with the modern touch from its amenities. A 4-star castle hotel in Cavan situated in a quiet neighborhood in Kingscourt, Cabra Castle Hotel is a mix and match of royalty and modern luxury. Rates start at $162. To book, click here.
A Gothic castle dated from 1209, Kinnitty Castle Hotel is located at the foot of Slieve Bloom Mountains. If you want the unique experience that comes with this castle, better check it out before it’s too late. Also, the rates start at only $110 a night. To book, click here.
Things to do in Ireland in October
1. Stroll Through the Autumn Leaves
If you’re going to be in Ireland in October, a leisurely stroll through the autumn leaves is a must. The emerald state bursts in autumn colors and every park, garden or woodland surrounding a castle or forested hill is a good place to enjoy the foliage.
Wrap up and get a cup of hot coffee or tea abs enjoy either an early morning or late afternoon stroll when it’s less crowded.
Some of the best places to visit in Ireland that you must see for its autumn splendor are the serene grounds of Birr Castle in County Offaly and the themed gardens, woodland walks and lake at the Mount Stewart Gardens in Northern Ireland.
2. Check Out the Belfast Arts Scene
October is when the Northern Ireland capital city of Belfast holds its yearly Belfast International Arts Festival. It runs for two weeks with a diverse, impressive lineup of exhibits, performances, and other related events.
It is a must if you want to get to know Ireland’s vibrant arts scene, or simply want something different to enjoy. The festival covers dance, film, literature, music, and theatre so there’s plenty to choose from and enjoy.
3. Food Festivals
The best Irish produce, food products and cuisine showcased in a fun-filled event decked in a distinctly local flavor — that’s exactly what happens in one of the best food festivals in Ireland. It also takes place in what is often described as among the most beautiful places on earth, Dingle.
It happens yearly during the first week of October, right in one of the most picturesque places you’ll ever see as Dingle is in the Wild Atlantic Way. Sample some of the best food and drinks on offer in over 70 venues.
There are also interesting activities such as cooking demos, street entertainment, live music, as well as wine and whiskey masterclasses, or draft beer and cider trails.
4. Bram Stoker Festival
This festival celebrates the Dublin-born author of Dracula, as well as kick-off Ireland’s horror-themed events. It starts on October 25th and the festival features literary events, pop-up Victorian parks, film screenings, music gigs in unusual places, parades, and a Gothic Ball.
It is also one of the most interesting festivals in Ireland.
5. Ghost Hunting at Belfast’s Crumlin Road Gaol
Experience a creepy, low-light tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol, which used to house a prison for Ireland’s hardcore criminals and also a former execution site.
Aside from the usual tours that take visitors through a tunnel with horrid tales about its former residents, Crumlin Goal has a paranormal tour that happens every October.
The tour takes guests to the flogging room as well as the hot spots of paranormal activity, which are verified by paranormal experts with detection equipment.
6. Go Pumpkin Picking
Get ready for Halloween with your very own pumpkin which you actually picked. It’s a fun activity nonetheless, and among the best things to do in Ireland in October.
Go on a trip to a pumpkin patch and enjoy the autumn vibe as you sip apple cider or snack on apple fritters or pumpkin pies.
Some of the best pumpkin patches you can visit are the Ballycross Farm in Bridgetown, Co. Wexford; The Farm in Grenagh, Co. Cork; Kennedys Pumpkin Patch in Julianstown, Co. Meath, and Tinahely Farm in Coolruss, Co. Wicklow.
7. Enjoy Halloween Right Where It Started
Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween, and if you’re here especially in late October, then it’s a must to join in the spooky fun.
Dublin has a Halloween parade that honors its Celtic heritage with music and dance, as well ad parties and events held in pubs.
8. Tour the Tombs at Glasnevin Cemetery
Being the birthplace of Halloween, Ireland and especiallyDublin has quite a variety of activities lined up. There are festivals with parades, then there’s a tour that takes you through Ireland’s necropolis in the Glasnevin Cemetery.
This place has 1.5 million people buried here since 1832 so it’s massive. It’s ‘residents ‘ include famous patriots, poets, musicians, and writers.
The unusual guided tour is filled with fascinating stories, while the museums have exhibits on burial practices, a feature on the famous and infamous that are buried here and a genealogy research center.
Tours you should do in Ireland in October
Practical Tips for Ireland in October
1. Make sure to bring an umbrella and a light waterproof jacket as the weather can be unpredictable.
2. Do not bring items of clothing that are made of denim as they get too heavy when wet and takes a while to dry. They also won’t help keep you warm.
3. Make sure to wear wool docks instead of cotton as they’re warmer, and knit hats and scarves.
4. October is a good month to find good deals on accommodations as its mot peak season so be sure to check with your travel agent or your trusted online booking sites.
5. If you’re looking for some of the best fall foliage sceneries, check out places like Wicklow and Killarney national parks, where you’ll also get to enjoy the crisp, fresh air.
6. Check out this list for more travel tips for Ireland for first-time visitors.
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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.
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