There are oodles of must see’s in Cambridge but it is so well located, many other wonderful places are also super accessible from the city. Traveling from Cambridge to Dublin can be done in a number of different ways. While flying may be the most common choice (the nearest airport being Stanstead), there are several picturesque routes that can make your journey even more memorable. Let’s explore two of the best routes and some must-see destinations along the way.
Planning and Preparation
Before embarking on your trip, it’s essential to take some time to plan and prepare. Here are some key considerations:
Best time to travel
The best time to travel from Cambridge to Dublin will depend on your preferences and priorities. Generally speaking, summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Ireland due to the warmer weather and longer daylight hours. However, this also means that tourist attractions will be more crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations may be higher.
To avoid the crowds and save a bit of money on your trip to Ireland 2023, it’s worth considering the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). Keep in mind that the weather can be more unpredictable during these times, but you’ll also have a better chance of finding deals on flights and accommodations.
Necessary documents and paperwork
To travel from Cambridge to Dublin, you’ll need a passport and possibly a visa, depending on your nationality. You’ll also need a driver’s license to rent a car in Ireland. Lastly, check the expiration dates on your documents well before your trip and make copies of your important documents to keep with you while you travel.
Tips for booking transportation
There are several options for getting from Cambridge to Dublin, including flying, taking the train, or driving. When arranging transportation, keep the following tips in mind:
Flying: If you choose to fly, book your tickets beforehand to get the best deals. Consider using a flight aggregator like Skyscanner or Kayak to compare prices across different airlines. Stanstead is easy to get to by car (just 28 miles), and you can also take the train from Cambridge directly to the airport in just over half an hour.
Train and Ferry: Firstly, it’s a good idea to book train and ferry tickets online in advance to save money. You can book train tickets through websites such as National Rail or Trainline. If you’re eligible for a Railcard, this can also provide discounts on train tickets. Cambridge station is well linked.
For the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin, book through the ferry operator’s website, such as Stena Line or Irish Ferries. Some operators offer package deals that include train or bus tickets to and from the port, so it’s worth checking these deals to see if they offer any savings.
Note that while traveling by train and ferry can be an exciting adventure, disruptions can occur. Make sure to leave plenty of time between connections and have a backup plan in case of any disruptions to your travel plans. Also check for any travel updates or advisories before setting out on your journey.
Driving: Traveling from Cambridge to Dublin by car? The route is just over 500 miles. Keep in mind that driving in Ireland is done on the left!
Scenic Routes
Now that you’ve sorted the logistics, it’s time to start planning your route. Here are two of the best scenic routes for traveling from Cambridge to Dublin:
Route 1: Via London and Holyhead (by train and ferry)
This route is a convenient option that will take you through London’s bustling streets and Wales’s scenic coast before arriving in the Irish capital. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
• Take a direct train from Cambridge to London’s St Pancras International. During the journey, passengers can enjoy views of the beautiful countryside of southern England. The train passes through several quaint towns and villages, including Royston, Letchworth Garden City, Hitchin, and Stevenage.
The train ride takes around an hour or so, depending on the train and route, and there are frequent departures throughout the day. Some of the train operators for this route include Great Northern and Thameslink.
• Once you arrive at St Pancras International, head to Euston Station to take a train to Holyhead Station. The train journey takes more or less 5 hours and will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. Note that there is no direct train from London Euston to Holyhead. Passengers must change trains at Chester or Crewe, depending on the specific train and time of day, and then take another train to Holyhead.
If you have time to kill, many of London’s best-known landmarks are within easy reach from Euston Station, either on foot or by quick car travel. The British Museum, Camden Market, Regent’s Park, Oxford Street, and The British Library are all less than a 10-minute ride.
The train journey starts by passing through the busy streets of London before making its way through the English countryside. As you approach the coast, you’ll see stunning views of the Welsh mountains, including the majestic Snowdonia range. The train ride itself is also an experience, with comfortable seating and excellent onboard amenities.
• The Holyhead Station is within the ferry port, where you can take a ferry to Dublin. Several ferry companies operate this route, including Irish Ferries and Stena Line, with the journey taking around 3-4 hours.
Although Holyhead is a small port town, there are still some attractions and activities you can enjoy. For example, you can visit the Holyhead Maritime Museum, which showcases the town’s rich seafaring history, or hike along the scenic Holyhead Mountain. On the ferry, you’ll have views of the Irish Sea and the rugged coastlines of both Wales and Ireland.
This route offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most captivating landscapes in the UK and Ireland, with a mix of train and ferry travel providing a variety of experiences. It’s also a terrific option for those who don’t want to drive.
Route 2: Via Wales and Holyhead (by car and ferry)
For those who prefer to drive, this route takes you through the beautiful Welsh countryside before crossing the Irish Sea by ferry. Here’s what to expect:
• Start by driving from Cambridge to Holyhead, which takes around 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass by Conwy Castle and through the stunning Snowdonia National Park, with loads of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.
• Once in Holyhead, take a ferry to Dublin, which takes around 3 to 4 hours. Several ferry companies operate between the port town and Dublin, such as Irish Ferries and Stena Line.
The little port town has a few things to offer. Holyhead Mountain is a beautiful place to hike, and the Holyhead Maritime Museum highlights the town’s maritime past. From the ship, you can see the rocky shores of Wales and Ireland.
This route is perfect for those who want to take their time and enjoy the beautiful countryside of Wales and Ireland. It’s also the ideal option for those who want the flexibility of having their own car and the ability to stop wherever they like along the way.
Must-See Destinations
The two routes offer incredible views and must-see destinations along the way. Here are some of our top picks:
London 
As the UK’s capital city, London is a must-visit destination for many travellers. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower Bridge to world-class museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery, London has something for everyone. You can easily spend at least a day or two sightseeing in London if you take the train from Cambridge to London and then onto Holyhead.
Snowdonia National Park
If you’re driving from Cambridge to Holyhead, consider taking a detour to visit Snowdonia National Park in Wales. With stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and scenic drives, Snowdonia is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Anglesey
When you get to Holyhead, you might want to take a day trip to Anglesey. With its picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and historic sites like Beaumaris Castle and the South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey is a great place to unwind before or after your ferry journey to Dublin.
Dublin
The final destination of your journey is Dublin, the vibrant capital city of Ireland. From the historic Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the lively Temple Bar district and the Guinness Storehouse, there is plenty to see and do in Dublin. Be sure to try some traditional Irish cuisine, catch a live music performance, and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.
A Journey of Exploration and Adventure
Traveling from Cambridge to Dublin is a journey that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you choose to travel by train and ferry or car and ferry, there are plenty of scenic routes to choose from. The beautiful Welsh countryside, Snowdonia, and the North Wales coast are just a few of the many must-see locations along the way. Whatever your travel preferences, these routes offer a unique and memorable journey to Dublin.
