Ireland’s great winter hibernation begins this month, as attractions and many hotels and restaurants close down from now until next Easter, temperatures drop back into the single digits and average daily hours of sunshine dwindle. The positives? The Irish combat the winter blues with some great art festivals, and you will have many parts of the country almost to yourself as you explore.
Ireland in November: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
## Weather in Ireland During November
Ireland, a land of rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines, is not vast enough to boast distinctly different regional weather patterns. Instead, the entire island experiences a relatively uniform climate. November, in particular, signifies a poignant transition from the vibrant hues of autumn to the stark realities of winter. Sadly, it often lacks the most endearing qualities of either season. As the days shorten, temperatures begin their steady decline, and following October’s display of glorious autumn colours, the landscapes often appear bare, colorless, and somewhat subdued. Rainfall also returns with an intensity that can rival some of the wettest periods of the year. Therefore, visitors need to be prepared for potentially inclement weather.
### Weather in Killarney and Southwestern Ireland
Rainfall in the southwestern region of Ireland, particularly around Killarney, is notably pronounced during this time of year. On average, Killarney experiences around 5 inches (121 mm) of rainfall in November. When coupled with the lowest levels of sunshine throughout the year and increasing wind speeds, the coastline, including the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way, becomes a particularly wild, albeit dramatically thrilling, environment. Expect high waves crashing against the shore, strong tides, forceful gales, and persistent driving rain. While overcast conditions dominate this region throughout November, it’s important to note that the weather is generally wetter rather than bitterly cold compared to other parts of Ireland. The drama of the natural elements can be a captivating experience in its own right, if travellers are well prepared.
### Weather in Dublin and Eastern Ireland
On the eastern side of Ireland, November weather is often characterized by a return to single-digit temperatures. The average low-high temperature range typically fluctuates between 41°F and 50°F (5°C and 10°C). This cooler weather is accompanied by an average of only two hours of sunshine per day, creating a generally drab atmosphere. Surprisingly, however, the eastern region, including Dublin, often experiences less rainfall than other parts of the country during November. In fact, Dublin is often considered one of the drier locations in Ireland during this month, with an expected rainfall of only 1.96 inches (50 mm). Travellers looking to minimise their chances of heavy rainfall during a November trip to Ireland might consider basing themselves in Dublin.
### Weather in Belfast and Northern Ireland
Belfast, and other destinations in Northern Ireland like the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, experience the joint second-wettest period of the year during November. Only October experiences more rain. However, after the heavy rains of October, November might feel slightly drier by comparison. Temperatures drop, with average highs of 48°F (9°C) and lows of just 39°F (4°C) in Belfast. Visitors planning to explore Northern Ireland should be prepared for colder and wetter conditions.
## Crowds and Costs in Ireland During November
November is typically a very quiet month for tourism in Ireland. The sharp decline in visitor numbers from the previous month is quite noticeable. Much of the country, especially the more rural areas, seems to enter a period of hibernation until the arrival of the warmer spring weather.
Many tourist attractions and accommodations, as well as some restaurants, particularly those outside of the major cities, will be closed during this period. The often dreary and sometimes bleak weather keeps most crowds, and indeed most people, away from the coast, mountains, and hiking trails. This lack of crowds can offer a unique opportunity for those seeking a more solitary and reflective travel experience.
However, for the attractions that do remain open, there is often an opportunity to negotiate discounted rates. You might even be offered such discounts upfront. Travelling to Ireland in November will likely mean spending less money on activities (due to closures), but potentially spending more on enjoying the warmth and conviviality of restaurants and pubs.
## Where to Go in Ireland in November
### Killarney and Southwest Ireland: Places to Visit
During this time of year, larger towns such as Galway, Killarney, Cork, and Tralee become the focal points of activity. Galway is a vibrant city renowned for its year-round program of festivals, which continues even into November. Ennis, located in Co. Clare, is another attractive option, as it hosts a famous traditional music festival during this month.
Killarney also offers a lively atmosphere. Visitors can cozy up in front of a traditional pub fireplace, wander the coast-hugging grounds surrounding the ruins of Ross Castle, or venture out to Killarney National Park, Ireland’s oldest national park. Muckross House & Gardens, a splendid stately home located in the heart of the park, remains open at this time of year. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most important ancient sites. This fortress, once the seat of power for Irish royalty, is open year-round. Meanwhile, Cork’s bars and restaurants offer a fantastic culinary experience.
### Dublin and Eastern Ireland: Places to Visit
Dublin, the largest city in the eastern region, is arguably the best place to be in Ireland during November. The city makes a concerted effort to brighten up the month with several high-quality festivals. Alternatively, visitors can warm up with a tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery, delve into the poignant history of Irish Emigration at the Irish Emigration Museum, or explore historic sites like the grand University of Trinity College, which counts Isaac Newton and Lord Byron among its alumni and houses the epic 9th-century literary masterpiece, The Book of Kells, in its library.
### Belfast and Northern Ireland: Places to Visit
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a fascinating city brimming with raw, recent history, sophisticated museums, and excellent restaurants. It should be your first port of call in this region during November. Explore blockbuster historical sights such as Belfast Castle and visit museums that delve into various aspects of Irish history, from the 9,000-year overview at the Ulster Museum to the story of the ill-fated ship Titanic.
The city boasts three Michelin-starred restaurants and a captivating Victorian covered market, St George’s Market, offering a wide array of food and regional handicrafts. If you’re inclined to venture beyond the city, the Causeway Coast offers a wild and dramatic experience at this time of year, with enormous waves creating a memorable spectacle.
## What to Do in Ireland in November
### Killarney and Southwestern Ireland: Activities
Immerse yourself in the lively pub and restaurant scene in Galway or Cork, where traditional live music continues to resonate in pubs on weekend evenings, even during this chillier, wetter, and darker time of year. Dedicate time to exploring Killarney’s mystery-laden historic buildings, such as St Mary’s Cathedral, Ross Castle, and Muckross House and Gardens.
Alternatively, embark on a journey along a section of Southwestern Ireland’s dramatic coastline, appropriately named the Wild Atlantic Way. Characterized by craggy cliffs and desolate bays, it may not be a place to linger for extended periods in November, but the absence of crowds and the tempestuous appearance of the coastline ensure a memorable experience. Furthermore, the huge swells in the Donegal and Sligo area make for excellent surfing conditions in November.
### Dublin and Eastern Ireland: Activities
Dublin’s history is palpable at every turn. Take the time to explore historic attractions like Trinity College, Dalkey Castle, and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Indulge in award-winning restaurants or embark on a guided tour of the renowned Jameson’s Whiskey Distillery. For a more hands-on experience of Ireland’s history, visit the Irish National Heritage Park near Wexford, where you can journey through nine millennia of the country’s storied past and even spend the night in a 1,500-year-old ring fort.
### Belfast and Northern Ireland: Activities
November is best suited for indoor activities in Northern Ireland. Explore the historical and cultural attractions in Belfast, such as the Titanic Museum and the Ulster Museum, to gain fascinating insights into the past. In the evening, cozy up in an impeccably preserved old pub like the Victorian-era Crown Liquor Saloon.
Additionally, festivals such as the Belfast International Arts Festival bring a fantastic array of performance art events to the city. Further afield, you might try to spot locations featured in the blockbuster TV series “Game of Thrones,” which has significantly boosted Northern Ireland’s tourist industry.
Sights worth visiting in winter include The Dark Hedges near Armoy, particularly poignant at this time of year, and the fishing harbor of Ballintoy, located not far from the Giant’s Causeway.
## Events in November in Ireland
**Belfast International Arts Festival:** Held in early November, and extending into late October, this festival showcases a fabulous array of performing and visual arts events over a two-week period in Belfast.
**TULCA, Galway:** Galway concludes its year of festivals with this visual arts festival, which runs throughout the first half of November.
**Ennis Trad Festival, Ennis:** Ennis, the county town of Co. Clare, is a stronghold of traditional Irish music year-round, but it becomes particularly vibrant during its four-day traditional music festival.
**Comedy Festival, Co. Tipperary:** Held around the middle of November, this is one of Ireland’s premier comedy festivals, taking place in Clonmel in Co. Tipperary.
**Jonathan Swift Festival, Dublin:** In Swift’s native Dublin, this festival celebrates the author of “Gulliver’s Travels” with talks, films, and readings.
**Dublin Book Festival:** More bookish events take place in Dublin during mid-November.
**Taste of Dublin:** Late November brings a showcase of the best of the city, regional, and national cuisine to Dublin.
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