Ireland Road Trip in early May, Need Hotel Bookings?
 

Hey everyone! My husband and I will be taking a road trip around Ireland in the first half of May. Since we know that driving times can vary dramatically and that we may get distracted by some sites more than others, is it really necessary to book hotels/B&B's in advance other than in very large cities like Dublin?

We'd hate to get stuck without accommodation, but we'd also hate to be stuck to a very strict schedule.
We ARE at least planning to take a list of POSSIBLE places to stay in each town we plan to visit.

It is not necessary to book in advance, unless you hapen to be in an area where there is a major festival etc:
http://www.hidden-dublin.com/music/music07.html

or Google "Irish festivals" or "irish Tourist Board/Bord Failte" will get you more.

One of the joys of touring Ireland is pacing yourselves and just seeing a B&B or hotel as you meander!

The first half of May should be ok but the 5th is a monday and a bank holiday so that weekend will be busy and a lot of places may be starting to book so book for that weekends just in case.

There are no major festivals in May and to be honest they are regional so it will not effect your travels if you are somewhere else. St Patricks is the only one nationwide that wis busy.

What towns are you visiting?

PDJscott I have no problem with your info but its inappropriate to have your e-book for sale on a website you refer to as its advertising for something personal and its not permitted. This is about sharing free information.

May: NOT a peak tourist time other than for some sporting events like Football (soccer) & Irish Football and maybe a Bank Holiday weekend. In Ennis, Co. Clare, there's the Fleadh Nua (21-28 May?) so B&B's there and nearby will booked solid for those fun events.

In general, you should be fine if you work your list and call B&B's one day in advance

Oh my, since the 5th is a bank holiday, does that mean places like the Trinity College Library in Dublin won't be open?

They tend to stay open for the tourists as the tours outside have started last time I walked though the campus last week. SHops and restaurants and pubs are open its just not a work day.

Definatly have a reservation for the Bank Holiday. That was the only time we had a problem on our trip(since we do not make reservations ahead).