Dublin horse and carriage: your questions answered

Every price we quote is for the whole carriage — not per person. You will be told the full price before the horse moves, and it will not change.

How much is a carriage ride around Dublin?

The price depends on the route and how long you want to be out, and it is always quoted for the whole carriage rather than per person. Ring David on 085 246 2600 and he will give you a firm figure on the phone before you commit to anything.

Is the price per person or per carriage?

Per carriage. Whatever figure you are given covers everyone in it, up to four adults. You will be told the total before the horse moves.

Where do the horse and carriages wait in Dublin?

The Dublin carriage rank is on the Grafton Street side of St Stephen’s Green, where the carriages queue much like taxis. You do not have to take your chances there, though — ring ahead and we will meet you at a set time, at the Green or at your hotel door.

What is a Jarvey?

A jarvey is the Irish word for the driver of a horse-drawn carriage or jaunting car. It is what the drivers on the St Stephen’s Green rank have always been called, and it is still the job David does every day.

Do the carriages run all year round?

The Dublin rank is busiest from around April to October, but we take bookings the whole year. Winter is one of the nicest times to go out — lamps lit, blankets on — and the Christmas lights tours run from mid-November.

How many people fit in a carriage?

Four adults comfortably, or two adults and three small children. For bigger groups we run more than one carriage together — give us a few days’ notice and we will arrange it.

What happens if it rains?

The carriages are convertible, so the hood goes up and the tour carries on. Blankets are on board as well. Dublin weather has never stopped a tour yet.

Where do you pick up from?

Anywhere in the city centre, including your hotel door. Most tours start at St Stephen’s Green or near the Guinness Storehouse, but tell us where you are and we will come to you.

Do I need to book in advance?

Booking ahead is the only way to be sure of a carriage, particularly at weekends, over Christmas and around St Patrick’s Day. A phone call or a message is enough — there is no deposit.

Can you do a proposal?

Regularly. Tell us when you book and we will get the timing, the route and the spot right, and stay out of the way at the moment itself.

Are the horses well looked after?

They are the family’s living and the family’s pride. They are Dutch Friesians, they are vet checked, they work reasonable hours with rest and water, and they are the same horses that draw the Lord Mayor of Dublin’s carriage on St Patrick’s Day.

Do you travel outside Dublin?

Yes. Weddings and events are covered all over Ireland, and film work in Ireland and the UK. Ring for details.