Walk in the shoes of Norsemen at the Irish National Heritage Park, on the banks of Wexford's River Slaney. Step back in time in the replica Viking dwelling with its wattle walls, thatched roof and cosy central hearth. The house sleeps four to eight people comfortably, making it ideal for larger groups. For those exploring in smaller groups of two to six people, check out the park's Ringfort accommodation and cosy up by the hearth in the reconstructed walled battlement that would rival those from the 5th century. 

The park closes at 6.30pm, when you’ll be left in complete freedom to explore the woods, watch the wildlife and enjoy the views across the Slaney Estuary.

The beauty of Spike Island in the middle of Cork Harbour has not spared it from a sinister history. From late September and into October, enjoy one of the chilling After Dark Tours of the abandoned former fortress, monastery and prison to discover the island's eerie secrets and stories for yourself.

Step inside the four walls of a solitary jail cell, walk through the place once called "Ireland's Hell" and experience an atmosphere not found in the daylight.

Go off the beaten path to gather by the fireside at one of Wexford’s Storytelling Houses. From the House of Stories in Clonegal to Kyle Forge in Crossabeg, there are tales ready to unfold up and down the county.

The Bean an Tí or Fear an Tí (woman or man of the house) who's hosting will pass the Talking Stick. There's no obligation to join in, but if you're in the mood you can spin your own yarn. Taking place on various nights on a rotating basis, a warm welcome and a hot cuppa tea set the scene for an evening in good company. 

Follow in the footsteps of St Kevin and experience the stillness and beauty of Wicklow's landscape in the moonlight. The Full Moon Walk in Enniskerry is organised by Hilltop Treks during the winter months and takes in some of the most scenic parts of Wicklow and County Dublin, like Glendalough, Luggala and Djouce.

Each two- to three-hour-long tour takes place close to Enniskerry village and includes many of the great wooded trails in the area. Expect fantastic panoramic views across the eastern coastline of Dublin and Wicklow.

With narrow cobbled lanes and famous landmarks, it should come as no surprise that medieval Kilkenny city has a storied past filled with strange stales and mystery. A series of historic tragedies have left its mark on the city and Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours and Kilkenny Ghost Tour explores their legacy with a walking tour by night. Hear of the curse of Sir Richard Shee, the famous witch trials, what happened in Kilkenny Prison and the grisly demise of a young woman whose death would later make history.