Sensory Guide

A warm welcome from Boyne Valley Tours.

This sensory guide is designed to help you understand what to expect during your day tour.
Every tour is private, so the pace, timing, and activities can be adjusted to suit your comfort level.

If you have any specific sensory sensitivities or concerns, please let me know in advance and
I will do my very best to accommodate you.

Your Vehicle – A Calm Space

The vehicle is the most consistent part of your day and is designed to be a comfortable,
quiet environment.

Sight
Clean, modern interior, clear glass in the front, tinted glass in the back.
Sound
Very quiet due to the electric vehicle, with only light road noise.
Smell
Neutral. Air fresheners are used but can be removed on request.
Touch
Soft seats, seatbelts, smooth and steady driving.
Taste
Bottled water is provided.

The vehicle is always available as a quiet place to relax between visits.

The Journey Between Locations

As we travel through the Boyne Valley and other areas, you will experience a variety of
landscapes including farmland, villages, and historic areas.

Sight
Changing scenery, open countryside, small towns.
Sound
Low levels of traffic noise.
Movement
Gentle motion with occasional turns and stops.

You are welcome to request a break at any time during the journey.

Visiting Heritage Sites

During the day, we visit a number of historic locations such as ancient monuments,
landscapes, and cultural sites.

Sight
Stone structures, grassy landscapes, archaeological features.
Sound
Natural sounds like wind and birds, along with other visitors and guides.
Smell
Fresh air, grass, and occasionally damp stone.
Touch
Uneven ground, gravel paths, steps, and grassy areas.

Some areas may be uneven or slippery, especially in wet weather. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Guided Visitor Centre Tours

At certain sites, such as Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Newgrange and Knowth,
you will join a shared guided tour.

  • You will be part of a group with other visitors.
  • A guide will explain the site and its history.
  • There may be periods of standing and listening.
  • Inside Newgrange, the passage is narrow and enclosed.

This part of the experience can feel more structured and may be busier than the rest of the day.

Breaks and Comfort Stops

There will be opportunities during the day to take breaks.

  • Cafés and visitor centres are available at some locations.
  • Toilets are available at main sites.
  • Seating areas are often available indoors and outdoors.

We can choose quieter places where possible and take additional time if needed.

Flexibility and Personal Comfort

One of the advantages of a private tour is that the day can be adapted to suit you.

We can:

  • Adjust the pace of the tour.
  • Spend more or less time at each location.
  • Skip any stop if preferred.
  • Take breaks whenever needed.
  • Keep the vehicle free from air fresheners if you are sensitive to smells.

Please feel free to communicate your preferences at any time.

Sensory Summary

Noise levels
Generally low, higher at busy visitor sites.
Crowds
Can vary, moderate at popular locations.
Movement
Car travel combined with walking.
Smells
Mostly fresh outdoor air, occasional café or vehicle scents.
Quiet space
The vehicle is always available as a calm environment.

Your comfort and enjoyment are the priority throughout the day.

If you have any concerns, questions, or specific needs, please let me know in advance
or at any point during the tour.