Guided by passion. Rooted in Ireland.

Welcome to Custom Irish Tours, where every journey is personal, every mile tells a story, and every guest becomes part of Ireland’s ongoing tale.

I’m Derek Smith, founder and lead guide. For almost twenty years, I’ve been sharing Ireland’s history, culture, and natural beauty through private chauffeur-driven tours designed entirely around you. My goal is simple — to show you the Ireland I love, with warmth, depth, and a touch of fun along the way.

How it all began

I grew up in the Boyne Valley, one of the most historic regions in Ireland and home to ancient wonders like Newgrange and Trim Castle. As a child, I spent countless hours exploring ruins, castles, and passage tombs — letting my imagination run wild among stones that pre-date the pyramids.

That curiosity turned into a lifelong calling. At ten years old I was already fascinated by history and mythology; by adulthood, it became my career. After years of professional driving and guiding, I founded Custom Irish Tours to bring visitors closer to the authentic Ireland I know — not just the landmarks, but the landscapes, stories, and people behind them.

My approach to private touring

Over nineteen years as a professional driver-guide, I’ve learned that a great tour is built on three things:

• Expert knowledge of Ireland’s history, culture, and geography
• Flexibility, allowing each day to adapt to your pace and interests
• Connection, understanding what truly makes travel memorable

Every itinerary is tailored. Whether you’re drawn to medieval castles, coastal drives, ancient mythology, or tracing family roots, I design your route around what matters most to you.

Unlike large group tours, travelling with me means no crowds, no rigid timetables, and plenty of time to explore hidden gems. You can change direction mid-day, linger for photos, or stop for an impromptu pint in a village pub. the freedom is yours.

My main priorities for guests are Comfort, style, and safety

All tours are chauffeur-driven in premium vehicles, licensed for limousine use and kept to the highest standard. Depending on group size and luggage needs, you’ll travel in one of our luxury fleet:

Mercedes V-Class, seating up to six guests comfortably

Ford Custom, ideal for seven passengers

Mercedes Sprinter, perfect for small groups up to fifteen

Accessibility and comfort are always top priorities. If you have mobility concerns, I’ll ensure every site is as easy to enjoy as possible.

Some of my guests’ favourite experiences include:

Standing on the cliffs at Sliabh Liag or Moher

• Walking among the ruins of Glendalough
• Visiting working farms and small craft producers
• Exploring Leap Castle, said to be the most haunted in Ireland
• Sampling chocolate at Hazel Mountain or spirits at the Ardara Distillery

I love showing travellers these lesser-known places — the ones that surprise even locals.

Recognition and awards

Over the years, Custom Irish Tours has been honoured with several achievements, including:

Best Small Tourism Award – Meath Business & Tourism Awards

Multiple TripAdvisor Hall of Fame and Traveller Review Awards, based on consistent five-star feedback

These awards reflect what matters most to me: genuine hospitality, storytelling, and delivering an unforgettable experience every time.

What guests say
Many guests tell me the same things that they appreciate our flexibility, comfort, and local insight. Others laugh that I seem to know everyone we meet along the way. I take pride in those connections; they are what make private touring in Ireland special.

Beyond the road

When I’m not guiding, I enjoy time with my wife and daughter, catching up with friends, listening to music, watching sport, and continuing to explore Ireland’s endless layers of history and ancestry. Every day is a school day — that’s what keeps the work alive for me.

My guiding philosophy

Be professional. Be a people person. Keep learning.

That’s how I run every tour, and it’s why guests return — to travel Ireland their way, with someone who truly loves the journey.