The Most Unusual Day Out in Ireland: Drive a Rally Car in Co. Monaghan

Ask almost anyone for ideas for a day out in Ireland and the answer is the same short list over and over. Those attractions are great, but if you'd rather have a day nobody else has planned, it pays to look a little further off the map.

This is exactly where Rally School Ireland in Co. Monaghan fits in. Based in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, on the doorstep of Northern Ireland, the school has been welcoming drivers for over 25 years. You take the wheel yourself, with expert instructors on hand.

What Does a Rally Driving Day Involve?

A rally experience day is a driver-led adventure where you get behind the wheel. Instead of watching from the sidelines, you get the sound, the speed and the sideways action for yourself.

At Rally School Ireland, the minimum age is 13, and no driving qualifications are required. That makes it a rare activity the whole family can enjoy.

Choose Your Driving Experience

The school offers a range of experiences to suit different budgets and appetites for speed. Here's how they compare:

Package	Cost	Duration	What's Included
Rally Driving Experience	€295pp	2–3 hours	3 cars, 18 laps, 3 stages
Rally + Drift Driving Experience	€295pp	2–3 hours	3 cars, 18 laps, 3 stages
Subaru Rally Experience Adventure	€395pp	2–4 hours	4 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages
Mustang Driving Experience Adventure	€395pp	2–4 hours	4 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages, including a Mustang
MK2 Magic Rally Driving Experience	€455	2–4 hours	2 cars, 24 laps, 4 stages, branded jacket
Ultimate Rally + Drift Experience	€545pp	3–5 hours	6 cars, 36 laps, 6 stages
Ultimate Supercar + Rally + Drift Experience	€545pp	3–5 hours	6 cars, 36 laps, 6 stages
Stage Rally Course	€475pp	6 hours	A day-long course aimed at future stage rally drivers

Prices shown are a guide and can change. Unsure where to start? Phone the team on +353 47 89098 or email [email protected].

Things to Do Near the Ireland–Northern Ireland Border

To be upfront: it isn't in the middle of a city. That's exactly the point. It's roughly two hours from both Dublin and Belfast, which makes it easy to reach from both sides of the border.

• The quieter location means more time at the wheel and less time queuing.
• Build in some time exploring the border counties, with plenty of local hotels and attractions to choose from.
• People come from all over the world, and many come back again.

An Adrenaline Gift Experience That Isn't Another Pair of Socks

Stuck on unique gifts for men? Most presents are forgotten within a week. A driving experience gift gives him a story to tell for years.

It works brilliantly for birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day and Christmas. Women who love motorsport love it too: any petrolhead will get a kick out of it.

You can buy day trips from Belfast a voucher for a specific experience, or keep it flexible with an open-value voucher. Either way, it's a day out and not just a box to open.

Planning a Stag? Put the Groom Behind the Wheel

Every group wants a day with some banter and bragging rights. Rally driving delivers: competition, adrenaline and stories for the speeches before you hit the pub. The school regularly hosts stag and hen group days with group packages.

Planning a Hen Party? Try Something Adventurous

Not every hen do has to be cocktails and afternoon tea. If your group wants something more memorable, taking the wheel at a rally school gets the laughs flowing and creates stories for the group chat.

Looking for Team Building Ideas in Ireland? Try Rally Driving

Most corporate away days involve a lot of flip charts. A motorsport day breaks the mould: it's active, competitive and fun at any ability. It's also ideal for company teams and corporate events looking for a reward, an incentive or an end-of-year treat.

Rally Driving Experience FAQs

Where can I find the rally school?

It is based in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638, right on the border with Northern Ireland. It's about two hours by road from both Dublin and Belfast.

Do I need to have passed a driving test to take part?

No qualifications are required, and the minimum age is 13. You don't need any motorsport background, and instructors are on hand to guide you.

What are the prices?

A half-day rally experience starts at €295 per person, rising to €545 per person for the ultimate full-day experiences. Prices can change, so confirm before booking.

Is this a good present for birthdays or anniversaries?

Yes. Both specific experience vouchers and open value vouchers are available, which suits birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day and Christmas.

Can I book for a stag, hen or corporate group?

Definitely. Group bookings are available for groups of more than 4. Contact the team with your numbers and dates, and they'll help plan the day.

Can I visit as a day trip from Dublin or Belfast?

Yes. The drive is about two hours from Dublin or Belfast, and it carries a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice 2024 award.

Ready for Something Different?

If you're after something genuinely off the beaten path, a day in Scotstown delivers. Pick your experience and book your date, or contact the team if you'd like help choosing.

Rally School Ireland

Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638

Phone: +353 47 89098

Email: [email protected]