Unique Things to Do in Ireland: Take the Wheel at a Rally School in Monaghan
Ask almost anyone what to do in Ireland and you'll get the same familiar names over and over. Cliffs, castles, distilleries and pubs are brilliant, 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. Located in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, right on the border with Northern Ireland, the school has been welcoming drivers for over 25 years. You take the wheel yourself, on a real rally-style course.
What Does a Rally Driving Day Involve?
A rally experience day is a hands-on motorsport day where you do the driving. Forget the sidelines, you experience the power and the drifts at the wheel.
At the school in Scotstown, experiences are open to drivers from age 13 and up, and there's no need to hold any driving qualification. This makes it a rare activity the whole family can enjoy.
Driving Experiences at Rally School Ireland
Rally School Ireland offers day trips from Belfast options for every level, from first-timers to confirmed rally fans. Here's a quick overview:
| Driving Day | Price per person | Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 are per person unless stated and may change. Not sure which to pick? Call the team on +353 47 89098 or send a message to [email protected].
A Day Trip From Dublin or Belfast That's Worth the Drive
We'll be honest: Scotstown isn't a big tourist hotspot. That's a big part of the appeal. The drive from Dublin or Belfast is about two hours, so it works as a full day out from either city.
- 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.
- The school attracts visitors from far beyond Monaghan, so you'll be in good company.
An Adrenaline Gift Experience That Isn't Another Pair of Socks
Stuck on a gift for the man who has everything? Most presents are forgotten within a week. A driving experience gift creates a memory, not clutter.
It works brilliantly for Christmas, Father's Day, birthdays and milestone occasions. And it isn't only for men: anyone who enjoys cars, driving or a bit of adrenaline will get a kick out of it.
The school lets you buy a voucher for a specific driving day, or let the recipient pick with an open gift voucher. Whichever you choose, it's a gift that becomes an experience.
Stag Do Activities in Ireland That Beat Another Pub Crawl
Every best man wants an activity with a competitive edge. Rally driving ticks every box: speed, noise and plenty of laughs before you hit the pub. The school regularly hosts stag and hen parties with group packages.
Hen Party Ideas in Ireland: A Day Out With a Difference
A hen party doesn't have to mean a spa day or a brunch. If your group wants something more memorable, a supercar and rally day brings everyone together and creates stories for the group chat.
Corporate Team Building Days in Ireland: Motorsport That Gets Teams Talking
Many team building events leave people checking their phones. A motorsport day breaks the mould: it's active, competitive and fun at any ability. The school welcomes work colleagues and social groups celebrating success, a milestone or a leaving do.
Your Questions About Rally Driving in Monaghan, Answered
Where is Rally School Ireland located?
It is based in Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638, close to the Northern Ireland border. It's roughly two hours from both cities.
Do I need to have passed a driving test to take part?
No qualifications are required, and drivers aged 13 and over can take part. You don't need any motorsport background, and the team will talk you through it.
How much is a rally driving day?
A half-day rally experience starts at €295 per person, rising to €545 per person for the ultimate full-day experiences. Check with the school for current prices.
Is this a good present for birthdays or anniversaries?
Yes. Choose a voucher for one package or an open value voucher, which suits birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day and Christmas.
Is it suitable for stag dos, hen parties and team building?
Absolutely. The school has dedicated stag, hen and corporate group options. Contact the team with your numbers and dates, and they'll guide you through the options.
Is it worth the drive from Dublin or Belfast?
For most visitors, yes. The drive is about two hours from Dublin or Belfast, and it carries a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice 2024 award.
Ready for Something Different?
Whether you want a gift that stands out or a day nobody will forget, a day at Rally School Ireland ticks all the boxes. Browse the experiences, choose your date and book, or contact the team if you have questions.
Rally School IrelandScotstown, Co. Monaghan, H18 Y638
Phone: +353 47 89098
Email: [email protected]