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Dublin Castle – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

Dublin Castle is a symbol of Ireland’s lively past, located in the heart of Dublin.

Situated on Dame Street, this historic structure has experienced numerous changes in politics, society, and culture that have influenced the country’s present.

The castle’s architecture is an intriguing fusion of different styles, showcasing how Irish architectural preferences have evolved over time.

Even today, Dublin Castle is a remarkable tourist attraction due to its impressive architecture, historical importance, and valuable cultural artifacts.

It is a must-visit destination if you are interested in history and architecture.

This article shares covers everything you must know before booking tickets for Dublin Castle.

Top Dublin Castle Tickets

# Tickets for Dublin Castle in Ireland # Dublin All-Inclusive Pass

What to expect at the Dublin Castle

Where to book tickets

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Here are some highlights from the Dublin Castle in Ireland:

State Apartments

Explore the magnificent State Apartments, once the residence of the British monarch’s representative in Ireland.

Admire the opulent interiors, period furnishings, and exquisite artwork that reflect the castle’s regal past.

Chapel Royal

Visit the Chapel Royal, a stunning example of Georgian architecture.

Marvel at the intricate stained glass windows and decorative details while learning about the history of the castle’s religious significance.

Dubh Linn Gardens

Stroll through the serene Dubh Linn Gardens, located within the castle grounds.

Enjoy the well-manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and peaceful atmosphere, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Chester Beatty Library

Explore the impressive Chester Beatty Library, housed within Dublin Castle.

Discover its extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artworks from various cultures and periods.

This includes ancient Egyptian papyrus texts, Asian manuscripts, and European masterpieces.

History and Guided Tours

Dive into the rich history of Dublin Castle by joining a guided tour.

Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the castle’s past, sharing stories and anecdotes that bring its history to life.

Dining and Shops

Grab a bite to eat or browse through the castle’s gift shops.

You can find various options, from cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, unique souvenirs, and Irish crafts to take home as mementos.

Government Complex

As a functioning government complex, Dublin Castle is home to the offices of the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) and the President of Ireland.

While access to these areas is restricted, it adds to the atmosphere of importance and significance surrounding the castle.

Tickets for Dublin Castle are available online and at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

Because the Castle Tours sell limited tickets, they may sell out during peak days.

Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Visit the ticket booking page for Dublin Castle , select the preferred date, time slot, and number of tickets, and buy the tickets immediately.

Once you purchase tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

Show the e-ticket on your smartphone at the entrance and walk in.

Please carry a valid ID with you.

The Dublin Castle Tour tickets cost €72 for people over 13 years.

Children aged between four and 12 pay only €67 to enter Castle Dublin in Ireland.

Infants under three do not require a ticket and can enter the attraction for free.

The Dublin Castle, Ireland tickets include access to various areas and attractions within the castle complex.

You get admission to the State Apartments, Chapel Royal, Dubh Linn Gardens, and Chester Beatty Library.

You will start your Dublin tour by meeting a knowledgeable guide at Trinity College’s main entrance.

Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details and meaningful symbols in the Book of Kells, an ancient illuminated manuscript containing the four Gospels.

It is a remarkable example of medieval artwork.

The second part of the tour takes you to Dublin Castle, constructed in the 12th century under the reign of King John.

Your expert guide will showcase the castle’s exterior highlights, including its beautiful gardens.

This tour offers you an exceptional and unforgettable experience, considered one of the best in Ireland.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): €72 Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): €67 Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Save time and money! This Dublin All-Inclusive Pass allows you to visit over 40 sights and locations, including the Guinness Storehouse, Chester Beatty Library, and Christchurch Cathedral. Visit as many attractions as you like with a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-day Dublin Pass. You just need to show your QR-coded digital pass on your phone to get entry.

The Dublin Castle is situated in the city center, near other popular landmarks such as Christ Church Cathedral and Trinity College.

Address: Dame Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. Get Directions!

You can reach Castle Dublin by both public and private transportation.

We recommend using public transport to reach the attraction.

You can board bus numbers 27, 56A, 77A, 150, and 151 to reach the Werburgh Street 2310 Bus Stop , a four-minute walk from the castle.

By Tram (Luas)

You can take the Green Tram Line to reach St.Stephen’s Green Tram Stop , a 13-minute walk from Castle Dublin.

The easiest way to reach Dublin Castle is by car, so turn on Google Maps on your smartphone and get started.

Dublin Castle does not have public parking facilities on its premises.

However, several parking options are available nearby for visitors.

The Dublin Castle opens at 9.45 am and closes at 5.45 pm daily.

The attraction remains open on weekends and public holidays.

The last admission is at 5.15 pm.

The self-guided tour of Dublin Castle takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.

But the guided tour of Dublin Castle and the Book of Kells takes around 2.5 hours.

If you wish to have a more comprehensive visit or explore the castle at your own pace, you should allocate additional time.

The best time to visit Dublin Castle in Ireland is in the mornings when it opens around 10 am or afternoons.

Consider visiting on weekdays to have a more serene and less crowded experience.

Ireland’s weather is often unpredictable.

The summer months of June, July, and August generally offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it a popular time to visit Dublin Castle.

Originally built as a defensive fort in the early 13th century on the orders of King John of England, Dublin Castle has evolved over time.

With time, the castle became an architectural blend of medieval, Gothic and Georgian styles.

For over seven centuries, Dublin Castle served as the powerhouse of British rule in Ireland, symbolizing the influence of the Crown.

The castle played a major role in Irish history, as it witnessed the Easter Rising of 1916.

You can still see the scars of the struggle in the castle‘s majestic Record Tower, a reminder of the fight for independence by Irish Republicans.

Today, Dublin Castle is a famous heritage site with visitors from across the world.

Here are some FAQs about Dublin Castle, Ireland.

The Dublin Castle tickets cost €72 for people over 13 years. Children aged between 4 and 12 get a 7% discount and pay only €67 to enter Castle Dublin in Ireland.

The duration of the tour can vary depending on the depth of exploration. Generally, a Dublin Castle visit can take one to two hours.

Yes, guided tours are available at Dublin Castle. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the castle’s history, architecture, and significant points of interest.

Yes, photography is allowed at Castle Dublin. However, flash photography is not allowed inside the State Apartments.

Dublin Castle aims to provide accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible routes are available in most areas inside the castle.

Yes, Dublin Castle has gift shops where visitors can find unique souvenirs, Irish crafts, and other items related to the castle and Irish culture.

Dublin Castle is centrally located in the heart of Dublin, making it easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and trams.

Regrettably, Dublin Castle does not provide parking facilities for visitors. The closest options for public car parks include Q-Park Christchurch car park and Park Rite Drury Street.

Yes, audio guides are available to download in the English language.

Sources # Dublincastle.ie # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Ishita Ganguly

She is a spontaneous traveler. She loves exploring peaceful and underrated tourist attractions, trying local cuisines, learning new languages, and visiting holy places. She finds traveling therapeutic, and whenever things go south, she packs up her bags and hits the road. She would love to travel solo across Europe one day. Favorite cities: Paris, Budapest, Venice, Adelaide.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is the heart of historic Dublin. It is one of the most important buildings in Irish history. The city gets its name from the Black Pool - 'Dubh Linn' - which was on the site of the present Castle garden where the River Liffey met the River Poddle. The original fortification may have been an early Gaelic Ring Fort. Later a Viking Fortress stood on this site. From 1204 until 1922 it was the seat of English, then British rule in Ireland.

After a fire in 1684 destroyed much of the Medieval Castle, the magnificent State Apartments were built as the residential quarters of the Viceregal court. They are now the venue for presidential inaugurations, official state visits, state functions, exhibitions and other events . The State Apartments may be explored by guided tour or self-guided. Brochures are available in 17 languages. Paintings are a particular strength of the Dublin Castle collection, but it is also rich in sculpture, furniture, clocks, china, glassware, prints, tapestries, stained glass and textiles from the 17th century to the present day. On occasion, the State Apartments may be closed for official purposes.

The Tower and Medieval Undercroft' remain from the original 13th century Castle. The Tower is not currently open to visitors but offers great photo opportunities and adjoins the Chapel Royal. The Medieval Undercroft excavations and the Chapel Royal are only available to visit on a guided tour, which is very interesting.

The Dublin Gardens on the South side of the Chapel Royal are very popular with visitors and residents. You will find a lawn, interesting sculptures and a ‘four seasons’ garden with four smaller gardens beyond. The Garda Memorial garden is a tribute to the Irish police who lost their lives on duty.

The Terrace Café is situated in the State Apartments on the ground floor overlooking the Castle Gardens, open Monday to Sunday. You will also find a gift shop on site.

Sun, 16 Jun

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Dublin Castle

Price & Hours

Facilities 3.5
Atmosphere 4.0

Right in the heart of the city, the site of the Dublin Castle has played a part in Ireland's history since the land was used by Vikings to build a fortress in the 900s. Parts of the castle were built and torn down through the ages, but the oldest remaining structure, the Record Tower, dates back to the 13th century.

In addition to having been a stronghold against foreign attacks on the city, the castle and its grounds have also been home to a prison, an office of record, a water station, a seat of parliament, a royal court for entertainment and a military residence – all before 1850. The castle grounds were also the site where the Easter Rebellion of 1916 began, and after five years of fighting, where the treaty that granted Irish independence was signed. Many previous visitors recommended taking the guided tour, which they say is more extensive and informative that the self-guided tour.

Today, Dublin Castle offers a mix of old and new. It serves many functions, from hosting foreign dignitaries and state dinners to housing some of Ireland's government offices and commercial space available for private events. The castle grounds also include preserved areas like the lavish State Apartments that were home to the Viceregal court from 1680 to 1830. What's more, it's home to the world-famous Chester Beatty Library .

Dublin Castle is located just a few blocks west of Trinity College and is open to the public daily from 9:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. You won't have to pay to explore the grounds, but if you'd like to take a peek inside, self-guided tours cost 8 euros (about $8.50) for adults and 4 euros (about $4.50) for kids ages 12 to 17. Children younger than 12 get in for free. You can pick up a brochure at the ticket desk to help you navigate the state apartments and exhibitions. If you purchased a Dublin Pass, your admission fee is waived. If you'd like more historical background and access to the Viking excavation and chapel royal, opt for a guided tour, which has an additional fee and is bookable the day you arrive. For more information, visit the castle's website .

Tours & Tickets

Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

(12550 reviews)

from $ 85.96

Dublin Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse Guided Tour

(1189 reviews)

from $ 123.43

Dublin Book of Kells, Castle and Molly Malone Statue Guided Tour

(2294 reviews)

from $ 65.02

More Best Things To Do in Dublin

#1 Trinity College and The Book of Kells

Note: The Old Library is undergoing a massive restoration and conservation effort. While the Old Library will remain open for visits until construction begins in 2025, all books have been removed from the shelves. The Book of Kells is still on display and there will be a new exhibit about this important manuscript.

U.S. News Insider Tip: This must-see attraction is worth the (typically) long wait. The gift shop is a particularly good spot to pick up inspiring gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your trip. – Rachael Hood

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Inside Dublin Castle: The Complete Guide For Visitors

There are more amazing castles in Ireland than I can count. They are so photogenic and many have a fascinating history dating back centuries. I wish I had enough time to visit all of them. When I realized there was a castle in the center of Dublin, I knew we had to fit it in the itinerary.

With all there is to see in Dublin, you may be wondering if Dublin Castle is worth seeing? In this guide, I will tell you more about the history of the castle, what you can see when you go inside, and why we decided to take a Dublin Castle tour .

Note: This post contains affiliate links. Please see disclosure for more information.

Selfie in the courtyard of Dublin Castle - "What You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin Castle" - Two Traveling Texans

Dublin Castle History

Dublin castle state apartments, dublin castle tour review, dublin castle gardens, dublin castle restaurant, dublin castle accessibility, dublin castle opening hours and admission prices, hotels near dublin castle, is dublin castle worth visiting, expert tips for visiting dublin castle.

I had no idea the fascinating history I was about to learn. Dublin Castle may not be the only castle in Dublin but it is definitely the most significant. The first castle on this site was built around 1200, although most of the current buildings date back to the 18th century. Dublin Castle was the seat of the United Kingdom Government’s administration in Ireland until 1922 and is now a major Irish government complex.

A view inside the state apartments of Dublin Castle. - Two Traveling Texans

While under UK rule, the castle was the residential and ceremonial quarters for the Viceroys (deputies of the British Monarch) and the Viceregal Court. Now that Ireland is an independent country, the castle is used for inaugurations and other prestigious functions. Over the years it was also as a prison and the seat of parliament. You will get the full rundown when you take one of the tours of Dublin Castle.

The castle is made up of several buildings of different architectural styles since they were built at different times. The state apartments, medieval tour (also known as the Record Tower), medieval undercroft, the Chapel Royal, and an administrative building are all part of the castle. Dublin Castle also has a conference center called the Printworks.

Our Tour of Dublin Castle

Our tour started with the medieval undercroft and a mini Dublin history lesson. The Medieval Undercroft is the ruins of the original castle that are under the administration building. They created a nice stairway and walkways so you can get close to the history without damaging it. You can even see a bit of the Dublin city walls and the River Poddle that flows under the city.

Our tour guide gives us a history lesson in the medieval undercroft.. - "What You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin Castle" - Two Traveling Texans

Next, on our Dublin Castle tour, we visited the Chapel Royal, which opened in 1814 replacing an earlier church on this site. The woodwork inside the chapel was elaborate. Since the Chapel Royal was built on soft ground, even the parts that look like stone are actually wood to minimize the building weight. This optical illusion is amazing, you have to feel the columns to really tell the difference! It was also interesting to see the coat of arms for the viceroys.

Inside the Chapel Royal, you see the amazing woodwork - some of it even looks like stone. - "What You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin Castle" - Two Traveling Texans

In the crypt of the Chapel Royal, there is the Revenue Museum which offers insights into the history of taxes in Ireland. Unfortunately, the Revenue Museum was not part of the guided tour, and we didn’t have time to go back and visit it. Admission to the Revenue Museum is free.

Last, we saw the State Apartments. The State Apartments were opulent and what you would expect a castle to look like. The Dublin Castle interior rooms were filled with plenty of gold and impressive chandeliers. The grand staircase and artwork we saw were also impressive.

The most poignant part of the tour inside Dublin Castle was when we entered the Connelly room. It gets its name from James Connelly who led the Easter Rising in 1916 (a rebellion against British rule) and was one of the signers of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. James Connelly was held here as a wounded prisoner.

Plaque honoring James Connolly. - "What You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin Castle" - Two Traveling Texans

The Easter Rising was unsuccessful and Connelly was executed. However, the fact that Connelly was executed when he was wounded did not sit well with the Irish people and increased the appetite for Irish independence. It was moving to be in the same room where Connolly had been.

One of the elaborate room in the state apartments. - "What You Need to Know About Visiting Dublin Castle" - Two Traveling Texans

We enjoyed our tour of Dublin Castle. It lasted a little more than an hour. While we saw a good portion of the castle, it would have been nice if it would have included the gardens too. Our tour guide was entertaining and shared many interesting facts about Dublin Castle.

Just south of the Chapel Royal and the State Apartment behind a stone wall, you can find the Dublin Castle Gardens. These gardens were probably established early in the seventeenth century. At the heart of the gardens is the Dubh Linn Garden, where patterns representing sea serpents are cut into the grass. You should also visit the Garda Memorial Garden which honors members of Irish police who have been killed in the line of duty.

The patterns in the grass of the Dublin Castle Gardens represent sea serpents. - Two Traveling Texans

The Dublin Castle gardens are not part of the guided tour and unfortunately, we did not have time to visit.

The Terrace Café is located on the ground floor of the State Apartments in Dublin Castle. You can enjoy a relaxed coffee break or a healthy breakfast or lunch overlooking the Dublin Castle Gardens. With the views, it actually one of Dublin’s most romantic spots . They have great options for vegetarians and those that are gluten-free too.

If you are looking for restaurants near Dublin Castle, check out the Winding Stair or Fallon & Bryne . For those looking for something a little fancier, the Michelin starred restaurant, Chapter One , is about .75 miles away.

For the most part, Dublin Castle is accessible. There is an elevator in the State Apartments. Unfortunately, the Medieval Undercroft is only accessible by stairs.

It’s nice that Dublin Castle is open seven days a week from 9:45 am to 5:45 pm (with the last admission being 5:15 pm). If possible, it’s best to take public transportation (or walk) to Dublin Castle. If you are looking for parking near Dublin Castle, you could try the public parking garages – either Q-Park Christchurch car park and Park Rite Drury Street.

You can choose from either a self-guided (€7) or guided tour (€10). However, you can only see the medieval undercroft and the Chapel Royal by guided tour. For us, it was an easy decision. For only just a few Euro more, we felt the Dublin Castle guided tour was the best option. (Prices are correct as of 10/16/2018)

You need to purchase tickets from the Dublin Castle apartments (not the state apartments) in the Upper Castle Yard. They do not sell the Dublin Castle tickets online. We arrived right when the castle opened so the line to get tickets was pretty short.

The Dublin Castle self-guided tour is included as part of the Dublin Pass. The guided tour is just €3 with the Dublin Pass. If you are planning to visit a few attractions during your time in Dublin, the pass may save you money. It includes over 30 attractions like Christ Church Cathedral and Dublinia which are located very close to Dublin Castle. If you love castles, as I do, there are a few castles near Dublin ( Malahide Castle and Dalkey Castle) that are also part of the pass. Get more information about the Dublin Pass here.

Dublin Castle is conveniently located on Dame Street, a short walk from the Temple Bar Area. It’s an ideal area to base yourself during your visit to Dublin. You will be able to walk to lots of attractions, bars, and restaurants. The only downside is that hotels in the Dublin city centre can be expensive.

Here are some hotels near Dublin Castle that you might like:

The Morrison: A Doubletree By Hilton Hotel that’s only a 7-minute walk from Dublin Castle. The decor is modern and they offer free wifi and a fitness center. Plus, you earn Hilton points for your stay. ( Read Tripadvisor reviews here and check current price and availability here )
Brooks Hotel: A small luxury hotel located only a 9-minute walk away from Dublin Castle. They also offer free wifi and a fitness center with a sauna. ( Read Tripadvisor reviews here and check current price and availability here )

Find other Dublin hotel options on the map below.

Yes, we enjoyed our visit to Dublin Castle. I love visiting castles and when they have so much history it is even more fascinating. I’m glad I took the guided tour of Dublin Castle, it was very information. The state apartments were beautiful and our tour guide gave an excellent lesson on the history of Dublin Castle.

What castles have you really enjoyed?

– Anisa

Pin for Later

Take the guided tour so you can also see the Medieval Undercroft and the Chapel Royal.
You may also want to download the app to learn even more about Dublin Castle.
If you have time, check out the Revenue Museum and the Dublin Castle gardens.
While you are in Dublin, you might also enjoy visiting the Book of Kells exhibit at Trinity College.
If you plan on visiting other top attractions in Dublin, consider getting the Dublin Pass to save money.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you. Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit. The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Last Updated on July 21, 2023

About the Author

Anisa

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

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Heritage Ireland

Dublin castle.

BOOK ONLINE

09:45 – 17:45 See all opening times

09:45 – 17:45

See all opening times

Guided Tour (1 hour) (State Apartments, Medieval Undercroft, Chapel Royal and Exhibitions) Adult €12.00 Senior €10.00 Student €10.00 Child €6.00 Family €30.00

Self-Guide (30 minutes approx) (State Apartments and Exhibitions) Adult €8.00 Senior €6.00 Student €6.00 Child €4.00 Family €20.00

Getting here

Dame Street Dublin 2 D02 XN27

Get Directions

Just a short walk from Trinity College, on the way to Christchurch, Dublin Castle is well situated for visiting on foot. The history of this city-centre site stretches back to the Viking Age and the castle itself was built in the thirteenth century.

The building served as a military fortress, a prison, a treasury and courts of law. For 700 years, from 1204 until independence, it was the seat of English (and then British) rule in Ireland.

Rebuilt as the castle we now know in the seventeenth, eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Dublin Castle is now a government complex and an arena of state ceremony.

The state apartments, undercroft, chapel royal, heritage centre and restaurant are now open to visitors.

Opening Times

Open all Year Round

Monday – Sunday and Public Holidays 09:45 – 17.45

Last admission at 17:15

Average Length of Visit: Guided Tour 1 hour. Self Guided Tour 30 minutes.

Admission is by guided tour with a self guiding option also available.

Advanced booking is required for both Guided and Self-Guided Groups.

Please note that as Dublin Castle is a working Government building, security, access to rooms and opening arrangements may be subject to change at short notice. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

01 645 8813

[email protected]

By Car – Public car park close to site.

By Bus – Take the X8 to Cashel and walk 500m from the centre of Cashel town off the Dublin Road.

By Train – The nearest train station is Thurles.

Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions

Getting Here

Situated in the City Centre off Dame Street, behind City Hall, 5 minutes walk from Trinity College en-route to Christchurch.

Open location in Google Maps

Facilities Restrictions

Card Accepted
Guided tours
Wheelchair Accessible Toilet

Restrictions

Social guide.

Download, print and read our social guide (PDF) about visiting Dublin Castle. This will help first-time visitors, families and people with developmental and learning disabilities to prepare for a visit to Dublin Castle.

Download the Social Guide

Educational Resources

View our Educational Resources for Dublin Castle

(5 resources)

Nearby sites to visit

St audoen’s church and visitor centre.

A medieval chapel at the centre of city life

Approx. 0.4 km from Dublin Castle

St. Mary’s Abbey – Chapter House – Cistercian Monastery

The ruins of one of the largest and most important monasteries in medieval Ireland

Approx. 0.5 km from Dublin Castle

St Stephen’s Green

A Victorian civic gem in Dublin’s greatest garden square

Approx. 0.6 km from Dublin Castle

Kilkenny Castle

The jewel in the crown of an enchanting medieval city

Ormond Castle

Discover a Tudor gem

Portumna Castle and Gardens

Seventeenth-century splendour on the shores of Lough Derg

Donegal Castle

One of Ireland’s most splendid Gaelic castles

Ross Castle

A lakeside citadel steeped in legend

Heritage Card

Unlimited access to Ireland’s past

Buy one today

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Welcome to Dublin Castle

Constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland’s independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government. It is now a major government complex and a key tourist attraction. We hope you enjoy your visit.

Opening Times

Open all Year Round

Monday – Sunday and Public Holidays 09:45 – 17.45

Last admission at 17:15

Closed 25 – 27 December and 1 January

Average Length of Visit: Guided Tour 1 hour. Self Guided Tour 30 minutes.

The Castle Blog

Read the latest posts below, and click through to the full Castle Blog for all news updates.

Imogen Stuart Exhibition

The Coach House Gallery, Dubhlinn Gardens, Dublin Castle 3rd November 2023 - 18th February 2024 The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to host the exhibition IMOGEN, a celebration of Imogen Stuart’s long career spanning more than 7 decades. Born in Germany in...

Elemental. An appreciation of the extraordinary life and work of Veronica Bolay RHA

The Coach House Gallery, Dublin Castle20th October 2022 - 19th March 2023The Office of Public Works, in association with The Paul Kane Gallery, is proud to present the exhibition on the extraordinary life and work of Veronica Bolay. Veronica was born in 1941 in...

The Objects of Love Exhibition

State Apartment Galleries, Dublin Castle 29th September 2022 – 29th January 2023 The Office of Public Works in association with Holocaust Awareness Ireland presents The Objects of Love by Oliver Sears. This poignant exhibition tells the fate of individual lives torn...

Dublin Castle

History of dublin castle.

The origins of the Dublin Castle date back to the 9th Century, where it began as a Viking fortress, before becoming an Anglo-Norman fort in the 12th Century—making the site over 1000 years old, pre-dating the 800-year-old castle building. Spanning across 11 acres (44,000 sq. ft.), the castle grounds were erected as a defence, on the most raised part of the city to keep watch for invasions.

As most of the castle’s medieval structure was destroyed during the Great Fire of 1684, much of the current architecture was rebuilt in palatial style during the Georgian era, transforming the building into a Georgian palace. One of the last remaining medieval structures is the large Record Tower, the most iconic part of the building from the outside.

While it may not look like there’s much to see at first glance, Dublin Castle’s fortress serves to protect a host of staterooms and some of the oldest furniture and artwork in the world. The heart of Irish history, Dublin Castle’s walls hold the ghosts of an Ireland far beyond which we know today.

What was Dublin Castle’s main function?

Dublin Castle’s main role in the history of Ireland was to serve as the seat for British rule for over 700 years, home to the representative of the British government. While the Irish people suffered turbulent many years under British rule, there was no suffering as great as the Irish Famine of 1845-1849—during which, the decisions made in Dublin Castle by the British government, led to the mass death and emigration of over two million. It was the most tragic disaster of its kind in 19th Century Europe and viewed by many as a deliberate act of genocide.

The castle also played an integral role in the Irish revolutionary period and the War of Independence, as the stronghold of British efforts against the persistent Irish republican cause, which heightened significantly after the famine. In 1922, after Ireland secured the freedom of 26 counties following the War of Independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to Michael Collins, symbolically serving as the location for future Irish presidential inaugurations.

A place marked by merciless colonial rule and the nerve centre behind Ireland’s most prevalent historical events, Dublin Castle holds enormous significance in Ireland’s turbulent history and its later fight for freedom.

Top sights to see at Dublin Castle

St. patrick’s hall.

One of the grandest and most imposing rooms in the castle, St. Patrick’s Hall dates back to the mid-eighteenth century, where it served as the main palace ballroom. In 1869 it served to host meetings and introduction ceremonies for the Knights of St. Patrick, known as the Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick—the flags of which still hang in the hall today.

St. Patrick’s Hall is now the setting for the presidential inauguration, one of the most significant political occasions in Ireland.

Record Tower

Also known as the Medieval Tower, Gunner’s Tower or the Wardrobe Tower, this is the last remaining structure of the Norman castle built in 1204 before most of it was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1684.

Its walls are estimated to be around 4 metres thick, designed for maximum protection from invaders, as per King John’s mandate “We command you to erect a castle there, in such a competent place as you may consider to be suitable if need be for the defence of the city as well as to curb it, if occasion shall so require, making it as strong as you can with good fosses and strong walls.”

The tower was most likely used as a wardrobe to store the King’s armour and treasure, before becoming a safe for books, manuscripts and political correspondence.

Chapel Royal

The impressive Chapel Royal was opened in 1814 and stands as one of the most splendid Gothic revival structures in the country. Originally erected as the official Church of Ireland, it was renamed the Church of the Most Holy Trinity in 1943, with the first Catholic mass held in the building by the Catholic archbishop of Dublin.

Throne Room

Once the centre of royal ceremonies in Ireland, the throne room was where the British Monarch and Viceroys received guests to the palace. The throne which you see today was made in 1821 for King George IV’s visit to Ireland and has since been used by several monarchs upon their visits to Ireland.

Chester Beatty Library

Many people come to Dublin to visit the Trinity College Library, however, the Chester Beatty Library houses some of the world’s finest ancient books and manuscripts, collected by engineer and philanthropist, Sir Alfred Chester Beatty. Some of the most notable collections include carved jade books and ancient textiles from 17th century China, exquisite Indian artwork dating back to the 11th century and manuscripts from the original Gospel of Luke, dating back to mid-third century AD.

How long does it take to tour Dublin Castle?

Dublin Castle offers daily guided tours which last approximately one hour. Visitors can also choose to do a self-guided tour using brochures provided at the ticket desk, available in seventeen languages. The self-guided tour can take between 1-3 hours depending on your pace.

The tour will take you through the history of Dublin Castle, from its Viking origins to its role during over 700 years of British rule and eventually throughout the period of the Irish revolution.

Ticket prices for guided and self-guided tours vary, with self-guided tours being slightly less expensive. However, the guided tour is worth paying a little extra for if you want to get the best out of your trip, as you get access to more exclusive parts of the building while accompanied by a tour guide.

Advance booking for both guided and self-guided groups is required. See the list of tour prices below (2019 prices):

How Much Is The Dublin Castle Guided Tour?

Adult – €12

Senior (60+) – €10

Student – €10

Child – €6

Family (5 children max.) – €30

How Much Is The Dublin Castle Self Guided Tour?

Adult – €8

Senior – €6

Student – €6

Child – €4

Family – €20

Getting To Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is located in the city centre, so there’s plenty of transport options available. Here are a few:

From Clare Street near Trinity College, walk the length of College Green, past George’s Street on your left and onto Dame Street. Walk for approximately 5 minutes and City Hall will come into view on your left. Take a left onto Cork Hill, then another slight left for a few feet and follow the route around to the left until you get to the entrance of Dublin Castle.

Take the 66 bus from Clare Street towards Maynooth and get off at Temple Bar, Wellington Quay. Dublin Castle is a 5-minute walk from here.

If you are planning on driving to Dublin Castle, we recommend that you park in the nearby Q-Park at Christchurch. It’s then just a short 4-minute walk on foot. On Werburgh Street, walk towards Castle Street and turn right at the end of the street. Walk for 2 minutes and turn right twice again and then take a slight left. You will then reach the entrance of the castle.

Dublin Castle is located on Dame St. in the centre of the city.

Hotels Near Dublin Castle

The Alex Hotel is a stylish, boutique hotel in the Dublin 2 district on the south side of the city. It’s tucked away in a quiet part of town, but a short walk from all the hustle and bustle of Grafton Street, with attractions such as Merrion Square, Trinity College and the National Gallery on its doorstep.

Walking Time: 20 minutes Dublin Bus: 17 minutes By Car: 15 minute By Taxi: €9 – €13

The Davenport

The Davenport Hotel is an elegant 4-star hotel that combines the splendour of Georgian Dublin reimagined with the best of 21st-century facilities. This hotel is located in Dublin 2 and is close to many of the attractions that the south side of the Dublin city has to offer.

The Mont Hotel is a modern, designer hotel in the heart of Dublin city. Enjoy style and luxury in a location adjacent to Trinity College and Merrion Square which ensures that you are at the heart of the action, whether you’re in Dublin for business or pleasure.

Wake up with the iconic Stephen’s Green Park on your doorstep at one of Dublin’s most central hotels. The Green Hotel is also a stone throw from Dublin’s premier shopping street, Grafton St. and the Stephens Green shopping centre.

Walking Time: 15 minutes Dublin Bus: 15 minutes By Car: 8-10 minutes By Taxi: €8 – €10

See More Dublin Attractions

Dublin Castle

Not quite "Game of Thrones" material

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

If you are walking up Dame Street from Trinity College to Christ Church Cathedral, you will pass Dublin Castle on your left. And miss it. Though one of the top ten sights of Dublin , it is hidden away and not a castle in the classical sense, but the former seat of British power in Ireland should be on every agenda.

Two towers from the 13th century are part of Dublin's rare medieval heritage.
A unique ensemble of government buildings from the 18th century.
State Apartments include a throne brought by William of Orange and other symbols of British rule.
Will disappoint visitors looking for a "real" castle .
Entrance to State Apartments is by tour only.

Description

The Anglo-Norman castle remains in the form of two much-converted towers only.
Redesign as government buildings date mainly from the 18th century and are without the character of a fortress.
Richly decorated State Apartments are open to visitors (guided tours only).

Guide Review

Originally built in the 13th century, the Anglo-Norman castle burned down in 1684. Sir William Robinson then developed plans for a rebuild. Without major defensive installations and with an eye on providing the government with a fine contemporary home. Thus, present-day Dublin Castle was born. Visitors will usually only notice the Record Tower as being truly medieval. The adjoining "Chapel Royal" (rather its replacement, the Church of the Most Holy Trinity) was only finished in 1814 and is about 600 years younger -- but with a beautiful neo-gothic exterior and a hundred intricately carved heads.

When viewed from the park (which has a gigantic "Celtic" spiral ornament doubling as a helipad), the strange mixture of styles becomes evident. On the left, the 13th-century Bermingham Tower was converted into a supper room. Brightly colored but uninspiring facades follow, then the romantic Octagonal Tower (from 1812), the Georgian State Apartments, and the Record Tower (with the Garda Museum in the basement) and the Chapel round the ensemble off. The inner yards are dominated by brickwork -- quite a contrast.

While the outside is generally open to the public, only the State Apartments can be visited on the inside of Dublin Castle . This is strictly by guided tour only.

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Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle (Irish: Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath) off Dame Street, Dublin, Ireland, is a major Irish governmental complex, formerly the fortified seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922. Most of the complex dates from the 18th century, though a castle has stood on the site since the days of King John, the first Lord of Ireland. The Castle served as the seat of English, then later British government of Ireland under the Lordship of Ireland (1171–1541), the Kingdom of Ireland (1541–1800), and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (1800–1922). Upon establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922, the complex was ceremonially handed over to the newly formed Provisional Government led by Michael Collins.

Dublin Castle fulfilled a number of roles through its history. Originally built as a defensive fortification for the Norman city of Dublin, it later evolved into a royal residence, resided in by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland or Viceroy of Ireland, the representative of the monarch. The second in command in the Dublin Castle administration, the Chief Secretary for Ireland, also had his offices there. Over the years parliament and law courts met at the castle before moving to new purpose-built venues. It also served as a military garrison. Upon formation of the Free State in 1922, the castle immediately assumed the role of court complex, as the Four Courts on the Liffey quays had been badly damaged during the Civil War - a role it served for the first decade of the newly independent state.

It was also decided in the 1930s that the inauguration of the first President of Ireland, Douglas Hyde in 1938 would take place in the castle, and ever since the complex has been host to this ceremony. The castle is also used for hosting official State visits as well as more informal foreign affairs engagements, State banquets, Government policy launches, as well as acting as the central base for Ireland's hosting of the European Presidency approximately every 10 years.

Tours featuring this attraction

6 Night Discover Ireland Tour

6 Night Heritage Private Group Tour from Dublin

9 Night Titanic Memorial Tour

3 Night Culinary Short Break

10 Night Ireland & Scotland Discovery Tour

(10 Nights)

7 Night Irish Experience - Dublin & Killarney

6 Night West to East Heritage Private Group Tour

14 Night Around Ireland Tour

(14 Nights)

9 Night Traditional Irish Music Tour

7 Night Northern Heritage Tour

3 Night Dublin Theatre Break

9 Night Pub of Ireland Group Tour

6 Night Tour of Dublin and Kerry

7 Night Best of Ireland by Rail

8 Night 3 Centre Rail Tour of Ireland with Castle Stay

10 Night Rail Tour with Luxury Castle Stay

Irish Castles and Manors Silver 7 Night Tour

10 Night Irish Castles and Manors Gold

7 Night Irish Castles and Manors Platinum Tour

10 Night Irish Castles and Manors Platinum Tour

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12 Castles In Dublin Ireland That Are Well Worth Exploring

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

12 Castles In Dublin Ireland That Are Well Worth Exploring

There are many different castles in Dublin that are well worth visiting during you’re time in the capital.

From lesser-known castles like the magnificent Luttrellstown to the more well-known, like Malahide, there are plenty of castles in the capital to have a ramble around.

Castles in the capital… that has a nice little ring to it! In the guide below, you’ll find 11 of the best castles in Dublin to visit at any time of the year.

Some offer tours, while others are castle hotels in Dublin where you can stay or just visit for a coffee, a pint, or a bite to eat.

Table of Contents

What we think are the best castles in Dublin

Photo by Mike Drosos (Shutterstock)

The first section of our guide is packed with what we think are the most impressive castles around Dublin. These are ones one or more of The Irish Road Trip Team have visited before.

Below, you’ll find the incredible Dublin Castle and the hugely popular Malahide Castle to one of the most overlooked castles in Ireland .

1. Dublin Castle

Photo © The Irish Road Trip

Dublin Castle is the only castle in Dublin City in this guide. You’ll find it on Dame Street where it sits on the site of a Viking Fortress that was here in the 930s.

The fortress was actually the Viking’s primary military base and it was a key trading centre for the slave trade in Ireland.

Although the current structure (built on the orders of King John of England) dates back to 1204, there’s archaeological evidence of a wooden and stone castle on the site from the 1170’s.

The impressive castle that stands to this day survived the devastation of the 1916 rebellion and the subsequent Civil War.

If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin , take a ramble in here. You can check out the grounds, have a peek inside the State Apartments, and visit the Medieval Undercroft and Chapel Royal.

2. Malahide Castle

Photo by neuartelena (Shutterstock)

Malahide Castle is arguably one of the best-known castles in Dublin. I live a stone’s throw from here and have walked around the grounds hundreds of times at this stage.

The story of Malahide Castle began in 1185 when a knight named Richard Talbot was given the land and harbour of Malahide .

The most ancient sections of the castle date to the 12th century, when it was used as a home by the Talbot family (they lived here for 791 years, as it happens).

That was until they were booted out by Oliver Cromwell in 1649 and the castle was handed over to a bloke named Miles Corbet. Corbet was hanged when Cromwell was sent packing and the castle was given back to the Talbots.

Interestingly enough, in 1918, during the First World War, the castle grounds housed a mooring-out base for airships.

Related read: Check out our guide to 33 of the best things to do in Dublin (hikes, museums, coastal walks, scenic drives and more)

3. Swords Castle

Photo by Irish Drone Photography (Shutterstock)

The castle in my hometown of Swords is arguably the most overlooked of the many castles in Dublin. Which is a bit mad, considering it’s ten minutes from Dublin Airport!

Swords Castle was built by the Archbishop of Dublin in and around 1200, with the intention of using it as a residence and administrative centre.

I’ve was here for a ramble recently and it’s brilliant. The chances are, you’ll have the whole place to yourself. You can take a look inside the finely maintained chapel, with its beautiful chandelier, or take a ramble up into one of the turrets, where you’ll see a very old-school toilet, among other things.

If you’re looking for a castle near Dublin Airport, take a spin out here. There are plenty of cafes and the likes to grab a coffee and a bite to eat.

4. Ardgillan Castle

Photo by Borisb17 (Shutterstock)

Now, a quick disclaimer first – Ardgillan Castle is one of several castles in Dublin that, although called a ‘castle’, is more a country-style house with castellated embellishments.

The central section of Ardgillan was constructed in 1738, while the west and east wings were added much later, towards the end of the 1800s.

The castle was restored a number of years ago and the ground floor and the kitchens are now open for guided tours.

I live close-ish to Ardgillan Castle and tend to visit every couple of months. We usually grab a coffee from the busy little cafe and head for a ramble around the extensive grounds.

5. Dalkey Castle

Photo left: Fabianodp. Photo right: Eireann (Shutterstock)

Dalkey Castle is one of seven castles that are scattered around the gorgeous little seaside town in South Dublin.

It was built to store goods that had been offloaded in the town during the Middle Ages when the town acted as the port of Dublin.

For many years, from the mid-1300s to much further on in the late 1500s, large ships could not use the River Liffey to access Dublin, as it was silted up.

They could, however, access Dalkey. Dalkey Castle required a number of defensive features to fend off thieves from plundering the goods that were stored inside. Many of these features can still be viewed to this day.

More very popular Dublin castles

The next section of our guide takes a look at some of the more popular castles around Dublin, with a mix of ruins and beautifully preserved structures.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from Howth Castle and Luttrellstown to some often overlooked Dublin castles, like Drimnagh Castle.

1. Howth Castle

Photo left by mjols84 (Shutterstock). Photo right via Howth Castle

The mighty (and often missed) Howth Castle dates back to the 1200s and it boasts a fine bit of folklore that should spark your interest.

The story goes that the pirate queen of Connacht Grace O’Malley dropped by Howth Castle one night in 1575, with the intention of dining with Lord Howth .

By all accounts, Lord Howth turned her away and she was understandably none pleased. Legend has it that she kidnapped the Earl of Howth’s grandson in retaliation.

She’s said to have only agreed to let him go in return for a promise that no guest would be turned away from Howth Castle ever again.

If you’re looking for castles in Dublin with a fine bit of history, a nice whack of folklore and, randomly enough, Europe’s largest rhododendron gardens, get yourself here.

2. Clontarf Castle

Photo via Clontarf Castle

Clontarf is home to one of the few castles in Dublin that you can stay in . Now, while the current castle here dates back to 1837, keep in mind that it has been modernised throughout.

There has been a castle on this site since 1172 (no trace of the original remains, unfortunately). It’s believed that it was built by either Hugh de Lacy or a chap named Adam de Phepoe.

Over the years Clontarf Castle has been held and owned by everyone from the Knights Templar to Sir Geoffrey Fenton, the latter of which was granted it by Queen Elizabeth in 1600.

The castle lay vacant for a number of years during the 1900s and was bought and resold several times. In 1972, it was turned into a cabaret venue.

Several years later, in 1997, the castle reopened as a four-star hotel boasting 111 rooms and modernised interior.

3. Drimnagh Castle

Photo via Drimnagh Castle

Drimnagh Castle is one of the lesser-known castles in Dublin. Out of the many castles in Ireland, Drimnagh is the only one with an intact moat.

The story of Drimnagh Castle began in 1215 when the land that the castle is plonked upon was given to a Norman knight by the name of Hugo de Bernivale. Very fancy altogether.

As was common at the time, Hugo was given the land in return for his family’s help in the invasion of Ireland.

Over the years, Drimnagh Castle has served as a filming location for a number of TV shows and movies, like the award-winning Tudors and The Old Curiosity Shop.

4. Ashtown Castle

Photo by jigfitz (Shutterstock)

If you’re in search of castles in Dublin that are easily accessed from the City Centre, look no further than Ashtown Castle.

You’ll find this tower house in the grounds of the mighty Phoenix Park where it was discovered hidden inside the walls of a much bigger castle many years ago.

This medieval tower house is thought to date back to the 17th century but, like many castles in Ireland, the exact date of construction is unknown.

Visitors to Ashtown Castle can enjoy a ‘lively and entertaining exhibition on the history and the wildlife of the Phoenix Park’ along with a historical interpretation of the park from 3500 B.C.

5. Rathfarnham Castle

Photo by J.Hogan (Shutterstock)

I’ve always thought that Rathfarnam Castle looks a bit like a prison when seen from above. You’ll find this 16th-century fortified house, unsurprisingly enough, in Rathfarnam in South Dublin.

There was an earlier castle in place here but it was replaced when the lands were confiscated after the family that owned it were involved in the Second Desmond Rebellion.

It’s believed the present castle was constructed in and around 1583, although the exact date is unknown.

Over the years, the castle has been attacked on a number of occasions. In 1600, it was required to withstand a flurry of attacks by clans from Wicklow during what was known as ‘the Nine Years’ War’.

It came under siege again, not long after, during the 1641 Rebellion. The castle has passed through many hands over the years and it was actually set to be demolished in the 80s until the Irish State purchased it.

6. Luttrellstown Castle

Photo via Luttrellstown Castle Resort

There’s a lot of uncertainty around when our next castle, Luttrellstown, was first built. Unfortunately, many people over the years have found it impossible to seperate the current structure from the much earlier stronghold.

What we do know is that that this Irish castle is pretty damn old. There’s clear evidence that the estate was seized in 1436, when King Henry VI was manning the throne.

Over the years, this castle in Dublin has welcomed its fair share of celebrities. It hosted the wedding of David and Victoria Beckham in 1999 and everyone from Ronald Reagan to Paul Newman have spent the night here.

7. Monkstown Castle

Photo by Poogie (Shutterstock)

Monkstown Castle is another of the slightly off-the-beaten-path castles in Dublin. In medieval times, this castle was at the centre of a huge farm owned by the monks of St. Mary’s Abbey.

When the abbey was dissolved in 1540, Monkstown Castle was given to an Englishman from Cornwall named John Travers who was a Groom of the Chamber to the King of England.

During Cromwell’s time, the castle was granted to a General by the name of Edmund Ludlow. The castle was large and boasted several different buildings, many of which can no longer be seen.

Those that visit Monkstown Castle can check out the original gatehouse with its three-storey tower and overhead vault.

Castles Near Dublin

Photo left: Derick Hudson. Right: Panaspics (Shutterstock)

If you’re looking to escape the capital, there are loads of incredible castles near Dublin that are well worth visiting.

From Kilkenny and Trim Castle that welcome thousands of tourists per year to lesser-known castles steeped in folklore in Louth, you’ll find something to tickle every fancy in this guide .

What Dublin castles have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant Dublin castles from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best castles around Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the oldest Dublin castles?’ to ‘What are the most unique castles Dublin has to offer?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the most impressive castles in Dublin?

Dublin Castle, Malahide Castle and Drimnagh Castle are arguably three of the most impressive castles Dublin has to offer.

What is the best castle in Dublin?

This really depends how you define ‘best’. Dublin Castle is central, hugely impressive and the tour is excellent. Malahide is beautifully maintained and right by the sea.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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11 Must-See Castles In Dublin, Ireland

Categories Dublin , Where To Go

A great way to fully explore Dublin is through its many castles. With most of these stunning structures dating as far back as the 12th century, a visit to several castles in Dublin allows you to discover not just Ireland’s history but the evolution of its architecture as well.

Some of these Dublin castles have been in ruins for centuries some are even said to be haunted but still worth a visit as each castle has its own unique story. When visiting Dublin and you want to go castle hopping, make sure you visit the following Dublin castles.

Things you'll find in this article

1. Dublin Castle

2. howth castle, 3. malahide castle, 4. rathfarnham castle, 5. swords castle, 6. puck’s castle, county dublin, 7. drimnagh castle, 8. ashtown castle, 9. ardgillan castle, 10. bullock castle, 11. dalkey castle & heritage centre, 11 must-see castles in dublin ireland.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral

Christ Church

Kilmainham Gaol

Guinness Storehouse

Trinity College (mainly just Book of Kells)

Dublin Castle (and Chester Beatty Library)

We spent about 2 hours in the Guiness Storehouse, not including the free drink time.

We saw everything on your list except St Michan.

To be honest, we found that it wasn't so much a case of how long to spend at each attraction, but more how long you have to queue to get in or wait for the next tour to start.

I did a very detailed itinerary based on opening times and location and and it didn't go according to plan because of the waiting time.

Another thing to consider about going to Kilmainham Gaol is the transportation. If you take the city bus (as we did), you have to allow at least 30 minutes to cover time waiting for the bus, the bus ride itself and the walk from the bus stop to the gaol (about 2 blocks). I don't know about the travel time for the hop on/hop off bus, but it lets you off right in front of the gaol.

One of the guides that I used to help plan my trip was "Frommer's Dublin Day by Day" which suggested how much time to allow for different places. I found them to be pretty good estimates for an average (and generally, if I knew that I might be more interested than the average visitor, I allowed extra time and less interested/less time).

St Patrick's Cathedral : 1 hour

Christ Church Cathedral : 1 hour

Guinness Storehouse : 2 hours

Dublin Castle : 1 hour

Chester Beatty Library: 90 minutes

You might want to add time to either or both of the Cathedrals by attending an Evensong service. Both are excellent. I found the interior of St Patrick's to be more interesting than the one at Christ Church. However, the Treasury in the Crypt at Christ Church is quite good. Note that St Patrick's Cathedral opens at 9am which can give you an earlier start than with other places.

Be sure you really want to go to Guinness Storehouse. Opinions can be pretty split. Many love the attraction and wouldn't miss it for anything. I found it pretty touristy and wished I had saved my money for more pints in a pub. It really does take some time to get through it and you might need more than the indicated 2 hours for the "tour" (if the displays really interest you) and the pint in the Gravity Bar at the top.

You'll really want to think of Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library as two separate sites to see. While the Library is technically housed in Dublin Castle, it's not the portion that is of interest as far as the Dublin Castle tour. Perhaps you might want to go to Dublin Castle first and get your ticket for a tour. Depending on how long you have to wait, you could then visit the Library. Or if time is short perhaps pop over to the City Hall building next door and step into the newly restored rotunda (stunning and free). (I found the exhibition in the lower floor of City Hall on the history of dublin to be dull and a waste of €4.) The Dublin Castle tour is about 45 minutes.

I went to Chester Beatty Library on a Wednesday when they have a free tour on offer at 1pm. The tour, almost an hour, was very helpful. I then spent another hour going back through the Library. This visit was one of my two "must sees" of the trip, an unexpected highlight. They also have an E-guide available which I did not use. I intend to check it out when I return in September.

The Heritage Ireland website for Kilmainham Gaol indicates that the average saty is 90 minutes. I think longhorn74's suggested 2 hours is probably better though. I arrived first thing in the morning and was on the first tour, which began 30 minutes later. During the wait time I walked through the exhibits, which are quite good. I wish I had returned after the tour and spent some more time there. (My total time was about 90 minutes and this was my other "must see".)

I was unable to see the Book of Kells (closed) and didn't get to St Michan's, so I can't comment on them. However, you might be interested in taking the tour of Trinity College on offer by students. It's only 30 minutes and you can purchase it with a ticket to the Book of Kells/Long Room.

Depending on your plans and interests, you might want to check out these options to go along with some of the sites you listed:

- Marsh's Library is right next to St Patrick's Cathedral - an undiscovered gem - allow about 45 minutes - opens most days at 10am and worked well with a 9am visit to St Patrick's

- St Audoen's Church - I walked by but it was not open in January - it will be open in June and is about halfway between Christ Church Cathedral and St Michan's - it's definitely at least worth the view from outside.

- St Werburgh's - Also not open in January - quite boring on the outside, but I've been told that it has a stunning ornate interior and it should be open in June - near Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle

(I know you just asked for times...but I couldn't help myself)

Thank you for the info. I appreciate any and all suggestions. Perhaps I will put those other places on our list if we are just strolling around looking for things.

What a fab post!

It only lasts 30 minutes, the guy doing it gave lots of funny anecdotes and it only costs €10 - which includes entry to the Book of Kells which is €8 on its own.

This link has the tour times

http://www.tcd.ie/Library/heritage/tours.php

Just a quick unsolicited comment!

The building was converted to the bank in 1800 following the Act of Union and both the House of Commons and the House of Lords were supposed to be eliminated. That never happened with the House of Lords. You can step inside and see the barrel-vaulted ceiling, oak-paneled interior, a chandelier from the 1700's with over 1,000 pieces of crystal, and tapestries that are fantastic (including one from 1690 of William of Orange at the Battle of the Boyne). It's open M-F 10am-4pm (Th until 5pm). There are free 30 minute tours on Tuesdays only at 10:30am, 11:30am and 1:45 pm. I quite enjoyed the tour (there were just two of us there). Note that I have not been able to confirm these times online but were true when I visited in January.

While it's not a "must" see, it's a nice see, a quick see and a free see!

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Plan Your Visit

Discover over 800 years of history on a guided tour of Malahide Castle, meander down the winding pathways of our enchanted Fairy Trail, get up close and personal with rare species in our Butterfly House, discover the rare collection of plants and flowers in the Walled Garden, enjoy a browse in Avoca and picnic in the park, let the kids loose in the state-of-the-art playground, find some peace and quiet on a woodland walkway, and lots more…!

We recommend allowing a minimum of two hours in order to fully enjoy all that Malahide Castle and Gardens has to offer but with so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend a full or half day here. We look forward to welcoming you very soon.

Opening Times

Malahide Castle and Gardens is open daily to visitors from 9:30am to 5:30pm.

CHRISTMAS HOURS:

Christmas Eve – Closed for Garden Tours and Castle Tours. Retail shop open

Christmas Day – Closed

St Stephens Day – Closed

December 27 th – back to regular operational hours.

Open on New years day.

Malahide Castle First tour at 9.30am Last tour at 4.30pm in summer (April to October), 3.30pm in winter (November to March).

Fairy Trail and West Lawn Open from 9.30am. Last entry at 4.30pm in summer (April to October), 3.00pm in winter (November to March).

Butterfly House and Walled Garden Open from 9.30am Last entry at 4.30pm Summer time. 3PM winter ( November-March)

We recommend allowing a minimum of two hours for a visit to Malahide Castle and Gardens in order to fully enjoy all the site has to offer.

Also at Malahide Castle: Avoca Store, Cafe and Food Market Open from 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday Open from 9.30am to 6pm on weekends and bank holidays

Avoca Cafe Open 7 Days a Week Open from 9.30am to 5.30pm (coffee and cakes only from 4.30pm)

Malahide Outdoor Store Open from 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday Open from 10.30am to 5.30pm on Sunday

Getting Here

Visit our Location page for more information on how to find us.

Book Tickets

Tickets for the castle tour, gardens and Fairy Trail are available for purchase from our Visitor Centre. During the summer months, advance booking online is recommended to ensure you secure your preferred castle tour times.

Malahide Castle Guided Tour (including access to Gardens and Fairy Trail) Adult €14 | Child €6.50 | Family from €35 Interactive Fairy Trail booklets available for €2

Gardens and Fairy Trail only Adult €7.50 | Child €4 | Family from €20 Interactive Fairy Trail booklets available for €2

Fairy Trail Only (including booklet) Adult €7.50 | Child €5 | Family from €22

Concession rates for students and seniors are also available. Under 3’s go free. Groups are always welcome and group rates are available. For more information, please email [email protected]

Malahide Village

A picturesque seaside village, and a designated Heritage Town, Malahide village is hugely popular with Dubliners, day-trippers and overseas visitors.

The historical and modern collide in Malahide as award-winning contemporary bars, restaurants, cafes, boutiques and gift shops sits alongside traditional shop fronts on cobble-lock side streets.

Considered a gourmet capital of the East Coast, Malahide boasts an impressive range of restaurants offering the best of Irish and international cuisine. Lively pubs with live traditional music will take you well into the night and a wide range of leisure and sports activities will get you up in the morning.

Malahide’s stunning sandy beach offers a huge expanse of velvet strand at low tide and is a mecca for boating and water sports enthusiasts. Walk the sand dunes, take the coastal route to Portmarnock or simply enjoy the views.

Your tour of Malahide Castle will provide an insight into the influence the Talbot family and the castle itself has had on the development of Malahide village.

Learn more on the Enjoy Malahide website.

Malahide Demesne

Fingal County Council manage and maintain the 200 acres of lush, green parkland surrounding Malahide Castle, called the demesne.

A well-maintained and extensive network of paths makes exploring the demesne accessible for all. There’s plenty of outdoor activities on offer with a 9-hole golf course, 18-hole pitch and putt course and several tennis courts located on the grounds.

The historic Malahide Cricket Club is also based in the demesne. The complex includes two playing pitches, one of which serves as the International ground for the Irish national team, Cricket Ireland, with capacity for over 10,000 spectators.

The children’s playground on-site is legendary among our smallest visitors! With separate sections for toddlers and older children, no visit to Malahide Castle is complete without a pit stop here.

Beyond the castle itself, the demesne contains a number of other historical sites and treasures, including the ruins of Malahide Abbey and graveyard. Located just outside the Visitor Centre, parts of this structure stretch back to 1450. As you look at the bell turret and old holy water font, imagine the Talbot family worshipping here for hundreds of years.

Learn more on the Fingal County Council website.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you can’t find the answer to your question below, please do get in touch on Facebook or Twitter .

Q. What time do the castle and gardens open? A. 9.30am daily. We are closed on 24, 25 and 26 December.

Q. What time is the last tour of the castle? A. The last tour is at 4.30pm in summer (April to October) and 3.30pm in winter (November to March).

Q. What time do the gardens close? A. Last entry to the Fairy Trail and West Lawn is at 4.30pm in summer (April to October) and 3.00pm in winter (November to March). Last entry to the Butterfly House and Walled Garden is at 4.30pm all year round.

Q. How much time should we allow to see Malahide Castle and Gardens? A. We recommend allowing two hours to fully enjoy all the site has to offer. The castle tour takes approx. 45 minutes.

Q. Are dogs allowed? A. Dogs are not permitted in the visitor centre, castle or gardens. Dogs are allowed in the wider demesne and parkland but must be kept on a lead at all times unless you are in the dedicated ‘off leash’ areas. Guide dogs are permitted.

Q. Do you supply wheelchairs? A. No, we do not.

Q. Is there somewhere to eat in the castle? A. Renowned Irish retailer Avoca have a cafe and food hall in the Visitor Centre with a range of hot and cold, sweet and savoury options to eat in or take away.

Q. Is Malahide Castle and Gardens accessible for wheelchair users? A. Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible. There is a lift to the first floor of the castle but the second floor (where the bedrooms are located) is only accessible by stairs and so wheelchair users will be unable to visit this part of the building. The gardens are full accessible. We can only accomodate one wheelchair per castle tour due to capacity restrictions. There are two disabled toilets located in the Visitor Centre. If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us .

Q. Do you have an ATM/cash machine? A. There is an ATM located in the Avoca retail store.

Q. What constitutes an adult/student/senior ticket? A. An adult ticket is for anyone aged over 18 and under 65. Students may be asked for a student card or proof that they are in education. We happily accept international student cards. Senior tickets are for those aged 65 and over.

Q. How long does a castle tour take? Is it all standing? A. The tour of Malahide Castle takes approx. 45 minutes. There is seating in the waiting area but while on the tour, visitors will be moving around and walking from room to room and there will be no seating available.

Q. Do I have to book a tour or can I walk around the castle myself? A. If you’d like to see the interior of the castle, you can only do so on a guided tour.

Q. Are there guided tours of the gardens? A. You are free to walk around the gardens at your leisure. From time to time our gardening team will offer guided Walk and Talks of the gardens. These will be advertised in advance on our social media channels and on our Events webpage.

Q. Do I have to book my tickets in advance or can I pay on the day? A. While our Admissions Team will always do their best to accommodate you, we recommend booking castle tour tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot on the tour of your choice. There are limited tickets available for each tour and they can fill up quickly in the summer months. Garden tickets can be purchased on arrival.

Q. What language is the castle tour available in? A. Tours are usually conducted through English. Audio guides are available in Irish, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian and Mandarin. Tours can be booked in other languages for group visits on request.

Q. Is the castle tour suitable for children? A. Yes, of course! Our guides will make sure that the tour content is tailored for any younger visitors.

Q. Is there parking on-site? A. Yes, we have lots of free car and coach parking available and there are disabled parking spaces allocated in the main car park.

Q. Can I book a group online? A. Groups of 10+ can be booked by emailing [email protected]

Q. Is it free to visit? A. The demense and park are free to enter and walk around. However entry to the castle and gardens is ticketed and there is an entry fee. Concession rates are available for students, seniors and carers. Group rates are also available.

Q. Can I stay the night in the castle? A. The castle is a daytime attraction only and no overnight accommodation is available.

Q. Is there accommodation available nearby? A. There are a number of hotels in Malahide and the nearby coastal village of Portmarnock.

Q. I want to visit on my way from/to the airport. Can I store my luggage at Malahide Castle? A. Unfortunately we do not have any luggage storage facilities on-site and so you will need to make alternative arrangements to store your baggage for the duration of your visit.

Q. How can I buy tickets to the summer concerts at Malahide Castle? A. The outdoor summer concerts are organised by MCD Productions. Tickets go on sale in advance via Ticketmaster. All queries about the summer 2020 concerts should be sent directly to MCD .

Q. Can I bring a picnic? A. Absolutely. We have plenty of parkland where you can enjoy your own picnic or pick up some food to go from Avoca to eat outdoors.

Q. Is there a playground on-site? A. Yes! There is a fantastic kids playground tucked into the woodlands just outside the Visitor Centre, near the main car park.

Q. Can I camp or overnight on the grounds? A. No camping or overnight stays are permitted.

Q. I lost something on my visit. Do you have a lost property section? A. We do. If you message us on Facebook or Instagram and let us know what you lost, we’ll do our best to reunite you with your items.

Q. When do tickets go on sale for Santa at Malahide Castle? A. Tickets for our Christmas Experience go on sale in the autumn, usually end of September/start of October. Keep an eye on our social media channels and Latest News webpage – all the info will be available here once the event is live. Members are given priority advance booking for all events at Malahide Castle, including Santa. Learn more about membership .

Enjoy a gift of magic and adventure with our Annual Membership Pass

Offering cardholders unlimited access to Malahide Castle and Gardens (including the Butterfly House and Fairy Trail), Newbridge House and Farm and The Casino Model Railway Museum</strong, our new Annual Membership Pass makes light work of great days out for all the family!

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COMMENTS

Dublin Castle
How much does it cost to visit Dublin Castle? The Dublin Castle tickets cost €72 for people over 13 years. Children aged between 4 and 12 get a 7% discount and pay only €67 to enter Castle Dublin in Ireland.
Dublin Castle: History, Tours + 2024 Info
Dublin Castle is open every day from 09:45 until 17:45, and that includes bank holidays. Last entry is at 17:15, although we'd recommend getting there much earlier than that if you want to make the most of your visit! 3. Dublin Castle tours. There are guided Dublin Castle tours (€12) and self-guided (€8).
Discover
Welcome to Dublin Castle. Erected in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland's independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government. It is now a major ...
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Open: Monday - Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09.45am - 5.45pm (last admission 5.15pm) Tickets for Guided tours are available to purchase on the day of your visit at our ticket desk. Tours run from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily. Online self guided tickets are available to book online from 14 days in advance. A limited number of self guided tickets are ...
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle. Dublin Castle located on Castle Street, in Dublin City Centre. The Castle houses the magnificent State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, a 13th century Tower and some of its Medieval structures. Dublin Castle is the heart of historic Dublin. It is one of the most important buildings in Irish history.
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Dublin Castle was the seat of the United Kingdom Government's administration in Ireland until 1922 and is now a major Irish government complex. A view inside the state apartments of Dublin Castle. While under UK rule, the castle was the residential and ceremonial quarters for the Viceroys (deputies of the British Monarch) and the Viceregal ...
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Nearby sites to visit . Dublin Castle; St Audoen's Church and Visitor Centre. A medieval chapel at the centre of city life . Approx. 0.4 km from Dublin Castle. St. Mary's Abbey - Chapter House - Cistercian Monastery. The ruins of one of the largest and most important monasteries in medieval Ireland. Approx. 0.5 km from Dublin Castle. St ...
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Constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland's independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government. ... Average Length of Visit: Guided Tour 1 hour ...
DUBLIN CASTLE: History, facts & visit info
Since 1938, each Irish president has been inaugurated in the castle's St Patrick's Hall. Famous visitors to Dublin Castle throughout its history include John F Kennedy, Charles de Gaulle, and Nelson Mandela. Dublin Castle, in 2016, became the first place where the Irish flag was allowed to fly at night. Find out more with our article on ...
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History of Dublin Castle. The origins of the Dublin Castle date back to the 9th Century, where it began as a Viking fortress, before becoming an Anglo-Norman fort in the 12th Century—making the site over 1000 years old, pre-dating the 800-year-old castle building. Spanning across 11 acres (44,000 sq. ft.), the castle grounds were erected as a defence, on the most raised part of the city to ...
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The castle has since served as the Royal Mint and as a police headquarters. Today, the medieval castle grounds attract visitors and function as a venue for Irish government functions and ceremonies. Learn more. Mon-Fri: 10am-4:45pm, Sat & Sun: 2pm-4:45pm. Dame Street, Dublin, Dublin, D02.
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Originally built in the 13th century, the Anglo-Norman castle burned down in 1684. Sir William Robinson then developed plans for a rebuild. Without major defensive installations and with an eye on providing the government with a fine contemporary home. Thus, present-day Dublin Castle was born. Visitors will usually only notice the Record Tower ...
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle. Dublin Castle (Irish: Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath) off Dame Street, Dublin, Ireland, is a major Irish governmental complex, formerly the fortified seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922. Most of the complex dates from the 18th century, though a castle has stood on the site since the days of King John, the first Lord of Ireland.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle, seen from the park to the south, outside the walls. Dublin Castle ... State banquets, including that for the historic visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 2011, and Government policy launches. It also acts as the central base for Ireland's hosting of the European Presidency, approximately every 10 years. Two dedicated conference ...
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Discover the magic of Dublin with our hop-on hop-off bus tour! With a 24,48, or 72-hour ticket, you can explore the city's top sights, including St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and St. Stephen's Green at your own pace. Starting at Upper O'Connell Street, the Red Line has 25 stops packed full of Irish fun.
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Drimnagh Castle is one of the lesser-known castles in Dublin. Out of the many castles in Ireland, Drimnagh is the only one with an intact moat. The story of Drimnagh Castle began in 1215 when the land that the castle is plonked upon was given to a Norman knight by the name of Hugo de Bernivale. Very fancy altogether.
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Dublin Castle is also one of the best things to do in Dublin. Opening Hours. Daily from 9:45 AM to 5:15 PM. Admission Fee. Adult €12 Senior (60+) €10 Student (valid student ID required) €10 Child (12-17) €6 Family (max. 2 adults & 5 children) €30. Contact Information. Address: Dublin Castle, Dame St, Dublin. Phone: +353 1 6458813 ...
How long does a self guided tour of Dublin Castle...
If you want an in depth and informative tour I would suggest you take the guided tour (time one hour and ten minutes) self guided about 3o minutes. Either way advanced booking required. The castle is open from 9.45 to 5.15 Mon-Sun. If you have time also visit the Chester Beatty Library which is in the castle grounds, which has a great ...
How much time?
There are free 30 minute tours on Tuesdays only at 10:30am, 11:30am and 1:45 pm. I quite enjoyed the tour (there were just two of us there). Note that I have not been able to confirm these times online but were true when I visited in January. While it's not a "must" see, it's a nice see, a quick see and a free see!
Can you go inside the Dublin Castle?
1.2K shares. You can go inside Dublin castle and It is open Daily 7 days a week including bank holidays from 9:45am to 5:45pm. The last admission is at 5:15pm. You can buy tickets for a self guided tour online.
How to Visit Kilkenny Castle
The castle is open from 9:15 AM to 5:30 PM from April to September. From October to March, the opening hours are 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Entrance Fee. For adults, Kilkenny Castle admission is €8 for a self-guided tour and €12 for a guided tour.
Plan Your Visit
Malahide Castle. First tour at 9.30am. Last tour at 4.30pm in summer (April to October), 3.30pm in winter (November to March). Fairy Trail and West Lawn. Open from 9.30am. Last entry at 4.30pm in summer (April to October), 3.00pm in winter (November to March). Butterfly House and Walled Garden.

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