Dublin Castle
The Basics
Guided Dublin Castle tours take visitors through the grounds, sharing the history and ever-changing purpose of each building, including the Record Tower, Chester Beatty Library, and more. Other highlights include the entertaining halls of the State Apartments, the State Bedrooms, St. Patrick’s Hall, the State Drawing Room, the Chapel Royal, the Medieval Undercroft, and the Throne Room. Hop-on hop-off buses, bike tours, and combo Book of Kells experiences are also great ways to visit Dublin Castle.
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Things to Know Before You Go
Dublin Castle is open to the public unless a special event is taking place; be sure to check the castle’s schedule ahead of time.
Plan to spend about two hours at the castle learning about Irish history and exploring the highlights.
City Hall and Trinity College are about a five-minute walk from Dublin Castle and both are well worth a visit.
Travel with a tour guide to learn more about the castle and grounds, or visit independently.
Dublin Castle is a stop on most city hop-on hop-off tours.
Dublin Castle is mostly accessible for wheelchair users; only the Viking Excavation and parts of the Chapel Royal are inaccessible.
How to Get There
Dublin Castle is located in central Dublin on Dame Street. The castle is accessed easily on foot, by taxi, or via public transportation. There is no on-site parking at Dublin Castle.
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When to Get There
The castle is typically open from 9:45am to 4:45pm, with the exception of holidays and special events. Expect some crowds and lines in summer. Otherwise, this is a great spot to visit year-round.
Other Irish Castles
Ireland is a country of castles, plenty of which you can visit from Dublin and beyond. Don't miss Blarney Castle, site of the famed Blarney Stone which is said to grant those who kiss it the gift of the gab. Then there's the regal Cahir Castle in Tipperary; Kilkenny Castle with it ornamental gardens; and Trim Castle, which you might have seen in Braveheart.
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