Dublin Castle, Dublin - castle in dublin
1 / 10

Dublin Castle Dublin

4.3
·36k reviews·, Ireland

Explore centuries of Irish history at Dublin Castle, from Norman fortress to administrative heart, featuring grand State Apartments and the world-clas...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Dublin Castle, Dublin - castle in dublin

Dublin Castle Dublin

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore centuries of Irish history at Dublin Castle, from Norman fortress to administrative heart, featuring grand State Apartments and the world-class Chester Beatty Library.

4.3
(36k reviews)

"A must-visit for understanding Dublin's layered history, from medieval roots to regal splendor."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tours In Person

Guided tours for State Apartments often require booking at the front desk on the day of your visit .

🚶‍♀️ City Centre Location

Easily accessible on foot, perfect for combining with other Dublin attractions .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

State Apartments

State Apartments

State Apartments

Explore opulent rooms showcasing centuries of Irish history and governance. A must-see for history buffs!

Medieval Undercroft

Medieval Undercroft

Undercroft

Descend into the atmospheric remains of the original Norman castle, a glimpse into Dublin's ancient past.

Chester Beatty Library

Chester Beatty Library

Chester Beatty Library

Discover a world-class collection of manuscripts, prints, and art from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.

Gardens

Gardens

Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the castle gardens, a lovely spot for a picnic or a moment of reflection.

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Dublin Castle Tour in Advance

While some areas of Dublin Castle are self-guided, booking a guided tour for the State Apartments is highly recommended for a deeper understanding. Availability can be limited, so check the official website for tour times and consider booking in person on the day of your visit if online options aren't clear.Reddit

Combine Your Castle Visit

Dublin Castle is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other city center attractions. For a more traditional castle experience, consider a day trip to Malahide Castle, accessible via the DART train.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

6 things to do in Dublin, Ireland, with prices. #dublin #ireland #thingstodoindublin #guinness #trinitycollege #bookofkells #stpatrickscathedral #dublincastle #jeaniejohnstontallship #travel
@aventuretravels1
58.5K likes • 1.2M views

🎟️ Book Tours In Person

Guided tours for State Apartments often require booking at the front desk on the day of your visit.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ City Centre Location

Easily accessible on foot, perfect for combining with other Dublin attractions.Reddit

Our wonderful supporters The Sea of Change choir entertaining the Emergency Services Workers at Dublin Castle yesterday. Or were they entertaining us 🤣😅🎤🕺#fyp#foryouroage
@aoibheannspinktie1
56.6K likes • 486.5K views
Top places around Dublin 💚🇮🇪☘️ 🎥Credits @Éadaoin #fyp #ireland_travellers #topthingstodoindublin #thingstodoindublin #dublin
@ireland_travellers
28.2K likes • 587.2K views

🧺 Picnic in the Gardens

Enjoy a scenic picnic in the castle grounds if the weather permits.Reddit

🏛️ Two Castles in One Day

Combine Dublin Castle with Malahide Castle via DART for a full castle experience.Reddit

reddit.com

Guided tour at Dublin Castle

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tours In Person

Guided tours for State Apartments often require booking at the front desk on the day of your visit.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ City Centre Location

Easily accessible on foot, perfect for combining with other Dublin attractions.Reddit

🧺 Picnic in the Gardens

Enjoy a scenic picnic in the castle grounds if the weather permits.Reddit

🏛️ Two Castles in One Day

Combine Dublin Castle with Malahide Castle via DART for a full castle experience.Reddit

🖼️ Free Library Access

The Chester Beatty Library within the castle grounds is free to enter and explore.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(36k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Dublin Castle for its rich history, impressive State Apartments, and the fascinating Chester Beatty Library. Many appreciate its central location and the opportunity to explore both medieval and Georgian architecture. Some find the guided tour booking process a bit confusing, and a few mention that the self-guided portions could be more extensive.

"Lovely visit. Did the self guided State Apartments tour. Not bad for €8. Quick tour, 30-45 minutes. Lovely interior. Audio guide provided a nice level of history without being boring. The placards provided detailed information. Went early so wasn't too crowded."

C. K.

"Really beautiful and ornate rooms to check out with a lush garden behind. Don't let the name trip you up- the original burned down long ago. It's not your traditional castle but still a very cool spot to check out."

Jessica Ellem

"A very interesting place to visit. From there the country was ruled by the English viceroys before independence.There were also great feasts of the English nobility. After that, the place is used for the inauguration of presidents (to date there have been only nine), and for reception of foreign authorities. The walls of the various rooms and halls are full of paintings. Particularly impressive is the hall of St. Patrick, where important official ceremonies are still held today, such as the inauguration of the presidents."

Eduardo Gasparini

What People Like

Rich historical significance
Impressive State Apartments
Chester Beatty Library

What People Dislike

Confusing tour booking
Limited self-guided areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dublin Castle is located in the heart of Dublin city center. You can easily reach it by walking from many central hotels, or by taking public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from the St. Stephen's Green and Jervis Luas tram stops. If you're coming from further afield, the DART train will bring you to Connolly or Tara Street stations, both within walking distance.TikTok

Yes, Dublin Castle is very well-served by public transport. Buses frequently stop on Dame Street and Lord Edward Street, which are adjacent to the castle. The nearest Luas (tram) stops are Jervis and St. Stephen's Green. The DART train stations are also a manageable walk away.TikTok

Driving to Dublin Castle is possible, but parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. There are several multi-story car parks within a short walking distance, such as Christchurch Car Park or Jervis Shopping Centre Car Park. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you are staying in the city center.TikTok

Absolutely! Dublin Castle is ideally situated for exploring. It's a short walk to Trinity College, Christ Church Cathedral, and Temple Bar. Many visitors combine a visit to Dublin Castle with these other key Dublin landmarks.TikTokReddit

From Dublin Airport, you can take an airport bus service (like Aircoach or Dublin Express) which will drop you off at various points in the city center, a short walk from the castle. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for Dublin Castle vary depending on the areas you wish to visit. General admission to the grounds and the Chester Beatty Library is often free. For access to the State Apartments and Medieval Undercroft, there is a fee. It's best to check the official Dublin Castle website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.TikTok

While you can often purchase tickets for self-guided tours on the day, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. For guided tours of the State Apartments, it's often advised to book in person at the castle on the day of your visit, as online booking can be unclear or unavailable.Reddit

A standard ticket typically grants access to the State Apartments and the Medieval Undercroft. The grounds and the impressive Chester Beatty Library are usually accessible without a ticket.TikTok

Yes, guided tours are available for the State Apartments, offering in-depth historical context. These tours often need to be booked in person at the castle on the day of your visit, as there isn't always a clear online booking system for them.Reddit

Dublin Castle generally opens daily, but hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's always a good idea to check the official Dublin Castle website for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Dublin Castle offers a rich historical experience. You can explore the magnificent State Apartments, delve into the Medieval Undercroft, visit the impressive Chester Beatty Library with its global art and manuscripts, and wander through the castle gardens. There are also museums and cafes on-site.TikTok

To fully appreciate Dublin Castle, including the State Apartments, Undercroft, and Chester Beatty Library, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you're taking a guided tour and want to relax in the gardens or have a coffee, you could easily spend half a day.TikTok

Yes, Dublin Castle can be engaging for children, especially the State Apartments with their grandeur and the Medieval Undercroft. The Chester Beatty Library also has fascinating exhibits that can capture their attention. Consider a self-guided tour to allow for a more flexible pace.TikTok

Photography is generally permitted in most areas of Dublin Castle for personal use, but there may be restrictions in certain exhibitions or the Chester Beatty Library. It's always best to look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure.TikTok

Yes, Dublin Castle has cafes on-site where you can grab a coffee, snack, or light meal. These are convenient options for a break during your visit.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The State Apartments offer stunning interiors for photography. The Medieval Undercroft provides a dramatic, atmospheric backdrop. Don't forget the picturesque gardens and the impressive facade of the castle itself. The Chester Beatty Library also has unique visual elements.TikTok

Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods or in specific exhibition areas. It's advisable to check with castle staff upon arrival or look for posted guidelines regarding photography equipment.TikTok

Morning light can be lovely for exterior shots of the castle. For interior photos, the lighting conditions will vary, but generally, well-lit areas will yield the best results. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have more freedom to capture your shots.TikTok

The grand staircase in the State Apartments, the intricate details of the Medieval Undercroft, and the vibrant displays in the Chester Beatty Library are all excellent photo opportunities. The castle courtyard also offers a classic perspective.TikTok

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is useful for capturing both wide interior shots and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions inside. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dublin Castle offers a blend of history and intrigue that can appeal to families. The Medieval Undercroft is particularly exciting for children, offering a glimpse into a more ancient past. The State Apartments can spark imagination with their grandeur, and the Chester Beatty Library provides visually engaging exhibits that can hold younger attention spans.TikTok

Consider a self-guided tour to allow for a more relaxed pace, letting kids explore without feeling rushed. The castle grounds also offer space to move around. Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and the on-site cafes provide convenient refreshment stops. The accessibility of Dublin Castle within the city center makes it an easy addition to a family's itinerary.TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Dublin Castle offers excellent value. The Chester Beatty Library within the castle grounds is free to enter, providing access to world-class art and historical artifacts.TikTok While there's a fee for the State Apartments and Medieval Undercroft, it's generally considered reasonable for the historical significance and experience offered. Many visitors find that exploring the grounds and the library alone provides a fulfilling experience.TikTok

To save further, consider bringing your own picnic to enjoy in the castle gardens, as suggested by Reddit users.Reddit Utilizing public transport to reach the castle also helps keep costs down compared to taxis or private tours. Visiting during off-peak hours might also mean fewer crowds, enhancing your experience without extra cost.TikTok

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

Dublin Castle is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. The State Apartments offer a direct connection to Ireland's administrative past, showcasing the power and opulence of centuries of governance. The Medieval Undercroft provides a rare opportunity to stand within the original Norman fortifications, a tangible link to Dublin's earliest days.TikTok

Beyond the castle's architecture, the Chester Beatty Library presents a global perspective on history through its vast collection of manuscripts and art. For those interested in Irish history, the castle's role as a seat of power for so long makes it an essential visit. Guided tours are highly recommended to gain deeper insights into the historical narratives and significance of the various rooms and artifacts.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Dublin Castle's History

Dublin Castle's story began in 1204 when King John of England ordered its construction as a major defensive seat. Originally a Norman fortress, it has evolved significantly over the centuries, serving as a military stronghold, a royal residence, and the administrative center of English and British rule in Ireland. The castle complex you see today is a blend of medieval, Tudor, Stuart, and Georgian architecture, reflecting its long and varied past.TikTok

The castle's significance extends beyond its architecture. It was the seat of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and the administrative hub for centuries. The State Apartments, which are a major draw for visitors, were largely rebuilt in the 18th century and showcase the grandeur associated with the viceregal court. Beneath the modern structures lie the remnants of the original medieval castle, offering a tangible connection to its earliest days.TikTok

Today, Dublin Castle is a vibrant hub for state functions, presidential inaugurations, and important cultural events. It also houses the Chester Beatty Library, a world-renowned museum with an extraordinary collection of manuscripts, prints, and art from around the globe. This juxtaposition of historical power and cultural richness makes Dublin Castle a compelling destination for any visitor to Ireland.TikTok

Exploring the Chester Beatty Library

The Chester Beatty Library, located within the grounds of Dublin Castle, is a true hidden gem and a must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, and culture. Founded by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, an American-born mining magnate and philanthropist, the library houses an astonishing collection of manuscripts, rare books, prints, and decorative arts from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.TikTok

Visitors can marvel at illuminated Qurans, ancient papyri, exquisite Japanese woodblock prints, and intricate Islamic calligraphy. The library's collection is incredibly diverse, offering a journey through different civilizations and artistic traditions. The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, providing context and insight into the cultural significance of each piece. It's a place where you can spend hours lost in the beauty and history of global artistry.TikTok

What makes the Chester Beatty Library even more special is that admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all. The library is also known for its tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It's a testament to the power of collecting and preserving human creativity across time and continents.TikTok

Dublin Castle vs. Malahide Castle

When considering castles in the Dublin area, Dublin Castle and Malahide Castle often come up. Dublin Castle, situated right in the city center, offers a deep dive into Ireland's administrative and political history. Its architecture is a mix of styles reflecting centuries of development, and it houses important state rooms and the renowned Chester Beatty Library. It's ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the historical heart of Dublin and understand its governance.Reddit

Malahide Castle, located about 25 kilometers north of Dublin, presents a more classic, romanticized vision of a castle. It's a medieval fortress with a picturesque setting and extensive grounds. Malahide is often favored by those seeking a more traditional castle experience, with stories of ghosts and a more fairytale-like atmosphere. It's easily accessible by the DART train, making it a popular day trip from the city.Reddit

Many visitors find that they can comfortably visit both castles within a few days, or even on the same day if they plan efficiently. Dublin Castle is perfect for a morning exploration of the city's core, while Malahide Castle can be an afternoon excursion. The choice often depends on whether you prioritize historical significance and central location (Dublin Castle) or a more traditional, picturesque castle setting (Malahide Castle).Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2