Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
Discover Francis Bacon's reconstructed studio and a rich collection of Irish & European art in a historic Dublin setting. Free admission!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Francis Bacon's reconstructed studio and a rich collection of Irish & European art in a historic Dublin setting. Free admission!
"The Francis Bacon studio is an intense, unforgettable experience unlike any other art gallery."
Free Admission 🌍
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! Most of the Hugh Lane Gallery is free to enter.
Don't Miss Bacon's Studio 💀
The reconstructed Francis Bacon studio is a must-see, offering an intense glimpse into his process.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Francis Bacon Studio
Reconstructed Studio
Step into the raw, unvarnished world of Francis Bacon's creative chaos. A truly unique art experience.

Irish & European Art
Main Galleries
Discover masterpieces from Irish artists and significant European works, showcasing a rich artistic heritage.

Sean Scully Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Space
Explore thought-provoking contemporary art, often featuring acclaimed artists like Sean Scully.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Art
Francis Bacon's Studio Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission 🌍
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! Most of the Hugh Lane Gallery is free to enter.
Don't Miss Bacon's Studio 💀
The reconstructed Francis Bacon studio is a must-see, offering an intense glimpse into his process.
National gallery or Hugh Lane gallery
Combine with Nearby Sites 🗺️
Pair your visit with 14 Henrietta Street or lunch on Capel Street for a fuller Dublin experience.
Check for Special Exhibits 🎨
The gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions; check their website for current shows.
Huge Lane, a fascinating character and founder of his eponymous gallery. Story in comments
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission 🌍
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! Most of the Hugh Lane Gallery is free to enter.
Don't Miss Bacon's Studio 💀
The reconstructed Francis Bacon studio is a must-see, offering an intense glimpse into his process.
Combine with Nearby Sites 🗺️
Pair your visit with 14 Henrietta Street or lunch on Capel Street for a fuller Dublin experience.
Check for Special Exhibits 🎨
The gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions; check their website for current shows.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Hugh Lane Gallery for its free admission and the unique, immersive experience of the Francis Bacon studio. The collection of Irish art is also highly regarded, offering a comprehensive look at the nation's artistic heritage. Some visitors note that the studio can be intense, and while generally well-managed, occasional crowding can occur during peak times.
"Absolutely stunning! Such a wonderful gem to discover on our trip to Dublin in March.
Right across from the Garden of Remembrance at the North end of Parnell square. The building itself is a work of art, and the pieces within just as breathtaking. The frames were artworks in their own right, and the paintings were a joy to see. All the staff were so helpful, and great to have a bit of a giggle with 😁
Finished off with a visit to the gift shop and relaxed with an amazing mocha at the cafe then headed off for the rest of the day from the bus stop right outside."
Angela Ashton
"Quite nice museum, visitable in less than a day, the highlight is obviusly Francis Bacon Studio which is AMAZING. Being "addicted" to his paintings this museum was a must, seing also unfinish paintings give us the posdibility to see hist painting process in detail."
Roby Andreutti
"Located in the center of the city, this free museum hosts the Francis Bacon papers, items from his studio in London. Worth visiting the small permanent exhibition together with the temporary collection. The coffeeshop is fine but noisy. Outdoor seating is available."
Andrea Pető
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hugh Lane Gallery is located on Parnell Square North. You can easily reach it by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from O'Connell Street, approximately 10-15 minutes.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the gallery, there are several public car parks in the vicinity of Parnell Square. Street parking can be limited and metered.
Yes, the gallery is very accessible by public transport. Numerous Dublin Bus routes serve the Parnell Square area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.
Absolutely! It's a straightforward walk from the heart of Dublin. Head north from O'Connell Street, and you'll find Parnell Square and the gallery within a short stroll.
From Temple Bar, it's a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a bus heading north towards Parnell Square, which is very quick.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to The Hugh Lane Gallery is free! This makes it a fantastic option for budget travelers and art lovers alike. Special exhibitions may have a separate charge.
The gallery is typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required as it's free. However, for specific popular exhibitions or events, it's advisable to check the gallery's website for any booking recommendations or requirements.
The entire gallery is generally free to enter, so every day is a 'free day'! This is a major perk highlighted by many visitors.
Yes, the Francis Bacon studio is part of the free general admission. However, due to its popularity, there might be a queue or a specific viewing protocol in place during busy periods.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The reconstructed Francis Bacon studio is a standout, offering an unparalleled look into the artist's life. The gallery also boasts impressive collections of Irish and European art, including works by Jack B. Yeats and Mainie Jellett.
To truly appreciate the collections, especially the Francis Bacon studio and the main galleries, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're an art enthusiast, you could easily spend longer.
Yes, the gallery can be engaging for children, particularly the Francis Bacon studio which is quite unique. They also have a beautiful stained-glass window by Harry Clarke. Consider checking for any family-friendly events or activities they might offer.
The gallery often offers guided tours, which can provide deeper insights into the collections and the history of the building. Check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for availability and times.
Francis Bacon's studio was meticulously recreated and moved to the gallery. It preserves the artist's working environment, including his materials, paintings, and personal effects, offering a raw and intimate experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Hugh Lane Gallery has a cafe on-site, offering light refreshments, coffee, and snacks. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
Parnell Square and the surrounding areas offer a variety of dining options. Capel Street, a short walk away, is known for its diverse and affordable eateries, from traditional pubs to international cuisine.
You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially along Capel Street. Many cafes and bistros in the city center also cater to these dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the gallery, but without flash. However, for specific exhibitions or sensitive artworks, photography may be restricted. Always look for signage.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside the gallery to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors.
The Francis Bacon studio, with its unique atmosphere, is a popular spot. The architecture of the building itself and the stained-glass window by Harry Clarke also make for great photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for any family-specific workshops or activities the gallery might offer, as these can make the art more interactive and fun for younger visitors. The free admission is a huge plus for families looking to enjoy culture without a hefty price tag. Consider a shorter visit focusing on a few key pieces to keep children engaged.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Parnell Square and explore nearby free attractions or enjoy affordable eats on Capel Street. It's an excellent way to soak in Dublin's culture and art scene without straining your wallet.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore the temporary exhibitions, which often feature significant national and international artists. The combination of a unique artist's studio, a robust collection of Irish works, and rotating modern exhibits makes The Hugh Lane a deeply rewarding experience for anyone passionate about art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Francis Bacon Studio: An Unfiltered Glimpse
Walking through the studio, you can almost feel the energy and intensity that Bacon poured into his paintings. The sheer volume of objects, the splatters of paint, and the general disarray speak volumes about his working methods. It’s a stark contrast to the pristine galleries often associated with art. This immersive experience is a highlight for many, offering a perspective on art creation that is rarely seen.
It's important to note that while the studio is a major draw, it can also be a point of reflection on the darker themes often present in Bacon's work. The gallery has done an exceptional job of preserving this space, making it a truly unforgettable part of any visit to the Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane.
Exploring Irish Art at The Hugh Lane
The gallery actively collects and exhibits contemporary Irish artists, ensuring that the collection remains dynamic and relevant. This commitment to showcasing both historical and modern Irish talent makes The Hugh Lane a crucial destination for understanding the country's cultural identity through its art. The diverse styles and subjects offer a comprehensive overview, from traditional portraiture to bold, abstract expressions.
Visitors often praise the gallery for its well-curated displays of Irish art, which are presented in a way that is both informative and accessible. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover artists you might not be familiar with and to gain a deeper appreciation for the depth and breadth of artistic expression in Ireland.
A Historical Setting: Parnell Square
Being located on Parnell Square means the gallery is easily accessible and situated within a vibrant cultural hub. It's close to other attractions like the Gate Theatre and the Dublin Writers Museum, making it easy to plan a day of cultural exploration in the area. The square's open spaces and surrounding architecture offer pleasant views and a sense of historical grandeur.
This prime location not only makes the gallery convenient to reach but also immerses visitors in the historical charm of Dublin. The combination of the elegant Georgian architecture and the world-class art collections creates a truly memorable and enriching visit.
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