National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History Dublin
Explore Ireland's rich artistic heritage through stunning fashion, intricate silver, and compelling military history at Collins Barracks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History Dublin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Ireland's rich artistic heritage through stunning fashion, intricate silver, and compelling military history at Collins Barracks.
"A must-visit for free, world-class exhibits on Irish decorative arts and history!"
✅ Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class exhibits without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly Dublin attraction!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Collins Barracks is a large former military site, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Irish Haute Couture
Collins Barracks
Marvel at stunning Irish fashion through the ages, from historical gowns to contemporary designs.

Silver Collections
Collins Barracks
Discover exquisite Irish silver, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.

Military History
Collins Barracks
Explore compelling exhibitions detailing Ireland's rich and complex military past.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Collins Barracks: A Sprawling Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class exhibits without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly Dublin attraction!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Collins Barracks is a large former military site, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
One day left in Dublin
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The Decorative Arts & History collections are vast. Plan for at least 2-3 hours.
📍 Collins Barracks Location
This museum is located at Collins Barracks, Benburb St, Dublin 7. It's a separate site from other National Museum branches.
9 days in Ireland - Heritage Card, Free/Cheap Things to Do (Co. Louth & Dublin)
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class exhibits without an entry fee. A fantastic budget-friendly Dublin attraction!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Collins Barracks is a large former military site, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The Decorative Arts & History collections are vast. Plan for at least 2-3 hours.
📍 Collins Barracks Location
This museum is located at Collins Barracks, Benburb St, Dublin 7. It's a separate site from other National Museum branches.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History for its impressive and diverse collections, especially the stunning Irish haute couture and silver exhibits. The free admission is a major highlight, making it an excellent value. Some find the sheer size of Collins Barracks a bit overwhelming, and occasionally wish for more interactive elements.
"Amazing museum, tons of history and historical artifacts. The place is ginormous, but it's set up extremely well. About half of the barracks are dedicated to the museum - not quite sure what's in the rest. We spent about two hours wandering around and soaking up the exhibits. Definitely worth a detour - it's free entry, and there's something for everyone to enjoy."
Heather Steinmiller
"A large museum with free entry, split into two main sections — one focused on art history and the other on military history.
Personally, I preferred the military section, although I expected to see more about internal conflicts and similar topics. Another hall which is quite nice is the one regarding the coins / banknotes history of the country.
That said, I was pleasantly surprised by the impressive exhibition hall filled with tanks and weaponry."
Martin C
"My family of 5 came on a Sunday. They’re only open 1-5 on Sunday.
We spend about 2 hours walking through all the exhibits. They go through all the ages of Ireland and ends with a military history of the country.
They have 2 planes, tanks and many guns on display showcasing Ireland’s history in the wars and their own conflicts.
This being free, it was a wonderful time and worth spending a few hours learning about."
Billy Pyne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7. You can reach it via public transport, including several bus routes that stop nearby. The Luas (tram) Red Line also has a stop at Collins Barracks.
Limited parking may be available, but it's often recommended to use public transport due to the museum's central location and potential for congestion. Check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date parking information.
Yes, Collins Barracks is generally accessible. The museum has made efforts to accommodate visitors with disabilities. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details.
Several Dublin Bus routes serve the Collins Barracks area. Popular routes include the 13, 40, and 69. It's best to check the Dublin Bus website or app for the most current route information.
Collins Barracks is a moderate walk from the city center, approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Taking the Luas or a bus is a quicker option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks is free! This is a significant draw for many visitors.
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is usually closed on Mondays and public holidays. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
Since entry is free, advance booking is not required. You can simply walk in during opening hours.
While the main collections are free, occasionally special temporary exhibitions might have a separate charge or require pre-booking. It's always a good idea to check the museum's website for any specific event information.
Last entry is typically 30 minutes before closing time. It's best to arrive well before closing to have sufficient time to explore the exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Irish haute couture collection, the extensive silver collections, and the exhibitions on Irish military history. Don't miss the fascinating displays of furniture and ceramics.
To fully appreciate the diverse collections, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you're a history or art enthusiast, you could easily spend half a day exploring.
Yes, there is usually a cafe on-site where you can purchase refreshments and light snacks. It's a good place to take a break during your visit.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Check for specific signage in exhibition areas.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and items related to the museum's collections.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Collins Barracks offers various dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes. You can find places within walking distance or a short bus/Luas ride away in the city center.
The museum cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and hot beverages. It's convenient for a quick bite while visiting.
Generally, eating and drinking are restricted to designated cafe areas to preserve the exhibits. It's best to consume your own food outside the museum or in the cafe.
Most cafes and restaurants in Dublin, including those near the museum, usually offer vegetarian and often vegan options. It's worth checking menus or asking staff.
Exploring the Smithfield or Stoneybatter areas nearby can lead you to some excellent traditional Irish pubs that serve hearty meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand architecture of Collins Barracks itself offers great photo opportunities. Within the exhibits, the intricate details of the silver and the textures of the historical garments are very photogenic.
Photography for personal use is usually allowed, but always look for signs indicating restrictions. Flash photography is typically not permitted as it can damage delicate items.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited inside and around museum properties for safety and preservation reasons.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider architectural shots and detailed artifact photos. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions.
The Irish haute couture collection offers vibrant colors and textures, while the military artifacts provide a sense of history and grandeur. The silver collections showcase intricate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the military history exhibits, which often have visually engaging displays of armor and weaponry that can spark interest. The haute couture section, with its elaborate gowns, can also be a hit for its visual splendor. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover, and pack snacks or plan a stop at the on-site cafe to keep energy levels up.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free attractions in Dublin, like the other National Museum branches or St. Stephen's Green. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park before or after your visit, or utilize the museum's cafe for an affordable bite. The Collins Barracks location is easily accessible by public transport, saving on taxi fares.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Collins Barracks: A Historical Gem
Inside, the museum is divided into several thematic areas. The Irish haute couture collection is a standout, showcasing the evolution of fashion in Ireland with stunning garments from different eras. Equally impressive are the Irish silver collections, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and the importance of silver in Irish history and social life. For those interested in military history, the dedicated exhibitions provide a deep dive into Ireland's involvement in various conflicts and its military heritage.
Beyond these core collections, the museum also features displays on Irish furniture, ceramics, and weaponry, offering a comprehensive look at the decorative arts and history of the nation. The free admission makes it an accessible and highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Dublin, providing hours of engaging exploration for history buffs, fashion enthusiasts, and art lovers alike.
Unveiling Ireland's Artistic Heritage: Decorative Arts
The silver collections are another major draw, presenting some of the finest examples of Irish silversmithing. These pieces, ranging from elaborate ceremonial objects to everyday tableware, highlight the skill of Irish artisans and the historical significance of silver in Irish society, often reflecting periods of prosperity and artistic innovation. The detailed craftsmanship and historical context provided make these exhibits a fascinating study in applied art.
Complementing these are the extensive displays of Irish furniture and ceramics, which further illustrate the country's rich artistic heritage. From Georgian elegance to more contemporary designs, these collections offer insights into domestic life, interior design, and the evolution of craft traditions in Ireland. Together, these decorative arts provide a vibrant and tangible connection to the nation's past.
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