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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 government complex and a key tourist attraction. We hope you enjoy your visit.
Open Daily
We’re open seven days a week from 9:45 to 17:45 (last admission at 17:15). Tickets can be collected on site at the Castle’s visitor reception desk in the State Apartments (upper courtyard) or can be booked online by clicking here.
WHAT’S ON.
Have a look at events below and click here for full calendar of everything that’s happening
Famous Faces at Dublin Castle
9 Oct – 24 Dec 2021, St. Patrick’s Hall
(included in State Apartments ticket)
Curated by Bronagh Dempsey, this exhibition offers visitors a glimpse of the famous figures who have graced the halls of Dublin Castle since the 1960’s, including Princess Grace, John F. Kennedy and Nelson Mandela.
What Colour Is Metal?
13 Oct 2021 – 31 Jan 2022
(included in State Apartments ticket)
Curated by Sara Roberts and Coilin O’Dubhghaill, this major international exhibition is a consideration of the relationship between metal and colour in contemporary silversmithing and jewellery. Through seminal works by key international practitioners, it places artist practice in a broader context and maps practices of metal patination in key centres internationally.
The Music Of Friends
28th Nov at 3pm & 7pm
Chapel Royal
Externally ticketed event
Presented by the Dublin International Chamber Music Festival (Great Music in Irish Houses) in partnership with the Office of Public Works. A gathering of musical friends for two special concerts in the elegant, historical Chapel Royal of Dublin Castle.
In Our Own Image: Photography in Ireland, 1839 to the Present
29 Nov 2021–6 Feb 2022
The Printworks, Dublin Castle
Curated by Gallery of Photography Ireland and the Office of Public Works, Dublin Castle, In Our Own Image presents the first comprehensive historical and critical survey of photography from across the island of Ireland. This landmark centenary exhibition charts how the medium has both reflected and shaped Irish cultural identity, from the work of the earliest photographic pioneers up to the emergence of a recognisably modern state.
The Castle Blog
Read the latest posts below, and click through to the full Castle Blog for all news updates.
The Forgotten Visit
by Bronagh Dempsey, Curator of 'Famous Faces' For centuries now, Dublin Castle has played host to many visitors from around the world. These visitors included royalty, presidents, prime ministers, poets, writers, athletes and other key figures. The exhibition ‘Famous...
What Colour Is Metal?
What Colour is Metal? exhibition captures a vital time in studio metalsmithing and patination. Long-time leaders who have wholly altered the terrain continue to push boundaries of their materials, as the mid-career metalsmiths whom they trained forge new directions, and new generations of makers bring fresh approaches to the conversation.
Look Who’s ‘Rumping’ Now
By Antonella Guarracino, Guide & Information Officer Dublin Castle houses a unique and varied art collection that often surprises its visitors. Most of the historic artworks are exhibited in the State Apartments, originally built as a residence for the British...