Discover the historic heart of Dublin. Open seven days a week. Dublin Castle is a key tourist attraction as well as a major government complex. Venue hire within the Castle is also available.

Important Information As Dublin Castle is a working Irish Government building, security, access to rooms and opening arrangements may be subject to change at short notice. Every attempt will be made to advertise these closures on our website ahead of time, but we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Dublin Castle is one of the most important buildings in Irish history. From 1204 until 1922 it was the seat of English, and later British rule in Ireland. During that time, it served principally as a residence for the British monarch’s Irish representative, the Viceroy of Ireland, and as a ceremonial and administrative centre.

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.

Join one of our experienced guides for a fascinating tour that takes you from the excavation site of Viking and medieval Dublin to the Gothic Chapel Royal and finally to the splendour of the former viceregal State Apartments.

The Medieval Tower is one of the oldest, most intact and most important parts of the city of Dublin to survive today. Dating from 1204-28, it was largely constructed during the reign of Henry III (1207–72), King of England and Lord of Ireland.

Dublin Castle is situated in Dublin’s city centre. We are within walking distance of many major tourist attractions such as Trinity College and St Patrick’s Cathedral.

The Bedford Tower was built of brick with stone dressing made of Wicklow Granite which were intended to harmonise with the rest of the Upper Castle Yard. The new building consisted of a two story five bay façade with a three bay breakfront.

John William Ponsonby, 4th Earl of Bessborough, by Stephen Catterson Smith, c.1846. Portrait of the Earl of Bessborough wearing the star and badge of the Order of St Patrick. One of Dublin Castle’s collection of twenty portraits of Irish Viceroys. Photo by …

These fascinating, curious and often beautiful objects allow us to explore and understand the Castle’s unique place in Irish history across the centuries. They make it not only a vital place of learning and enquiry but also a source of delight and inspiration.