Dublin Castle

Caisleán Bhhaile Átha Cliath

A stunning 13th-century fortress at the heart of Dublin featuring state apartments, the Chapel Royal, and beautiful courtyards showcasing medieval and Georgian architecture. It served as the seat of British colonial power for centuries and now hosts important state functions and fascinating guided tours.

Things to do

• State Apartments Tour — Explore the opulent Georgian and Victorian rooms where Irish presidents conduct state business, including the Throne Room and Picture Gallery.
• Chapel Royal — Visit this stunning neo-Gothic chapel built in 1807 with intricate plasterwork and stained glass, featuring the only round tower remaining from the original medieval castle.
• Medieval Undercroft Excavation — Descend beneath the castle to see archaeological remains of the 13th-century fortress walls and moat uncovered during restoration work.
• Chester Beatty Library — Browse one of the world's finest collections of rare books and manuscripts including Islamic, East Asian, and European treasures housed within the castle grounds.
• Bermingham Tower Climb — Ascend the 13th-century tower for panoramic views across Dublin's Georgian streetscape and the Liffey.
• Courtyard and Gardens — Stroll through the Upper and Lower Castle Yards surrounded by Georgian architecture, and enjoy the manicured gardens featuring original medieval structures.

Food to try

• Irish Soda Bread — Seek out fresh soda bread served in the castle café, a traditional Irish staple made with buttermilk and bicarbonate of soda, perfect with butter and jam.
• Boxty — Try this traditional Irish potato pancake served in the castle restaurants, made from grated raw and mashed potato and served with savory or sweet toppings.
• Colcannon — Sample this classic Irish comfort dish of mashed potatoes and cabbage or kale, often found in the castle's dining venues and local nearby restaurants.
• Irish Coffee — Enjoy an authentic Irish coffee—strong black coffee topped with whipped cream and Irish whiskey—served in the castle's café areas.
• Smoked Salmon and Brown Bread — Experience this quintessential Dublin pairing of locally-sourced smoked salmon served on wholemeal brown bread, available at castle catering venues.

Local customs & good to know

• Guided Tours Are Essential — Join an official guided tour to unlock the full historical narrative of British colonial rule and Irish independence, as many rooms and contexts are only explained by expert guides.
• Respect Active State Functions — Be aware that certain sections of the castle may be closed due to state ceremonies or official events, so check ahead and allow flexibility in your itinerary.
• Irish Language Acknowledgment — You'll notice bilingual signage throughout Dublin—the castle uses both English and Irish (Gaeilge) names, reflecting Ireland's cultural identity and official language status.
• Photography Restrictions in Certain Areas — While most castle areas permit photography, some state rooms restrict cameras, so follow signage and ask guides before photographing sensitive historical spaces.