FAQ

Answers to Questions Frequently Asked by Visitors to Dublin Castle



How do I get to Dublin Castle?

Dublin Castle is right in Dublin’s city centre. We are within walking distance of many major tourist attractions such as Trinity College and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Many bus routes stop on nearby Dame Street, Lord Edward Street and George’s Street (plan your bus journey here). The closest Luas stops are St Stephen’s Green (Green Line) and Jervis (Red Line) – follow this link to plan your tram journey.

Is there visitor parking in Dublin Castle?

Unfortunately, there is no visitor parking available in Dublin Castle.The nearest public car parks are Q-Park Christchurch car park and Park Rite Drury Street.

How do I buy a ticket?

At the moment, tickets can only be bought on site from our ticket desk in the State Apartments.

I have a valid OPW Heritage Card/ Dublin Pass. Do I still have to queue for a ticket in Dublin Castle?

Yes. Our staff will check your card and then issue a ticket for either a self-guided visit or a guided tour.

How do I make a group booking?

If you wish to make a booking for a group of more than eight people, please call or email us well in advance: +353 1 6458813 or dublincastle@opw.ie.

What is the difference between guided tours and self-guided visits?

The difference between these two options is that the Viking Excavation and Chapel Royal can only be accessed as part of a guided tour. Tickets for self-guiding are cheaper than for guided tours and entitle you to visit the State Apartments at your own pace as well as any exhibitions on site, whether in the State Apartments Galleries or in the Coach House in the Castle Gardens.

Can I pay using my credit card?

Yes, we accept all credit cards except American Express.

Why do I have to leave my backpack in a locker in the State Apartments?

To avoid accidental knocks and scrapes to delicate items along walkways and corridors, we ask that you leave your bag in one of the free lockers near the restrooms before starting your visit of the State Apartments.

Can I take a buggy/pram into the State Apartments?

Unfortunately, prams and buggies are not allowed in the museum rooms of the State Apartments. We will store these for you during your visit – please ask one of our guides at the information desk for assistance.

Does the house have wheelchair access?

All areas in the State Apartments are universally accessible, including the café and restrooms. A member of staff will take you to the museum rooms on the first floor in the lift. The Coach House at the back of the Castle Gardens, where temporary exhibitions often take place, is also accessible as are the gardens themselves. While the Chapel Royal is partly accessible and can be visited as part of a guided tour, the Viking Excavation, unfortunately, cannot, as it is only accessible by stairs.

Do you have an audio guide?

We do not have an audio guide at present, but you can use our free Wi-Fi access in the Castle to download our free App with information about the displays (available for Android and iOS).

Do you have any information material in foreign languages?

Yes, we offer a brochure with information on the museum rooms in the State Apartments in 17 languages: Irish, English, French, Spanish, German, Chinese, Russian, Italian, Arabic, Polish, Swedish, Turkish, Romanian, Portuguese, Danish, Dutch and Japanese. This is available at the Castle.

Can I take photographs?

Yes, you may take photographs and videos for personal use while visiting Dublin Castle. Feel free to share them with us and on social media! Inside the State Apartments, however, please turn off your flash, as our collection is light sensitive. Please also note that selfie sticks are not allowed to be used inside any building during your visit.

How can I access the Chapel Royal?

The Chapel Royal can only be accessed as part of a guided tour.

How do I find out about events in Dublin Castle?

Please sign up to our newsletter using the form below or visit our Calendar of events to find out more about our exciting programme of events.

I am attending a conference in Dublin Castle. How do I find my venue?

Download a map of Dublin Castle here to locate the venue of your conference. Our staff on site will also be happy to direct you.