Historical Sites in Dublin

#1

Dublin Castle has been at the center of Irish life since King John of England ordered its erection in 1204. Standing over much earlier structures including a Viking fortress and, possibly, a Gaelic ringfort, it forms the social and political heart of historic Dublin. Visiting Dublin Castle, you’ll get to see the majestic State Apartments, the Viking ruins underneath, and the ancient Black Pool where the river Liffey meets its underground tributary the River Poddle. The seat of British administration in Ireland for 700 years, this glorious collection of buildings recounts the history of Dublin like no other.

#2

The GPO Museum is located inside the General Post Office on Dublin's O’Connell Street. This grand building, designed by Francis Johnston in 1814, is easy to reach by Dublin Bus, as well as via Bus Éireann and other national bus companies. It's also a three-minute walk from the Abbey Street stop on the Luas Red Line.

#3

One million Irish people fled Ireland during the famine. 2,500 took a gruelling voyage on the Jeanie Johnston. Take a journey back in time, get an insight into life on board a Famine ship and hear the stories of the people who made the arduous voyage.

#4

Discover Ireland's natural and historical wonders: take a day trip to Wicklow and Glendalough

#5

Step back in time and enjoy art, furniture and stories of times past in Ireland’s best intact Georgian mansion and estate, nestled among the wildflower meadows of Newbridge Demesne. Newbridge Farm has an interactive and educational discovery trail through the farm and various rare breeds of animals. Meander through the walled garden and orchard and then back to the cobbled stone courtyard for some retail therapy. Only 30 minutes by car from Dublin city centre and parking is free. We’re easy to access by bus and train too with regular services from Dublin. For more information visit www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com

#6

Visit the historic library, see the famous Book of Kells, and walk around the campus

#7

Glasnevin Cemetery is the resting place of over 1.5 million people, some of whom were prominent figures in Irish history. This Victorian burial ground was founded in 1832 and intended for people of all faiths - something pretty outrageous at a time when Catholics were banned from burial in Protestant graveyards. Daniel O’Connell, the cemetery's founder and political leader, is buried here, as is Irish revolutionary Michael Collins. The onsite Glasnevin Museum is the world's first cemetery museum and - among other accolades - it was winner of Ireland’s Best Cultural Experience at the Irish Tourism Industry Awards 2015. The National Botanic Garden of Ireland is adjacent to Glasnevin Cemetery, and you can enter this premier scientific institution for free. The gardens also contain the National Herbarium and several historic wrought iron glasshouses.