Built in the early 13th century on a Viking site, Dublin Castle was the headquarters of English and later British rule in Ireland until 1922, and is now a working government complex and ceremonial venue. Important: the castle's own website says the campus is closed to the public until January 2027 while Ireland hosts the EU Council Presidency — confirm before travelling.
The grandest rooms of the former viceregal court: the 1749 Grand Staircase, the Throne Room, the Portrait Gallery and St Patrick's Hall, still used for presidential inaugurations. Self-guided visit about 30 minutes; guided about an hour.
A subterranean chamber in the medieval undercroft showing Viking Dublin's defence bank and part of the castle's medieval curtain wall with a postern gate. Reached by stairs only.
Francis Johnston's Gothic Revival chapel, opened in 1814 and famed for its vaulting, plasterwork and carved oak galleries with the coats of arms of Ireland's Viceroys. Partly accessible at ground level.
The Dubh Linn Gardens and the Coach House at the back of the Castle host a year-round programme of temporary exhibitions, including the State Apartment galleries.
Guided tours run daily 10:00 to 16:30, taking in the excavation, the Chapel Royal and the State Apartments. A free State Apartments audio guide and a self-guiding app are available.
The Chester Beatty Library sits in the Castle gardens, and Marsh's Library and St Patrick's Cathedral are a short walk away.
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