Áras an Uachtaráin (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Áras an Uachtaráin?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can enjoy stories of presidents, a nearby playground, and café treats, yet the 75-minute quiet tour may test shorter attention spans and tickets run first-come.
Positives:
- Free Admission: All guided house and garden tours are complimentary for families.
- Park Access: Phoenix Park’s open lawns let kids run freely after the tour.
Challenges:
- Early Arrival Needed: Tickets for house tours are first-come, first-served from 9:30 am—plan to wait.
- Tour Length: 75-minute tours may test the patience of younger children aged 3–5.
What is Áras an Uachtaráin?
- Official residence and principal workplace of the President of Ireland, located within Phoenix Park in Dublin
- A Georgian-era building dating from 1751, originally constructed as the Viceregal Lodge for the British Lord Lieutenant, featuring classical proportions and decorative motifs
- Gardens that encompass formal 19th-century terraces, ornamental lakes and a diverse arboretum under the care of the Office of Public Works
What is so special about Áras an Uachtaráin for with kids?
- Free guided tours introduce kids to Ireland’s presidency.
- Safe, fenced playground beside the Visitor Centre.
- Interactive exhibition for skipped or extra time.
- Seasonal garden tours show historic landscapes.
- Open park space perfect for a family picnic.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A guided tour and playground visit fit nicely in this time without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Áras an Uachtaráin
Guided House Tour:
Join a free 75-minute tour of the President’s reception rooms and learn stories of Ireland’s leaders.
Tip: Collect your tickets at 9:30 am from the Visitor Centre; bring photo ID and a quick bathroom break for kids beforehand.
Playground at Visitor Centre:
Let children play in the fenced playground beside the Centre before or after your tour.
Tip: Head here first to burn energy and improve focus during the house tour.
Self-Guided Exhibition:
Explore free displays and a 20-minute audio-visual show on the park’s history and Áras an Uachtaráin.
Tip: Use this option if tour slots are full or to entertain younger kids who sit less.
Garden Tour (June–October):
Walk formal 1840s gardens, arboretum, lakes, and the walled kitchen garden with a guide.
Tip: Reserve a spot on a Saturday by arriving early; dress for possible muddy paths.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Áras an Uachtaráin
- Combine Activities: Pair the house tour with playground time and a picnic in the park to break up the visit.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and warm layers for kids to stay comfortable outdoors.
Reviews of Áras an Uachtaráin
Super Sigma
Yup the president is a sound fella he let me look around his gaf. Big yup bro
Mary Naughton
My review is just for the grounds and the outside. I have not gone in. The outside is absolutely lovely and the grounds inside Phoenix Park are beautiful. There is so much nature right in the heart of the city, it’s a great, peaceful place.
Victor Wang
FREE tickets to visit the President's residence on Saturdays (first come first serve at the visitor center). Was easily able to get tickets for the first tour at 10AM by arriving around 9:30AM. Super in-depth tour with knowledgable guides. No pictures inside unfortunately.
John Keenan
A free tour for first-come-first-serve basis. Took me years as a Dubliner to finally wake up earlier on the weekend to see the president's residence. I'd recommend it. Seeing the different rooms, their functions, their history & the portraits were a treat. Our guide was good though there were a couple of questions which went unanswered. Saw some of the president's dogs there too.
the burney bros
Attended the free tour today of our presidential residence. What a magnificent building with a vast history . Fantastic tour guide and then to be brought around the gardens by the head gardener of 18 yrs Robert explaining all the different trees and flowers . Would highly recommend.
When is the best time to visit Áras an Uachtaráin (Dublin, Ireland)?
From June to October, join the free guided garden tour. In winter, check tour times (10 am–3 pm) and dress warmly in Phoenix Park.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Visitor Centre snacks | EUR 15 |
| Family bike rental | EUR 40 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 55 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Áras an Uachtaráin
Address: Phoenix Park, Castleknock (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, D08 E1W3, Ireland
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About Áras an Uachtaráin
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 1 617 100010 BEST nearby Activities
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