Dublin Castle (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Dublin Castle?
Kids under 12 enter free, can join treasure-hunt tours and art workshops, and play on the lawns, but many stairs and fragile décor limit stroller use and hands-on interaction.
Positives:
- Educational Engagement: Interactive tours and workshops bring Irish history to life for children.
- Free Outdoor Space: Gardens offer safe areas for kids to run and explore between visits.
Challenges:
- Advance Booking: Family tours and workshops must be reserved weeks ahead via email.
- Stroller Accessibility: Uneven floors and stairs in some areas make a baby carrier more practical.
What is Dublin Castle?
- A medieval Norman stronghold built in 1204 to serve as the administrative centre of English rule in Ireland
- A quadrangular castle complex framed by four corner towers and medieval defensive walls surrounding Gothic state apartments
- A historic seat of Irish governance housing 18th-century neo-Classical ceremonial halls and a central courtyard overlooking formal gardens
What is so special about Dublin Castle for with kids?
- Interactive treasure hunts engage children with hidden castle symbols
- Gardens provide space to rest and let kids run safely
- Self-guided tours and audio guides keep older kids entertained
- Free art workshops let families create hands-on projects
- Advance booking secures spots for the most popular family activities
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for a guided or self-guided tour, a garden stroll, and a quick workshop without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Dublin Castle
Secret Agent Treasure Hunt Tour:
Kids follow clues in the State Apartments to uncover hidden symbols.
Tip: Book free spots at least two weeks in advance via the castle’s education email.
Dubh Linn Gardens:
Explore Celtic-style gates and memorial gardens in the castle courtyard.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks so kids can rest and play on the lawn.
State Apartments Self-Guided Tour:
Walk through St Patrick’s Hall, the Throne Room, and the Gothic Room at your own pace.
Tip: Pick up the free map at the ticket desk and scan QR codes for the audio guide.
Family Art Workshops:
Join free art sessions to create projects inspired by castle designs.
Tip: Subscribe to the castle’s newsletter to reserve your family’s place on workshop days.
When is the best time to visit Dublin Castle (Dublin, Ireland)?
In summer, visit the gardens in the morning to avoid crowds. In autumn, enjoy colourful foliage in the courtyard. In winter, focus on indoor tours and warm up in the café.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Dublin Castle (Dublin)
Jessica Ellem
Really beautiful and ornate rooms to check out with a lush garden behind. Don't let the name trip you up- the original burned down long ago. It's not your traditional castle but still a very cool spot to check out.
C. K.
Lovely visit. Did the self guided State Apartments tour. Not bad for €8. Quick tour, 30-45 minutes. Lovely interior. Audio guide provided a nice level of history without being boring. The placards provided detailed information. Went early so wasn't too crowded.
Eduardo Gasparini
A very interesting place to visit. From there the country was ruled by the English viceroys before independence.There were also great feasts of the English nobility. After that, the place is used for the inauguration of presidents (to date there have been only nine), and for reception of foreign authorities. The walls of the various rooms and halls are full of paintings. Particularly impressive is...
Lisa Ritter
Dublin Castle was lovely. We have had good fortune to travel to many castles in Europe and I felt the interior was phenomenal, but the exterior was a bit plain in comparison. It also does not take long to tour. In my opinion you can easily get through it in about 30 minutes.
Eboni Douglas-Blaize
Very beautiful place. I would recommend making the booking a day in advance so you can see the medical part but besides that it is nice to go. They told me u can’t record but I can take pictures which is odd. This place will take you back in time and is a great place to go with family or on a date even. I am not too sure about accessibility and there is lots of people here.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family Guided Tour Ticket | EUR 30 |
| Snacks at café | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 45 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Maximize Your Visit to Dublin Castle
- Reserve Online: Buy tickets and book family tours on the official site to skip queues.
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening time for quieter state rooms and uncrowded gardens.
- Pack Snacks: Bring small snacks and water to fuel energy during your garden picnic.
Map of Dublin Castle
Address: Dame St, Dublin 2, Co. Dublin, Ireland
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About Dublin Castle
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 46 942 2213Explore Popular Things to Do
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