Oscar Wilde House (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Oscar Wilde House?
What makes it 50% Kids-Friendly: The house allows children but offers no hands-on exhibits, child pricing, or space to move; fragile antiques and steep stairs require strict supervision, so most kids get bored fast.
Positives:
- Indoor and outdoor activities: Combine the house tour and film with playtime in the adjacent park for a varied day.
- Interactive storytelling: Kids can imagine Oscar as a child while exploring his bedroom and study spaces.
Challenges:
- Limited child-specific materials: The house has no children’s trail or interactive displays; younger kids may lose interest.
- Quiet and fragile interiors: Rooms are delicate; children must stay close and use quiet voices throughout the tour.
What is Oscar Wilde House?
- A restored Georgian townhouse on Merrion Square North that served as Oscar Wilde's childhood home from 1855 to 1878
- A well-preserved example of mid-19th century Irish domestic architecture featuring original period furnishings and decorative details
- A heritage property that preserves the early living environment of the poet and playwright Oscar Wilde
What is so special about Oscar Wilde House for with kids?
- Explore Oscar Wilde’s restored childhood home and period furnishings.
- Watch a short family documentary included with admission.
- Enjoy the free wooden playground in Merrion Square Park.
- Browse the Sunday art market and Thursday food stalls nearby.
- Ideal blend of indoor cultural learning and outdoor play for kids.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Combines the four-floor tour, 20-minute film screening, and playground time without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Oscar Wilde House
Self-guided house tour:
Explore four floors of Oscar Wilde’s childhood home with period rooms and original decor.
Tip: Pick up the multi-language tour sheet at reception and let kids take turns reading fun facts.
Watch family documentary:
See a 20-minute film on Oscar’s early life in a cozy screening room.
Tip: Use this as a break if kids need to sit—schedule it mid-visit for a rest.
Play at Merrion Square playground:
Let kids climb wooden structures inspired by 'The Selfish Giant' and enjoy swings.
Tip: Bring a small snack and water; the play area is free and open all day.
Browse art and food markets:
On Sundays, view local art; on Thursdays, sample Irish pastries and fresh juices.
Tip: Stick to one treat per person and share to manage spending.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Oscar Wilde House
- Buy tickets online: Book ahead on the official site to skip the line and secure entry slots.
- Visit playground first: Let kids burn off energy in the park before the quieter house tour.
Reviews of Oscar Wilde House
C. K.
Couldn't resist. The €12 price is a bit steep, but knowing it goes to charity makes it easier to digest. The 10 minute video was a nice overall of Wilde's life, good and factual details. The house is okay, but visitors must tap into their imagination to visualize how the rooms looked during Wilde time. Not a waste of 40 minutes, but would've like a little more to show how Wilde lived.
Bala Vinayagam
I couldn’t resist the temptation to visit my favorite author’s house, and the Oscar Wilde House at 1 Merrion Square didn’t disappoint! Just opposite the colorful Wilde monument in the park, this well-maintained Georgian gem is a perfect 30-minute stop if you have time. The guided tour, with its passionate guide and insightful video, vividly brings to life the Wilde family’s history, from Lady Jane...
Ivan Shterev
I’m truly grateful and honored to have attended the talk on Oscar Wilde, delivered by Martin. He spoke with such passion and insight that everyone in the room was completely captivated. His presentation skills and commitment were nothing short of world-class. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience—unforgettable and deeply inspiring. So if you have the chance, definitely get the guided tour!
Kseniia Kravchenko
Fine place, but lots of things that would make a great museum out of it are replaced or not put effort into. Great video about Wilde’s life, but the house is quite empty in my opinion.
Shelley C
This is the house that Oscar lived in from 1855 to 1879. If you are taking a tour, you can pre-book online. If you are self-guiding, you have to purchase the ticket at the house. The latter method is a lot cheaper. At the start, there is a short video about the Wilde family. Then you have access to each floor of the house. You are provided with a leaflet that contains information about each of the...
When is the best time to visit Oscar Wilde House (Dublin, Ireland)?
In summer, arrive early when the playground is less crowded; in rainy months, focus on the house tour and film to stay dry.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2×€12) | EUR 24 |
| Child admission (2×€12) | EUR 24 |
| Snacks at food market | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 68 |
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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Map of Oscar Wilde House
Address: American College, 1 Merrion Square N, Dublin, D02 NH98, Ireland
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About Oscar Wilde House
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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