St Patrick's Cathedral (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is St Patrick's Cathedral?
Children can follow a scavenger hunt, tap touch-screens, and play in the nearby park, but long sermons and fragile artifacts may test attention after an hour, so suitability is good but not flawless.
Positives:
- Pram and wheelchair access: Wide aisles, ramps and a lift make it easy to bring a pushchair inside.
- Free audio guide app: Download before you go to let kids explore at their own pace.
Challenges:
- Quiet environment: Teach kids to use indoor voices to respect services and other visitors.
- Narrow aisles: Hold hands in busy areas to keep little ones close on tour routes.
What is St Patrick's Cathedral?
- A Gothic cathedral founded in 1220 as the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland
- A structure combining medieval fabric with 19th-century restoration, crowned by Ireland’s largest bell tower
- A repository of historic tombs and memorials, including Jonathan Swift’s grave, adorned with stained glass and wood carvings
What is so special about St Patrick's Cathedral for with kids?
- Buy the €28 family ticket for 2 adults and up to 3 kids
- Use the free scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits to engage children
- Enjoy a guided tour designed to hold young attention
- Relax in the adjacent Dubh Linn Garden for snacks and photos
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for a guided tour, scavenger hunt, interactive exhibits and a garden stroll without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in St Patrick's Cathedral
Join a free guided tour:
Small-group tour led by a Cathedral guide covering the nave, Lady Chapel and history.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early and ask for a family-friendly guide to keep kids engaged.
Complete the scavenger hunt trail:
Pick up a free worksheet at the Welcome Desk and search for symbols in windows and carvings.
Tip: Pair younger kids with an adult to spot details and reward them with a treat from the shop.
Explore the interactive discovery space:
Hands-on touch-screens and iPads play choir recordings and tell Cathedral stories.
Tip: Let each child choose a station and take turns so everyone stays interested.
Stroll in Dubh Linn Garden:
Small landscaped courtyard once known as the ‘black pool’ that gave Dublin its name.
Tip: Stop by the bench near the fountain for a quick snack break and restful view.
When is the best time to visit St Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin, Ireland)?
Visit in summer mornings to avoid crowds. In December, check for special Christmas music recitals. On rainy days, focus on indoor exhibits first.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of St Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin)
A J (Lexi)
Lovely Cathedral! The tile work, marble and old flags were really cool. Has a nice little park right next to it. Lots of dogs in park so be careful where you walk.... The CitizenM Hotel is new (Aug 2025) and has direct view on it!!
Alex Bennett
We purchased out tickets online ahead of time for an easier entry, and we thoroughly enjoyed our tour here. Audio guides were included with our basic admission but we chose to walk around without it just admiring the architecture and stained glass windows. This is a very neat cathedral, one of the best I've visited on my Europe trips. WAYYYY better than Dublin Castle!!
il Câpitano _VAP
The magnificent architecture of the structure is a testament to skilled craftsmanship. Its soaring spires and intricate stained-glass windows command attention and evoke a sense of awe. Inside, the vast interior provides a tranquil space for reflection and prayer. The building has served as a spiritual sanctuary for generations of people. Its enduring presence is a cherished landmark in the city. ...
Bala Vinayagam
St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located in the heart of Dublin, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Ireland’s capital. This stunning Gothic cathedral, founded in 1191, is not only a significant religious site but also a treasure trove of history and culture. As Ireland’s national cathedral and one of its largest, it offers a captivating experience for visitors of all interests. The cathedral’s exterior...
Noha Afifi
is cathedral is absolutely stunning, beautiful architecture and equally impressive surroundings. The visit is well-organized, and the audio guide is excellent and informative. Tickets can be booked online for €11. The history is thoroughly explained, making the experience even more enriching. I highly recommend visiting, it’s a must-see in Dublin.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family admission (2 adults + up to 3 kids) | EUR 28 |
| Optional souvenir from gift shop | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 38 |
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
How to Maximize Your Visit to St Patrick's Cathedral
- Book tickets online: Secure your family ticket in advance to skip the ticket queue.
- Combine with nearby playground: After your visit, head to St Patrick’s Park playground a block away for free play time.
Map of St Patrick's Cathedral
Address: St Patrick's Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3, Ireland
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides St Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin)?
About St Patrick's Cathedral
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 1 453 9472Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!