Trinity College Library (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Trinity College Library?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Under-6s enter free, 6–12 pay less; ramps, lifts, touchscreens, and optional sensory packs welcome families, yet fragile displays, low lighting, and lack of play space can bore restless kids after half an hour.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly Access: Ramps and lifts make it easy to bring pushchairs through exhibits.
- Free Kids Materials: Downloadable worksheets and sensory backpacks support different learning styles.
Challenges:
- Quiet Exhibition Spaces: The Long Room and exhibit areas require low noise; help kids understand the rules.
- Short Attention Spans: Manuscript details may not fascinate younger children; plan breaks or bring quiet toys.
What is Trinity College Library?
- A centuries-old academic library at Ireland’s Trinity College Dublin, housing the nation’s legal deposit collections and extensive research resources
- Home to over eight million printed volumes, manuscripts and archives, including the 9th-century illuminated Book of Kells
- Architectural ensemble anchored by the 18th-century Long Room, featuring an oak-paneled barrel-vaulted hall flanked by marble busts of notable scholars
What is so special about Trinity College Library for with kids?
- See the 9th-century Book of Kells in a climate-controlled display
- Walk under the oak-vaulted ceiling of the Long Room housing 200,000 books
- Engage kids with interactive Red Pavilion digital exhibits
- Access free activity sheets and sensory backpacks for children
- Stroller-friendly routes and a library shop with fun souvenirs
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets your family view the Book of Kells, explore the Long Room, and enjoy digital exhibits without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Trinity College Library
Book of Kells Exhibition:
See two open pages of the 9th-century manuscript in a climate-controlled case.
Tip: Book tickets online to secure a time slot; children under 6 enter free.
Long Room Walk:
Stroll under the barrel-vaulted oak ceiling among 200,000 ancient books.
Tip: Let kids spot marble busts of famous figures to keep them engaged.
Red Pavilion Digital Exhibit:
Interact with touchscreens that bring Trinity’s manuscripts to life.
Tip: Pick up a sensory backpack if your child needs noise-reducing headphones.
Kids Activity Materials:
Use free coloring sheets and videos from the library’s education pages.
Tip: Download and print materials before visiting to prepare curious minds.
Library Shop Souvenirs:
Browse Irish crafts, coloring books, and sticker packs.
Tip: Let each child pick one small souvenir under €10.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Trinity College Library
- Pre-book Tickets: Reserve time slots online several days ahead to avoid sold-out sessions.
- Use Free App: Download the Visit Trinity app for a self-guided campus tour before or after library entry.
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening time to navigate exhibits with fewer crowds and fresher attention spans.
Reviews of Trinity College Library
Atul Thakrar
Another must visit sites in Dublin. A stunning - The Book of Kells is a world-renowned, early (9th century) manuscript housed in the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin.Beautiful display of manuscript of the four Gospels in Latin, famous for its intricate and vibrant illustrations. Book of Kells is displayed in the Old Library at Trinity College, one of the first university in ireland modeled a...
Logan Lindeman
Beautiful, absolutely stunning. I thought the library was awesome, it was a little busy but not too bad. We could still enjoy it. The big globe in the back of the room ruins the experience though. It doesnt belong in an old library and I feel it detracts from the overall beauty.
Tarek El-Eter
Trinity College Dublin – A Must-Visit I recently visited Trinity College Dublin and took the guided tour, which was fantastic. The college grounds are stunning, with cobblestone paths, historic buildings, and a peaceful atmosphere. Our student guide was friendly and full of fascinating facts about the university’s long history and famous alumni. The highlight was visiting the Old Library and see...
Leon B
Very disappointing experience. You have to book tickets well in advance because they often sell out, but it’s just not worth the hype — especially in its current state. Most of the books in the Long Room are missing due to restoration works, which wasn’t clearly advertised beforehand. The space is packed with tourists, making it hard to move, let alone appreciate the exhibits. The section on the B...
Jennifer
The campus of Trinity College is absolutely stunning, and walking around it made me think I wouldn’t mind studying there myself! We took advantage of the student discount (€17.50 per person) for the tour that included the Trinity Library and the Book of Kells. We did it in advance and did not have to wait that long in the queue. To be honest, the experience didn’t quite live up to my expectations...
When is the best time to visit Trinity College Library (Dublin, Ireland)?
In summer, book early morning slots to avoid crowds. On rainy days, enjoy the indoor exhibits and bring a light jacket as exhibition rooms stay cool.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults + 1 child 6–12) | EUR 63.5 |
| Library shop coloring book | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 71.5 |
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 Trinity College Library
Address: Old Library, College Green, South-East Inner City, Dublin 2, D02 VR66, Ireland
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About Trinity College Library
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 1 896 100010 BEST nearby Activities
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