A visit to Dalkey Castle on your day tour from Dublin involves interaction with Professional Actors & Guides on a tour, walk, event or luxury experience. This, combined with exploration of the atmospheric 10th Century Church, rare 14th Century Medieval Castle, Writers’ Gallery & Heritage Centre with interactive screens & scale models, all set against stunning scenic surroundings, makes for a powerful combination of family-friendly fun, history & heritage.

Walk-in visitors are welcome but we do recommend you book online in advance to secure your preferred timeslot.

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history springs to life

Living History Tour

More exciting than your average museum experience, with a touch of theatre on every tour!

This Must-See Tourist Attraction in Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland should be top on your list of Things to Do in Dublin, once you’ve covered off the City sights.

Ideal as a day trip from Dublin City Centre, history is really brought to life for you by Costumed Actors on the Immersive Medieval Living History Tour. Discover for yourself the history of this Rare, 14th Century Medieval Castle in this famous, scenic, heritage town.

Explore the atmospheric 10th Century Graveyard site which together with the Castle near Dublin make up a Recorded Irish National Monument & Landmark. This Interactive Guided Tour is a wonderful activity, full of family-friendly fun.

Tour from Dublin to marvel at the Medieval traits of the Iconic Fortified Townhouse Castle such as the Murder Hole, Stocks and the Battlements. Encounter Vikings, watch the Archer demonstrate his Longbow prowess (maybe even try it for yourself), as you gaze out at the stunning scenic views of the coastline & mountainous backdrop of Killiney Hill. Be amazed at all the expressions from Archery still in use today.

We have long been about sustainability. Cook gives us a masterclass in circular economy in medieval times. Nothing went to waste. Bet you don’t know the myriad of uses of the ancient goose, including the paring of the quill for Calligraphy writing? The Barber Surgeon, after his blood lettings and cures, uses the quill to write out his potions. You may even mint your own Viking coin as a souvenir.

The Heritage Centre also covered in your tour offers a Writers Gallery with interactive touchscreens of local creatives from Bono to Beckett, Maeve Binchy to James Joyce.

We also have a subtitled welcome video, interactive screens of the heritage town’s history in a variety of languages (English, Irish, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, Danish, Polish, Russian, Chinese & Japanese) and scale models.

This guided tour may be combined with other options, such as our guided walks of the historic, heritage town of Dalkey. We also offer literary walk options. Choose to enquire about our luxury experiences for those looking for something more exclusive.

Alternatively, why not combine this day tour from Dublin’s bustling centre, with a visit to some of the other well-known local attractions.

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literary legends

Writers’ Gallery

Explore the area’s literary and creative connections in the Writers’ Gallery.

James Joyce to Bono, Samuel Beckett to Maeve Binchy and forty more writers have connections to Dalkey. These are illustrated in the Writers’ Gallery on portraits and interactive panels.

Did you know that Episode Two of James Joyce’s ‘Ulysses‘ is set nearby on Dalkey Avenue or that Maeve Binchy “thought everyone came from a place like this”, until she went…” to see the world, and discovered we were spoiled rotten”?

There is an enlightening wall-mounted Writers’ Trail Map with site specific quotes from Samuel Beckett on Dun Laoghaire Pier; G.B. Shaw about Torca Cottage; Hugh Leonard about Sorrento Park and Flann O’Brien enlivens the Vico Road.

Why not consider one of our guided walk options.

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Writers Gallery pictures including Maeve Binchy at Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland
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castle surroundings

St. Begnet’s Church & Graveyard

St. Begnet’s Church & Graveyard, on site here, is dedicated to a local saint. The earliest part of the stone church dates from the 10th Century. Archaeologists believe that there was a wooden Early Christian Church on the site from the 7th Century.

There were various additions which include: the Twin Bell Tower, the Chancel and Chancel Arch.

Of particular note, on the northern side of the church is a rare Tau Cross.

The area around the church was thought to have been used as a burial ground from the 13th Century but the early graves are not marked. The earliest named gravestone is of someone called Cornelius in 1738. The most recent is Kavanagh in 1930.

Dalkey Castle does have one of the best examples of a Viking Headstone known as a Rathdown slab.

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View of the 10th Century St.Begnet's Church Graveyard at Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland

Group Tours at Dalkey Castle

Happy People on Guided Literary Walk Dalkey Castle, Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland

Group Tours

Dalkey Castle is popular with tourists, group bookings & corporate visitors looking for a unique, immersive experience. It is an ideal destination for groups and associations. Click here to learn more about venue hire.

We warmly welcome group visits of all kinds from corporate away days, private parties & events, tour operator and destination management companies, associations and group organisers. One-off groups of up to 20 can book a slot online directly. Large groups and recurring business click to learn more about discounts and submit an enquiry.

Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Schools

The perfect venue for memorable school tours. With a wealth of history, explore the national monument site on a guided tour designed especially for students at Schools/National Schools. The visit combines an exploration of the Early Christian Church, rare medieval Townhouse Castle and an exciting, contemporary, award-winning visitor experience.

Archers as seen on Language School Tours at Dalkey Castle, Dublin, Ireland

Language Schools

The highly visual and entertaining Language School Tours with costumed Living History actors run all year. They are devised specifically to suit students learning English by their visual and immersive, interactive nature. Active participation is encouraged.

The Heritage Centre has interactive screens denoting the rich history of this heritage town in a variety of languages (English, Irish, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, Danish, Polish, Russian, Chinese & Japanese).

Guided Walks at Dalkey Castle

Tourists and visitors on Dalkey Castle's Guided Literary Walk in Dalkey, Dublin, Ireland

Literary Walks

From Samuel Beckett to Bono, George Bernard Shaw, Hugh Leonard, James Joyce to Maeve Binchy and Emma Donoghue, some of Ireland’s most famous writers share a connection to our charming heritage town of Dalkey.

The guided literary walk combines a guided walk of Dalkey and its scenic surrounds with snippets and extracts from works by the authors.

View of Dalkey Island, Vico Baths and Sorrento Terrace from Killiney Hill Dalkey on Dalkey Castle Guided Walk

Historical Walk

Explore what has been dubbed ‘Ireland’s Amalfi Coast’. Take the fresh sea air on a guided historical walk around the picturesque coastal heritage town of Dalkey. At Coliemore Harbour, hear about the Viking slave trade on Dalkey Island, how Dalkey got its name and why large ships anchored in Dalkey Sound.

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Covid 19 Policy – Your safety is our priority

Please be assured that HSE Guidelines will be implemented at the time of your visit to keep all staff and visitors safe.

faq

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the transport options to Dalkey?

Dalkey is on the coast, just south of Dublin City Centre. The DART journey is a relaxing experience travelling along the beautiful coastline with magnificent sea views. Dalkey is approx. 30 minutes from Dublin's Connolly, Tara or Pearse stations (travelling south). Dalkey Castle postcode for Google Maps is A96 DE61.

Dart/Train to Dalkey: 30 minutes from City Centre.

DART: Timetables

By Car:

Dublin City Centre Dalkey is 12.8km south on N31 or N11.

M50 Motorway Exit 16 (Cherrywood) Follow Signs for Killiney/Dalkey.

Paid Parking Available Opposite the Castle.

Coach Parking:
Coach parking is available at the Bus Stop on Hyde Road. Drivers can drop their groups at the designated bus stop on Ulverton Road (100 metres approx. from Dalkey Castle). Proceed to the parking space around the corner at Hyde Road.

Aircoach: Aircoach directly to Dalkey. Routes & Timetables

What are your Opening Hours?

We are open six days a week, all year round. Closed every Tuesday.

January – March & November – December 13th 2024 - Tour Times

Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)

10.00, 11.30, 13.30, 14.45 & 16.00

Weekends & Bank Holidays (Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays)

10.30, 11.30, 13.30, 14.45 & 16.00

April – October 31st - Tour Times

Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)

10.00, 11.30, 13.30, 14.30, 15.30 & 16.30

Weekends & Bank Holidays (Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays)

10.30, 11.30, 13.30, 14.30, 15.30 & 16.30

 

Do I have to go on a guided tour?

Standard admission is fully guided. Book your ticket now by clicking hereSee The Visit for more details.

How long is a tour?

Seventy minutes approx.

What changes can we expect because of Covid-19?

Public health advice in place at the time is adhered to. Tour numbers are reduced to allow for social distancing.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes! Children love the tour.

Do children need to be accompanied by an adult?

Yes. Children under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. One adult for every four children.

Does the Castle have audio guides?

No. There are interactive screens with historical information in twelve languages.

How much does it cost to visit?

Adult €16, Senior/Student €15, Child (under 12) €10.50. Online booking is the best value option. 

For tickets, click here. 

Can I change my tour time or date?

If you cannot attend at the time booked, please contact us by email to [email protected] and we will do our best to facilitate you on an alternative slot.

What if I’m running late?

If you are running late for your visit, please ring reception on +353 1 285 8366 and we will do our best to accommodate you on a later tour.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The Ground Floor, the Heritage Centre and the Writers’ Gallery are fully accessible.  

How can I get to the Castle?

Area Code A96 DE61. Dalkey is easily accessible by road or public transport (DART). It is situated on stunning coastline with a mountainous backdrop about 12 km from Dublin City heading south. We are within a five-minute walk of Dalkey DART station, just turn right coming out of the station. It is a popular walking & cycling route. There are a number of bus options too. The Aircoach also runs through Dalkey to and from Dublin Airport. 

Is there parking?

Yes. Pay and Display car parking is available across the street at the Church Car Park.

Are there discounts for large groups?

Yes! Tour Operators, DMC's, Corporate Group Bookings can be made by phoning +353 1 2858366 or emailing [email protected]

Is there coach parking available?

Coachs can drop their groups at the Aircoach bus stop on Ulverton Road (100 metres from Dalkey Castle) and then proceed to the designated Coach Parking on Hyde Road, less than five minutes away.

Is there a cafe in the Castle?

No but Dalkey is a vibrant heritage town with a myriad of boutique shops,  cafes and coffee shops, bars & restaurants close by.

Can I take photos inside the Castle?

Yes, feel free to take photos but we ask you to refrain from using flash as it can distract the actors. Long form video recording is discouraged as we want you to immerse yourself in the experience. Feel free to 'check-in' and tag us on socials using @dalkeycastle and #dalkeycastle

What our Visitors say...

  • star rating  History comes to life - What a delightful experience. You will learn a surprising amount about life in Ireland in the Middle Ages. And it’s taught in such an enjoyable and engaging way! The view... read more

    avatar thumb 49MileDriver
    September 20, 2024

    star rating  Fun tour in a cute town  - Wonderful and fun tour in a beautiful town. Informative and interesting, with friendly staff. Easy trip from Dublin and well worth it!

    avatar thumb tseehafer
    September 19, 2024

    star rating  Love this tour. I am a tour guide - and I will be back 😄  - This is so informative and suitable for all ages - fun for everyone. Entertaining actors and exciting stories. An excellent history of Dublin, Vikings, pirates and slaves. ... read more

    avatar thumb Anne B
    September 17, 2024
  • star rating  Very enjoyable vist to Dalkey Castle  - I had a very enjoyable visit to Dalkey Castle Heritage Centre on Monday 12th August 2024 for a guided tour with a Youth Group consisting of 3 Adults and 12... read more

    avatar thumb Michael C
    September 14, 2024

    star rating  Provides lots of useful information about the area, about live in past times and it’s all communicated in fun way 🙂  - I have done the interactive tour in June with my friends and loved it so much I came again in September with my children. They loved it !

    avatar thumb Radka E
    September 2, 2024

    star rating  10/10 - Don't miss this one hour tour in pretty village on main train line - 10/10! I've been on many tours over the years in historic sites in Ireland and abroad and this one is outstanding. It has the winning factors of being informative and... read more

    avatar thumb WorkLife55
    August 27, 2024
  • star rating  Lovely visit to Dalkey Castle - Really enjoyed my visit to this small but perfectly formed Castle in Dalkey. Staff and guide were very friendly, information and child focused. Would highly recommend

    avatar thumb GeraldineM53
    August 27, 2024

    star rating  Fabulous tour for all the family - children and adults alike  - The tour was amazing. I brought my three children 5, 8 and 11 and although it had been recommended to me, and the reviews are great, I didn't really know... read more

    avatar thumb Nicola F
    August 27, 2024

    star rating  An absolute must experience in Dalkey! - What an excellent way to learn about the past and how it ties into the future. This is a must see experience. Great for all ages. Explore a real castle... read more

    avatar thumb Christina T
    August 26, 2024
map of ireland with dalkey location as map marker

Directions & Transport

Dalkey is on some of the most stunning coastline, with a mountainous backdrop, just south of Dublin City Centre, en route to Co. Wicklow.

Aside from by car, the quickest way to reach the Castle is by DART. The DART journey is a relaxing experience travelling along the beautiful coastline with magnificent sea views. Dalkey is approx. 30 minutes from Dublin's Connolly, Tara or Pearse stations (travelling south). Turn right on exiting Dalkey train station.

Dalkey is on the Aircoach route to/from Dublin Airport. From Dublin City Centre, a number of local bus options are also available. Paid parking and coach parking are available nearby.

Dalkey Castle postcode for Google Maps is A96 DE61.

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Actor on Living History Tour, Dalkey Castle, Dublin, Ireland

Opening Times

We are open six days a week, all year round.
Closed every Tuesday.

January - May & September - December

Monday to Friday: 10.00 - 17.30
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 11.00 - 17.30

June, July & August

Monday to Friday: 10.00 - 18.00
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 11.00 - 18.00

Tickets & Info

Tickets for Living History Tour encompass fully guided tour of 14th Century Townhouse Castle, 10th Century Early Christian Church & Graveyard, Modern Writers' Gallery & Heritage Centre with interactive screens & scale models. Dalkey Castle, where costumed actors bring history to life.

ADULTS €16

SENIOR / STUDENT €15

CHILD (4-12 YEARS) €10.50

*Booking Fees apply

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