School Tours

schools/national schools

School Tours

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.

Among the highlights are the Costumed Actors from Deilg Inis Theatre Company who interact with the students. Among the scenes recreated are: a slave escaping from Vikings on Dalkey Island, activation of the Murder Hole, trying out the Longbow and minting a Viking coin. The Cook boasts of culinary creations and medieval toilet facilities.

MAKE ENQUIRY

the visit

Stocks

Stocks and pillories were used as punishments in Medieval Times.

A replica is on site for educational and entertainment purposes.

the visit

Murder Hole

The Murder Hole was a defensive feature in castles during medieval times. If attackers managed to get past the Machicolation and through the entrance door, they found themselves in a small, dark room. Above their heads, there was an opening in the ceiling called a murder hole. The opening was positioned close to the fireplace in the Living Quarters above. The occupants, upstairs, could throw down lighted firewood, boiling water, or rocks, on intruders below.

Tour Duration

70-75 Minutes

Age Restriction

3rd Class Upwards

Capacity

10-28 People

Parking

Coach Parking Nearby

What our Visitors say...

  Fantastic tour for all the family - We had a fantastic tour of Dalkey castle. We took our 3 children and 4,6 and 8 who all thoroughly enjoyed it. The actors were so interactive with our kids... read more and they (and us) learned so much while also having so much fun. This tour exceeded our expectations and I would highly recommend it.

Laura L
July 27, 2026

  Delightful Dalkey Castle - Really enjoyayble and informative tour enhanced by the actors in medieval costumes. I would highly recommend it if you are in the area.

Barry973
July 27, 2026

  Well Worth the Visit - One of the highlights of my trip to Dublin. You feel like you are going back in time.

288robinf
July 24, 2026
  Thoroughly recommended - I thoroughly recommend this activity. The introductory video, interactive exhibits and, most of all, the live actors make it hugely enjoyable for all ages. I also really enjoyed how old... read more sayings such as “keeping something under your hat” or “having a square meal” were actively explained.

Carol J
July 23, 2026

  Amazing interactive History! - Visiting Dalkey Castle was a delight! All the staff and cast were entertaining and friendly. The grounds are lovely, and our group learned a lot.

Amy L
July 21, 2026

  Very interesting and entertaining - Really interesting and entertaining presentation by costumed actors. Very friendly staff. The experience was excellent.

sharon g
July 10, 2026
  Highly enjoyable visit to Dalkey Castle - Loved this tour so much (and a light lunch at Queens afterwards) with my husband a few weeks ago that I booked again for myself and my daughter visiting... read more from Edinburgh on the 10th. The tour which lasts about an hour is fabulously put together and the actors were superb! Such a fun 'feel good' interactive tour ( lots of fun& laughter) and such incredible good value! I would advise turning off phone for duration of tour. I forgot to do that and my phone rang, but fortunately it was at the end of the tour. The staff are so courteous and welcoming. I am looking forward to visiting Dalkey Castle and beautiful Dalkey again very soon. Thanks to everyone for such a memorable visit! Callibg all visitors- please do include Dalkey Castle on your to visit list! You won't be disappointed! 100% recommend to all 🙌

Grace F
July 10, 2026

  A chat with the past 🙂 - I absolutely loved it, the historical characters (played by actors) were interesting and funny, and brought a real medieval feel to the tour.

Relax07378724924
July 8, 2026

  Immersed in Ireland - This interactive tour was AMAZING! The tour guide and all the performers were top-notch! VERY impressed with all of the information that was shared. I plan to return to Ireland... read more again next year with even more of my family and we will definitely be doing this tour again.

Adam V
July 8, 2026