a warm
THE VISIT combines an exploration of the Early Christian Church, rare medieval Townhouse Castle and an exciting, contemporary, award-winning visitor experience. Actors from Deilg Inis Living History Theatre Company bring the history to colourful life. Climb to the battlements for magnificent views of sea and mountains.
Browse in the Writers’ Gallery where you will be enthralled by the forty-five writers and creative artists from Joyce to Bono and Beckett to Maeve Binchy. Our guides delight in taking you through the scaled models and the interactive touchscreens which have historical information in twelve languages.
a warm
Welcome Awaits You
THE VISIT combines an exploration of the Early Christian Church, rare medieval Townhouse Castle an exciting, contemporary, award-winning visitor experience. Actors from Deilg Inis Living History Theatre Company bring the history to colourful life. Climb to the battlements for magnificent views of sea and mountains.
Browse in the Writers’ Gallery where you will be enthralled by the forty-five writers and creative artists from Joyce to Bono and Beckett to Maeve Binchy. Our guides delight in taking you through the scaled models and the interactive touchscreens which have historical information in twelve languages.
history springs to life
Living History Experience
From atmospheric tenth-century Church grounds, through the original Townhouse Castle, costumed actors lead an exciting medieval Living History Experience.
The Archer demonstrates his Longbow prowess. Be amazed at all the expressions from archery still in use today. Cook shares medieval recipes, including her favourite, roast goose. Bet you don’t know the myriad of uses of the ancient goose, especially the paring of the quill for the writing? The Barber Surgeon, after his blood lettings and cures, uses the quill to write out his potions in calligraphy. Wouldn’t you like to see and hear how oak gal ink was made to write on goatskin parchment… our Barber Surgeon is the expert!
literary legends
Writers’ Gallery
Explore the area’s literary and creative connections in the Writers’ Gallery from James Joyce to Bono, Samuel Beckett to Maeve Binchy and forty more 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 Dún Laoghaire Pier; GB Shaw about Torca Cottage; Hugh Leonard in Sorrento Park and Flann O’Brien enlivens the Vico Road.
dalkey history
The Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre has clear views of the battlements and a stunning vista of the Early Christian Church & Graveyard, dedicated to St Begnet. There are interactive touchscreens with historical information in twelve languages, a chronological timeline and scaled models. Delve deeper into Dalkey’s history from earliest settlers on the island, through Early Christian, Viking, Medieval and Victorian times, to the present day. There is a wealth of interesting historical, and sometimes anecdotal, information. Switch between the engineer’s drawings of Dalkey Town Hall and the Dalkey Gold Rush to the Pathé news footage of the crowning of the King of Dalkey.
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 tenth century. Archaeologists believe that there was a wooden Early Christian Church on the site from the sixth century. There were various additions which include: the Twin Bell Tower, the Chancel and Chancel Arch. The area around the church was thought to have been used as a burial ground from the thirteenth century. The earliest named gravestone is of someone called Cornelius in 1738. The most recent is Kavanagh in 1930. It is now closed as a place of burial.
Group Tours at Dalkey Castle
Group Tours
Dalkey Castle warmly welcomes group visits. After a revealing introductory video and with all Covid protocols in place, your group will begin their exploration of this ancient, yet ultra-modern site.
Schools
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.
Language Schools
The highly visual and entertaining Language School Tours with costumed Living History actors run all year. They are devised to suit students learning English. Active participation is encouraged.
Seasonal Experiences at Dalkey Castle
Halloween
The Witches take over the Castle and are cackling from the battlements. Help the Wizard to gain entry. Dash underneath the Murder Hole and dodge through the terrible things that descend upon your head. The Bad Witch is making gruesome dishes including her speciality, Witches’ Pie.
Christmas Experience with Santa
The Castle Christmas Experience with Santa is full of fun, stories, singing and games. Get into the Christmas spirit by practicing Santa’s favourite song with Jingle. See what food the reindeers eat and the tiny treats for the elves. Tell Twinkle what goodies you will leave out for Santa and the reindeers.
Guided Walks at Dalkey Castle
Literary Walks
From Beckett to Bono and 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. Among the readings, landmarks and anecdotes, discover where characters in Flann O’Brien’s The Dalkey Archive drank Hurley’s tonic wine;
Historical Walk
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.
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
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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 coast line with magnificent sea views. Dalkey is approx. 30-35 minutes from 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 Nearby.
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.
Open: Monday - Friday: 10.00 -17.30, Saturday, Sunday & Public. Holidays: 11.00- 17.30
June, July & August: Monday - Friday: 10.00 -18.00, Saturday, Sunday & Public. Holidays: 11.00 - 18.00.
November & December: Monday - Friday: 10.00 -17.00, Saturday, Sunday & Public. Holidays: 11.00 - 17.00.
Christmas Closure: Closed from Thursday 22nd December, re-opening Thursday 5th January 2023.
Do I have to go on a guided tour?
Standard admission is fully guided. Book your ticket now by clicking here. See The Visit for more details.
How long is a tour?
Seventy minutes approx.
What changes can we expect because of Covid-19?
All visitors must wear a face covering and bring proof of your vaccination. 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 €13.95, Concession €12.95, Child (under12) €10.50 Families (two adults and up to two children, under 12) €38. Booking Fees apply.
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 01 285 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 the coast about 12 km from Dublin city heading south. We are within a five-minute walk of Dalkey DART station. There are bus options too.
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! Group bookings can be made by phoning 01 2858366 or email [email protected]
Is there a coach parking available?
Coach Parking is available on Hyde Road less than five minutes away.
Is there a cafe in the Castle?
No but there are lots of cafes and coffee shops close by.
Can I take photos inside and outside the Castle?
Yes, photos are permitted but no video or filming is allowed.
What our Visitors say...
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Had a guided tour of Dalkey Castle and heritage centre yesterday. It was an excellent tour led by a lovely lady called JD. We got a very warm welcome ... read more 
Mary H
February 28, 2023 This was a very informative and fun tour! Great for children and adults. The staff were very friendly, helpful, and fun! We will be back! 
melissajL2081RY
February 12, 2023 Really great activity. Actors were fantastic. It was interesting and very entertaining. Just good fun. 
BD10000000
January 22, 2023
Directions & Transport
Dalkey is on the coast, just south of Dublin City Centre. The DART journey is a relaxing experience travelling along the beautiful coast line with magnificent sea views.
Dalkey is approx. 30-35 minutes from Connolly, Tara or Pearse stations (travelling south).
Dalkey Castle postcode for Google Maps is A96 DE61.
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
ADULTS €13.95*
CONCESSION / STUDENT €12.95*
CHILD (4-12 YEARS) €10.50*
FAMILY (2 ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN) €38.00*
*Plus Booking Fees
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