History Springs to Life at
Dalkey Castle

 

Dalkey Castle
Guided Walks

Experiences at Dalkey Castle

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ABOUT DALKEY CASTLE & HERITAGE CENTRE

Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre near Dublin City Centre, Ireland is one of the remaining (of seven) Rare, Fortified, Medieval, Townhouse Castles from the 14th century, in the vibrant, heritage town of Dalkey.

Medieval Irish Castle specialising in sustainable tourism with professional local guides & actors in period costume interacting on:

Guided Tours e.g. award-winning Living History Tour (Castle, Church&Graveyard, Writers Gallery & Heritage Centre with interactive screens & scale models)

Guided Walks (historic and/or literary)

Special Events & Festivals like Bloomsday & the Maeve Binchy Echoes Literary Festival

Group Luxury Experiences such as a Medieval Heritage Evening or Literary Legends.

Ideal as a day tour from Dublin and often combined with a guided walk, boat tour or visited alongside other local attractions, Dalkey Castle & its stunning scenic surroundings has long established itself as one of Dublin’s leading and top reviewed tourist attractions; high on ‘things to do in Dublin’ lists.

Together with the connected 10th Century Churchyard of St. Begnet, it a Recorded National Monument & Landmark which these days functions as a top-rated, popular, family-friendly, activity. It is an essential destination for anyone with an interest in Ireland’s people, culture, literature and Viking & Medieval History.

Dalkey, a vibrant heritage town with a village vibe, sits on part of the Dublin Coastal Trail dubbed ‘Ireland’s Amalfi Coast’, popular with locals, celebrities and tourists alike. It has a wealth of boutique shops, cafes, bars & restaurants to explore after your tour.

TOUR OPTIONSDalkey History

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  We had a great time at Dalkey Castle. The performers were great and the staff was warm and inviting. I would highly recommended if you are in Dublin, to take... read more

    avatar thumb SouthBayKat
    February 8, 2024

    star rating  An unique experience. - What a pleasant experience! A special mention to our guide Mr Fran and his amazing knowledge, patience and care with our group. The actors also made an unique experience. ... read more

    avatar thumb Vendramini68
    February 5, 2024

    star rating  Excellent Santa Experience 2023 - We went to the Santa Experience and it was amazing. We have been to quite a few but this one was truly great. Very well organised, easy and really engaging.... read more

    avatar thumb Jessica O
    December 21, 2023
  • star rating  Simply the best, on all fronts. - Went to the Christmas show with my Grandchildren. Fantastic experience for them, magical setting, excellent interaction by all the team with the kids. Best value around. We'll be back! Many... read more

    avatar thumb Alan N
    December 3, 2023

    star rating  This was the most delightful tour we have been on in years! What fun to get to interact with “real” people who lived in the castle 100s of years ago!... read more

    avatar thumb katiebug_56
    November 27, 2023

    star rating  A great experience  - They did such an amazing job! A really fun tour that went into detail regarding the history of the castle, but the area of Dalkey itself. Fun with friends and... read more

    avatar thumb Devin M
    November 23, 2023
  • star rating  Worth your time - Very welcoming and knowledgeable. Actors did a great job and were very interactive. Definitely not stop by if you have the time. It is very easy to travel to Dalkey... read more

    avatar thumb Gus L
    November 23, 2023

    star rating  Small but really worthy! Actors and sceneries are well adapted and are really funny. You will have a nice experience with this tour!

    avatar thumb Mariana B
    November 20, 2023

    star rating  Castle tour  - Great tour for all ages, with fantastic interactions with the historical characters. The views from the rooftop was stunning.

    avatar thumb ann t
    November 13, 2023
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