St Patrick's Cathedral: Self-Guided Cathedral Admission
Rathmines, Dublin
As the largest cathedral and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Ireland, Saint Patrick’s has been at the heart of Dublin and Ireland’s history and culture for over 800 years. Visit the cathedral and learn about its history.
Overview
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin offers a self-guided tour suitable for history enthusiasts and visitors interested in Irish heritage.
Highlights
- Visit the burial site of Jonathan Swift, author of 'Gulliver's Travels' and former dean of the cathedral
- See the Door of Reconciliation, which inspired the Irish expression 'to chance your arm'
- Explore the cathedral’s history through interactive touch screens and take a brass rubbing in the Discovery Space
- Admire Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, including a depiction of Saint Patrick's life in 39 images
Description
Built in 1220, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral honors Ireland’s patron saint and stands next to the well where Saint Patrick is believed to have baptized converts. It serves as the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and hosts sung services twice daily from Sunday to Friday.
The cathedral displays artifacts related to Jonathan Swift, who served as dean from 1713 to 1745. Its recent addition, the Discovery Space, features iPads with choir recordings and touch screen technology detailing the cathedral’s extensive history.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral represents the cultural and historical heritage of Ireland, reflecting its people from ancient times to modern day.
Includes
- Self-guided admission
- Audio guides
Important Information
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
We recommend booking in advance for preferred time slots. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to uneven flooring. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
