Dublin Castle is a historic gem which has the added advantage of being used for modern government ,in a town renowned for appreciating its diverse and interesting history.
A visit to Dublin Castle is enhanced by the energetic and enthusiastic tour guides. You wait in a reception room, for the appointed time, and then a guide joins you for a very professional group tour to share a look back in time, with a difference.
What sets Dublin Castle apart from others is that it is still used as a seat of power, a conference centre and a historic and has the most impressive Chester Beatty Library. It is a visitor attraction but government and council business is operating from here, all the time. In the International Conference Centre the suite is used for Ireland's hosting of the Presidency of the European Union.
A highlight at Dublin Castle is the State Apartments, on the South side of the Great Courtyard; a close second is the Chapel Royal (1814), the King's Chapel is absolutely fabulous - I loved the vaulting and carved oaks - don't forget to look up when you get in here, it's memorable.
Visit the 1883 Coach House where once you would have seen the Viceroy's Coach and all the horses but nowadays you're more likely to attend a conference, dine or enjoy an exhibition in this building.
In day's gone by the 1811 Ship Street Army Barracks would have been a hive of industry for those men trained to keep Ireland safe but modern times sees it used at the Revenue Commissioners offices.
The Dubhlinn Gardens, created in the 1680's is perhaps where you may take the time to focus on the name of this leading Irish city - ''dark pool'' or dubh linn as it was known in ancient days - now it's Dublin.
The Treasury building has stood on site since 1714 and is now reported to be the oldest office block in Dublin and you'll find the ever faithful gift shop here as well as a restaurant.
I went into the 1226 Norman Tower, I appreciate the medieval history wherever I go, so of course popped in to the ``Record Tower'' for a look. It was a prison and now houses the Garda Museum. Worthy of your leisure/travel time as it is a way to learn more about Dublin and Ireland's colourful past.
At the end of the tour you can opt for a guided visit to the undercroft and I do recommend this as you learn about how the castle evolved, structures, and even how the stores were brought into the castle by boats from the river Liffey which flowed right up to the castle.
The background information on the role Dublin Castle has played in the evolution of Dublin and Ireland is of really high standard. There's so much to learn here and I suggest it is ideal for families and educational tours.
While I was there I never thought I'd be writing a review about it so this may seem short on detail. Sorry. Have ferreted out some pamphlets on the visit so have had a bit of help, just as well as the memory cannot be relied upon fully.
Getting there is easy. It is in the centre of Dublin and you only walk a small distance and signage leads you to what I consider an impressive, working castle and conference venue.
It is presented with real passion, commitment to history and a pride in the role it has played in Ireland's evolution, sitting on the south side of the River Liffey. (Off Dame Street if you are walking there.)
Dublin Castle has survived destruction in the 1916 rebellion, civil war, fires and it did fall into disprepair but it has withstood all - to be most worthy of your time and travel investment money, put it on your must-see list.
(The following information I got off the internet as I had not kept relevant info in my travel pamphlets!)
It is open for guided tours Monday to Friday from 10am to 4.45pm and Saturday and Sunday (as well as public holidays) 2pm until 4.45pm. It costs Adults Euro4.50, students and seniors Euro3.50 and children under 12 years old Euro2.00.
You can entrance the castle from Palace Street, Cork Hill or Ship Street. Take Dublin Bus on routes 77, 77a, 56a or 49 from Eden LQuay or number 123 bus from O'Connell Street.
If you're driving a vehicle, there are a number of carparks around Dublin Castle but the closest is probably Jury's Inn Christchurch.
