Dublin’s Best Castles and Churches

Whether modest or ornate, petite or vast, nestled or displayed; Castles and Churches in Dublin command a sense of awe. In their presence you understand how old the city really is and how these monuments hold its history. If these walls could talk.

Dublin being so flat and condensed, it is a very walkable city so most Castles and Churches can be easily visited just by a leisurely stroll.

Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church is a Viking Church that was first established by two prominent Dublin figures of the 11th century, Norse King Sitriuc and Dublin’s first bishop, Dúnán. It later became The Church of Ireland (Anglican).

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Named for the patron saint of Ireland, construction started on the county’s largest Cathedral in 1220. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels was once dean and is buried there.

Dublin Castle

For 800 years Dublin Castle was the home of English control over Ireland until it was handed over to Michael Collins in 1922. Numerous historical figures form Charles Dickens to John F Kennedy have been entertained there and fun fact, Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula used to work there.

Clontarf Castle

Compared to the other structures in this list, Clontarf Castle is young with its origins dating 1837. It’s a popular hotel and wedding venue. It’s a beautiful place to visit for afternoon tea.

St. Audoen’s Church

Erected in 1190 in the middle of medieval Dublin, St. Audoen’s was one the wealthiest parishes in the city. It’s undergone extensive restoration due to its importance to not just religion but architecture. Its graveyard is also worth a visit.

John’s Lane Church

Bejeweled with stunning mosaics and stained glass, construction began in 1862 on this French Gothic inspired church. Located in Dublin’s historic neighborhood, The Liberties, you’ll have lots to see around this landmark.

Drimnagh Castle

Just 10 km outside the city center, Drimnagh Castle is unique because it’s the last castle in Dublin that is surrounded by a flooded moat. Tours are available for a small fee. Courses on the craft of dry-stone walling (stone walls without mortar) are also taught here.

Luttrellstown Castle Resort

This 12 room 16^th century castle sits on nearly 600 acres and has its own 18 hole golf course. Visit the place where soccer super star David Beckham and Posh Spice tied the knot.

Rathfarnham Castle

Rathfarnham Castle dates back to the Elizabethan Era (1558 to 1603) and is the earliest fortified house in Ireland used as protection by the English from Irish clans.  The Castle is open every day during the summer season and is open throughout the winter except for Mondays and Tuesdays.

The Church Bar & Restaurant

The former St. Mary’s Church of Ireland was built in the early 18^th century, closed in 1964 and resorted in 2007 into a popular café bar and restaurant.  Go see where famous Irish revolutionary, Wolfe Tone was baptized whilst enjoying your favorite cocktail.

There is so much more to see in Dublin and across Ireland so keep checking back for our top tips, not just here but around the world!

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Thanks guys and see you soon! (Hopefully in Ireland 🙂 )

Chris and Larry