How to Book Kilmainham Gaol Tickets: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

Kilmainham Gaol is one of Dublin’s most evocative historic sites. Built in 1796, it served as a prison for over a century, holding everyone from petty offenders to key figures in Ireland’s fight for freedom. Standing in the cold wings, you sense the weight of history and a quiet sorrow. This guide helps you book your visit, understand why the site is so deeply moving, and make the most of what’s nearby.

How to Book Tickets

• Only buy tickets from the official Kilmainham Gaol Museum website (click here to access it). Other sites, including resellers, are invalid you will be refused entry.

• Tickets go on sale exactly 28 days before the date you want, at midnight Irish time.

• Be online by 11:55 pm Irish time and refresh the page sharply at 00:00 for your best chance.

• If the date looks sold out, check the site again between 9:15 and 9:30 am. Cancellation slots are often released at this time.

Why Booking Is Hard

• Kilmainham Gaol can only be visited by guided tour, and there are a set number of tours which take place each day.

• There are limited tour time slots, and each group has a maximum of 35 people.

• Demand remains high because the site connects deeply with Ireland’s dramatic history.

What Makes Kilmainham Gaol Important

Kilmainham Gaol is more than just a museum, it is a national monument to resilience and sacrifice. Built in 1796, it served as a prison for over a century. Many ordinary Dubliners were jailed here for minor offences, but it is best known for holding political prisoners during Ireland’s fight for freedom.

In 1916, after the Easter Rising, several of its leaders were executed in the Stonebreakers’ Yard. Standing there today, you can still feel the weight of history. The guided tours are led by passionate historians who share the personal stories behind the prisoners - tales of courage, hardship, and the human cost of independence.

Getting to Kilmainham Gaol by Public Transport

• Taxi: Depending on your location, a taxi might be the best option! I recommend the FreeNow app (similar to Uber) for fast, easy taxi journeys in Dublin.

• Tram (LUAS): The LUAS red line will take you to from the city centre to Heuston Station. From there, it's a gentle 20 minute stroll through the gardens of IMMA (The Irish Museum of Modern Art) to Kilmainham Gaol. Click here to access my recommended route on Google Maps.

What to Expect on Your Visit

• Arrive at least 15 minutes early. If you're there well in advance there's a nice coffee shop called Cool Hand just a 4 minute walk away - they open at 8::00 am.

• The guided tour lasts about 1 hour. Allow another 30 - 45 minutes for the museum, more if you like to read everything!

• If you're visiting towards the end of the day, you're allowed to enter the museum to explore there first before your guided tour slot.

• The building can get very chilly duirng the winter so make sure to wrap up!

• Strollers, large bags, and suitcases are not allowed on tours. There is space to leave belongings, but it is not secured (no lockers or guards) and the museum takes no responsibility for lost or stolen items.

• Tours are not recommended for children under 6 years old.

• Wheelchair users or those needing assistance should contact the site in advance on kilmainhamgaol@opw.ie to arrange accessible visits.

Kilmainham Gaol Ticket Prices

These prices are valid as of August 2025. Always check the official website for up to date information.

• Adult: €8

• Senior (60+): €6

• Student: €4 (valid ID required)

• Children under 12 are free, you'll be able to book an 'under 12 complimentary ticket'

• Family ticket (2 adults + 2–3 children under 18): €20

Looking for Lunch Nearby?

Here are some of my favourite spots within a 15 minute walk of Kilmainham Gaol.

• The Patriots Inn: Directly across from Kilmainham Gaol, this pub serves hearty Irish food in a relaxed setting. It’s a great choice if you want a traditional atmosphere and filling classics like fish and chips, Irish stew, or a well-poured pint.

• Urban8: A casual, modern pub and bistro just a short walk from the gaol. Known for fresh, well-presented dishes, it’s a good pick for lunch or dinner after your tour!

• Tacos Lupillo: For something different, head to Tacos Lupillo. This little 'hole in the wall' spot serves up authentic Mexican street food. The tacos are fresh and flavourful, perfect if you fancy a bit of spice!

What to Do Around Kilmainham Gaol

If you want to make a day of it, here are some great spots within a 15 minute walk from the gaol for culture, reflection, and/or a pint!

• Royal Oak Pub: A cosy, traditional pub just five minutes from the gaol. Perfect for a quiet pint and a chance to take in the history you’ve just experienced. Open from 4:00 pm weekdays, 12:30 pm weekends.

• Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA): Located in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, this gallery showcases contemporary art in a striking historic building and gardens. Right across the street from the gaol!

• Irish National War Memorial Gardens: A peaceful space dedicated to those who died in World War I, ideal for a reflective stroll.

Enjoy your visit to Kilmainham Gaol, and make sure to check out our unique small group walking tours around Dubin to learn more about our city's history!