What is it and why is it famous?
Kilmainham Gaol, south of the River Liffey, is a site where many Irish greats were imprisoned and executed during the Easter Rising and War of Independence. Now open as a museum, this building played a pivotal role in the history of Ireland. You might recognise that famous interior from movies like 'The Italian Job', 'The Wind That Shakes The Barley', and 'Paddington 2'.
Is it worth visiting?
Anybody with an interest in Ireland will hear fascinating stories of how the Easter Rising unfolded and how members of The Easter Rising in 1916 were executed here in The Stonebreaker's Yard. Look inside the cells that held up to five inmates at a time before many were shipped off to Australia.
Do you need to book?
Booking in advance is always advised. This museum gets very busy. The best way to enjoy it is probably via a tour; these can both be found on GetYourGuide or on the Kilmainham Gaol website (children aged 12 and under go for free), and will take a total of an hour. There are family tickets also available. Generally, people tend to spend about 1.5 hours here.
Where's good to eat nearby?
Cool Hand Luke Coffee Roasters is a great spot nearby for an ethically-sourced, artisan-made, grab-and-go coffee. For something with a little more kick, The Old Royal Oak on Kilmainham Lane is one of the cosiest pubs in Dublin.
📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Dublin
