Things to do in County Kildare

Unlock the story of the “Black Stuff” when you book Guinness Storehouse tickets online, skip the queues, and secure your free pint at the Gravity Bar

Founded back in 1220, Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. It's also the tallest church in Ireland, boasting a 43-metre spire and some pretty impressive Gothic architecture. A well on the grounds of the cathedral is said to have been used by St. Patrick himself to baptize Ireland's pagan population into Christianity. The grounds are also the burial site of the Anglo-Irish writer of Gulliver's Travels, Jonathan Swift. Today, the cathedral is one of Dublin's must-see landmarks for visitors to the Fair City.

Visit the original distillery where John Jameson first set up his shop in 1780

Learn about Irish history and trace your family roots

Dublin Castle has been at the center of Irish life since King John of England ordered its erection in 1204. Standing over much earlier structures including a Viking fortress and, possibly, a Gaelic ringfort, it forms the social and political heart of historic Dublin. Visiting Dublin Castle, you’ll get to see the majestic State Apartments, the Viking ruins underneath, and the ancient Black Pool where the river Liffey meets its underground tributary the River Poddle. The seat of British administration in Ireland for 700 years, this glorious collection of buildings recounts the history of Dublin like no other.

One million Irish people fled Ireland during the famine. 2,500 took a gruelling voyage on the Jeanie Johnston. Take a journey back in time, get an insight into life on board a Famine ship and hear the stories of the people who made the arduous voyage.

The National Wax Museum Plus is right in the middle of Dublin, just a two minute walk from Trinity College, and close to other highlights like Dublin Castle and Temple Bar. Here's where stars of the present - like Liam Neeson and U2 - rub waxy shoulders with greats of the past - including Samuel Beckett and James Joyce. There are other fun features as well, including a green screen video studio, a chamber of horrors, and the Kid's World area.

Unlock the wonders of Dublin with a bus tour

If you like a little tipple on a day trip, here's a destination for the Dublin list. The Teeling Whiskey Distillery, right in the heart of the city centre is the perfect place for anyone interested in Dublin's association – or, more accurately, obsession – with Irish whiskey. The Bang Bang Bar has great views over the city, and the on-site café has delicious food to help soak up all that booze.

Built around 1028, Christ Church is Dublin’s premier cathedral. Remarkably, this medieval structure is the nominal seat of both the Anglican (Church of Ireland) and Roman Catholic archbishops of Dublin. It's also one of two medieval cathedrals in the same city.

Unlock Dublin's wonders with a city card!

The GPO Museum is located inside the General Post Office on Dublin's O’Connell Street. This grand building, designed by Francis Johnston in 1814, is easy to reach by Dublin Bus, as well as via Bus Éireann and other national bus companies. It's also a three-minute walk from the Abbey Street stop on the Luas Red Line.

Mount Usher Gardens is renowned internationally as one of the finest examples of Robinsonian gardens. Just an hour from central Dublin, Mount Usher is the perfect place for a day trip to County Wicklow. There are various types of Mount Usher Gardens tickets, including self-guided experiences and group tours. Find all the best options on this page and make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Visit the historic library, see the famous Book of Kells, and walk around the campus

Experience the Cliffs of Moher & West of Ireland: Leave Dublin for the day and see the coast

Step back in time and enjoy art, furniture and stories of times past in Ireland’s best intact Georgian mansion and estate, nestled among the wildflower meadows of Newbridge Demesne. Newbridge Farm has an interactive and educational discovery trail through the farm and various rare breeds of animals. Meander through the walled garden and orchard and then back to the cobbled stone courtyard for some retail therapy. Only 30 minutes by car from Dublin city centre and parking is free. We’re easy to access by bus and train too with regular services from Dublin. For more information visit www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com

Experience interactive exhibits and optical illusions

Eliminate the stress of getting to and from Dublin airport