Kilmainham Gaol

If for no other reason, Kilmainham Gaol would be remarkable for being the biggest unoccupied gaol in these islands.

As such, it gives the visitor a dramatic and realistic insight into what is was like to have been confined in one of these forbidding bastions of punishment and correction between 1796 when it opened and 1924 when it closed and offers a panoramic insight into some of the most profound, disturbing and inspirational themes of modern Irish history.

Leaders of the rebellions of 1798, 1803, 1848, 1867 and 1916 were detained here. Such names as Robert Emmet, Charles Stewart Parnell, leaders of the 1916 Rising and DeValera are associated with the Gaol.

The visit includes a guided tour and exhibition. Please note that this is a very busy site and visitors may experience a delay during the summer months. Access by guided tour only.

Enjoy an incredible vacation through Ireland’s bustling cities and lush green countryside. Your trip begins in Dublin, Ireland’s capital. First, see the famous sights of Dublin and take an excursion to the fascinating passage graves in the Boyne Valley. An orientation tour of Dublin includes a visit to Oscar Wilde’s Trinity College, famous for the 1,200-year-old Book of Kells. Then visit Strokestown House for a guided tour of the restored 1740s mansion. Learn about the Great Famine of the 1840s at the Famine Museum. Experience beautiful Donegal on the Atlantic Coast and visit Kylemore Abbey, a massive yet graceful castle acquired by Benedictine nuns as a precious heirloom for Ireland.

At Rathbaun Farm, hear all about sheep shearing and dog whistling. For another unique experience, take a short ferry ride to the Gaelic-speaking Aran Islands to hear from your Local Guide about island community life. At the Cliffs of Moher, rising 668 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, savor breathtaking views of the Clare Coast. In Limerick, enjoy a city tour and visit King John’s Castle. Then travel to Killarney and enjoy sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, winding lanes, and breathtaking views of the Lakes of Killarney on the scenic Ring of Kerry drive.

Travel to Blarney, known for its castle and magical Kissing Stone, and Waterford, where you visit the Waterford Crystal Factory. Visit Powerscourt, Ireland’s most famous house and gardens, before returning to Dublin, where your Ireland vacation ends.Due to the adventurous style of the Aran Islands excursion, we recommend you bring suitable outdoor wear and comfortable shoes.