St Patrick's Cathedral: A Dublin Landmark
Explore Dublin's iconic St Patrick's Cathedral: a historic landmark with stunning Gothic architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
St Patrick's Cathedral, the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland, is a must-see landmark in Dublin, steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Founded in 1191, the current structure dates back to 1220-1259, built on a site with ancient connections to St Patrick himself. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a cathedral to a courthouse and even a university, before being restored to its cathedral status. The cathedral's architecture showcases a Gothic design, featuring a cruciform shape with a nave, choir, and transepts. Constructed from local limestone and Bristol stone, the interior is adorned with historical monuments, including the tomb of Jonathan Swift, the renowned author and former Dean of St Patrick's. Visitors can explore the cathedral's chapels, admire the stained-glass windows, and learn about its fascinating past through guided tours. Today, St Patrick's Cathedral remains an active place of worship and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can attend services, explore the cathedral at their own pace, or join a free guided tour led by a cathedral verger. The cathedral also hosts special events and concerts throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Local tips
- Take a free guided tour to delve deeper into the cathedral's history and significance.
- Check the cathedral's schedule for services and events to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Visit Marsh's Library, located next to the cathedral, for a glimpse into a preserved 18th-century library.
A brief summary to St Patrick's Cathedral
- St Patrick's Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3, IE
- +35314539472
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-10:30 am
Getting There
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Walking
St Patrick's Cathedral is easily accessible on foot from Dublin city center. From Trinity College, walk southwest along Dame Street, then continue onto Lord Edward Street. Turn left onto Christ Church Place, then continue onto Patrick Street. The cathedral will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.9km and should take about 23 minutes.
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Public Transport
Numerous Dublin Bus routes serve St Patrick's Cathedral. From O'Connell Street, take bus routes 27, 49, 54a, 77a, or 151 to the 'Patrick's Cathedral' stop. The ride is approximately 20 minutes, and a single fare is around €3. Alternatively, the Green Line Luas (light rail) has stops within a 12-minute walk.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Dublin. A taxi from Dublin city center to St Patrick's Cathedral typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€10 for the ride.
