The Enchanting Book of Kells Experience
Discover the artistic brilliance and historical significance of the Book of Kells at Trinity College Dublin, where culture and history intertwine.
A brief summary to The Book of Kells Experience
- Trinity Long Room, The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, Dublin, South-East Inner City, IE
- +35318962320
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
The Book of Kells Experience, located at Trinity College Dublin, is a must-see for anyone visiting Ireland. This stunning exhibition showcases one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts in the world, the Book of Kells, created by Celtic monks around the year 800 AD. As you enter, you are greeted by the vibrant colors and intricate designs that have captivated audiences for centuries. The experience not only highlights the artistry of the manuscript but also delves into the history of the time, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of Ireland's medieval past. In addition to the Book of Kells, visitors will be enchanted by the Long Room, an awe-inspiring library that houses over 200,000 old books and is lined with towering wooden shelves. The atmosphere is nothing short of magical, with the scent of aged paper and the sight of ancient texts creating a unique ambiance. The Long Room also features stunning marble busts of great writers and philosophers, adding to the cultural richness of the experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking to explore Dublin’s cultural gems, the Book of Kells Experience promises a rewarding visit. The exhibition is designed for all ages, making it an ideal stop for families. Be prepared to spend several hours delving into Ireland's literary heritage, and don’t forget to visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist season.
- Take your time in the Long Room; it's a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Check the exhibition hours online before visiting to ensure you have enough time to explore.
Getting There
-
Bus
From Drogheda, walk to the Drogheda Bus Station located on the Donore Road. Take the bus to Dublin City Centre. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Once you arrive at Dublin City Centre, disembark at the 'O'Connell Street' stop. From there, walk to the nearest Luas station (Abbey Street) and take the Luas towards 'Tramway' to the 'Dawson Street' stop. Finally, walk towards Trinity College, where The Book of Kells Experience is located at the Trinity Long Room.
-
Train
From Drogheda Train Station, board a train heading to Dublin Connolly Station. The train journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Dublin Connolly Station, exit the station and walk towards O'Connell Street. From there, you can take a bus or walk to Trinity College. If walking, head south on O'Connell Street, cross the River Liffey via the O'Connell Bridge, and continue on to College Green where Trinity College is located. The Book of Kells Experience is situated within the college.
-
Walking
If you find yourself near the town center of Drogheda, you can enjoy a scenic walking experience to Dublin which is approximately 50 km away. The best route is to follow the R132 road south towards Dublin. However, this is a long trek and not recommended for most tourists. Consider public transport options for a more convenient journey.
Attractions Nearby to The Book of Kells Experience
-
Trinity College Library
-
The Berkeley Library
-
Campanile
-
Parliament Square
-
Trinity College Dublin
-
Irish Whiskey Museum
-
Gormleys Art Gallery Dublin
-
Grafton Street
-
Styne (1986) by Clíodna Cussen
-
O'Donoghue's Bar
-
Secret Sculpture Garden
-
The Steine
-
Henry Grattan Monument
-
Parliament House
-
Dublin Literary Pub Crawl
Landmarks nearby to The Book of Kells Experience
-
Trinity Long Room Hub
-
School of Histories and Humanities, Arts Building, Trinity College Dublin
-
TCD Arts Building
-
The Douglas Hyde Gallery
-
Museum Building (Geology, Geography and Civil Engineering)
-
Thomas Davis Statue & Memorial Fountain
-
Temple Bar
-
The National Wax Museum Plus
-
Patrick Sheahan Memorial
-
Phil Lynott Statue
-
Original Dublin - Walking Tours & Experiences
-
The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant
-
Ecological Museum at Trinity College
-
Statue Palm
-
O'Connell Monument