St. Patrick's Cathedral is Ireland's largest church and the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland (Anglican), founded around 1191 in honour of Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, beside a well where he is said to have baptised early converts. It is famous as the burial place of Jonathan Swift, author of 'Gulliver's Travels', who served as Dean here from 1713 until his death in 1745, making it a literary and historical landmark as well as a place of worship. As of 2026 it remains an active worshipping cathedral with a living choral tradition, while also operating as a ticketed heritage attraction. Within easy walking distance of the city centre, it pairs well with Christ Church Cathedral and Marsh's Library for a half-day itinerary.
The tomb of Jonathan Swift and that of his companion 'Stella' (Esther Johnson), with Swift's self-penned Latin epitaphs, his pulpit and death mask
The 'Door of Reconciliation', linked to a 1492 truce between the Butler and Fitzgerald families — the origin of the English phrase 'to chance your arm'
The towering, multi-tiered 17th-century Boyle Monument to Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, and his family
Medieval floor tiles and a medieval stone font still in use, reflecting more than 800 years of building history
Ireland's oldest choir, dating to 1432, with choral services and evensong you can hear on weekdays during school term
Good to know
RulesEntry for tourists is ticketed, and prices and opening hours change seasonally and around events. Always confirm the latest fees and times on the official website before visiting (2026 adult admission is listed at about €11.50, subject to change).
MannersTourist access is limited or requires quiet during services, choir rehearsals, weddings and concerts. Sundays are worship-focused with no guided tours and shorter public hours, so a weekday morning is best.
MannersAs a working cathedral, dress modestly, avoid flash and tripods when photographing, and refrain from taking photos during services out of respect.
SeasonDublin is rainy year-round and cool even in summer, so bring an umbrella or waterproof jacket and a light layer. The stone interior stays chilly even on warm days.
CautionBuy tickets from the official website or the on-site box office. Third-party resellers may add inflated fees, and the guided tours are free with admission, so there is no need to pay separate 'tour' touts.
SafetyThe area is generally safe, but as with any Dublin city-centre attraction stay alert to pickpockets in crowds; wear bags to the front and keep valuables secure.
Practical info
The cathedral is at St Patrick's Close, Dublin 8 (D08 H6X3), at the junction of Patrick Street and Upper Kevin Street, about a 15–20 minute walk from Trinity College. The nearest Luas stop is Harcourt on the Green Line (roughly an 11-minute walk), and many buses (49, 54A, 56A, 77A, 151 and others) pass nearby. Opening hours, admission and the free guided tours (listed Mon–Sat at 10:30 and 14:30) can vary with the worship schedule, so check the official website for the latest details.
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