The Best Deal in Irish History (Literally): Why the OPW Heritage Card Is a Smart Buy
From ancient monasteries to mighty castles, Ireland’s OPW Heritage Card offers unlimited entry to dozens of incredible sites for one flat fee – making it one of the best travel values on the island.
When I travel through the republic of Ireland, whether it be with my family or hosting a tour group, it is rare for me to not have an OPW (Office of Public Works) card in hand.
The Office of Public Works maintains 780 heritage sites across Ireland and manages the 70 sites with visitor services.
Ireland’s History Lover’s Pass: An Overview of the OPW Heritage Card
The OPW Heritage Card offers access to many of Ireland's most iconic historic sites and landmarks for a single fee for a 12-month period.
Where do I get an OPW Heritage Card?
I recommend purchasing your OPW Heritage Card at the first fee-paying site you visit.
Handy tips for purchasing your OPW Heritage Card:
- If purchasing from a remote spot I recommend having cash on hand in case the digital terminals are down (it happens)
- Children under age 12 are admitted free to OPW sites
- Passes are available for adults, seniors, students, and families
- Current rates can be found here
- Note: English Heritage members are entitled to free entry to all OPW sites
- For sites that recommend pre-booking (Newgrange & Kilmainham Gaol) you do NOT need to have an OPW card in hand to make your no-cost booking (see video below for tips)
- The pass allows free admission to OPW sites. Some sites may have parking or transport facilities handled by outside providers, additional fees may apply
- Example: parking at the Rock of Cashel
- Ferry to Scattery Island
- Ferry to Skellig Michael
- Tip: On the first Wednesday of each month many OPW Heritage Sites offer free admission to individual visitors and families. See the list here.
While you can order your OPW Heritage Card online, I don't think it is necessary, especially if you are visiting from outside the EU as shipping is not included.
What Sites Can I Visit with the OPW Heritage Card?
Ireland's iconic sites that are managed by the OPW include
- Ross Castle, Skellig Michael, and Scattery Island in the southwest
- The Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle, and Kilkenny Castle in the southeast
- Dublin Castle and Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin city
- Trim Castle, the Hill of Tara, and Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Newgrange) in the Boyne Valley
- Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Donegal Castle, and Céide Fields Neolithic Site in the northwest
All heritage sites in care of the OPW can be found here.
Is the OPW Heritage Card Always a Good Deal?
That really depends on what your itinerary looks like.
If you plan to visit 6-7 OPW sites that charge a fee, the card will be worth the purchase price. It is easy to visit 6-8 sites in a one-week trip without feeling rushed.
If most of your time will be spent around Dublin, you may want to consider one of the GoCity Dublin Passes (save 5% with my link + code AFFGOALL) as it includes many of the OPW sites as well as other Dublin attractions.
