Visiting Four Amazing TradFest Venues in Dublin
This article is based on a podcast episode. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
Stepping (virtually) into four historic buildings that will transform into TradFest venues in Dublin- but you can also visit on your own! Jody will also share a few handy Dublin travel tips!
Visiting Four TradFest Venues in Dublin
Today’s episode of the Traveling in Ireland Podcast is sponsored by Temple Bar TradFest, Ireland’s largest festival of music in some of Dublin’s most historic places. Get more information at TradFest.ie.
Though I love Irish music what really intrigued me about TradFest was the venues. More than 50 concerts over 5 days taking place in barracks and banks, cathedrals and castles, government buildings and pubs.
Today I'm sharing bits of tours of a few of these buildings from TradFest's own podcast, along with information on how to visit these sites during the day for a different perspective. To listen to all the TradFest podcasts visit tradfest.podbean.com or search for Temple Bar TradFest on your favorite podcast host.
Learn more about Temple Bar TradFest in podcast 60
At the end of the episode I'll share a few Dublin travel tips you can put to use- no matter when you visit!
TradCast Intro
St Patrick's Cathedral
The current building dates to 1220, adjacent to a well where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts
Many people have been commemorated in the church. A few highlights include Celtic grave slabs, St. Patrick's Well, and the Lady Chapel.
How to visit
St Patrick's Cathedral is easily reached on foot from the city centre. Guided tours are offered throughout the day. Admission tickets may be booked online. St. Patrick's cathedral admission is also included in the Dublin Pass.
St. Patrick's Cathedral website
St. Michan's Church
Established 1095, St. Michan's is still a working church
Best known for its crypts…
How to visit
Visits are by guided tours only. Schedule may vary if church has an event, but a good base to plan around is
1 November – 16 March:
Monday to Friday: 12:30pm – 3:30pm
17 March – 31 October:
Monday to Friday: 10am – 12:45pm / 2pm – 4:30pm
Saturday (all year round): 10am – 12:45pm
The church does recommend calling or emailing if you have questions about visiting.
House of Lords
The Former Irish Houses of Parliament now house the Bank of Ireland.
Located just across the street from Trinity College
The Lower House of Commons was dismantled due to condition of sale and is now the Banking Hall. The upper House of Lords and the building interiors remain unchanged.
How to visit
You can access the bank during business hours but the House of Lords Chamber may not be available if a private function is being hosted.
Guided tours available on Tuesdays only at 10:30am
Rathfarnham Castle
Fortified Elizabethan house commissioned in 1583
How to visit
Rathfarnham Castle is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and is open daily through the summer season, Wednesday thru Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays, October thru April.
Dublin Travel Tips
Don't drive in Dublin. Period.
Dublin city is very walk-able. For the farthest locations (like Rathfarnham Castle) you'll find public transportation – buses, Luas (light rail), and trains very easy and affordable.
Book attractions online to save both time & money. Kilmainham Gaol, Book of Kells & Guinness Storehouse immediately come to mind.
If you will visit OPW Heritage Sites across the country consider purchasing the OPW Heritage Card . Dublin sites include Kilmainham Gaol, Rathfarnham Castle, Dublin Castle, and a dozen other heritage attractions.
Save time & money with the Dublin Pass. Use code FAMILYVACATIONS to save 15% off 5 day passes and 5% off 3 day passes at Dublin Pass Expires: 31st December 2018
Finally, be prepared for Dublin's high prices. The capital city is a popular place and accommodations are in high demand. Due to recent legislation set to take place in summer 2019 AirBnB availability will decrease in Dublin city.
Search Dublin Accommodation with Booking.com
Thanks for Listening
If you enjoyed this podcast please be sure to leave a 5* review on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Questions or comments? Email jody@irelandfamilyvacations.com and, as always, thanks for listening.
Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 61
If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review at iTunes, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast host.
Stream our podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play Music.
- Discover Ireland's Hidden Charms: Fall and Winter Travel Insights - September 12, 2024
- How to get Around Dublin - September 9, 2024
- Dublin Airport – Tips for Arrival and Departure - September 9, 2024
