15 August 2025 |
Family Activities
Places to Celebrate National Heritage Week in Ireland
by Erin Doyle
Brú na Bóinne is famous for the spectacular prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth. The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to 3200BC and contains the largest collection of megalithic art in Western Europe.
During Heritage Week, Brú na Bóinne often hosts special tours, storytelling sessions, and even archaeological workshops.
The Rock of Cashel is home to the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. It features round towers, a Romanesque chapel, and sweeping views of the Golden Vale. According to legend, St. Patrick himself came here to convert the king of Munster to Christianity. To celebrate Heritage Week 2025, the Rock of Cashel is offering free admission to anyone who uses public transport in an initiative called ‘Local Link to the Past.’
This is your chance to explore Ireland’s best- preserved medieval city. The Medieval Mile is led by expert storytellers who recount 800 years of history — from St. Canice’s Cathedral to Kilkenny Castle and everything in between! This week, the Museum plans to host events like Story Time at the Museum, a LEGO Heritage Hunt, and guided tombstone tours at St. Mary’s Church. Look out for Heritage Week walking tours, medieval re-enactments, and hands-on workshops for all ages.
Dating back to the 6th century, Glendalough is Ireland’s most renowned early Christian monastic settlement. It has lots of monastic remains, the most impressive being the Round Tower which stands 30m high. The ruins of an old stone fort and 3 stone crosses can be found between the Upper and Lower Lake. During Heritage Week, Glendalough is hosting a Family Fun Day on August 17th with LEGO workshops, an archaeological dig, and a natural fence building workshop.
Explore the oldest known field systems in the world at The Céide Fields! Wander up the edge of a 110m cliff to find a viewing platform that’ll help you appreciate the wild beauty of Mayo. The Céide Fields offer a state-of-the-art visitor centre, walking trails, and often family-friendly activities during Heritage Week. It’s living proof of Ireland’s deep agricultural roots. These fields help solve the mysteries of the people who lived and farmed there 6000 years ago.
Dublin Castle is a gateway to centuries of history dating back to the Viking Age. It once served as the headquarters of British administration before Ireland finally reclaimed its independence in 1922. The Education Team is offering a FREE specialised tour of the castle as part of Heritage Week 2025. While you’re there, visit the Chester Beatty Library, home to a world-class collection of manuscripts and rare books that highlight Ireland’s impact on art across the globe.
Clonmacnoise is another impressive early Christian site dating back to the 6th century. You’ll find 2 round towers, 3 high crosses, 9 churches, and over 700 grave stones! The original crosses are housed in the visitor centre, along with a fascinating flora and fauna exhibition. On the 16th August, Heritage Week brings free guided tours at 10am, 2pm, and 4pm.
The National Museum of Ireland offers an incredible insight on daily Irish life between 1850 and 1950. See artefacts from the Iron Age and even find life-size exhibits of tigers and bears! For Heritage Week, expect a vibrant programme of free tours, interactive storytelling, and craft demonstrations. The museum’s famous 29-min guided tours are a celebration of Irish history.
Kilkenny Castle is the result of 800 years of continuous development and has a very colourful history. This week, travel using the (TFI) Local Links service for a free entry pass to the castle from your bus driver. Book a guided tour to discover the castle’s role in shaping Kilkenny’s history, and why it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Or, just stroll through the castle’s 50 acres of gorgeous gardens and woodlands – It makes a great day trip from Dublin!
Finish your Heritage Week journey at one of Ireland’s most amazing ancient sites. Dún Aonghasa is a prehistoric stone fort perched on a cliff’s edge on Inis Mór, offering spectacular views across the Atlantic. The Aran Islands, known for their strong Irish traditions, is where you can easily stumble upon trad music, dance and locals’ storytelling. They offer an ideal space to celebrate Ireland’s rich heritage.
