Discover the regal interior of this historic mansion, which was built for William Connolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. . Castletown House participates in the Dublin Pass program, which offers free or discounted access to many attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Dublin Writers Museum. Hours vary seasonally, and both guided tours and self-guided tours are available.
There is a fee to enter the house, but the grounds and river walks are open every day and access is free.
If you plan to explore the grounds and river walk, wear waterproof shoes, as it may be soft or muddy underfoot.
Snacks, coffee, and lunch are available at the on-site Courtyard Café.
Only the ground floor of Castletown House is wheelchair-accessible.
No backpacks are allowed in the house; lockers are available for storage.
Castletown House is located 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from Dublin city center and is easily accessible by car via Exit 6 off the M4. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation by bus is also available; bus No. 67 takes approximately 45 minutes from Dublin to Celbridge Main Street, and Castletown House is a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
Opening hours at Castletown House vary by season, with limited hours during winter months. Summer is the most popular season to visit; to avoid crowds, choose a weekday during summer instead of a Saturday or Sunday. The grounds are open 365 days a year with no fee to enter. The river walk and parklands are popular with locals.
One of the most fascinating aspects of a visit to this country mansion is learning about its restoration. In 1965, the house was sold, left vacant, and subjected to vandalism. In 1967 restoration by the Irish Georgian Society began. Visitors today hear stories about decades of conservation, both in the house and on the grounds.
