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St Patrick's Cathedral
St Patrick's Cathedral
Nave of a church with banners on either side and stain glass windows in the background
St Patrick's Cathedral
Dublin City, Co. Dublin
  • History and heritage
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Rainy days
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Dublin’s most visited landmarks. Founded in 1191, its history stretches back to 450 AD. It stands today as one of the few surviving medieval buildings in the city and is the burial place of Jonathan Swift.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral has been part of Ireland’s story for over 800 years. In honour of Ireland’s patron saint, it offers a rich cultural and spiritual experience, built on the site where Saint Patrick is said to have baptised early Christian converts 1500 years ago.

It is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland, and the largest in the country. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, served as Dean of the cathedral in the 1700s and is buried here. The phrase “to chance your arm” originated within its walls. The world famous choir, founded in 1432, still performs daily during school term. Visitors can explore the cathedral through guided or self guided tours available every day.

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Upcoming events
  • Lunchtime Recital: Positive Vibes
    Lunchtime Recital: Positive Vibes
    Family funLunchtime Recital: Positive Vibes

    Positive Vibes is a lively variety singing group formed in 2022 by Maria Roche, a choreographer, theatre and musical director.

    20 December
  • Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata by Candlelight (20/12/25)
    Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata by Candlelight
    Arts and cultureBeethoven’s Moonlight Sonata by Candlelight

    Experience an enchanting evening at our Candlelight Concert, where the flickering glow of candles sets the stage for a captivating musical journey.

    20 December
  • Christmas Movies by Candlelight (20/12/25) Music
    Christmas Movies by Candlelight (20/12/25)
    Arts and cultureChristmas Movies by Candlelight (20/12/25)

    Get ready to unwrap the ultimate holiday treat with London Concertante’s ‘Christmas at the Movies’ concert, a jolly journey through the heart-warming and hilarious worlds of beloved Christmas films.

    20 December
  • The Snowman (23/12/25)      /
    The Snowman
    Family funThe Snowman

    Take a break from your last-minute Christmas shopping and other such seasonal stresses and come join us with the whole family in Saint Patrick’s Cathedral to hear the timeless tale of James and the Snowman..

    23 December
  • Hand holding image of sketch made at Cathedral Sketching
    Cathedral Sketching: Draw and Discover
    History and heritageCathedral Sketching: Draw and Discover

    Spend an idyllic afternoon sketching the beautiful architecture of the iconic Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin.

    5 January - 10 January 2026
  • First Fortnight in partnership with St Patrick's Cathedral, 2 smiling people taking a selfie up high in stone building with blurry view of city below
    First Fortnight: Dublin at Dawn
    Health and wellbeingFirst Fortnight: Dublin at Dawn

    Following its sold-out debut at the 2025 festival, Dublin at Dawn returns by popular demand for First Fortnight 2026.

    12 January - 16 January 2026
  • Women Of Note with Aoife Scott and friends
    Women of Note with Aoife Scott & Friends
    Arts and cultureWomen of Note with Aoife Scott & Friends

    Women of Note, curated and presented by Aoife Scott, is a celebration of artists from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

    21 January 2026
  • Chords and Timbre, Reeds and Strings
    Chords and Timbre, Reeds and Strings
    Arts and cultureChords and Timbre, Reeds and Strings

    Chords and Timbre, Reeds and Strings with Matt Molloy, Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill, Paddy Glackin, Derek Hickey, and Mike McGoldrick and special guest Stephen Rea.

    22 January 2026
Tips from locals

Marsh's Library, beside the Cathedral is a must. It's the oldest public library in Ireland and contains 25,000 books.

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+35314539472
St Patrick's Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3, Ireland
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We recommend 1 hour here.

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