Saint Patrick’s Cathedral has been part of Ireland’s history for over 800 years and today is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Dublin City. Founded in 1191 in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral offers visitors a rich and compelling cultural experience and is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin. St Patrick baptised Christian converts on this site 1500 years ago.
It is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and the largest cathedral in the country. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, was dean of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in the 1700s and he is one of many burials on site. The phrase 'to chance your arm' originates from a feud that played out within the walls of St Patrick's. The cathedral is world famous for its choir, established in 1432, which still performs daily during school term. In recent years the Lady Chapel, dating from 1270, has been restored to its original glory.
Guided tours of the cathedral take place regularly throughout the day. A free app can be used for self guided tours.
- A Night at the Opera by Candlelight
AutumnA Night at the Opera by Candlelight London Concertante presents a sensational evening at the opera with an array of the finest opera arias and overtures, performing works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Mozart.
- Saint Patrick's Cathedral Night Tours
AutumnSaint Patrick's Cathedral Night Tours Embrace the seasonal allure of Dublin's history on a Guided Night Tour at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral this winter!
- A Georgian Christmas Gala Dinner
AutumnA Georgian Christmas Gala Dinner Step back in time and experience what it would have been light to celebrate Christmas in the era of Jonathan Swift.
- Jonathan Swift Festival 2025
AutumnJonathan Swift Festival 2025 Experience Swift like never before! The Jonathan Swift Festival is back for 2025 with several events celebrating the birth of one of Ireland’s most celebrated writers and former Dean of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Jonathan Swift Festival: Savage Indignation
AutumnJonathan Swift Festival: Savage Indignation Savage Indignation, a musical exploring the life of Jonathan Swift told through interviews, theatre and music.
- Whitney Houston by Candlelight
Whitney Houston by Candlelight Calling all Whitney Houston fans! You have been Saving All Your Love for this Moment In Time! Get ready to experience the best of Whitney Houston All At Once, at this epic live concert, starring Kieshia Chun and her Million Dollar Band!
- Christmas by Candlelight at Saint Patrick's Cathedral
Arts and cultureChristmas by Candlelight at Saint Patrick's Cathedral The ultimate Christmas concert is here! Join a spectacular cast of West End singers and incredible live band, as they perform your favourite Christmas Hits, as you have never heard them before!
- Handel's Messiah
Arts and cultureHandel's Messiah The Irish Baroque Orchestra's annual production of Handel's Messiah is an established highlight of the December calendar. Performed on period instruments and with chorus, it captures Handel's much-loved work in all its original colour and splendour.
Marsh's Library, beside the Cathedral is a must. It's the oldest public library in Ireland and contains 25,000 books.
