Bedford Tower, Dublin Castle, Ireland

Dublin castle was originally built on the orders of King John of England in 1204 on a site previously settled by the Vikings. He ordered that a castle be built with strong walls and good ditches for the defence of the city, the administration of justice, and the protection of the King’s treasure.

The castle was of typical Norman courtyard design, with a central square, bounded on all sides by tall defensive walls and protected at each corner by a circular tower. The castle formed one corner of the outer city wall, using the Poddle river as a means of defence along two of its sides.

The Bedford Tower of 1761 comprises the centrepiece of the Castle's principal Georgian courtyard. The statues of Fortitude and Justice on the gates were sculpted by John Van Nost the Younger in 1753. The tower was built over the original twin-towered entrance into Dublin Castle which was equipped with a portcullis and drawbridge and also served as a prison.

It was from this building the Irish Crown Jewels were mysteriously stolen in 1907. They were never recovered.

Opening Times

Monday - Saturday: 10.00 - 16.45
Sunday and Bank Holidays: 14.00 - 16.45

Last admission at 16.45

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Ticket Prices

Adult: €4.50
Students & Senior Citizen: €3.50
Child (under 12): €2.00

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Disabled Facilities

Acess for visitors with disabilities to State Apartments, Chapel Royal and restaurant.

Toilet for visitors with disabilities.

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More Information

Telephone: 00 353 (0)1 645 8813
Email: dublincastle@opw.ie

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