What it is
Opened in 1796, the gaol held ordinary prisoners, Famine-era convicts awaiting transportation and, above all, generations of political prisoners. The guided tour takes you through the grim old west wing, the bright Victorian east wing familiar from many films, and the Stonebreakers' Yard where the executions took place.
Visits are by guided tour only and tickets sell out days ahead in high season; book online before you travel.
Getting there by bus
The gaol is in Kilmainham, about 3.5 km west of the centre. Buses along Emmet Road and the South Circular Road stop at Kilmainham Gaol, right outside the entrance, and the Suir Road Luas stop on the Red Line is about ten minutes' walk.
The Irish Museum of Modern Art in the Royal Hospital is next door, and the Guinness Storehouse is 20 minutes on foot back towards town.
