Mansion House

Mansion House Dublin: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Dublin on Dawson Street, the Mansion House stands as one of Ireland’s most significant civic landmarks and is the official residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor. With over 300 years of continuous use, the Mansion House is a rare architectural gem that has witnessed pivotal moments in Irish history, including the first Dáil Éireann in 1919, and continues to serve as a venue for official functions, cultural events, and public engagement. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Mansion House’s history, architectural features, visitor information—including opening hours, ticketing, and accessibility—and tips for making the most of your visit (Dublin City Council; Visit Dublin; Your Daily Adventure).

Anti-Treaty IRA Convention at the Mansion House Dublin on April 9th 1922 with Liam Lynch and his Divisional Staff and Officers

Crowd gathered outside Mansion House Dublin before Irish War of Independence truce July 8 1921

Liam Lynch with Divisional Staff and Officers of the Brigades at Army Convention Mansion House Dublin April 1922

Engraving of the equestrian statue of George I in the Mansion House gardens, Dublin

Portrait of Ernest Blythe Sinn Fein member at the first Dail Eireann meeting January 1919

Irish Parliament session in Mansion House, Dublin with Sinn Fein members, women, priests, and students in attendance

Liam Lynch with Divisional Staff and Officers of IRB Brigades at Army Convention Mansion House Dublin 1922

Lord Mayors House Dublin historic Mansion House illustration 1728

Historic Mansion House in Dublin with classical architecture and an Irish flag on a sunny day

Liam Lynch with Divisional Staff and Officers of the Brigades at Army Convention, Mansion House Dublin, April 9 1922

Republican politicians Michael Collins, Harry Boland, and Eamon de Valera at Mansion House 1919

Portrait of Queen Victoria wearing the sash of the Order of St Patrick in 1854

Historical Overview
Origins and Early Development
Civic and Political Significance
Architectural Features and Preservation
Practical Visitor Information
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility and Getting There
Dining and Events
Cultural and Social Importance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Dates and Facts
Plan Your Visit
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1705–1715)

The Mansion House was constructed between 1705 and 1710 by Joshua Dawson, a prominent developer after whom Dawson Street is named. Designed as a Queen Anne-style townhouse, it was noted for its elegance and fashionable architecture of the era. In 1715, the Dublin Corporation (now Dublin City Council) purchased the Mansion House for £3,500, establishing it as the official residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor—a tradition that continues today (Dublin City Council; Your Daily Adventure).

Civic and Political Significance

As the residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor, the Mansion House is the oldest mayoral residence in continuous use in Ireland and the UK. The building played a crucial role in the formation of the Irish State; on January 21, 1919, the Round Room hosted the first meeting of Dáil Éireann, where the Irish Declaration of Independence was proclaimed. Since then, it has been a venue for major state ceremonies, international receptions, and events that have shaped Dublin’s—and Ireland’s—political landscape (TOBIN; Visit Dublin).

Architectural Features and Preservation

The Mansion House is a rare surviving example of early 18th-century Queen Anne architecture in Ireland. Notable features include:

Original Brickwork & Façade: The original brick façade was plastered over in the 19th century, but the building retains its elegant symmetry and sash windows.
Round Room: Added in 1821 to host King George IV, the Round Room is famed for its domed ceiling and was the setting for the first Dáil Éireann.
Oak Room: Used for civic receptions, featuring oak paneling and portraits of former Lord Mayors.
Interior Highlights: The Entrance Hall contains original 1715 panelling and a Kilkenny marble fireplace; the Dining Room (added in 1864) features Victorian mahogany furniture and historic portraits.
Modern Upgrades: Recent improvements include a passenger lift, accessible entrances, and a Juliet balcony for the Lady Mayoress’ Parlour, ensuring accessibility while preserving architectural integrity (Irish Independent; Dublin City Council).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The Mansion House is primarily a working civic building, not open daily to the public. However, it welcomes visitors during special events such as Culture Night, Open House Dublin, and select guided tours:

Typical visiting hours: Vary by event; always consult the official website for current information.
Admission: Free during open days and most public events; some guided tours may require advance booking and a small fee.

Booking Tours

Tours are generally offered during major cultural events or by arrangement for groups and educational visits. Booking is recommended via the Dublin City Council website or through trusted tour operators (Your Daily Adventure).

Accessibility and Getting There

Accessibility: The Mansion House has accessible entrances, a passenger lift, and hearing loop systems. Visitors with specific needs should contact the venue prior to their visit.
Location: Dawson Street, Dublin 2—central and easily reached by bus, Luas Green Line (St. Stephen’s Green stop), and nearby parking at Kildare Street multi-storey.
Nearby Attractions: St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College Dublin, and Grafton Street are all within walking distance.

Dining and Events

FIRE Steakhouse & Bar: Located within the Mansion House, FIRE offers award-winning Irish cuisine in the historic 1864 supper room. Reservations are recommended (Visit Dublin).
Event Spaces: The Mansion House is a sought-after venue for civic receptions, conferences, and private events. The Round Room and Oak Room can be booked for special occasions (Your Daily Adventure).

The Mansion House is more than an official residence; it is a symbol of Dublin’s civic identity and a venue deeply embedded in the city’s social and political life. It has hosted revolutionary assemblies, royal visits, and commemorations, and today remains a focal point for public celebrations, charity events, and cultural festivals (Dublin City Council News; Dublin Guide). Events such as the Lord Mayor’s Charity Ball and the annual Christmas Live Animal Crib highlight its ongoing community engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Mansion House Dublin visiting hours?
A: The Mansion House is open to the public mainly during special events such as Culture Night and Open House Dublin. Check the official website for current dates and times.

Q: Are there tickets or fees for entry?
A: Admission is generally free during public open days. Some specialized tours or events may require advance booking and a ticket fee.

Q: How do I book a guided tour?
A: Guided tours are available during major events and by arrangement for groups. Bookings can be made online through the Dublin City Council or via local tour operators.

Q: Is the Mansion House accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building has accessible entrances, a passenger lift, and hearing loop systems. Contact the venue ahead of your visit for tailored assistance.

Q: Are there dining options on site?
A: Yes, FIRE Steakhouse & Bar is located within the Mansion House and is open to the public.

Q: Can the Mansion House be booked for private events?
A: Yes, the venue is available for civic, private, and corporate events, subject to the Lord Mayor’s schedule and advance booking.

Q: Is photography permitted?
A: Photography may be restricted during official or private events. Please consult staff or the event coordinator during your visit.

Key Dates and Facts

1705–1710: Construction of the Mansion House by Joshua Dawson
1715: Purchased by Dublin Corporation for £3,500
1821: Round Room added for King George IV’s visit
1864: Addition of the Dining Room (now FIRE Steakhouse & Bar)
1919: First Dáil Éireann meets in the Round Room, Declaration of Independence proclaimed
1969: 50th anniversary of the First Dáil, attended by President Éamon de Valera
21st Century: Ongoing modernization and accessibility upgrades

Plan Your Visit

Address: Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Nearest public transport: Luas Green Line (St. Stephen’s Green), Dublin Bus routes
Parking: Kildare Street multi-storey car park
Dining: FIRE Steakhouse & Bar
Updates and events: Official Mansion House website, Your Daily Adventure

Maximize your experience by downloading the Audiala app for guided tours, notifications on special events, and exclusive content. Follow Dublin City Council and Audiala on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes insights.

Summary

The Mansion House remains a vibrant symbol of Dublin’s civic heritage, combining architectural beauty, historical depth, and ongoing community engagement. Its continuous use as the Lord Mayor’s residence, site of key historical events, and host to cultural celebrations makes it an essential stop for anyone exploring Dublin’s past and present. For the latest information, always consult official resources and consider pairing your visit with nearby attractions to fully immerse yourself in the city’s cultural tapestry (Dublin City Council; Visit Dublin; Your Daily Adventure).