An Iarnród Éireann diesel multiple unit commuter train at Pearse Station in Ireland

Tara Street Railway Station

Tara Street Railway Station Dublin: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Tara Street Railway Station, centrally located in Dublin’s city centre, is both a critical commuter hub and a gateway to the city’s rich cultural and historical landmarks. From its origins in the early 20th century to its ongoing redevelopment into a modern, mixed-use transport and commercial hub, Tara Street Station reflects Dublin’s evolution as a vibrant European capital. Whether you are a daily commuter, a history enthusiast, or a tourist seeking convenient access to Dublin’s attractions, this guide provides all the essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby sights, travel tips, and the future of Tara Street Station.

For the latest updates and details on services, always refer to Irish Rail and Transport for Ireland.

Introduction
History and Architectural Significance
Visiting Information
- Opening Hours
- Location and Access
Tickets and Fares
Accessibility
Transport Connections
Nearby Attractions and Photography Spots
Travel Tips
FAQ
Redevelopment and Future Plans
- Project Scope and Timeline
- Impact on Visitors and the Local Area
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

History and Architectural Significance

Origins and Early Development

Tara Street Railway Station’s story is intertwined with the evolution of Dublin’s suburban rail network. Its roots lie in the construction of the Loop Line viaduct in 1891, linking Connolly (then Amiens Street) and Pearse (then Westland Row) stations across the River Liffey. However, Tara Street Station itself opened later, on September 13, 1907, to meet the burgeoning demand for a centrally located commuter stop as Dublin’s suburban population expanded (Irish Rail).

The station’s placement—on the viaduct above George’s Quay—was dictated by the dense urban environment and the need to avoid disrupting road and river traffic. Its only entrance remains on George’s Quay, with no access directly from Tara Street itself.

Design, Expansion, and Upgrades

The original station buildings were utilitarian, prioritizing passenger flow over ornamentation. Built on a viaduct, platforms are elevated, offering sweeping views of the River Liffey and city skyline. Over the decades, the station has seen significant upgrades:

Platform extensions to accommodate eight-carriage DART trains, especially after DART electrification in 1984 (History of Irish Rail).
Accessibility improvements including lifts, ramps, and improved footbridges (Irish Rail Accessibility).
Entrance modifications to streamline passenger movement and improve integration with the urban landscape.

While Tara Street Station is not protected as a historic structure, its architecture is increasingly valued as part of Dublin’s transport heritage (Archiseek).

Role in Irish Rail History

The station’s development is a key chapter in the story of Irish railways. Following the world’s first commuter railway (Dublin and Kingstown) in 1834, Tara Street’s location on the Loop Line enabled seamless north-south suburban travel, cementing its status as the city’s busiest commuter station (History of Irish Rail).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Station hours: Typically open from 05:30 to 00:30 daily. Hours may vary depending on the first and last scheduled trains.
Ticket office: Staffed during peak hours; self-service ticket machines are available throughout operating hours.

Location and Access

Address: George’s Quay, Dublin 2, D02 VK59, Ireland.
Walking distance: Minutes from Trinity College, Temple Bar, O’Connell Street, and the Custom House.
Directions: Easily reached by foot, bus, or bike from most city centre locations.

Tickets and Fares

Purchase options:
- Self-service machines (cash/card)
- Staffed ticket counter (during main hours)
- Online via Irish Rail or the Irish Rail app
- Leap Card: For discounted pay-as-you-go travel across trains, buses, and trams
- Leap Visitor Card: Unlimited travel for 1–7 days, ideal for tourists
Fares: City centre singles typically range from €2–€3.50; up-to-date pricing at Irish Rail Fares.

Accessibility

Step-free access via lifts and ramps to all platforms (Irish Rail Accessibility).
Tactile paving for visually impaired passengers.
Staff assistance available during operating hours.
Wheelchair access: Station and platforms are wheelchair accessible; check for any temporary lift outages before travel.
No on-site car or bike parking due to the central location.

Transport Connections

Rail: DART and commuter services to Howth, Malahide, Bray, Greystones, Maynooth, Drogheda, Arklow, and more.
Bus: Multiple Dublin Bus routes stop nearby, including frequent services to suburbs and Dublin Airport.
Luas (tram): Red and Green Line stops (Abbey Street, Marlborough, St. Stephen’s Green) are a 10–15 minute walk away.
Taxi and rideshare: Ranks on George’s Quay; Free Now and Uber operate citywide.
Cycling: DublinBikes stations nearby; bike racks at street level.
Airport: Airlink Express (Route 784) from Custom House Quay (5-minute walk) to Dublin Airport.

Nearby Attractions and Photography Spots

Trinity College Dublin: Book of Kells and historic campus (7-minute walk)
Temple Bar: Dublin’s cultural quarter with pubs, restaurants, and galleries (10–15 minutes)
Custom House: Iconic neoclassical riverside building
Ha’penny Bridge: Famous pedestrian bridge over the Liffey
Grafton Street: Shopping and street performances
Photography: Elevated platforms offer unique cityscape and river views

Travel Tips

Peak hours: 07:00–09:30 and 16:30–19:00 are busiest; travel off-peak for comfort.
Luggage: No left luggage at Tara Street; use facilities at Connolly or Heuston stations if needed.
Safety: Station is monitored by CCTV and staffed; exercise standard precautions.
Service updates: Check Irish Rail before travel, especially during redevelopment works.

FAQ

Q: What are Tara Street Railway Station’s opening hours?
A: Typically 05:30–00:30 daily; check Irish Rail for specific times.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, via Irish Rail, the Irish Rail app, or Leap Card/Visitor Card.

Q: Is the station wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with lifts, ramps, and staff assistance available.

Q: Is there parking at Tara Street?
A: No, due to its central location.

Q: How do I get to Dublin Airport?
A: Take the Airlink Express (Route 784) from Custom House Quay.

Redevelopment and Future Plans

Project Scope and Timeline

A transformative redevelopment is underway at Tara Street Station, led by Ronan Group Real Estate (RGRE) and CIÉ. The plan includes a 22-storey mixed-use tower—the tallest office and hotel building in Ireland—integrated with upgraded station facilities (Irish Times, Independent.ie, SkyscraperCity). Key features:

88m tall, 22 floors with premium offices, hotel, retail, and public spaces
Enhanced passenger concourse and improved station access
New retail and hospitality options

As of mid-2024, the project is delayed due to legal and financial disputes. CIÉ is seeking repossession of the site after expiration of the developer’s lease, and a new planning application is likely (Irish Times). Piling is complete but above-ground construction has not started.

Impact on Visitors and the Local Area

Station operations: Remain uninterrupted, but allow extra time for possible temporary changes to access during construction.
Urban regeneration: The project aims to revitalize the area with improved public spaces, lighting, and amenities.
Safety: Standard precautions apply; redevelopment is expected to enhance the area’s vibrancy and security.

Conclusion

Tara Street Railway Station stands at the crossroads of Dublin’s past, present, and future. Its strategic location, comprehensive transport links, and accessibility make it an indispensable part of the city’s daily life and a convenient launchpad for exploring Dublin’s attractions. While the ambitious redevelopment promises to redefine the city’s skyline and commuter experience, visitors should stay informed about service changes and construction progress through official channels.

Plan your visit to Tara Street Station today, and consider downloading the Audiala app for real-time travel updates. For the best experience, check Irish Rail and Transport for Ireland for the latest schedules, ticketing, and accessibility information.