Open House Dublin is heading into its final weekend, but there’s still plenty of time to get out and discover the city. From walking tours and remarkable private homes to historic churches and contemporary buildings, the festival continues until Sunday 18 October, with free events across Dublin city and county.
This year’s theme, Dublin Is Living, celebrates the people, places and communities that shape our city. And whether you’re curious about a familiar street, keen to step inside a building you’ve always wondered about or looking for something different to do this weekend, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore.
The best part? Many tours are drop-in, so you can simply turn up, while a selection of bookable events still have tickets available.
Take a Walk Through Dublin
Sometimes the best way to discover Dublin is on foot. Evolving Place: A Walking Tour of The Liberties explores how one of the city’s most distinctive neighbourhoods has changed over the past decade. From new parks and public spaces to the reuse of historic buildings, the tour looks at how The Liberties continues to evolve while holding on to its character.
For something a little different, join historian Fergus Whelan for an Irish-language walking tour, Turas siúlóide as Gaeilge le Staraí Fergus Whelan Margadh na Feirme, exploring the revolutionary history and stories of the streets around Chancery Park and the former markets area.
Both offer a chance to look again at the streets we walk every day and uncover the people, events and changes that have shaped them.
Behind the Doors of Dublin
One of the particular joys of Open House Dublin is the chance to step inside places that aren’t usually open to the public.
In Dalkey, Ardbrugh Road by Richard Murphy Architects offers a rare look inside a private home designed around a dramatically sloping site, with terraced gardens and spectacular views across Dublin Bay.
Further afield in Enniskerry, Ballybrew Barn by DUA takes inspiration from the familiar agricultural sheds of the Wicklow countryside, transforming their simple forms into a contemporary home that sits carefully within its landscape.
If historic buildings are more your thing, there’s plenty to discover too. St Stephen’s Church, affectionately known as the Pepper Canister, is one of Dublin’s most recognisable Georgian landmarks, while Discovering John’s Lane Church on Thomas Street reveals an extraordinary Gothic interior, stained glass, mosaics and the stories behind this much-loved Liberties landmark.
For a glimpse of contemporary city living, Canvas Point Campus Student Accommodation in the Docklands opens its doors to show how shared spaces, study areas and amenities are designed around the everyday lives of students.
These tours are all part of the festival’s drop-in programme, making it easy to add a little architecture to your weekend.
Last Tickets: There’s Still Time to Book
There are also some great opportunities remaining for those happy to plan ahead.
Just added to the programme, City Hall on Dame Street offers a chance to explore one of Dublin’s finest Georgian buildings, including its magnificent Rotunda, with tours in Irish and English on Friday 16 October.
In Clontarf, 39 Castle Grove by Brennan Furlong Architects explores how two neighbouring homes have been adapted for modern family life while respecting the character of their residential street.
At Brickfield Square in Drimnagh, visitors can explore a contemporary residential development, from shared amenities to the communal courtyard, and discover how architecture can help create a sense of community.
The conversation about our shared spaces continues outdoors with Fairview Park: Beyond the Pitch, exploring a community-led vision for the future of one of Dublin’s important green spaces.
In the city centre, the Grafton Street Quarter Public Realm Walking Tour offers a fresh perspective on the streets, public spaces and design decisions that shape how people move through and experience Dublin.
In Balbriggan, The Lark opens its doors for a behind-the-scenes look at the award-winning concert hall and Irish Institute of Music and Song, where architecture, music and community come together.
Make the Most of the Final Weekend
From private homes and historic landmarks to neighbourhood walks and new spaces for living, Open House Dublin is an invitation to experience the city differently.
You don’t need to be an architecture expert. Just bring your curiosity, take a walk, step through a door and discover something new about the places and people around you.
Open House Dublin runs until Sunday 18 October. All events are free. Drop-in tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while other events require advance booking. Explore the programme, check tour times and book remaining tickets at openhousedublin.com.
Feature Image: Ardbrugh Road, Dalkey by Richard Murphy Architects
