Source: Government of Ireland
Dublin Castle was followed by Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Kilmainham Gaol, and the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre- iconic landmarks that continue to play a pivotal role for both domestic and international tourism.
Regional Growth and Heritage Highlights
The 2025 figures highlight regional growth across the country, with notable increases at Ross Castle, Derrynane House, Tintern Abbey, Trim Castle, Cahir Castle, Swiss Cottage, Donegal Castle, and Sligo Abbey.
Dublin and Leinster: Kilmainham Gaol saw a robust 12% increase in visitor numbers. While Dublin Castle retained the top spot, 2025 volumes were impacted by Government business including Presidential Inauguration and preparations for Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council in 2026.
In Laois, Emo Court reopened in May 2025 after conservation works to improve the visitor experience- the site experienced an uplift of 50 % in visitor numbers as a result. In Meath, Trim Castle recorded a 4% rise, while the Battle of the Boyne at Oldbridge Estate saw an 8% increase. Brú na Bóinne also continued its strong performance in recent years, with a 5% uplift.
Munster: The iconic Rock of Cashel saw a 3% increase in visitors. Notably, Derrynane House saw a nearly 6% rise in visitors, following a programme of events to mark the 250th Anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell. Ionad an Bhlascaoid (The Blasket Centre) continued its upward trend with a 7% increase on the previous year.
Connaught:Aughnanure Castle experienced growth of over 8%, largely attributed to an increase in trade visitors. Sligo Abbey recorded a significant 34% uplift in visitor volumes. This success is credited to deep engagement with the local community, new community-focused events, and the provision of new bus parking facilities outside the site, in collaboration with Sligo County Council.
The Midlands: Corlea Trackway in Co. Longford saw a 13% increase, with more families visiting the site as part of their holiday to the nearby Center Parcs.
A diverse and engaging events schedule will run across the heritage sites in 2026; from Irish Sign Language tours, to engaging children’s workshop and a host of biodiversity events. The OPW has complied an itinerary planner for visitors which is available at Itineraries | Heritage Ireland
For more information on the heritage sites and information on planning your visit, please visit heritageireland.ie
NOTES TO EDITOR
*2025 data, and data for previous years, is available at the link below:
**The top 10 ticketed heritage sites are set out below: