Under 18s Go Free for August 2026
Enjoy free admission for all under-18s from 1–31 August 2026.
This initiative offers young people a fun and memorable way to connect with history, nature and culture over the summer holidays.
Explore castles and historic tower houses, peaceful monasteries, beautiful botanic gardens and military forts.
Pre-booked tickets are required in order to manage capacities at sites for the duration of the pilot scheme, and all children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
*Free admission to all fee-paying sites with the exception of Kilmainham Gaol and Brú na Boinne*
Discover everything our heritage sites have to offer this Summer. Take part in interactive tours or discovering Ireland’s cultural heritage first-hand.
We have many planned events and activities suitable for all.
Pre-booked tickets are required in order to manage capacities at sites for the duration of the pilot scheme, and all children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
“Unearthed” LEGO Mission Challenge! - Donegal Castle
Join FIRST Lego League 2026 all Ireland champions Cully Coders, to see first-hand their coded LEGO robots complete a host of archaeological missions in under 2.5 minutes!
Boat Trip to Parke’s Castle and Tour
Every Wednesday, the Rose of Innisfree Boat Tour departs from Doorly Park Jetty, Sligo at 10:30am, offering a scenic cruise across Lough Gill to the majestic Castle on the Leitrim shore.
Living History:-Bringing the 17th century to life
Step back in time with our planned Living History tours and find out what it was like to be a 17th century soldier or working on an estate.
Craft Fair at Ferns Castle
Join us at Ferns Castle for a memorable day of craft, history and heritage preservation. You may even find some unique handmade treasures!
Archery Demonstration at Athenry Castle
Paul Burke will be giving demonstrations, talks and will instruct in ‘have a go’ archery.
Paint your own Medieval Mellifont Tile
Pick a painting session and explore your artistic potential!
A Visual Exploration of Ireland’s Archaeological Heritage - Rathfarnam Castle
Presented by Irish National Monuments Service Photographic Archive, (DHLGH) in collaboration with OPW, Monuments in Focus: A Visual Exploration of Ireland’s Archaeological Heritage, an exhibition of photographs from the National Monuments Service Photographic Archive.
Outdoor Yoga Class
Experience Outdoor Yoga in the peaceful and stunning grounds of Annes Grove Gardens. Sessions will take place every Sunday at 10:00 during the month of August.
Seaweed Soap making on Scattery Island
Fascinating live demonstration of eco-friendly soap making using locally harvested Scattery Island seaweed.
Guided Breathwork in Donegal Castle with Rory Price
Experience a guided breathwork meditation within the serene walls of Donegal Castle during Heritage Week.
‘The Prisoners’ Lens: Secret photography in Kilmainham Gaol, 1921’ Exhibition.
A unique collection of photographs taken by Irish Republican Army (IRA) volunteers imprisoned in Kilmainham Gaol during the Irish War of Independence.
Planned Itineraries
A variety of itineraries are available to plan your visit this August. From day trips to week long excursions to specialised itineraries, there is something for all the family to enjoy.
