The Historic Liberties Tour

01.01.25 – 31.12.25

Outside of the western gates of Dublin’s ancient defensive walls lay districts that were not bound by the laws and taxes of the city authorities. The King of England exceptionally granted these areas their own jurisdiction and they were usually controlled by a local abbey or cathedral. They became known collectively as The Liberties and developed their own brand of Dublin culture much of which is still in colourful evidence today. The area became known for its collection of distilleries and breweries.

Prices

From €325 for up to 3 hours (1-8 people)

€85 per additional hour

€85 per tour supplement for European language

Duration

3 hours – with the option to extend if desired.

Meeting Point

Private tours may start from your hotel and finish where you wish. If your hotel is not in the city centre, we can arrange a mutually convenient meeting point
Coombe Hospital Memorial

Take a Closer Look

Because their taxes were lower than in the main city, many craft trades settled here, and immigrant populations of Dutch, French Huguenots and German Palatines settled here in the 17th century. The Liberties became the most vibrant quarters of the city but eventually, thanks in part to punitive taxation, they succumbed to depression and blight. Today they are coming to life again and the old is now mixing with the new. Once the place of choice for distilleries and breweries their modern counterparts are re-establishing. Whiskey and gin firms such as Teelings, Roe & Co, the Dublin Whiskey Distillery, Pearse Lyons and, of course, Guinness, are making their distillations and brews and welcoming guests. So, join us for a walk along streets that have seen so much history, hope, poverty, tragedy, revolution and eventual renewal which is still ongoing and maybe raise a glass or two in memory of all who passed this way before.

 

Places we will see or pass by

  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral
  • Newmarket Square
  • Meath Street
  • St Catherine’s Church
  • St. Patrick’s Tower/Smock Windmill

Relevant self-guided or guided visits 

  • Teelings Distillery
  • Roe & Co Distillery
  • Pearse Lyons Distillery
  • Guinness Storehouse

Enquire

Got a question about one of our tours? Or maybe you’d like to suggest a tour of your own. Just fill out the form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Statue

Join Our Mailing List

We frequently offer special tours to commemorate key events or figures in Dublin’s history. Join our mailing list to get early access & a €5 discount.