St. Audoen's Church

St. Audoen's Church

St. Audoen's Church
4.5
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
About
Sited in the heart of the walled medieval city, St Audoen's Church is the only remaining medieval parish church in Dublin. Open April to October each year.
Duration: < 1 hour
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Plan your visit

The area

How to get there
  • Four Courts • 5 min walk
  • Smithfield • 6 min walk
Reach out directly

See what travelers are saying

  • Kirsty
    Hertfordshire, United Kingdom49 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful church and great volunteers
    Lovely church I stumbled upon by chance. Paula gave me a great overview of the history of the church and wider city. Beautiful church and well worth a visit! There is also a "lucky stone" you can touch which is fun!
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written March 16, 2024
  • Jill M
    Wilmington, North Carolina2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A Master Class Tour
    What an unexpected surprise! Coming upon St Audoen's was divine! OPW, specifically Paula, was a fountain of historical information that kept me captivated for an hour. It is a small church, but it is big on historical significance and fascinating. Highly recommend making a stop to have a master class on the “many yesterday’s” the church has had.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written April 3, 2024
  • Nicole S
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    St. Audoen is a gem!
    Yes! I so enjoyed my trip here. A must when visiting Dublin! It is such a great mixture of old and newer history that is preserved so well. What made it even better was the sweet staff that were so knowledgeable.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written April 18, 2024
  • I DL
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A great guided tour
    Randomly looking for something to visit we entered St. Audoen’s Church and we’ve been instantly greeted by the staff, especially one of whom, Benedetta, that guided us for a very nice and thorough tour of the church, explaining us everything, from the early beginnings of Ireland to the use of the church nowadays. Also, she has been very helpful also for our planning of the trip, suggesting us where we could eat or visit! A very nice experience in few words that we recommend.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written April 20, 2024
  • Andrea Recchia
    18 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A wonderful journey through time!
    Saint Audoen's Church is the oldest parish church in Dublin, dating back to 1190. It's really worth a visit! Entrance is free and inside you can admire an exhibition full of curiosities and objects that will illustrate how this medieval building was intertwined with Irish and Norman history. The tower is home to six bells, three of which are the oldest in Ireland and are still rung today! A special thank you goes to the very kind staff who work there and to Benedetta, the fantastic guide who, with her great passion, took us on a wonderful journey through time! Thank you
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written May 2, 2024
  • Aleks I
    London, United Kingdom3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fascinating short guided visit to Dublin's oldest church on a sunny spring afternoon
    Drawn to look inside St Audoen's by the sound of bells pealing in its castle -like tower, Bernadetta, one of the visitor team, showed me round and, taking a real interest when I said I was a bell ringer at home, explained three of the bells were the oldest in Ireland having been cast in 1423. They still sounded great 601 years later. She was as keen to learn a bit about ringing as to share her knowledge about Dublin's oldest church and its key features in the limited time I had. I really appreciated her enthusiasm in understanding its history and bringing it to life for me, as well as giving me advice about catching the airport bus. I was only sorry I didn't have more than one day in Dublin and felt lucky to have met Bernadetta and include her among the friendly welcoming people I met in Ireland.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written May 3, 2024
  • Ronnie B
    Dublin, Ireland5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Emotional visit
    As a Dubliner returning after many years, I was delighted to see Audoen's open for visits. The OPW has done a fine job in developing the site. Bernadetta (I hope I got the name right) was a fantastic ambassador for the organisation. I usually prefer to visit without a guide, but I needed some clarification on a few issues. She was very erudite and explained perfectly what I needed to know. St Audoen's has a special place in my heart. My Mother and Father were married there back in 1941. It was great to stand in the still used Church of Ireland church and say a silent prayer for my parents.
    Visited May 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written May 22, 2024
  • Craig B
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Ask for Paula
    It's a fantastic experience in the heart of Dublin, and it's free! You can hardly say the same about Christ Church or Saint Patricks Cathedral. Both of those are good experiences but they'll take your money and, at least in my experience, leave you none the wiser. Saint Audeon's was a suprise. It's not just about the church. It's not just about Dublin's religious history. It's the history of Dublin as many Dubliners themselves hardly know it. I came away feeling like I stumbled upon a gem. Paula was absolutely brilliant. She patiently walked me threw centuries of my own city's history that I was suprised by how little I knew. There was no question she couldn't answer, and she even gave me some book recommendations to follow up. Well worth your time! More so than some of the better known cathedrals!
    Visited June 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written June 14, 2024
  • Brian H
    5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Well done O.P.W. Staff at St Audoen's
    Paid a visit to St Audoen's today with my Grandson. So glad we did what a beautiful church in the heart of Dublin most people pass by without knowing it's history well worth a visit for locals and visitors. Thanks to Paula for takeing time to explain it's history to us 10/10
    Visited July 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written July 5, 2024
  • Silvia F
    Milan, Italy4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A jewel in the city centre
    This is truly a shining jewel in the city center, a place full of history. I took my students to visit, and the staff were simply amazing. They were very helpful, clear, and patient with the students. We enjoyed it a lot.
    Visited July 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written July 11, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles394 reviews
Excellent
266
Very good
99
Average
27
Poor
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These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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Ilaria F
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2024 • Friends
I had already been to Dublin, but this time I also visited this very old church which is often overlooked being close to Christ Church or St. Patrick, much more famous. I was lucky enough to discover it with the Guide of the talented Benedetta, who transmitted to me all the love and interest in this city, Ireland and its history.
Admission is free and really worth listening to for the exhaustive explanation and its preparation about the city in general. Ready to advise and answer questions!
Don't miss this Dublin gem in the Liberties district, treat yourself and spend an hour on St. Audoen's Church.
Automatically translated
Written July 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Michael
Phoenix, AZ134 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2024 • Solo
So, I was wandering around Dublin and decided to check out St. Audoren’s Church, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute gem! It’s only about a 30-minute walk from the Hilton Dublin City Center where I stayed at, and the stroll through the streets is totally worth it. You get a vibe of the city while you make your way there!

When I arrived, I was totally charmed by the old-school stonework and the peaceful aura that surrounds the church. It feels like stepping into a time capsule, and you can just imagine the history woven into those walls. The highlight for me? Finding the lucky stone! I love a good legend, and this one is all about good fortune. Just standing there and feeling the energy of everyone who has come before was such a cool experience!

The staff are super chill and genuinely passionate about the church’s history. They were more than happy to share stories and make me feel at home. It’s always nice to connect with locals who really know their stuff.

If you’re in Dublin and looking for something off the beaten path, definitely swing by St. Audoren’s Church. It’s not just a tourist spot; it’s a quiet little oasis that adds a sprinkle of magic to your day. I left feeling inspired and ready to hit up the next adventure, soaking in all the beauty that Dublin has to offer!
Written October 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Babi91
Milan, Italy1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Friends
We arrived in Saint Audoen by chance, advised by a passerby to visit the oldest church in Ireland.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by Benedetta, an Italian OPW guide, very knowledgeable and friendly. He told us the history of Dublin and its Viking and Norman origins, of the structural modifications of the church, some curiosities about its bell tower and that of the main churches of Dublin, we were also able to embrace the Lucky Stone after listening to the story of its legend.
I recommend everyone to visit this church of enormous historical importance (the visit is free!)
Google
Written August 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Dennis
Charlotte, NC22 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2024 • Solo
I have visited the church visitor center on two occasions. Both times I have to say that the tours were splendid and the information provided was outstanding. On the first day, I met Ralph Smith who provided me with a tour of the church grounds and the interior and provided so much detailed history. The man is a walking encyclopedia. He introduced me to another guide, Benedetta, who is an expert in the 601-year-old bells. On my second visit, I attended a historical talk by Benedetta about the history of medieval belltowers, "St Audoen's belltower and Medieval Belltowers in Dublin", the history of the six bells from St Audoen's; Saint Patrick's, of which there are 15 and Christ Church of which there are 20. But the latter two are not as old as the bells from this church (1423). Ralph and Benedetta were outstanding examples of the OPW tour guide expertise.
Written October 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Stefano
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023
The oldest church in Dublin is undoubtedly interesting to see as it is linked to the origins of the city and the medieval period, but the visit to the church is enriched by the explanations of the excellent Italian guide Benedetta Bruno who makes a historical excursion, from the birth of the city with the first Gaelic settlements, to the raids of the Vikings, until the arrival of the Normans. Highly recommended!!!
Google
Written August 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Giorgia M
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2023 • Couples
In addition to having found a refuge from the Irish rain, we were able to enjoy the stories and anecdotes of the Church and the city of Dublin led by Benedetta. Very interesting and she was very helpful to give us advice to fully enjoy the city. Highly recommended!
All for free!!!
Written November 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Sarah X
5 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Solo
St. Patrick's might be more handsome, and Christ Church more impressive, but in my humble opinion, St. Audoen's is the best historical church in Dublin. Part of this might be because its curators were happy to talk to me at length about its history, the ancient street below our feet, the unconsecrated bodies (likely executed) found during renovations, and more. Yet, from its sere churchyard, to the faded stone carvings of names long worn away; from the story of its bells, captured in faintly yellow printouts, to the etched escutcheons of the city's guilds, I found it a fascinating place to explore.
Written September 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Francesco Casalino
Mestre, Italy1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2024 • Family
Passing through Dublin at the end of May, we entered this church by chance. Very cordially welcomed by the staff we were accompanied with great competence, wealth of information and sympathy by Benedetta, to discover the church, the bell tower, the organ, and the whole complex. To recommend absolutely!
Automatically translated
Written October 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

GoS
Vancouver, Canada31 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2024 • Solo
A magnificent hidden gem in the heart of Dublin free and preserved by the OPW. The staff there are incredibly helpful and passionate about the history of the church. I was particularly lucky to receive a tour de force on the church’s interesting history from Deirdre, which I was very grateful for. Apart from learning about this brilliant public good we have, discovering the story of Margaret Ball and her grandson-in-law Francis Taylor was a highlight. Glad that we have public goods like these, and we should all appreciate them more.
Written November 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Gianmarco B
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2022 • Solo
I came to this church by accident. At the information desk, I met an Italian tour guide named Benedetta who thoroughly and passionately explained and illustrated to me all the secrets concerning the church, its surroundings and its links with the medieval history of the city of Dublin. For a moment, I felt part of medieval Ireland and I thank Benedetta once again who allowed all this.
Written August 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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St. Audoen's Church, Dublin

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