Wicklow's Kilmacurragh Gardens See A Rise In Visitor Numbers

The Office of Public Works (OPW)have announced that 13.8 million visitors visited its heritage sites in 2024.

The OPW is responsible for caring, maintaining and operating 780 heritage sites. The OPW conserves and protects the nation’s built heritage whilst providing public access, interpretation and encouraging the public to visit and engage with the Ireland’s heritage.

Through its expert guiding service, the OPW ensures that Ireland's history is brought to life for visitors through carefully curated and engaging visitor experiences.

Dublin Castle received the highest volume of ticketed visitors, with the increase attributed to greater visitor interest in the State Apartments and exhibitions. A larger number of visitors also attended education, outreach and events programmes in 2024.

Dublin Castle was followed by Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Kilmainham Gaol and Dun Aonghasa.  

The 2024 data highlights continued visitor engagement with Ireland’s historic castles, monuments and green recreational spaces across the country.

The data shows the top heritage locations in each of two categories: Paid Visitor attractions and Free Access Sites.

In the South East, The John F Kennedy Arboretum saw a 22% increase in visitors, while an increase of 21% at the Kilmacurragh Gardens, Co Wicklow highlights public’s continued interest in seeking out a connection with nature and Ireland’s unique flora.

In Leinster, the Battle of the Boyne at Oldbridge Estate saw a 10% increase in visitors, supported by the reopening of the Obelisk Bridge last summer and the introduction of three new outdoor events.

This site will benefit from Shared Island funding with an integrated design team to be appointed this year.