Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park among OPW sites to see increase in visitor numbers in 2022

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced that 2022 saw an increase in the number of visitor to its heritage sites across the country.

The number of recorded visitors last year exceeded 15 million, up by 2.3 million on 2021.

“The OPW manages and maintains the most important of Ireland’s historic buildings and heritage,” a spokesperson said.

“We take meticulous care of the 780 heritage sites in our charge and, at the 70 sites with visitor services, we work hard to present them to their best potential, making sure that we give visitors from Ireland and abroad the best experience we possibly can.”

The numbers show the top 10 heritage locations in each of two categories: Paid Visitor attractions and Free Access Sites.

The major parks, such as the Phoenix Park, St. Stephen’s Green and parklands around Castletown House, Doneraile Court and Kilkenny Castle, have remained top of the list, continuing the trend as magnets of natural beauty and as places for recreational use.

Other individual regional sites have seen a striking increase in their visitor numbers, for example, Cahir Castle, Carrowmore, the Glebe House and Gallery in Co. Donegal, Pearse Cottage and the refurbished Blasket Visitor Centre in Co. Kerry.

Here, as well as at other iconic Irish heritage sites such as Dublin Castle or Kilmainham Gaol, last year’s visitor numbers indicate increased tourism and visitor activity.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Patrick O’Donovan, T.D., said: “These figures clearly indicate that there is an enormous interest in heritage tourism and that an increasing number of tourists and domestic visitors regard Ireland’s heritage sites as great places to visit.”

“It is wonderful to see that these sites are doing so well, both the paid attractions, which reflects very well on Ireland’s tourism performance, as well as the sites, parks and gardens which the public can access for free year round. Every heritage site contributes to the local sense of place, the local economy and is a precious and unique place to discover for visitors of all ages and interests.”