Heritage Open Doors: 5 Historic Properties to Visit During National Heritage Week

13 Lúnasa 2026

As part of the 2026 National Heritage Week, the Heritage Open Doors Initiative is an opportunity for the public to explore historic buildings, see behind doors not usually open and learn about the hidden and not so hidden heritage of buildings in the country.
Whether you are curious about iconic public landmarks or want to experience behind-the-scenes tours, these events off er a unique way to connect with Ireland's rich built heritage.

A Glimpse into Headfort House

When: 17 - 19 August, 10am - 11am

Where: Headfort House, Headfort Demense, Co. Meath

Entry: Free

More details here

Headfort House in County Meath will open its doors for guided tours, off ering visitors a rare opportunity to step inside its neoclassical interiors and explore over 250 years of Irish architectural and family history. It is one of Ireland's great Georgian houses, built in the 1770s for Thomas Taylour

Behind the Scenes Tour at The Everyman

When: 15 August, 6pm - 7pm

Where: The Everyman, 15 MacCurtain Street, Cork City

Entry: Free

More details here

Expect an immersive, theatrical tour of the (almost) 130-year old theatre, The Everyman. The tour guide actors will lead the public on an engaging journey through time to meet the famous and infamous characters of the unique venue.

As part of the Cork Heritage Open Day, there are plenty of other events, also celebrating the Built Heritage in Cork City. Learn more here.

Free Entry to the Rock of Cashel

When: 15 August, 9am - 4:45pm

Where: Rock of Cashel Moor Lane, Cashel, Co. Tipperary

Entry: Free

More details here

The Rock of Cashel will be off ering visitors free guided tours and free entry to Cormac's Chapel. Wander among medieval buildings, admire spectacular views across the Tipperary countryside and discover the stories behind this iconic landmark.

Guided Tour of The Four Courts

When: 17 - 21 August, 11am - 12pm

Where: The Four Courts, Inns Quay, Dublin 7, Co. Dublin

Entry: Free

More details here

On this guided tour, you can step inside The Four Courts, learn about its architecture from the eighteenth century, its destruction during the Civil War and important court cases over the last few centuries. As public access is limited, this is a unique chance to explore a building that has witnessed defi ning moments in Ireland's history.

Gunpowdermills Walk and Talk with Tadhg O'Connor

When: 15 August, 2pm - 4pm

Where: At GAA entrance to the Regional Park Eastgate, Ballincollig, Co. Cork City

Entry: Free

More details here

Discover how gunpowder was made in the 19th century on this 2.5km walk on the banks of the River Lee. The Royal Gunpowder Mills is one of the most important and largest industrial archaeological sites of enormous national and international importance.

These are just a small sample of the hundreds of events taking place across Ireland during National Heritage Week 2026.
Browse the full list of Heritage Open Doors events here and discover more unique places to explore during this year's celebrations.

Nuacht

Tuilleadh Nuachta

Natural Heritage at Risk: Events Safeguarding Ireland's Biodiversity for Future Generations

Ireland's landscapes are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including ancient woodlands, wildfl owers, birds, rivers and coastlines. This National Heritage Week, there's no better time to slow down, step outside and discover the natural treasures that surround us.
These events off er the perfect opportunity to connect with Ireland's biodiversity and learn how we can all play a part in protecting it.

Step Inside the Heart of Irish Government This National Heritage Week

As part of National Heritage Week, visitors have a rare opportunity to explore the historic Office of the Taoiseach and Government Buildings, gaining a unique insight into the spaces where some of the most important decisions in Irish history have been made.

5 New Skills You Can Learn During National Heritage Week

There's something special about learning a skill that's been passed down through generations, and National Heritage Week 2026 (15th - 23rd August) is the perfect opportunity to do just that. With various workshops and demonstrations taking place across the country, you can learn directly from the people keeping these traditional skills alive.
Here are 5 new skills to try out this National Heritage Week: