Step Inside the Heart of Irish Government This National Heritage Week

Taoiseach Office image

Ever wondered what it is like inside Government Buildings? This National Heritage Week, visitors have a rare opportunity to step inside the historic Office of the Taoiseach and Government Buildings and explore the rooms at the heart of Irish Government.

On Saturday 22nd August, visitors can enjoy a free guided tour of Government Buildings as part of National Heritage Week 2026. Led by expert guides from the Office of Public Works (OPW), each 40-minute tour takes visitors through the iconic building at the centre of Irish public life, uncovering its rich history and its continuing role in shaping the nation.

Discover the Rooms of Government

Government Buildings has played a central role in Irish public life for over a century and remains one of the most important buildings in the State. On the tour you will get to explore the halls of government in Ireland. Highlights of the tour will include the Cabinet Suite, the room where Irish Governments have gathered to make crucial decisions since 1922. You will get to see An Taoiseach's Office, where the day-to-day business of Government is conducted, the ceremonial staircase and other rooms that make up this historic building.

Book Your Visit

Entry for the tour is free but places are limited and advance booking is essential. To book your place on one of the tours please choose from one of the following tours. Click on the time to book the tour.

**All tours are now fully booked.**

Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the history, heritage and workings of Government in one of Ireland's most iconic public buildings.

What's New

More News
Hertitage Hero Award Athlone231026 8

National Heritage Week Awards 2026 - Winners and Runners-up Announced

The National Heritage Week Awards 2026 ceremony took place on Thursday, 29 October 2026, celebrating the individuals, community groups and organisations whose outstanding events helped showcase and protect Ireland's built, natural and cultural heritage.

The 2026 Awards recognise the most engaging and inspiring events from National Heritage Week 2026. Over the course of nine days from 15–23 August, communities across Ireland came together to celebrate local heritage through walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, performances and family events. This year's theme, Heritage at Risk, encouraged people to explore and protect the places, traditions, skills and stories that form an important part of our shared heritage.
Gearoid O Brien NHW Hero 2026

National Heritage Week 2026 Heritage Hero Announced

The Heritage Council is delighted to share that the 2026 National Heritage Week Heritage Hero has been awarded to Gearóid O'Brien for his lifelong dedication to preserving, promoting and celebrating the heritage of Athlone and Ireland.

The Heritage Hero award honours an individual or organisation that has made an outstanding, long-term contribution to the protection and promotion of Ireland's heritage. Unlike the other categories, this award is based solely on public nominations and is considered a lifetime achievement award.