Dark Dublin Walking Tour: Torture, Murder and Mystery

About This Tour

Uncover the darker stories Dublin has to offer on this guided tour through the city’s sinister side. This experience explores murder, torture, grave robbing, brothels and the unsettling beliefs that once shaped life in the Irish capital.

Our journey begins at Dublin Castle, where beneath the architecture lies a brutal past of punishment and fear. Discover the tools of torture once used here, hear about priest hunters, and learn why the Upper Courtyard earned the nickname the Devil’s Half Acre.

Venturing deeper into the old city, we enter an area once known as Hell. We explore Dublin’s world of brothels, witches, dark rituals and the infamous Hellfire Club.

This walking tour of Dublin offers a unique way to explore the city’s history through its cobbled streets and churches. Ideal for people looking for dark history and an authentic local experience.

As one of the most popular dark history tours in Dublin, spaces regularly fill in advance. Booking ahead ensures you do not miss out!

What’s Included

• Eco-friendly
• Small groups
• In-person guide

What’s Not Included

• Private transportation
• Dinner

Itinerary

1. Barnardo Square on Dame Street is the meeting Point. The small square is next to City Hall opposite the Olympia Theatre. The guides are visibile with purple umbrellas. (5 min)
2. Our guides will spend some time in the Lower Courtyard of Dublin Castle exploring the tortures of the past.

The Tour Guide will venture to the Upper Courtyard of the Castle and talk about the Devil’s Half Acre

*Tour does not enter Dublin Castle (15 min) 3. The Tour Guide will explore stories of cannibalism.

(15 min) 4. The guide will take you into the grounds of St Patrick’s Cathedral and uncover the history of Jonathan Swift.

*Tour does not enter St Patrick’s Church (15 min) 5. The guide will cover the stories of the hidden history behind the extraordinary church.

*Tour does not enter Christ Church (15 min) 6. The Tour Guide will unearth the dark past of grave robbings and the attacks from The Black Pig

*Tour does not enter St Audoen’s Church (15 min) 7. The Tour Guide will dive into the brutal history of Billy in the Bowl and more recent dark events

*Tour does not enter St Michan’s Church (15 min) 8. Our guide will finish in Smithfield Square with an incredible finishing story of a local murderer.

*End point is a Public Square (15 min)

Meeting point: Barnardo Square is the small square next to Dublin City Hall on DAME STREET DUBLIN 2.

Good to Know

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Maximum group size: 30 travelers. Available in: en.