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Activity Dublin, Ireland

Dark Dublin Walking Tour: Torture, Murder and Mystery

4.9 (2,411 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Dark Dublin Walking Tour: Torture, Murder and Mystery

About this activity

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!

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At a glance

Duration
2 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 30 people
People per booking
1–10
Guide
English
Operated by
Unearthed Tours

Ages: Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

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

Not included

  • Not included: Private transportation
  • Not included: Dinner

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    5 min

    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.

  2. Dublin Castle

    15 min Admission not included

    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

  3. The 40 Steps

    15 min Admission included

    The Tour Guide will explore stories of cannibalism.

  4. Saint Patrick's Cathedral

    15 min Admission not included

    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

  5. Christ Church Cathedral

    15 min Admission not included

    The guide will cover the stories of the hidden history behind the extraordinary church.

    *Tour does not enter Christ Church

  6. St. Audoen's Church

    15 min

    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

  7. St. Michan's Church

    15 min Admission not included

    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

  8. Smithfield Square

    15 min

    Our guide will finish in Smithfield Square with an incredible finishing story of a local murderer.

    *End point is a Public Square

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

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

End point

  • We will finish the tour in Smithfield Square.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

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

Traveller ratings

4.9 out of 5 · 2,411 reviews
5
93%
4
4%
3
1%
2
1%
1
1%

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Dark Dublin Walking Tour: Torture, Murder and Mystery

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