Áras an Uachtaráin is the official residence of the President of Ireland and is located within the beautiful surroundings of Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest enclosed city parks.

The house was originally built in 1751 and was designed and owned by Nathaniel Clements, the park ranger at the time and an amateur architect. In 1785, the building was purchased for £25,000 to serve as an “occasional residence” for the Lords Lieutenant of Ireland, also known as the Viceroy. From the 1820s onwards, it became the Viceroy’s primary residence for much of the year.

Following Irish independence, the house lay vacant for a number of years. In 1937, the office of President of Ireland was formally established, and in 1938 the building became the official presidential residence. It was renamed Áras an Uachtaráin, meaning “House of the President” in Irish, and its first occupant was Douglas Hyde, Ireland’s first President.

During World War II, plans to demolish the building and construct a new residence were postponed. By the end of the war, the house had become so closely associated with the Irish presidency that demolition was no longer considered. Instead, a major programme of reconstruction and restoration took place.

The surrounding formal gardens, designed by Decimus Burton in the 1840s, add to the elegance of the estate. An East Wing was added in 1849 for the state visit of Queen Victoria, while a West Wing was later constructed in 1911 in preparation for the visit of King George V.

One of the most distinctive traditions associated with Áras an Uachtaráin can be seen at night. A candle is kept lit in the main upper-floor window, symbolising a welcome home to the Irish people, both at home and abroad.

Today, Áras an Uachtaráin remains a powerful symbol of Irish democracy, history, and national identity, set within the peaceful landscape of Phoenix Park.

Admission Fee:

free of charge

Opening Hours:

Guided tours, on Saturday Only from 10am to 3:00pm
Guided tours of the gardens only take place from June to October
Closed 24th to 26th December
(occasionally closed for state official business meetings)

Location:

Guided Tours Meeting Point:
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre,
Phoenix Park,
D08 E1W3

Phoenix Park is located a 12 minute drive from the Castle Hotel.
Public Transport can also be taken, our front desk staff will be able to guide you on these.