Free Entry For Under 18s At OPW Heritage Sites This August, Including Cork's Barryscourt Castle

Young visitors will be able to explore heritage sites across the country for free throughout August, with Cork's own Barryscourt Castle among the destinations taking part in the initiative.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced that admission for all visitors under 18 will be free at OPW heritage sites nationwide for the month of August 2026. The scheme aims to encourage young people and families to engage with Ireland's history and culture by removing the cost barrier to visiting.

Kevin "Boxer" Moran, Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works:

"I am delighted that all under 18s will once again enjoy free entry to OPW heritage sites this August. Whether it's exploring ancient monuments, visiting historic houses, taking part in interactive tours or discovering Ireland's cultural heritage first-hand, this initiative offers young people a fun and memorable way to connect with history, nature and culture over the summer holidays."

Closer to home, Barryscourt Castle in Carrigtwohill gives young visitors the chance to explore one of Ireland's finest restored medieval tower houses, taking in its historic halls and gardens while learning about life in a 15th century stronghold.

Further afield, the scheme takes in sites including Castletown House, Glebe Gallery, Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Emo Court, Céide Fields and Ilnacullin - Garinish Island, each offering its own take on Ireland's history, from prehistoric tombs to neo-classical mansions and island gardens.

Tickets can be booked online in advance for a number of sites, and all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The scheme runs from 1 to 31 August only, extending the existing Free U12 scheme to include all under 18s for the month. Free admission applies to all fee-paying OPW sites with the exception of Kilmainham Gaol and Brú na Bóinne.

Further details, including terms and conditions and a full list of participating sites, are available at heritageireland.ie.