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The Custom House in Dublin is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture and one of the city's most important civic landmarks. Located on the north bank of the River Liffey, it was designed by the renowned architect James Gandon and completed in 1791 after ten years of construction. The building is constructed from Portland stone and features a majestic dome topped by a statue representing Commerce, surrounded by allegorical figures of the rivers of Ireland. Originally serving as the headquarters for the Commissioners of Custom and Excise, it represented Dublin's status as a major trading hub within the British Empire. A pivotal event occurred in May 1921, during the Irish War of Independence, when the building was set on fire by the IRA, resulting in the destruction of the interior and countless historical records. Following the establishment of the Irish Free State, the building was meticulously restored and now houses government departments, serving as a testament to Dublin's 18th-century architectural ambition.
- Location: Ireland
- Top sights: 1974 Dublin and Monaghan Bombings Memorial · In-spire Galerie · The Lab
- Nearby: Monkstown (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 86 | 70 | 70 | 61 | 67 | 76 | 80 | 91 | 76 | 102 | 106 | 97 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Custom House in Dublin is a neoclassical building on the north bank of the River Liffey, now used as offices. The exterior and surroundings are publicly accessible, the interior is typically not open to tourists.
Typical hours
The building has no regular visiting hours, but the exterior area is accessible anytime. Guided tours are offered occasionally, details can be found online.
Photography
Exterior shots of the building and the Liffey promenade are possible anytime. The neoclassical facade is a popular photo subject, especially at sunset.
Time needed
A walk around the building and along the river takes about 15 to 30 minutes. If you join a guided tour, allow about 45 minutes.
Combine with
Combine with nearby O'Connell Street and the Dublin Spire. The EPIC Museum and IFSC are also within walking distance.
Getting there
The Custom House is on Custom House Quay, easily reached by bus or Luas. Connolly DART station is about a 10-minute walk away.
Insider tip
Visit the building early morning when the facade is best lit. The adjoining Custom House Square provides a good perspective for photos.
Geography
Facts
- The building was designed by James Gandon, his first major project in Dublin.
- The dome was originally built of stone but was replaced with limestone after the 1921 fire.
- It features 14 keystones depicting the river gods of Ireland, including the Liffey and Shannon.
- The fire in 1921 was a major strategic blow to British administration in Ireland.
- The total length of the building is approximately 375 feet (114 meters).
- It took nearly 60 years to fully restore the building to its pre-fire condition.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Custom House (10)
ArtBox
Arts centre in Dublin, offering studios and exhibition space.
17 October UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
Memorial in Dublin, commemorates the UN day against poverty.
Custom House Visitor Centre
Visitor centre in the Custom House in Dublin. Provides information on the building's history.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Dublin, Ireland. Tells the story of Irish emigration around the world.
Talbot Memorial Bridge
Road bridge spanning the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland. Key traffic route.
Sean O'Casey Bridge
Bridge over the River Liffey in Ireland. Pedestrian bridge connecting both banks.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Custom House in Dublin?
Yes, there is a visitor center inside that highlights the history of the building.
Who designed the Custom House?
It was designed by the famous architect James Gandon and completed in 1791.
What happened to the building in 1921?
It was set on fire by the IRA during the Irish War of Independence and severely damaged.
Are there government offices in the building?
Yes, today it houses government departments, so access to the offices is restricted for tourists.
Where is the best photo spot for the Custom House?
The best view is from the other side of the Liffey, from George's Quay.
Custom House: where is it located?
Custom House is located in Ireland.
Custom House: what is there to see?
Highlights include 1974 Dublin and Monaghan Bombings Memorial, In-spire Galerie, The Lab.
Custom House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Custom House: why is it worth visiting?
The Custom House in Dublin is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture and one of the city's most important civic landmarks.
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