Visit Government Buildings and the Office of An Taoiseach | 2:00 PM Tour

A rare opportunity to visit Government Buildings and the Office of An Taoiseach during National Heritage Week 2026.
About this Event

As part of National Heritage Week 2026, visitors have a unique opportunity to step inside Government Buildings and visit the Office of An Taoiseach.

This guided tour offers a rare insight into one of the State's most important buildings and the work carried out at the heart of Government.

Led by expert guides from the Office of Public Works (OPW), visitors will explore key spaces including the Cabinet Suite and An Taoiseach's Office, while learning about the history and significance of Government Buildings.

Tours are 40 minutes long.

Tour Highlights
The Cabinet Suite

This is the room in which, since 1922, the Government has made many of the most important decisions affecting the State. On the walls hang portraits of some of Ireland's most significant leaders and the architects of the nation.

An Taoiseach's Office

This is the office used by the Taoiseach for the day-to-day business of Government. The room contains a portrait of Michael Collins and features Irish oak furnishings and panelling.

Historical Background

The foundation stone for Government Buildings was laid on 28 April 1904 by King Edward VII. The building officially opened as the College of Science in 1911 and has served as the headquarters of Government since its refurbishment by the Office of Public Works in 1990.

Tour Information

• Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
• Meeting Point: Outside Government Buildings (Centre Building)
• Please arrive 10 minutes before your tour begins
• Places are limited and advance booking is required
• Maximum 2 tickets per booking

Important Visitor Information

• Visitor bags will be scanned on arrival.
• No large hold-all or haversack-type bags are permitted.
• Photography is permitted in courtyard areas and inside the building only with the Guide's permission.
• Photography is strictly forbidden in the Cabinet Suite.
• Food and drink (including coffee cups) are not permitted inside the building.
• In the unlikely event of an emergency, visitors must follow all instructions provided by the Guide.

Please note: Attendee names may be shared with the Department of the Taoiseach for security and visitor management purposes associated with this event.