Dunsink Observatory, opened in 1785, was the first building in Ireland specifically constructed for scientific research. Ireland’s greatest mathematician/scientist, William Rowan Hamilton, lived and worked here.

Originally part of Trinity College Dublin, it was purchased by the state in 1947 when the School of Cosmic Physics was established (as part of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies).

The Observatory is used nowadays mainly for public outreach,  workshops/conferences, and as visitor accommodation. Rooms can also be hired by external parties.

Opening Hours:

DIAS Dunsink Observatory is open to the public for select events throughout 2024 but no updates for 2025 have been made. Weather permitting, visitors can view celestial objects through the historic Grubb Telescope. There are also audio-visual presentations, lectures on a wide variety of topics in astronomy, and question and answer sessions. Open nights are free of charge.
Check the website for upcoming events and open nights.

“Race to Space” is a fully immersive escape room experience, a collaboration between DIAS Dunsink Observatory and Adventure Rooms Dublin. Please note that the Race to Space Escape room is currently closed for renovations until further notice. Email [email protected] for information.

Groups of 2-4 people are welcome to play.
Players under 18 must attend with a parent/guardian.

Contact & Pricing:
dunsink.dias.ie
dunsink.dias.ie/escaperoom
[email protected]
Dunsink Lane, Castleknock, Dublin 15
Admission from free – €50 per group for Escape Room