The Office of Public Works (OPW) today confirmed a big increase in visitors to a number of their sites in Donegal.
Donegal Castle (main pic), in Donegal Town, received the highest number of ticketed visitors in the county last year at 72,459. This is an increase of 15% on the 63,072 that came through its gates in 2023.
The OPW attributed the uplift in visitor volumes in part to the central role the castle played in the town’s 550th anniversary events.
Glebe House and Gallery, near Churchill, also saw a sharp rise in paying visitors at 46,649, up from 44,364 in 2023. The numbers going through the gates of Grianan of Aileach fort in Burt were down slightly from 17,919 in 2023 to 17,292 last year.
Doe Castle, Creelough, also showed a slight drop in visitors last year at 36,749, down from 37,120 the previous year.
Nationally, 13.8m visitors attended OPW’s heritage sites in 2024.
The OPW is responsible for caring, maintaining and operating 780 heritage sites. The department conserves and protects the nation’s built heritage whilst providing public access, interpretation and encouraging the public to visit and engage with Ireland’s heritage.
Dublin Castle received the highest volume of ticketed visitors, with the increase attributed to greater visitor interest in the State Apartments and exhibitions. A larger number of visitors also attended education, outreach and events programmes in 2024.
Dublin Castle was followed by Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Kilmainham Gaol and Dun Aonghasa. These iconic sites continue to play a pivotal role for both domestic and international tourism.
Commenting on the publication of 2024 Visitor Data, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin “Boxer” Moran said:
“From medieval castles to ancient monuments- the continued investment by the State in our rich and unique heritage portfolio is essential for the safeguarding and preservation of our built heritage”.
“Our heritage sites are an important part of our national identity and shared history and offer a unique insight into the lives and stories of our ancestors. Whether you are interested in ancient monuments, historic houses, gardens, or museums, there is something for everyone to explore and appreciate”.
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