The Book of Kells

The basics

The manuscript, which tells the story of the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke across four volumes, is on view in Dublin, Ireland at Trinity College's magnificent, 18th-century Old Library. To ensure conservation, two volumes are displayed at a time, allowing visitors to view four pages during any one visit.

Before viewing the book, guests pass through an exhibition that explains the significance and importance of the manuscript and relates the story of its near miraculous survival. A Book of Kells ticket includes access to the Trinity College Library's Long Room, where you'll find an original copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic and a medieval harp. Visitors can combine a tour here with a visit to nearby Dublin Castle.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Book of Kells is popular, so long lines can form. Buy a ticket with online booking in advance to avoid a wait.

• Explore independently or sign up for a guided early-access tour to skip the queue and see the manuscript without the crowds.

• The Old Library is wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

Trinity College in Dublin is on the south side of the city center, at the northern end of Grafton Street. Take the Luas Red line to Abbey Street, the Luas Green Line to St. Stephen's Green, or the DART train to Pearse Station. Find the library entrance adjacent to Fellow's Square, opposite the Arts Building.

When to get there

The Book of Kells site is open daily with varying hours by season; generally, it's open from morning to late afternoon or early evening, with shorter hours on Sunday. The book is a major attraction for travelers to Dublin, particularly during summer, so visit in the morning or later in the day to avoid the biggest crowds.

Inside the medieval manuscript

The manuscript's pages are filled with colorful, elaborate artwork done by three scribes known today as Hand A, Hand B, and Hand C. Some are adorned with swirling Celtic knots, while others are covered with drawings of animals such as lions, snakes, and peacocks, as well as mythical beasts and human figures. The single page of the medieval manuscript that is most famous is the Chi Rho, which is said to signify Christ.

Is the Book of Kells tour worth it?

Yes, the Book of Kells tour is worth it. In addition to giving access to the cultural treasure, admission also includes access to the Long Room Library at Trinity College Dublin—often called one of the world's most beautiful libraries. Learn about Irish history and culture on the tour.

How long does the Book of Kells tour take?

The Book of Kells tour takes about 30 minutes. With the standard tour, visitors get access to both the Book of Kells and Long Room Library at Trinity College. Upgrades are available that include a guided tour of the campus. Prebook tickets for the Book of Kells to ensure entry.

Do I need a reservation to see the Book of Kells?

Yes, a reservation is suggested to see the Book of Kells. Secure your spot by prebooking your Books of Kells ticket and admission to the Long Room Library at Trinity College. Entry is timed, and visitors who arrive without a reservation will be turned away if all slots are sold out.

What is the best time to visit the Book of Kells?

Reservations for the Book of Kells include timed entry, so visitors can choose the date and time of their visit. Because entry is timed, crowding isn't a big problem. Still, the best time to visit the Book of Kells is often the quieter morning hours.

Can you see the Book of Kells without a tour?

Yes, you can see the Books of Kells without a tour, but prebooking is suggested as day-of tickets may be sold out. A reservation provides admission to the exhibit, which visitors explore at their own pace. After viewing the manuscript, visit the Long Room Library at Trinity College.

Can you touch the Book of Kells?

No, it is not possible to touch the Book of Kells. This cultural relic is protected and kept behind glass at Trinity College. Admission includes access to both the Book of Kells exhibit and the Long Room Library. An option with a guided tour of Trinity College is also available.

Ways to explore

You can view the book, located in the library of Trinity College, with a paid reservation. You’ll see whichever two pages are on display at the time (pages are turned every six weeks). The college library is a popular stop on historical and cultural tours of Dublin, with the Book of Kells a highlight for many visitors. To get a sense of the intricacy and scale of the book, look at the entirety of the text, which is available online in the library's digital collections. Reserve your timed entry slot ahead of time for guaranteed entry.

Accessibility

The experience is fully wheelchair accessible, but some elevators will need staff assistance to access. Speak to staff on arrival or when booking to arrange for a member of staff to assist you throughout your visit. Wheelchairs are also available on-site.

Age limits

There are no age limits.

What to pack

Credit card or cash

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, a warm layer for inside

Not allowed

Large bags, flash photography, or photography in the room where the Book of Kells is stored

Amenities

Washrooms, audio guides

Address

Located in the Trinity and Temple Bar neighborhood, the Book of Kells is easily accessible if you’re staying in central Dublin. There’s minimal street parking in the neighborhood, but several underground parking lots.

Driving

Get to the Trinity Street Car Park via R137, and then turn onto Trinity Street. From there, it’s a 7-minute walk along R137 to reach Trinity College, where the Book of Kells is housed.

Public transportation

Trinity College is well-served by public transit—multiple bus stops surround the campus, and several bus lines run past. The Dublin Pearse train station is also nearby, served by both intercity and commuter trains if you’re coming from outside the city.

Best times to visit

Early mornings and early afternoons are good times to visit. Reserve your tickets online ahead of time to make sure you get your preferred slot.

Best days to visit

The Book of Kells is a popular attraction, and weekends will always be busier. Opt for the weekdays if possible.

Best months to visit

Summer and spring are busy in Dublin—the shoulder seasons of March and October typically see smaller crowds.