Life, Disease, and Death Guided Tours of Collins Barracks

Life, Disease, and Death Guided Tours of Collins Barracks

What to expect

Life, Disease and Death Tour of Collins Barracks National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks

Free guided tour. No booking required.

Event Summary

Discover the chills, ills and kills of Collins Barracks on this special guided tour. Visitors will explore the history of one of Europe’s oldest occupied barracks, hear stories of military life from the 1700s to the late 1900s, and learn about health, disease and daily life in the Barracks.

This tour takes place partially outdoors so please ensure that you dress for the weather!

What You’ll Experience

  • Guided exploration of the history of Collins Barracks
  • Stories of soldiers’ lives, hardships, illnesses and medical care
  • Insights into objects and collections connected to military history
  • Learn how Collins Barracks transitioned from the longest continually occupied military barracks in Europe to part of the National Museum of Ireland

Who Is This Event For?

  • Adults and general visitors
  • Those interested in social history, military heritage, medical history
  • Recommended for older children and adults due to themes of illness, injury and death. Not for the faint of heart...or stomach.

Dates & Times

  • Saturday, 24 October 2026 – 14:00
  • Saturday, 24 October 2026 – 15:30
  • Sunday, 25 October 2026 – 14:00
  • Sunday, 25 October 2026 – 15:30
  • Monday, 26 October 2026 – 14:00
  • Monday, 26 October 2026 – 15:30
  • Saturday, 31 October 2026 – 15:30

Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Spaces are limited.

Location

National Museum of Ireland – Collins Barracks

Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7, D07 XKV4

Meeting Point: Museum Reception, Collins Barracks

Accessibility Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Tour takes place partially outdoors
  • Please contact [email protected] for specific access queries

Booking Information

  • Free
  • No booking required
  • Tour are 45 minutes - 1 hour in duration
  • Spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis

Related Experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?

No. This is a drop-in tour and booking is not required. Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long does the event last?

Please allow approximately 60 minutes for the guided tour.

Is the event suitable for children?

The tour may be suitable for older children, but includes themes relating to illness, death and historical medical practices. Parental discretion is advised.

Where do I go when I arrive?

Please check in at Museum Reception at Collins Barracks, where the tour will begin.

Topics

Upcoming dates

This event runs on several dates — pick the one that suits you.

October 2026

  • Sat 24
  • Sun 25
  • Mon 26
  • Sat 31
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