Built in 1856, the National Museum of Ireland - Natural History is a magnificent Victorian artefact in its own right.
Sometimes described as ‘a museum of a museum’, it houses a wide-ranging and comprehensive zoological collection of more than 10,000 exhibits. Visitors can explore Irish mammals, birds, fish and insects, as well as mammals from around the world. Admission is free.
Highlights include imposing skeletons of Ireland’s extinct giant deer and a huge, basking shark suspended from the ceiling. The aptly named Wonder Cabinet allows visitors to get up-close to museum objects with a fascinating handling collection.
The museum offers a year-round programme of workshops, talks and tours for all ages. There is also a gift shop onsite.