Dundalk Gaol is one of the oldest and most historic prisons in Ireland, located in the town of Dundalk in County Louth. It was built in 1796 and was used to house prisoners until it closed in 2013. The jail has been the site of some of the most notorious inmates in Irish history, including Eamon de Valera, who served his sentence there in 1916. Today, the jail is open to the public and offers a range of activities and tours for visitors. Here are 10 things to do in Dundalk Gaol.
1. Take a Guided Tour: The best way to explore the jail is to take a guided tour. The tour will take you through the cells, the exercise yard, and other areas of the jail. You will learn about the history of the prison and its inmates, as well as the conditions they endured. The tour also includes a visit to the execution chamber, where some of the most notorious inmates were hanged.
2. Visit the Museum: The museum at Dundalk Gaol is full of artifacts from the prison’s history. You can see items such as old uniforms, tools, and furniture, as well as photographs and documents. The museum also contains a collection of artworks created by the prisoners during their time in the jail.
3. Take a Ghost Tour: If you’re looking for a spooky experience, then take a ghost tour of the jail. The tour will take you through the darker parts of the prison, where you will hear stories of the inmates and their experiences. You might even encounter a few ghosts along the way!
4. Visit the Chapel: The chapel at Dundalk Gaol is a beautiful and peaceful place. It was built in 1881 and was used by the inmates to attend religious services. Today, the chapel is open to the public and is a great place to sit and reflect on the history of the prison.
5. Learn About the History of the Prison: Dundalk Gaol has a long and fascinating history. You can learn more about the prison’s past by visiting the museum or taking a guided tour. There are also several books and websites dedicated to the prison’s history, which can give you an even deeper understanding of the jail’s past.
6. Explore the Grounds: The grounds of the jail are open to the public and are a great place to explore. There are several outdoor areas to explore, such as the exercise yard and the gardens. You can also find several historic buildings, including the old guardhouse and the prison hospital.
7. Visit the Gift Shop: The gift shop at Dundalk Gaol is a great place to pick up souvenirs and memorabilia. You can find items such as t-shirts, mugs, keychains, and postcards.
8. Have a Picnic: The grounds of the jail are a great place to have a picnic. There are several picnic tables and benches located throughout the grounds, as well as plenty of shade.
9. Take a Walk: The grounds of the jail are a great place to take a leisurely walk. You can explore the gardens and take in the scenery, or take a stroll around the prison walls.
10. Attend an Event: Dundalk Gaol hosts several events throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and talks. These events are a great way to learn more about the history of the prison and its inmates.
Dundalk Gaol is a fascinating place to explore and is full of history and stories. Whether you’re looking for a spooky experience or a peaceful stroll, there’s something for everyone at Dundalk Gaol.