Visitor Policies

Woman wearing a face mask looking at a large wooden sculpture in the Gallery
Photographer: Jack Caffrey, The Pimlico Project, 2021.

Please read our Visitor Guide to find out more about visiting the Gallery.

Protection of the artworks

  • Do not touch any artwork (including sculptures and frames).
  • Please keep a safe distance between you and each work of art to avoid accidental touching or bumping.
  • Please do not lean on walls or display cases (either to write or for physical support).
  • For the protection of the artworks, please carry your backpacks by your side.

Group visits

  • We look forward to welcoming groups back to the Gallery very soon.

Cloakrooms

  • Self-service lockers are available at Merrion Square.
  • Visitors are requested to place all handheld and backpack size items into the lockers.
  • Self-service lockers will not accommodate any item that is cabin luggage sized or larger.
  • Visitors are encouraged not to bring any items larger than a backpack to the Gallery.
  • Items may not be deposited overnight, items not retrieved will be recorded in Lost and Found.

Children

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times in the Gallery.
  • For further information consult our Child Protection Policy.

Sketching

  • The National Gallery of Ireland’s collection can be a source of inspiration and learning for all. We encourage sketching from the collection in the gallery spaces.
  • Visitors can bring their own materials (dry materials only).
  • If drawings are intended for commercial use, please refer to our Images and Licensing department with regard to works which are in copyright.

Mobile phones

  • Mobile phones may be used in the Gallery to help you enjoy the collection, but we ask you to be respectful of other visitors.
  • You can use your mobile device and headphones to listen to audio guides, our audio tour for kids, and our podcasts.
  • You can also use your mobile device to follow one of our online self-guided tours.

Cameras

Food and drinks

  • Eating and drinking is not allowed in the gallery spaces.
  • The Gallery Café is currently closed.

No smoking

  • Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere in the Gallery.

More information

Further information