45 mins • 15 places only
Step into 45 minutes of design history at the National Print Museum. Join Dr Linda King to study Aer Lingus posters, mid‑century printing techniques, and the Dutch influence that reshaped Irish graphic design.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most visitors who can stand for short periods
Wildlife
History
The exhibition traces graphic shifts in Ireland during the 1940s–60s, showing how Dutch émigré designers and Aer Lingus imagery reshaped national visuals.
Conservation
The museum practices archival care for paper collections and encourages visitors to avoid touching originals; support for the show reflects public funding for cultural preservation.
National Print Museum
45 mins • 15 places only
The National Print Museum in Dublin preserves and presents the history and craft of printing for visitors of all ages. Located in Dublin, County Dublin, the museum offers guided tours, family activities, hands-on workshops, and live demonstrations that showcase historic printing equipment and contemporary graphic design. Exhibits include working machines and archival material that illustrate the development of movable type and mechanical printing from Gutenberg-era influences to modern letterpress practice.
Visitors can join structured experiences such as a Family-Friendly Tour that lets children create printed posters and printer’s hats, a Guided Historical Tour that features an original 1916 Proclamation and printing demonstrations, and specialised workshops like letterpress Christmas card sessions for beginners. Monthly live demonstrations are conducted by retired printers who operate machines such as the Linotype and Wharfdale press, making complex processes accessible and engaging.
The museum also hosts illustrated talks and design-focused events, connecting historical printing techniques with Irish graphic design movements. On-site café service offers homemade food and refreshments for a comfortable visit. Educational programmes accommodate school groups and families, while workshops welcome adults seeking practical print skills.
As a dedicated cultural institution, the National Print Museum prioritises conservation, interpretation, and public engagement. Information is provided by experienced staff and volunteers, and activities are designed to be informative, hands-on, and safe. The museum’s combination of original artefacts, working machinery, and instructional experiences makes it a reliable destination for anyone interested in the history and practice of printing. Visit to explore prints, learn skills, and appreciate craftsmanship today.
Location
Dublin, County Dublin
Central print heritage site in Dublin
Family-Friendly
Family tours
Activities designed for children and families
Historic Presses
Linotype & Wharfdale
Working machines demonstrated live
On-site Café
Homemade delights
Refreshments during visits
Reserve a guided tour, sign up for a workshop, or attend a live demo to experience printing history firsthand in Dublin.
Book in advance
Tours are small and can fill fast—reserve your spot through the FareHarbor referral link to guarantee entry.
Check accessibility
The exhibition is on the Mezzanine level which is not wheelchair accessible; guide and service dogs are allowed.
Respect handling rules
Original prints may be fragile—don’t touch framed pieces and follow any photography restrictions posted by the museum.
Pair with a canal walk
Schedule the 45‑minute tour before or after a stroll along the nearby Grand Canal to make the most of a short visit to Dublin 4.
Comfortable shoes
You’ll be standing and moving through the Mezzanine exhibition space during the 45‑minute tour.
Notebook and pen
Useful for jotting curator quotes, designers’ names, or sketching type and layout details.
Compact camera or smartphone
Capture close-up details where photography is permitted—check signage before shooting.
Light jacket
Dublin weather changes quickly; a light layer keeps you comfortable between nearby walks and the museum interior.
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