Experience Historic Printing at Dublin’s National Print Museum Monthly Demo
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Overview
Discover the inner workings of historic printing machines at Dublin’s National Print Museum. Join a monthly live demo to see the Linotype and Wharfdale press in action, narrated by retired printers.
Monthly Live Demo
Last Thursday of every month • 1 hour • For all ages!
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About This Adventure
Experience the vibrant history of printing at the National Print Museum, where retired printers bring the past to life. Witness the intricate workings of historic machines like the Linotype and Wharfdale press. Enjoy a cozy café with homemade delights, making this a unique and memorable outing for all.
Duration: 1 hour
About
Experience the Museum come to life as a volunteer panel of retired printers and compositors demonstrate our collection in action. From the Linotype composing machine to the Wharfdale printing press to the Shaw Pen Ruling machine, witness the incredibly complex technologies that were used for centuries before our modern digital printers.
Highlights
- Unique Experience
- Expert Printers
- Living Museum
Accessibility
Demonstrations are conducted on the ground floor, where visitors will also find the Reception, Museum Shop, permanent exhibition, toilets, and Café. The ground floor is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Entry for wheelchairs is via the Café.
The Museum welcomes guide and service dogs.
Café
Press is an independent café located in the National Print Museum. All the food is lovingly homemade using fresh ingredients from Irish suppliers. Try one of the daily chalk board specials or a cup of delightful Cloud Pickers coffee, roasted and pressed in Dublin. Escape under the archway into a cosy enclave for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon treat on week days. A restorative rustic brunch menu is served on weekends.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Best Viewing
The demonstrations can get busy; arriving 10 minutes early guarantees a good spot near the machines.
Suitable for All Ages
This demonstration is family-friendly and engaging for visitors of all ages and interests.
Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Expect to stand for the hour demo; wear comfortable shoes for the best experience.
Ask Questions
Interacting with retired printers enhances the experience—don’t hesitate to ask about the machines and their history.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban birds like pigeons and sparrows frequent the area
- Seasonal butterflies can occasionally be seen in nearby green spaces
History
The National Print Museum chronicles Dublin’s legacy as a historic hub of print media, preserving equipment from the 18th century onward.
Conservation
The museum actively promotes sustainable practices by digitizing archives to reduce paper waste and educating visitors about the environmental impact of printing.
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Adventure Hotspots in Dublin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Notebook and Pen
Great for jotting down interesting facts or typography inspiration.
Light Jacket
Museum can be cool during autumn months; a light jacket keeps you comfortable.
fall specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the fascinating machinery and demonstration moments for later reference.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially during warmer months.
summer specific