Discover the art and history of printing at Dublin’s National Print Museum with a hands-on, family-friendly tour. Create your own print and enjoy a cozy café experience—perfect for all ages.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, no special physical conditioning required
Wildlife
History
The museum showcases Dublin’s role in Ireland’s print history, from early presses to modern innovations.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices, recycling inks and materials during workshops whenever possible.
National Print Museum
Discover the art and history of printing at Dublin’s National Print Museum with a hands-on, family-friendly tour. Create your own print and enjoy a cozy café experience—perfect for all ages.
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.
Dress comfortably for hands-on activities
You'll be handling inks and paper, so wear clothing that can get a bit messy.
Arrive early to enjoy the café afterwards
Start your visit with plenty of time to relax and sample homemade treats after your workshop.
Book your spot in advance
Since family tours are popular, reserving ahead ensures you don't miss out on this interactive experience.
Bring along curiosity and questions
Engage with the guides to get the most out of your understanding of printing history.
Comfortable clothing
Allow for easy movement during hands-on printing activities.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying your creative day.
Notebook or sketchpad
Jot down ideas or sketches inspired by the history and process of printing.
Camera or smartphone
Capture your personalized prints and museum moments.