It was within these walls that the young Oscar took his first steps and where he was educated for the first ten years of his life. As a teenager Oscar attended the nearby Trinity College Dublin. His parents, Lady Jane Wilde (the poet Speranza) and Sir William Wilde, were famous long before Oscar made his mark on the world. The Wilde household was renowned as a centre of culture in Victorian Dublin for 21 years.
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. As you explore its rooms and staircases, you will hear the fascinating history of the colourful Wilde family. There are tales of heartbreak, tragedy, intrigue, court battles and scandal.
You will visit Sir William Wilde’s library and the upstairs dining room where the family hosted parties for many famous visitors over a 20-year period. The main lounge, which overlooks Merrion Square, is where Lady Jane Wilde, aka Speranza, held her celebrated salons every Saturday.
The extension, which Sir William constructed after the family moved into the building in 1854, houses his medical consultation room and a collection of instruments he invented. A small gallery features photographs of the family and birth certificates.
Quotes on our house tour
“If you thought Oscar was wild, wait till you hear about the rest of the family, in this astounding, accurate and almost tangible evocation of the uproarious Wildes at home.” Philip Hoare (Author of Wilde’s Last Stand).
“This is a gem of a place and Martin who runs the tour is such a great enthusiast and storyteller” Gary Kemp (Spandau Ballet)
“Had a Wilde time in Dublin. 10/10. Would recommend.” Astrid Merotieta
Exclusively for RHA Friends.
Booking essential.
Tours usually €18 p/p but they are kindly offering the Friends tickets for €15, to be paid on the day
