Parents looking for activities to keep their children occupied this summer may be interested to hear that entry to all sites run by the Office of Public Works (OPW) will be free of charge on the first Wednesday of every month.

There are around 750 such locations throughout the country and, while many are permanently free to enter, the initiative will benefit several popular attractions, including Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin Castle and the Rock of Cashel, the Irish Times reported.

Some of these locations usually charge up to 14 euros for a family ticket and it is hoped offering free entry will encourage people to take an interest in Ireland's heritage.

Minister of State for the OPW Brian Hayes said: "We want people to take the opportunity to see these sites, which are part and parcel of what we are."

The scheme was welcomed by visitors, including Margo McCann, who told the newspaper it is a "fantastic initiative".

The OPW's responsibilities include the protection and conservation of some of the country's most significant historic buildings, as well as Ireland's natural heritage.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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