Full description
Step back into 18th-century Dublin and discover the fascinating story of the world premiere of Handel's Messiah, exploring the streets and historic settings that once echoed to the glorious sounds of Baroque music.
This walking tour celebrates the world premiere of Messiah, the timeless work by composer George Frederick Handel, first performed in Dublin on 13 April 1742. The experience explores the role 18th-century Dublin played in the European Baroque music scene and the composers who performed in the city.
The route covers places linked to this musical history, including St Andrew's Church, the former Theatre Royal, the former St Mary's Church, Smock Alley Theatre and the site of the first performance of Messiah on Fishamble Street. Where possible, the guide plays extracts from works by composers connected to 18th-century Dublin, such as Geminiani, Dubourg, Giordani, Roseingrave, Scarlatti, Handel and Arne.
As a small-group tour, the experience stays personal and allows the guide to share in-depth stories about the music and cultural life of Georgian Dublin.
The morning tour ends with the annual street performance of extracts from Messiah, which begins at 1:00 pm.
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Additional Information
● Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the tour start time
● Small-group experience with a maximum of 16 people per guide
● Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
● The tour takes place rain or shine. Same-day cancellations due to bad weather are non-refundable, unless conditions are unsafe due to extreme storms or ice
● The route is generally accessible, although it may occasionally be modified to avoid steps. Guides cannot push wheelchairs, so those who require them must be accompanied
● Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and walking shoes are recommended
● The supplier is not responsible for any physical injury or loss of, or damage to, personal belongings during the tour
Inclusions
✔ Guided tour with a guide specialising in the musical history of 18th-century Dublin
✔ Musical extracts played at key points along the route, where possible
✔ Discounts at selected museums and cafés
Exclusions
✖ Hotel pickup or drop-off
✖ Transport to the meeting point
✖ Entrance to sites mentioned during the walk
✖ Entrance fees, meals and drinks unless expressly specified in the tour inclusions
✖ Other unspecified services
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the start of the activity.
Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance and no-shows are not eligible for a refund.
Meeting point
Tree of Gold sculpture, Central Plaza, Dame Street (corner with Fownes Street), Dublin 2. The guide waits at this exact spot, next to the sculpture.