The vast ruin of the former Pigeon House power station is the one of the most striking industrial architecture complexes in the city and is now one of the largest protected structures in Ireland. Built in three main phases (1902-03, 1911-1913 and 1933-40; decommissioned in the 1970s), the power station was constructed of red brick and steel, and later of reinforced concrete. These layers of exposed fabric show how the building was constantly modified to keep up with increasing electricity demand.

Today, only one of the 12 chimneys remain, and the ruins of the power station resemble the atmospheric drawings of classical ruins by the 18th century Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi.

The tour will commence at the front gate on Pigeon House Road, adjacent to the main entrance of the ESB Power Station. The route will take participants on a short circuit of the building’s exterior, incorporating the dilapidated North Pier and providing opportunities to appreciate both the external fabric and the impressive internal volume of the structure.

Meeting Point: Pigeon House Road, Ringsend, Dublin, D04 K528.

Pre-Book Only

Wheelchair accessible
Assistance Dogs welcome
Easy Read information (designed for people with intellectual disabilities, people who can’t read well, and people whose first language is not English)

Visitors to the site are advised to wear sturdy and appropriate footwear, as the route includes uneven surfaces and occasional obstructions. Individuals with reduced mobility have attended previous tours and are warmly welcomed; however, visitors should be aware that the nature of the site may present certain access limitations and restrictions.