Canadian Ambassador Opens Historic Dublin Residence for Tours

UPDATE: Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Dennis King, has just announced that his residence, Glanmire, will be open to the public for tours during the Open House Dublin festival on October 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. This rare opportunity allows visitors to explore a piece of Canadian history nestled in the heart of Dublin.

King, eager to bridge cultural gaps, shared that the event will highlight the rich history of Glanmire, built between 1848 and 1851. He emphasizes its significance as both a Canadian outpost and an important location in Irish heritage, stating, “This is a piece of Canada, but it’s also a great piece of Irish history.”

The residence has a storied past, including connections to Patrick Pearse, a key figure in Irish history, who once leased land from the property. King reflects on the age of the residence with humor, noting, “In Canada, if you have a house on a farm that’s 100 years old, we put a plaque on it. This house would be a temple in Canada because of its age.”

Visitors can expect to see not only the beautiful architecture but also an array of Canadian artwork on display, a testament to the cultural ties between Canada and Ireland. King is excited to share works from the Canadian art bank, alongside pieces from famous Irish artists.

The ambassador also shared personal anecdotes about settling into his new role. Having moved from Prince Edward Island, where he was premier, King talked about the challenges and chaos of his previous position, including natural disasters and trade barriers, which led to his resignation. Now, he sees his role in Ireland as crucial for fostering stronger ties with the EU amid shifting global dynamics.

As he prepares for the public tours, King humorously addressed the previous ambassador’s claims of hauntings, stating, “I haven’t heard any bumps in the night … it’s very warm and cozy inside here.” He looks forward to welcoming guests and showcasing a unique blend of Canadian and Irish culture.

The ambassador and his wife, Jana Hemphill, have also embraced the local lifestyle, enjoying their peaceful garden and the restored greenhouse, where they’ve started planting tomatoes and green beans.

With Canada Day celebrations drawing close, King revealed that he hosted nearly 300 guests in the backyard for the event this year, showcasing the residence’s role in promoting Canadian culture in Ireland.

This development is significant for anyone interested in international diplomacy, cultural exchange, or simply the rich history that Glanmire represents. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an engaging experience.

Don’t miss your chance to explore Glanmire and witness firsthand the merging of Canadian and Irish heritage on October 17.