Papal visit to Knock: Further Information

I have a question about getting a ticket

Registration for tickets is now closed. All information on tickets, please see the Link to World Meeting of Families Website. This includes information for those with accessibility issues.

Can I go to the Phoenix Park event as well

It is not possible to apply for tickets for both Phoenix Park and the Knock events, as these events are on the same day – you may only apply for one of these events.

Can children attend without a ticket

Every adult and child in attendance will need a ticket. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. All tickets will be for standing sections only.

I’m hearing that cars are not allowed near Knock

You are not going to be able to drive up to or near Knock. Please note that there is a considerable walk from the car parks due to the size, scale and location of this event. There will be no shuttle bus facility available between the car parks and the event site. We encourage public transport as an alternative form of transport. There will be car parking available on the outskirts of Knock village. Public transport and private coaches will get you nearer to the venue.

Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail

Will a normal Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Sunday service operate

Transport services by train will be limited for Knock, so we recommend that you book a ticket in advance of travel at Link to Irish Rail website

I am a Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection pass holder - do I have to pay to travel

If you are a pass holder you do not have to pay the usual seat reservation charge of €5, but you must reserve a seat on the Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail website Link to Irish Rail website

If I travel by train to Claremorris, how will I get to the Knock Shrine

A bus shuttle service will be provided between Claremorris station and the Knock Shrine. Your train ticket can be used on this bus shuttle service for free.

How do I contact Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail for more information

If you require more information:

Bus Éireann

What services do Bus Éireann operate to Knock

Knock is served by Bus Éireann services 440 (Athlone to Westport) 438 (Ballina to Knock) and 64 (Galway to Sligo). All timetabled information can be found on Link to Bus Eireann Website or Link to Expressway Website These routes may be enhanced over the coming weeks, depending on ticket analysis.

What if I have more questions for Bus Éireann

If you require more information:

What if I am travelling from Northern Ireland

Translink have set up a dedicated web page Link to Translink Website where you can buy tickets online in advance, find useful links for journey planning and other general advice. Translink strongly recommends that people book their travel ticket well in advance to avoid disappointment.

How long is the event

There will be prayers from 8.30am until 9.30am, The Pope Mobile will arrive at 9.45am and will depart no later then 10.45am. Directly after the Pope departure from Knock, there will be an open air Mass.

For more information on the ceremonies click here.

Information on road closures and diversions for the Knock event is available here and here.

What time can I access Knock Shrine

The venue is likely to be open from early morning. The exact time will be confirmed closer to the event.

Can I stay overnight

You will not be able to stay overnight in Knock. No camping is allowed. Fáilte Ireland recommends that people book accommodation early. Given the scale of this event it is advisable that people also consider hotels in the wider areas and surrounding counties and check transport options from their hotel when booking their accommodation in light of the restrictions in car access that will be in place.

What time will the event be over at

The event will be over at 10.45am afterwards followed by an open air Mass. Please be aware that it may take some time to make your exit, as there will be a large volume of people exiting at the same time.

Can I bring my own food and beverages

Information will be provided with your ticket regarding what you can bring in to Knock.

What about accessibility

Every effort is being made to accommodate as many people with accessibility needs as is possible, within this unique location. We are currently consulting with disability organisations regarding this and will be communicating the finalised plans as soon as possible.

In the meantime, please do register for a ticket, indicating your accessibility requirements.

Can I see the event somewhere else if I can’t attend

Live coverage of the event in Knock and of the entire visit will be broadcast on RTÉ and other media outlets. More details will be available closer to the event.

Will I have to walk far

You do need to be prepared for a lot of walking. To help you with your journey there are a number of supports in place. There is also a range of facilities on site to help you on the day. There will be volunteers throughout the venue to help you on the day. Facilities will be provided for people with accessibility issues and their careers. Portable seating will be allowed into the venue. More information on this and what else you can bring into the venue will be available soon.

It is also useful to know that the walking will be throughout the day so give yourself good time to get into the venue. Leaving the venue will be slower as everyone will be trying to leave at the same time.

Why all the standing

It is not feasible to have seating for such volumes of people. That said, portable seating will be allowed into the venue. More information on this and what else you can bring into the venue will be available soon and there will be supports for those with accessibility issues.

There are also a range of facilities on site to help you on the day.

I have a health conditation, should I attend the event

If you have an ongoing medical issue which you think may affect your safety and comfort at the event, it is important that you consider this before deciding to attend. You may like to consult with your GP or other health professional about this. Remember, the event in Knock will be live on RTÉ so you can participate even if not attending the event in person.

I’m a resident in Knock, how will this impact me

The event will have an impact on local residents and businesses. We are aiming to ensure that any disruption to businesses and individuals is minimised as much as possible.

Necessary alternative arrangements are being developed. As plans are put in place, you will be contacted in advance of the event.

I work in a business near Knock, how will this impact me

The event will have an impact on local residents and businesses. We are aiming to ensure that any disruption to businesses and individuals is minimised as much as possible.

Necessary alternative arrangements are being developed. As plans are put in place, you will be contacted in advance of the event.

I’m a member of the media, how do I accredit for this

Members of the media must accredit for this event. More information is available Link to Media Information.

Back to Knock.