CITY CENTRE what’s hot
There’s so much to see and do in the heart of the capital and no visitor will ever leave unfulfilled. Well-known attractions such as The Guinness Storehouse have rightly earned their place at the top of the most visited list; but there are some hidden gems to look out for also.
So, when we went to compile a list of what’s hot in the city centre – we asked Dubliners what they would do on a sunny Saturday - where do they go - and what the locals would recommend you don’t miss during your stay! Here’s a few of the favourites for you to check out during your stay in Dublin city centre.
The Little Museum of Dublin
Telling the story of the city over the last 100 years, the museum makes a big impact with small stuff — from a first edition of Ulysses to old bus scrolls and a statue of Bono. There’s an exhibition downstairs that changes seasonally, and a special tour each Thursday focusing on women’s history in Ireland.
Freemason’s Hall
Despite the reputation for secrecy, Irish freemasonry has a long and proud tradition and anyone can dip in during a tour of Freemason’s Hall on Molesworth Street. The Grand Lodge here is the second oldest in the world and it’s full of dizzying details and set-pieces. Tours run at 2.30pm on weekdays from June to August, with private visits welcome by appointment outside of those times.
Powerscourt Centre
Dublin’s not short of shopping centres but for a shopping experience, check out the Powerscourt Centre. Grandiose steps lead to the entrance on South William Street and there’s a light-filled atrium within. It’s bursting with Georgian heritage and dreamy shops that will steal both your heart and your money.
Trinity College
The Book of Kells always fascinates but, for many, the best part of Trinity College is its Old Library — an 18thcentury, oak-shelved long room straight from the pages of Harry Potter. A rare copy of the 1916 Proclamation and a 15th century harp that inspired the emblem of Ireland, are just the start of its treasures. After the book and the library, head over to the Science Gallery, an art-meets-science space, the exhibitions of which are guaranteed to bend your brain!
Bog Bodies at National Museum
While the archaeology outpost of the National Museum is a literal treasure trove of gold and jewels, the bog bodies are the most captivating of its exhibits. Weave between the partitions to find bodies that date back to 2000BC, perfectly preserved with mahoganytoned skin. Eyelashes, fingernails and even hair are all intact, and some bodies bear the marks of their death.
Chester Beatty Library & Roof Garden
Can’t face the line for the Book of Kells? Get your antique literary fix at the Chester Beatty Library instead, home to a staggering collection of books and manuscripts. The texts on display are exquisite, including some of the earliest known biblical texts on papyrus. Afterwards, head up to the roof garden for some peace and enjoy the views over Dublin Castle.
Read Ulysses at Sweny’s Chemist
James Joyce was Dublin’s quintessential writer but his books are more admired than read. You can change that by joining a reading session at Sweny’s, the 19th-century chemist that features in Ulysses and is today run as a literary curiosity shop by volunteers on Lincoln
Place. Readings of Joyce’s books take place at 1pm on weekdays and various times on weekends, with visitors invited to join in.
Croke Park
The GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) is Ireland’s largest sporting organisation. It represents our national games of hurling and Gaelic football and is celebrated as one of the world’s greatest amateur sporting associations. If you really want to get under the skin of the Irish, a visit to Croke Park is a must. More than just a stadium, it’s the home of Gaelic games and it holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Irish people. Here, you’ll find passion and history pumping around every corner. The Croke Park Stadium Tour, Ericsson Skyline (how’s your head for heights?) and GAA Museum are the perfect way to truly immerse yourself in Irish culture.