AirbnbでDunboyneの宿泊先を探す

Experience authentic Georgian elegance is this unique large OVAL studio apartment, overlooking park. Accommodates two in cosy sleeping loft. Light a fire, cook dinner in the designer kitchen, and then head out to enjoy the attractions of the city.

Come stay in one of Dublin's unique Georgian apartments, a perfect oval room, situated on Mountjoy Square, in the heart of Dublin's North Georgian core, and just minutes from O'Connell Street. This large studio apartment is on the ground floor of a beautiful redbrick townhouse, built in 1792. Both house and apartment retain all their original features, combined with modern comforts. The apartment has a fantastic 10ft window and overlooks a quiet side street, with an oblique view of the park. It has a working black Kilkenny marble fireplace with a spectacular gilt over-mantle mirror. The log basket is fully stocked with fuel- we charge cost price on an 'honour system'. The fully equipped kitchen has a granite worktop, a gas hob, electric oven, dishwasher and microwave. The rest of the apartment is comfortably furnished with period furniture including a Georgian oval 'hunt' dining table and four matching chairs, a comfortable 6 ft., sofa, TV & DVD player along with an iPod/iPhone dock for music. A small library of Irish books, and DVD's is available. The bedroom is upstairs and overlooks the apartment. It has a comfortable contract-quality double bed, Siberian white goose down duvet and pillows and pure Pima/Egyptian cotton sheets. Read in comfort with vintage Anglepoise reading lights. PLEASE NOTE there is restricted headroom in the sleeping loft, and consequently, the bed is low. ALSO, while the apartment faces a relatively quiet side street, it is on the corner of a fairly busy main road, so there will be traffic noise.... A 90cm contract-quality FOLDAWAY single bed, and extra linens are available for a third guest. A charge of €10, to cover the cost of the extra laundry, will be collected upon arrival, if the room is occupied as a twin. The bathroom has a high-pressure shower and loads of storage space. •You will receive a welcome pack of the basics- quality tea, coffee, home-made granola and preserves, yoghurt, fresh fruit, free-range eggs. •100% cotton bed linen and towels are provided •Local tourist information and guide books available •Free wi-fi •Hair dryer •Fuel, at cost price, is available for the fire, if required - typically €10-20 for a night. •Washing machine and dryer are available in the building- we will do your laundry for you, for €10:00 CHECK-IN IS FROM 3pm, but we are happy to take in your bags AFTER 9am, and can give you keys to come aback at your leisure, after 3pm. CHECK-OUT IS BY 11am, please. The house is perfectly located for exploring the city; all of the city's cultural institutions are within walking distance and the transport connections are excellent. Airport bus (41) passes door, 4 min. walk to LUAS CROSS CITY line, at Parnell and Marlborough. 8 min. walk to LUAS RED line on ABBEY and Marlborough, DART, (Connolly and Tara) and city busses. Dublin Bikes stand opposite house. KARIN'S GUIDE TO THE CITY LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING, SERVICES AND BREAKFAST OPTIONS In general, shopping hours are 9.30-6pm, with late-night shopping till 8pm on Thursdays. Sunday opening is from noon. BREAKFAST The Kingfisher Café, a no-frills 'caff' on the corner of Parnell Square and Parnell Street West is good for breakfast, with friendly and efficient service. Good value, and good fish and chips later in the day. The Old Music Store on North Frederick Street, a few blocks NW of us, does a good Irish breakfast in comfortable surroundings. LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING Tops in Pops, just down the street to the right, for fresh local produce and basic groceries, 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. They are a fourth-generation local business, who have been trading on the site since 1931. The Londis corner store next door opens 8am to 10pm, but charge for privilege. There is an ATM machine at the back, right hand side of the store. Dunne's Stores, is the indigenous supermarket and department store chain, and has branches in every sizeable town throughout the country. There are two local branches. In North Earl Street, opposite O’Connell Street’s Spire, the Off-Licence (liquor store) is in a separate premises, a few doors apart - look for the James Joyce statue. You will find a bigger branch in the ILAC Shopping Centre, flanked by Henry Street, Moore Street and Parnell Street West (Moore Street entrance is opposite Paris Bakery). There is Metro Tesco on Parnell Street West, just past the Rotunda Hospital. A main branch is to be found in the basement of the Jervis Centre, off Henry Street. Carney’s Butchers, is another multi-generational local family business, which prides itself on the quality of its meat. In keeping with local tradition, they sell fresh fish on Friday’s. F.X. Buckley’s Butchers have two local branches; Moore Street and Talbot Street. This is a very old Dublin business and they have everything; free-range pork, beef and lamb from their own herds, poultry, game in season and fish, and, in the Moore Street branch, a deli counter for cooked meats next door. They are very obliging, and the lads have a great line in smart (sassy) chat. PHARMACIES Foley's Pharmacy on Parnell Street East is a 100+ year-old family business; they are very helpful. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9am 6pm. There is a late-night pharmacy, Hickey’s at 55 Lower O’Connell Street, (west side, within the block closest to the river). Opening hours: 8am -10pm M-F, 8.30am-10pm Saturday. 10am 10pm Sunday. Web: (EMAIL HIDDEN) POST OFFICES Our nearest Post Office is the Main City Post Office, the GPO, on O’Connell Street. 1828 façade, but badly damaged in the 1916 Rising, and largely rebuilt in 1928. The main hall is beautiful, with its entire original, 1928, fittings intact. It also contains the iconic statue, by Oliver Shepherd, The Dying Cuchullain. You will find a booklet with postal rates in the black folder. BANKS Allied Irish Bank has a branch on O’Connell Street, at the SW junction with Parnell Street, opposite the Rotunda Hospital. There is a bank of ATMs in the wall, on the O'Connell Street facade. Bank of Ireland has a branch at Lower O’Connell Street, on the east side of the street, between Middle Abbey Street and Ashton Quay. ATM inside, opens 8am to 9pm. MEDICAL AND DENTAL PRACTICES Mountjoy Medical Practice, Dr. Gerry Roebuck, Dr. Holly Porter (female) Dr. Colm Killeen. 2-3 Baker’s Yard, Portland Street North. Tel (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). Opening hours 9-1.30 and 3.30-5.30. You can just drop in. €50 per visit. Frederick Dental Clinic, Dr. Peter Dwyer, North Frederick Street. -My dentist- is happy to see people on an emergency basis. Call for appointment. Tel:(PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). NORTHSIDE LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND CAFES: 'The Cobalt Cafe', in a beautiful Georgian house on North Great Georges Street, which doubles as a gallery, is great for lunch. Parnell Street, Dublin's emerging 'Chinatown' is just a half a block to the south. Mr Fox, on Parnell Square West is our local fine dining restaurant, serving modern Irish food in a smart and comfortable setting. The menu is interesting and inventive, and they have a separate vegetarian menu, which has had the same care lavished on it. Nearer the river, 'Le Bon Crubeen' (crubeen=pig's trotter- it's a modern Franco-Irish restaurant) is on Talbot Street, as is the venerable and immensely popular 'Talbot 101'. It is packed to the gunnels with locals between 5.54 and 7.15, enjoying their pre-theatre supper before the Abbey curtains rise at 7.30, when they relinquish their seats for the rest of us! On the riverfront, I love Panem, facing the Millennium Bridge, for a quick coffee and a delicious Sicilian almond biscuit, baked on the premises. A few doors down, you'll find a cluster of Italian bars, cafes and restaurants serving good quality food. Half a block to the east is the trendy 'Winding Stairs' restaurant, with its book-lined walls (relics of a former second-hand bookshop-cum-cafe of the same name), while The Woollen Mills, opposite the Halfpenny Bridge, has a sophisticated casual menu, based on 'plates' for sharing.Back on Capel Street, locals rave about Brother Hubbard for lunch. LOCAL PUBS include the 'Hill 16' just opposite the house, on Gardiner Street - very popular with the GAA crowd on match days (the Gaelic Athletic Association Stadium, Croke Park, is just 3 blocks to the east), they pull a superb 'pint'. ‘The Heritage Parnell’, on Parnell Street West, just around the corner from O’Connell Street 'The Flowing Tide', on the corner of Marlborough Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre, is one of my favorites - after the curtain goes down in the Abbey, half the cast are likely to be at the bar. A few doors closer to O’Connell Street is Mulligan’s, another very nice pub, dating from the Edwardian era. 'The Church' on Mary Street, in a converted 1720's church, is another fine place for a drink; the former owner won many accolades for the high quality of the restoration. Capel Street has many typical local pubs, which have the added benefit of serving a largely local population. They include Mc’Neill’s' which is good for traditional music, and Slattery's . 'The Black Sheep' has the local craft beers covered, and does good bar food, (as does its sister pub, ‘The Brew Dock’, on Store Street, at the bottom of Gardiner Street. The north side traditional music 'musician’s' bar is 'The Cobblestone', at the top of Smithfield, and is suitably grungy. DEPARTMENT STORES AND FASHION Henry Street, off O’Connell Street, to the West, at the SPIRE, is the premier shopping street on the north side of the river. Here you will find Arnott’s the local department store, which highlights Irish fashion and design, throughout the store, and has several nice cafes. Henry Street also contains large branches of Debenhams and Marks&Spencers, as well as branches of most of the high street fashion chains. There are two large shopping centres, the Jervis, with a large branch of Tesco’s in the Basement, and the ILAC, which has a Dunnes Department Store, with a Food Hall in the basement. (You can shop for fresh produce on adjacent Moore Street, Dublin's oldest street market, now also home to a thriving cluster of ethnic food markets and restaurants.) NORTHSIDE CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS The North side of Parnell Square is home to the city's Hugh Lane Gallery of Modern Art; we share a significant collection of Impressionist painting with the Tate Gallery in London, part of the Hugh Lane Bequest, which is rotated in seven-year cycles. Next door is the Writer's Centre, and next door again, is the Writer's Museum, with a Michelin-starred restaurant in the basement, the amazing Chapter One. Down on the East side of Parnell Square is the beautiful jewel-box that is the Gate Theatre - part of the 18th-century entertainment complex established by the entrepreneurial Dr. Bartholomew, to help support his new Rotunda Maternity Hospital (the oldest purpose-built such hospital in the world, and still delivering babies on a daily basis, 270 years later (9000 is 2012). You could be seated in either the Abbey or Gate Theatres within 10 minutes of leaving the house, and the James Joyce Cultural Centre is even closer, on North Great Georges Street (don't forget to check out the Cobalt Cafe, opposite). Hop on the Luas Red Line, going west, in Abbey Street, halfway between Mountjoy Square and the river, and you will be dropped at the ‘Museum’. The National Museum, Collins Barracks, housed in an old military barracks, dating from 1702, contains the Decorative Arts Collections, (basically, everything post 1700). Descend at the next stop, ‘Heuston’ for IMMA, Ireland's National Museum of Modern Art, housed in the old Kilmainham Hospital, built in the1660’s. It pre-dates the more famous Chelsea Hospital in London by several years. Not to be missed is the Old Jameson Distillery, in Smithfield. Jameson was distilled here until 1971, when three historic distilleries amalgamated, and centralized distilling in Midleton, Co. Cork. The Museum is very well presented; one is guided around the distilling floor, among the huge old pot stills before retiring to the Bar to sample the goods. Nearby is one of the oldest churches in Dublin, St.Michan’s, on Church Street, dating from the mid-11thc. There are several mummified bodies in the basement, thought to be Crusaders. When I was a child, one was allowed to shake their hands….. SOUTHSIDE In the south city centre, the RESTAURANT HUB is in the pedestrian streets to either side of Grafton Street, and in Temple Bar. Particular favourites of mine include: * Nede, Temple Bar Square * Eden Bar and Grill, South William Street * The Green Hen, Wicklow Street * Fallon and Byrne, Exchequer Street, basement wine-bar, full service restaurant first- floor, and coffee bar within the food-hall on the ground floor. * Fade Street Social, Fade Street, tapas bar and full-service restaurant. * The Rustic Stone, Exchequer Street, upmarket, sophisticated and healthy ‘fast food’. * Cornucopia, Wicklow Street- vegetarian café day, full service by evening. * The Port House, South William Street, wine bar and tapas. * Pinxto, Crowe Street, Temple Bar, as above, same management. Southside city-centre TRADITIONAL PUBS we like are: * Mulligan's, Poolbeg Street * Neary's, Chatham Street * Grogan’s, South William Street * International Bar, Wicklow Street * O'Neill's, Suffolk Street * The Dawson Lounge, Dawson Street * The Stag's Head, Connaught Court * The Long Hall, South Great Georges Street * Doheny and Nesbitt’s, Merrion Row * Kehoe’s, South Anne Street * The Duke, Duke Street Fronting the river, TEMPLE BAR, with its vibrant mix of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, markets and cultural institutions occupies an area three blocks deep and ten blocks long. At the western end, look out for the two branches of the Queen of Tarts- a wonderful teas shop that offers really good home baking and teas and coffees, all served on mismatched antique china (Lord Edward Street and Cow's Lane). TEMPLE BAR FARMERS MARKET, is held every Saturday in Meeting House Square, 9-4.30, now has a smart new tensile roof for wet days, and is a good place to rub shoulders with the locals, whilst sampling local food culture. Don’t miss the Oyster Stall, Hick’s Pork Butchers, or David Llewyllan’s fantastic ‘Double L’ local cider- 100% apple (not even water), and the two local cheese stalls, among others. Don’t’ forget to check out the overflow stalls on Curved Street, where Rossa Crowe’s fantastic bread is on offer- Rossa took himself off to France for two years to train, and now produces slow fermented breads, made with the very best organic flours. TRINITY COLLEGE is a good orientation point; from here it is easy to find the mediaeval core, the cultural/political hub of the country around Kildare Street, and the Grafton Street fashion hub. The campus occupies a 40-acre (16ha.) site, and is over 400 years old, though what one sees today are mainly beautiful eighteenth-century buildings. It is worth a wander around, after a visit to spectacular Long Library, to see the Book of Kells and other illustrated Celtic manuscripts. From Front Gate, look south to Grafton Street or west up College Green and Dame Street, which lead to the mediaeval core. At the brow of the hill you will find: * Dublin Castle (visit the State Apartments, the Chester Beatty Library and the lovely garden in front (which is actually the helicopter-landing pad for the Castle). * The City Hall with its 'Museum of the Capital' in the basement is worth a look- the Hall is free, and there is a nominal charge for the Museum. * Christchurch Cathedral * Dublinia-in the Christchurch Chapterhouse (Viking Exhibition). * Old Saint Audeon's Church, built almost into the city wall. * St Patrick's Cathedral, and historic park beside. * Marshe's Library-the oldest public library in these islands, 1701. * Francis Street- the Antiques Quarter. * Thomas Street/Meath Street, for a touch of 'Old Dublin'. * The Guinness Storehouse. * Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, (IMMA) Ireland's National Gallery of Modern Art, with its wonderful, recently restored formal garden. KILMINHAM GAOL is worth a visit, and tells the story of Irish Nationalism. It can be reached via the grounds of IMMA, passing Bully’s Acre, and old graveyard, where Brian Boru was reputedly rested on his way to his final burial place in Armagh. Alternatively, exit onto Nassau Street, with its cluster of high-quality shops showcasing the best of Irish crafts - fashion, knitwear, weaving, glassware, ceramics and contemporary jewellery - the Kilkenny Shop has a great cafe upstairs, with views over College Park. Continue along the College Park railings till you reach Kildare Street, the cultural-institutional hub of the country. All of our national cultural institutions have free admission. Here you will find the National Library, and the National Museum, facing each other over the forecourt of Leinster House, home to the Oireachtas, our National Parliament. The National Library has a lovely exhibit on the poet, W.B. Yeats, and the Treasury, in the National Museum houses both the Bronze Age and Early Christian collections. On the opposite side of the block, on Merrion Street/Merrion Square, you will find the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum (known to Dubliner's of my father's generation, as 'The Dead Zoo’. This is a very refreshing look to the past, with absolutely no interpretation, and nothing, not even a postcard, to buy). The National Gallery is halfway through a four-year renovation programme; in the meantime, the Millennium Wing, on Clare Street, has a ‘highlights of’ exhibition, and the Café and Gift Shop are also accessed via the Clare Street Entrance. GETTING AROUND Two operators offer Hop-On/Hop-Off tours: (URL HIDDEN) (URL HIDDEN) They both offer a 2-day ticket, and cost roughly the same price - check them out online before you make up your mind. One can buy an integrated LEAP card in most newsagents, at train stations, and in the Dublin Bus Head Office at 42 O’Connell Street (on the west side of the street, just north of the Spire). This can be used on the LUAS, DART, some suburban mainline trains, and on Dublin Bus routes. There is also a 3-day tourist pass, the Freedom Ticket, which provides good value. €28 will give you 72 hours transport, starting at the Airport; Airlink from the airport, the Hop-On-Hop –Off tourist bus and all local bus routes. Web: (URL HIDDEN) •The DART, the local electric commuter train, runs north/south along the coast. The northside city centre station is Connolly, on Amiens Street, facing Talbot Street, but I usually suggest people use Tara Street, as Connolly is also a mainline station, and is very big, and a bit confusing. Tara is purely a commuter station, and is about the same distance. It is on George’s Quay, just south of the Custom House. The other south-side city centre station is Pearse, on Westland Row, at the south end of the Trinity campus. •The LUAS Red Line runs east-west through the north side of the city, as far east as the docks, and serves both Connolly and Heuston mainline stations. The nearest stop to Mountjoy Square is Abbey, on Middle Abbey Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre. The LUAS Green Line serves the south suburbs; Ranelagh, Dundrum, Leopardstown Racecourse, and on out to Cherrywood, on the county boundary with Wicklow. •Main cross-city bus routes run north-south through O’Connell Street. The No.7 terminates on Mountjoy Square North, and there is a ‘shopper’s fare’ of 70c, to Grafton Street- alight at Trinity. On the return journey it skirts the Trinity campus and comes along Pearse, to the east of the campus - catch it on Clare Street, at the Millennium wing of the National Gallery. •DUBLIN BIKES are free to use for the first half hour, and have a stand on Mountjoy Square West, but one needs to go to the Princes Street stand (to the right hand side of the General Post Office (GPO)), to purchase a short term card. It costs €2, and is only available to credit card holders. SHOPPING WITH A DIFFERENCE Those interested in the local fashion, art and design scene should look out for the following addresses (in no particular order): •Designist, South Great George's Street (stock chosen for good design) •Irish Design Store, Drury Street •Article, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre (housewares) •Irish Designer Store, Top floor Powerscourt Townhouse Centre •Cow's Lane Gallery, Temple Bar (artist’s collective) •The Jam Factory, Nicholas Street (artist’s collective) •Avoca, Suffolk Street •Kilkenny Shop, Nassau Street •Designyard, South Frederick Street (jewellery) •Louise Kennedy, couturier, Merrion Square, and Tipperary Crystal •Gallery Zozimus, Francis Street (art gallery and carefully chosen crafts) •Graphic Studio Gallery, Temple Bar (artist-printmaker’s gallery) •Magee's of Donegal, Duke Street, and, •Kevin and Howlin, Nassau Street have hand-woven tweeds covered. •Dubarry's, College Green produce wonderful, country-style outerwear, including the most perfect alternative to sweaty, waterproof Wellington boots… •Monaghan's, Hibernian Way, the House of Ireland on Nassau Street and the Sweater Shops on Wicklow Street and Nassau Street has the best selections of traditional knitwear. Monaghan's specialise in cashmere. •The Cloth Shop, St. William Street, for interesting designer fabric, including a good selection of Irish Linen, and Liberty of London INDEPENDENT BOOKSHOPS and MUSIC STORES Eason’s, O’Connell Street, is a Dublin institution for over 100 years. It encompasses a large stationery department, a branch of Tower Records on the top floor, academic books in the basement, a nice café and two floors of general books. It is a good place to browse books of Irish interest, and they have a really good Information Desk. Chapters, Parnell Street West is my ‘local’. John Gannon is one of the best booksellers in the business, and his staff are hand-picked enthusiastic bibliophiles, one and all. Stock is a mixture of the latest releases, and carefully chosen remaindered books. Their ordering service is superlative, and they ALWAYS know exactly what one is talking about, even with just the vaguest, half-remembered clues from a newspaper review. Very strong on contemporary fiction, natural history, non-fiction and books of Irish interest. Extensive second-hand section upstairs. The Secret Bookstore, Wicklow Street is another favourite. It’s tucked away down a passage, near the L’Occitane shop and often throws up gems among its large second-hand stock. An eclectic music store occupies the rear of the shop. Cathach Rare Books, Duke Street, specializes in Irish first editions, and have an interesting selection of Irish maps and prints. Stokes Books is another interesting antiquarian/secondhand shop, specializing in books of Irish interest. You’ll find it in Georges Street Arcade. Claddagh Records, Cecelia Street, Temple Bar, is primarily a music publisher, but they have a retail outlet in Temple Bar, which is the oldest independent music shop in Dublin, and specializes in traditional Irish music, with some interesting World Music additions. PLACES OF WORSHIP: Roman Catholic: Many Catholic churches have Mass on Saturday evening, in addition to morning Masses. •St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, Upper Gardiner Street. Gospel Mass, 7.30pm Sundays, September to mid June. •St. Mary's Metropolitan Church - the Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough. Sung Mass, 11am, Sundays, with the Palestrina Choir. •St. Joseph’s Church, Berkeley Road, Dublin 7. •St. Teresa’s Church, Clarendon Street Church, choir sings at 11 o’clock Mass, Sunday’s •St. Peter’s Church, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, has wonderful Harry Clarke ((PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN)) stained glass windows. •Whitefriars Street Church, Aungier Street, church has relics of St. Valentine. Church of Ireland: •Christchurch Cathedral, Christchurch Place, sung Services Sundays, •St. Patrick's Cathedral, Nicholas Street, sung Services Sundays. •St. Anne’s Church, Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Jewish: Dublin Hebrew Congregation (URL HIDDEN) Daily services in Synagogue at 32a Rathfarnham Road, Public Transport: Buses: (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). Get off at Terenure Cross (road). Walk up Rathfarnham Road, pass AIB Bank and one row of terraced houses; shul is next building, with wooden/metal security gates. Across the street is a shop called Window Fashions. Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation (DJPC) Website: (URL HIDDEN) Email: (EMAIL HIDDEN) Postal: PO Box 3059, Dublin 6 President: Mrs. Hilary Abrahamson Muslim: Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) 19 Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, Tel: (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) Islamic Foundation of Ireland (IFI) 163 South Circular Road, Dublin 8. Tel: +(PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) Anwar-up-Madina Moore Street, Dublin 1. SHORT TRIPS OUTSIDE THE CITY BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT NORTH: Catch the No.46A bus, (heading north on O'Connell Street to the Phoenix Park- the largest enclosed urban park in the world, 1750 acres behind a seven-mile-long stone wall. Ashtown Castle Interpretive Centre, with its wonderful walled garden and café is a good place to orient oneself. From here, on Saturdays, it is possible to visit Aras an Uachtarian, the official residence of our President. One can also visit Farmliegh, the Official State Guesthouse, a former Guinness mansion. Among it’s attractions are an art gallery, café, occasional free concerts, and regular weekend Farmer’s Markets. The Park also houses the Dublin Zoo, (1827, the second-oldest Zoo in the world, after London’s Regent Park Zoo). Several herd of Fallow Deer roam at liberty. Many sports are catered for; there is Polo ground, a cricket club, and lots soccer pitches. The Duke of Wellington is commemorated by a marvelous granite obelisk, which can be seen for miles. The area know as the Forty Acres affords superb views over the city, with the Royal Hospital and Guinness in the foreground, along the south side of the River Liffey. Phoenix Park can also be reached via the LUAS Red Line, direction Tallagh, heading west. Alight at 'Museum' and take a detour into the National Museum-Collins Barracks, which houses the Decorative Arts, post-1700, wonderful collections of silver, furniture, glass and other artifacts. Just up the road, in Glasnevin there are three worthwhile attractions: Glasnevin Cemetary, was founded by Daniel O’Connell as one of his first initiatives, post Catholic Emancipation in 1829, to provide a dignified place for Catholic burial. The Glasnevin Musuem is new, and has superlative displays of Nationalist history. They also have a very good Geneology Department. The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, date from the end of 18thC. Though relatively small, they contain an internationally-aclaimed collection of plants and three iconic Glasshouses, by Turner of Dublin, which have all been restored in the recent past. There is a nice café in the Gardens, and entry is free. The Gravedigger’s Pub, over-looking a Green, is not to be missed. It got its name from the fact that there used to be a hatch in the rear wall, through which the gravediggers were served. They do nice simple pub food, and one can sit outside on sunny days. Walk back into town, and stop at either the The Botanic Bar at Harte’s Corner or the Brian Borus, typicl local bars. The Porter House, at Cross Guns Bridge, which is a micro-brewery, with nice food, is on the corner of the Royal Canal. Take a stroll east down the canal bank, and you will see swans, and moor-hens going about their business. At the next bridge, at Dorset Street look out for the lifesize bronze statue of Brendan Behan, a local author. From here is just a few minute’s stroll up Belvidere Place, with its charming stepped terraces of tall Georgian houses, to Mountjoy Square. Another favorite is the Marino Casino, in Fairview/Clontarf, an early 18th century pleasure house, built to the design of Sir William Chambers, for Lord Charlemont, purely for entertaining, also just a few miles by bus, north of the city centre. Catch the DART, the coastal commuter train, heading north, at Tara Street Station, on the South Liffey quays, at Butt Bridge, and take a short ride. You have the choice of Howth (a working fishing village) or Malahide. Howth Demesne or Howth Head, behind the village will both afford walks with great views; the Harbour has a dozen restaurants along the quay- ranging from take-out fish and chips to the very upmarket. Book an early-evening window table at Aqua, and be astonished by the sunset over the coast, looking north-west. Another favourite of mine is Deep, midway along the quay (and do watch out for the local tame and greedy Harbour Seal, who begs shamelessly from the trawler men, who tie up alongside). Malahide is a charming village, with some of the most expensive urban residential properties in the country. Good food and good shopping are to be had here. On the edge of the village you will find Malahide Castle and Demesne, open to the public, which includes a renowned private Arboretum, as Milo de Malahide, the last of his family, (who had occupied the castle continuously since Norman times, in the 10th-12th centuries) was a significant plants-man. The Castle contains the National Portrait Collection, as was as magnificent furniture and other contents. There is a smart new branch of the AVOCA Shop and Café in the Courtyard. SOUTH: South of the city you will find Rathfarnham Castle, and its Berkeley Costume and Toy Collection. Marley Park is a little further, just at the foot of the Dublin Mountains. It has wonderful parkland with easy walks, and a magnificent walled garden with a nice cafe. The No.16 bus, from O’Connell Street will leave you close by. Powerscourt is at the edge of Enniskerry, its associated estate village, at the end of the No.44 bus route, which winds its way through the south side suburbs, into Wicklow, through the Scalp, a deep and picturesque glacial valley. The 19th century gardens are fabulous, and make great use of the 'borrowed landscape' beyond. The terrace and Nepture fountain are centred on the Sugarloaf mountain, which marks the beginning of the Wicklow Mountains. The Powerscourt Waterfall, part of the same estate, is a few miles further on, and there are beautiful, way-marked, woodland and moorland walks in the hills nearby. Do be mindful; these ‘mountains’ can be deceptive- while not high, they can be treacherous, as weather conditions can change in minutes. Stick to the way-marked paths, and do keep an eye on the weather. Take the DART south to Bray and Greystones - via Dun Loughaire, Dalkey and Killiney - all interesting villages, with many cafes and restaurants. Killiney Hill, with its eighteenth century obelisk at the summit, is a short climb that results in amazing views over Dublin Bay, and down into the Wicklow Mountains beyond. There is a nice pub in in the ‘village’- ‘The Druid’s Chair’. Dalkey is a charming village with old-fashioned shops and lots of nice pubs, cafes and restaurants. The local Dalkey Castle Heritage Centre, is worth checking out, and in the summer run a theatre programme, and walking tours. Bray Esplanade is a classic Victorian seaside amenity, sturdily built from local granite - the perfect place to enjoy an ice-cream. Campo di Fiori, either the Restaurant or the Café, both near the train station and the north end of the Promenade, are particular favourites of mine. If one is feeling energetic, one could contemplate the Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones - 4miles/6km along the rough cliff path. Lots of nice pubs for a pint of Guinness at the other end, The Hungry Pear is my favourite café, among many. The DART will take you straight back into the city. But.. make sure to do it in the morning, as by mid-day the path is in shade, and it can be windy and cold. WEST: Travelling into the rich plains of Kildare, by the No. 67 bus route, you will come to the historic village of Celbridge, just twelve miles from the city centre. Castletown House is Ireland's finest Palladian mansion, and was saved from destruction by Desmond Guinness, in the early 1960's. He purchased it from the construction company who had acquired it. They intended to demolish it, to make way for a vast suburban housing estate. The Irish Georgian Society, founded by Desmond Guinness, restored the house and furnished it with the help of many volunteers and sponsors, and opened it to the public, a heroic task for a small membership conservation society. Today, it is in State ownership, and it is the flagship Georgian heritage property of Ireland. It is beautifully presented, and the parklands are undergoing restoration. A local bus, or the commuter train from Connolly Station in Amiens Street, will take one to Maynooth, a charming University town, with another magnificent Palladian mansion, Carton House, now operating as a very upmarket hotel and golf club. Lots of companies offer day-long coach tours. Some involve very long days, i.e, Cliffs of Moher in Clare and the Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim coast. Two more local, and very worthwhile ones are either: The Boyne Valley Tour (Newgrange Neolithic ( 5000 yr old World Heritage Site) / Mellifont Cistercian ruins- (12thC.)/ Monasterboice Early Christian (6th-8thC.) The Wicklow-Glendalough Tour (Powerscourt / Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough (Glen of the Two Lakes) a 6thC. Early Christian site, in beautiful wooded valley. Details of both of these trips, and others, are available in the big black folder in the apartment.

A beautiful, historic, residential square, built in 1790's, within 5-10 minutes walk of the city centre. Elegance and convenience combined with a bit of inner city grittiness. I have loved it all, since 1978!

Experience authentic Georgian elegance is this unique large OVAL studio apartment, overlooking park. Accommodates two in cosy sleeping loft. Light a fire, cook dinner in the designer kitchen, and then head out to enjoy the attractions of the city.

Come cocoon yourself in Georgian luxury and elegance this unique OVAL apartment, situated on Mountjoy Square, in the heart of Dublin’s historic North Georgian Core, just minutes from all the action. The large studio apartment is on the first floor of a fully restored Georgian townhouse, built in 1792. Both the house and the apartment retain all their Georgian features, combined with modern comforts. The apartment has a fantastic 10ft window and overlooks a quiet side street, with an oblique view of the square. Other features include a fine, working, black Kilkenny marble fireplace with a spectacular gilt over-mantle mirror. The log basket is fully stocked- we charge cost price for the fuel used on an 'honour system'. The fully equipped kitchen with granite worktop has a gas hob, electric oven, microwave, dishwasher, electric kettle and a toaster. Eat around the 1770's oval dining table with four Georgian chairs. The rest of the apartment is comfortably furnished with antique furniture, Irish where possible, and a luxurious 6 ft. sofa. A large flat-screen TV, and a DVD player and iPod/iPhone player/dock for music are also provided. The bed is upstairs and overlooks the apartment. It has a comfortable hotel-quality double bed, Siberian white goose down duvet and pillows and pure Pima/ Egyptian cotton sheets. Read in comfort with vintage Anglepoise reading lights. PLEASE NOTE that the head height in the loft is somewhat restricted, and the bed is consequently low. The apartment is designed for two people, but a hotel-quality, foldaway bed is available for a third guest. A surcharge of €10, to cover the cost of the extra laundry, will be applied if two people occupy the apartment as as twin. This will be collected in cash, upon arrival. The bathroom has a high-pressure shower and loads of storage space. •You will receive a welcome pack of the basics- quality tea, coffee, juice, home-made granola, yoghurt butter and preserves. •100% cotton bed linen and towels are provided •Local tourist information and guide books available •Free wi-fi •Hair dryer •Fuel, at cost price, is available for the fire, if required. •We will do your laundry for you - €10:00 per load. Discount vouchers for local Q Park, two blocks S and T blocks W of us CHECK-IN is from 3pm, and CHECK-OUT by 11am, please. We are happy to take in your luggage earlier; please let us have your flight details/travel arrangements, so that we can plan our day around being here to greet you. The house is perfectly located for exploring the city; all of the city's cultural institutions are within walking distance and the transport connections are excellent. Airport bus (41) passes door, 8 min. walk to LUAS Red line, DART, (Connolly and Tara) and city busses. Dublin Bikes stand opposite house. KARIN'S GUIDE TO THE CITY LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING, SERVICES AND BREAKFAST OPTIONS In general, shopping hours are 9.30-6pm, with late-night shopping till 8pm on Thursdays. Sunday opening is from noon. BREAKFAST The Old Music Store, on North Frederick Street is comfortable and offers a good cooked breakfast. The no-frills Kingfisher Café, on the corner of Parnell Square and Parnell Street West offers a good freshly cooked Irish breakfast and very good fish and chips later in the day. LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING Tops in Pops, just down the street to the right, for fresh local produce and basic groceries, 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. They are a fourth-generation local business, who have been trading on the site since 1931. The Londis corner store next door opens 8am to 10pm, but charge for privilege. There is an ATM machine at the back, right hand side of the store. Dunne's Stores, is the indigenous supermarket and department store chain, and has branches in every sizeable town throughout the country. There are two local branches. In North Earl Street, opposite O’Connell Street’s Spire, the Off-Licence (liquor store) is in a separate premises, a few doors apart - look for the James Joyce statue. You will find a bigger branch in the ILAC Shopping Centre, flanked by Henry Street, Moore Street and Parnell Street West (Moore Street entrance is opposite Paris Bakery). There is Metro Tesco on Parnell Street West, just past the Rotunda Hospital. A main branch is to be found in the basement of the Jervis Centre, off Henry Street. Carney’s Butchers, is another multi-generational local family business, which prides itself on the quality of its meat. In keeping with local tradition, they sell fresh fish on Friday’s. F.X. Buckley’s Butchers have two local branches; Moore Street and Talbot Street. This is a very old Dublin business and they have everything; free-range pork, beef and lamb from their own herds, poultry, game in season and fish, and, in the Moore Street branch, a deli counter for cooked meats next door. They are very obliging, and the lads have a great line in smart (sassy) chat. PHARMACIES Foley's Pharmacy on Parnell Street East is a 100+ year-old family business; they are very helpful. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9am 6pm. There is a late-night pharmacy, Hickey’s at 55 Lower O’Connell Street, (west side, within the block closest to the river). Opening hours: 8am -10pm M-F, 8.30am-10pm Saturday. 10am 10pm Sunday. Web: (email hidden) POST OFFICES Nearest Post Office is Parnell Street East, at corner of Marlborough Street, but much nicer is the GPO, O’Connell Street. 1828 façade, but badly damaged in the 1916 Rising, and largely rebuilt in 1928. The main hall is beautiful, with its entire original, 1928, fittings intact. It also contains the iconic statue, by Oliver Shepherd, The Dying Cuchullin. You will find a booklet with postal rates in the black folder. BANKS Allied Irish Bank has a branch on O’Connell Street, at the SW junction with Parnell Street, opposite the Rotunda Hospital. ATM in the wall. Bank of Ireland has a branch at Lower O’Connell Street, on the east side of the street, between Middle Abbey Street and Ashton Quay. ATM inside, opens MEDICAL AND DENTAL PRACTICES Mountjoy Medical Practice, Dr. Gerry Roebuck, Dr. Holly Porter (female) Dr. Colm Killeen. 2-3 Baker’s Yard, Portland Street (website hidden) (phone number hidden). Opening hours 9-1.30 and 3.30-5.30. You can just drop in. €50 per visit. Frederick Dental Clinic, Dr. Peter Dwyer, North Frederick Street. -My dentist- is happy to see people on an emergency basis. Call for (website hidden)(phone number hidden). NORTHSIDE LOCAL RESTAURANTS: 'The Cobalt Cafe', in a beautiful Georgian house on North Great Georges Street, which doubles as a gallery, is great for lunch. Parnell Street, Dublin's emerging 'Chinatown' is just a half a block to the south. Newly opened, on Parnell Square West is 'Mr.Fox', serving modern Irish food in a smart and comfortable setting. Nearer the river, 'Le Bon Crubeen' (crubeen=pig's trotter- it's a modern Franco-Irish restaurant) is on Talbot Street, as is the venerable and immensely popular 'Talbot 101'. It is packed to the gunnels with locals between 5.54 and 7.15, enjoying their pre-theatre supper before the Abbey curtains rise at 7.30, when they relinquish their seats for the rest of us! On the riverfront, I love Panem, facing the Millennium Bridge, for a quick coffee and a delicious Sicilian almond biscuit, baked on the premises. A few doors down, you'll find a cluster of Italian bars, cafes and restaurants serving good quality food. Half a block to the east is the trendy 'Winding Stairs' restaurant, with its book-lined walls (relics of a former second-hand bookshop-cum-cafe of the same name), and it's sister restaurant, The Woollen Mills, while back on Capel Street, locals rave about Brother Hubbard for lunch. LOCAL PUBS include the 'Hill 16' just opposite the house, on Gardiner Street - very popular with the GAA crowd on match days (the Gaelic Athletic Association Stadium, Croke Park, is just 3 blocks to the east), they pull a superb 'pint'. ‘The Heritage Parnell’, on Parnell Street West, just around the corner from O’Connell Street 'The Flowing Tide', on the corner of Marlborough Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre, is one of my favorites - after the curtain goes down in the Abbey, half the cast are likely to be at the bar. A few doors closer to O’Connell Street is Mulligan’s, another very nice pub, dating from the Edwardian era. 'The Church' on Mary Street, in a converted 1720's church, is another fine place for a drink; the former owner won many accolades for the high quality of the restoration. Capel Street has many typical local pubs, which have the added benefit of serving a largely local population. They include 'O’Neill’s' and 'Slattery's which is good for music. 'The Black Sheep' has the local craft beers covered, and does good bar food, (as does its sister pub, ‘The Brew Dock’, on Store Street, at the bottom of Gardiner Street. The north side traditional music 'musician’s' bar is 'The Cobblestone', at the top of Smithfield, and is suitably grungy. DEPARTMENT STORES AND FASHION Henry Street, off O’Connell Street, at the SPIRE, is the premier shopping street on the north side of the river. Here you will find Arnott’s the local department store, which highlights Irish fashion and design, throughout the store, and has several nice cafes. Henry Street also contains large branches of Debenhams and Marks&Spencers, as well as branches of most of the high street fashion chains. There are two large shopping centres, the Jervis, with a large branch of Tesco’s in the Basement, and the ILAC, which has a Dunnes Department Store, with a Food Hall in the basement. (You can shop for fresh produce on adjacent Moore Street, Dublin's oldest street market, now also home to a thriving cluster of ethnic food markets and restaurants.) NORTHSIDE CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS The North side of Parnell Square is home to the city's Hugh Lane Gallery of Modern Art; we share a significant collection of Impressionist painting with the Tate Gallery in London, part of the Hugh Lane Bequest, which is rotated in seven-year cycles. Next door is the Writer's Centre, and next door again, is the Writer's Museum, with a Michelin-starred restaurant in the basement, the amazing Chapter One. Down on the East side of Parnell Square is the beautiful jewel-box that is the Gate Theatre - part of the 18th-century entertainment complex established by the entrepreneurial Dr. Bartholomew, to help support his new Rotunda Maternity Hospital (the oldest purpose-built such hospital in the world, and still delivering babies on a daily basis, 270 years later (9000 is 2012). You could be seated in either the Abbey or Gate Theatres within 10 minutes of leaving the house, and the James Joyce Cultural Centre is even closer, on North Great Georges Street (don't forget to check out the Cobalt Cafe, opposite). Hop on the Luas Red Line, going west, in Abbey Street, halfway between Mountjoy Square and the river, and you will be dropped at the ‘Museum’. The National Museum, Collins Barracks, housed in an old military barracks, dating from 1702, contains the Decorative Arts Collections, (basically, everything post 1700). Descend at the next stop, ‘Heuston’ for IMMA, Ireland's National Museum of Modern Art, housed in the old Kilmainham Hospital, built in the1660’s. It pre-dates the more famous Chelsea Hospital in London by several years. Not to be missed is the Old Jameson Distillery, in Smithfield. Jameson was distilled here until 1971, when three historic distilleries amalgamated, and centralized distilling in Midleton, Co. Cork. The Museum is very well presented; one is guided around the distilling floor, among the huge old pot stills before retiring to the Bar to sample the goods. Nearby is one of the oldest churches in Dublin, St.Michan’s, on Church Street, dating from the mid-11thc. There are several mummified bodies in the basement, thought to be Crusaders. When I was a child, one was allowed to shake their hands….. SOUTHSIDE In the south city centre, the RESTAURANT HUB is in the pedestrian streets to either side of Grafton Street, and in Temple Bar. Particular favourites of mine include: * Nede, Temple Bar Square * Eden Bar and Grill, South William Street * The Green Hen, Wicklow Street * Fallon and Byrne, Exchequer Street, basement wine-bar, full service restaurant first- floor, and coffee bar within the food-hall on the ground floor. * Fade Street Social, Fade Street, tapas bar and full-service restaurant. * The Rustic Stone, Exchequer Street, upmarket, sophisticated and healthy ‘fast food’. * Cornucopia, Wicklow Street- vegetarian café day, full service by evening. * The Port House, South William Street, wine bar and tapas. * Pinxto, Crowe Street, Temple Bar, as above, same management. Southside city-centre TRADITIONAL PUBS we like are: * Mulligan's, Poolbeg Street * Neary's, Chatham Street * Grogan’s, South William Street * International Bar, Wicklow Street * O'Neill's, Suffolk Street * The Dawson Lounge, Dawson Street * The Stag's Head, Connaught Court * The Long Hall, South Great Georges Street * Doheny and Nesbitt’s, Merrion Row * Kehoe’s, South Anne Street * The Duke, Duke Street Fronting the river, TEMPLE BAR, with its vibrant mix of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, markets and cultural institutions occupies an area three blocks deep and ten blocks long. At the western end, look out for the two branches of the Queen of Tarts- a wonderful teas shop that offers really good home baking and teas and coffees, all served on mismatched antique china (Lord Edward Street and Cow's Lane). TEMPLE BAR FARMERS MARKET, is held every Saturday in Meeting House Square, 9-4.30, now has a smart new tensile roof for wet days, and is a good place to rub shoulders with the locals, whilst sampling local food culture. Don’t miss the Oyster Stall, Hick’s Pork Butchers, or David Llewyllan’s fantastic ‘Double L’ local cider- 100% apple (not even water), and the two local cheese stalls, among others. Don’t’ forget to check out the overflow stalls on Curved Street, where Rossa Crowe’s fantastic bread is on offer- Rossa took himself off to France for two years to train, and now produces slow fermented breads, made with the very best organic flours. NORTHSIDE CULTURAL ATTACTIONS TRINITY COLLEGE is a good orientation point; from here it is easy to find the mediaeval core, the cultural/political hub of the country around Kildare Street, and the Grafton Street fashion hub. The campus occupies a 40-acre (16ha.) site, and is over 400 years old, though what one sees today are mainly beautiful eighteenth-century buildings. It is worth a wander around, after a visit to spectacular Long Library, to see the Book of Kells and other illustrated Celtic manuscripts. From Front Gate, look south to Grafton Street or west up College Green and Dame Street, which lead to the mediaeval core. At the brow of the hill you will find: * Dublin Castle (visit the State Apartments, the Chester Beatty Library and the lovely garden in front (which is actually the helicopter-landing pad for the Castle). * The City Hall with its 'Museum of the Capital' in the basement is worth a look- the Hall is free, and there is a nominal charge for the Museum. * Christchurch Cathedral * Dublinia-in the Christchurch Chapterhouse (Viking Exhibition). * Old Saint Audeon's Church, built almost into the city wall. * St Patrick's Cathedral, and historic park beside. * Marshe's Library-the oldest public library in these islands, 1701. * Francis Street- the Antiques Quarter. * Thomas Street/Meath Street, for a touch of 'Old Dublin'. * The Guinness Storehouse. * Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, (IMMA) Ireland's National Gallery of Modern Art, with its wonderful, recently restored formal garden. KILMINHAM GAOL is worth a visit, and tells the story of Irish Nationalism. It can be reached via the grounds of IMMA, passing Bully’s Acre, and old graveyard, where Brian Boru was reputedly rested on his way to his final burial place in Armagh. Alternatively, exit onto Nassau Street, with its cluster of high-quality shops showcasing the best of Irish crafts - fashion, knitwear, weaving, glassware, ceramics and contemporary jewellery - the Kilkenny Shop has a great cafe upstairs, with views over College Park. Continue along the College Park railings till you reach Kildare Street, the cultural-institutional hub of the country. All of our national cultural institutions have free admission. Here you will find the National Library, and the National Museum, facing each other over the forecourt of Leinster House, home to the Oireachtas, our National Parliament. The National Library has a lovely exhibit on the poet, W.B. Yeats, and the Treasury, in the National Museum houses both the Bronze Age and Early Christian collections. On the opposite side of the block, on Merrion Street/Merrion Square, you will find the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum (known to Dubliner's of my father's generation, as 'The Dead Zoo’. This is a very refreshing look to the past, with absolutely no interpretation, and nothing, not even a postcard, to buy). The National Gallery is halfway through a four-year renovation programme; in the meantime, the Millennium Wing, on Clare Street, has a ‘highlights of’ exhibition, and the Café and Gift Shop are also accessed via the Clare Street Entrance. GETTING AROUND Two operators offer Hop-On/Hop-Off tours: (website hidden) (website hidden) They both offer a 2-day ticket, and cost roughly the same price - check them out online before you make up your mind. One can buy an integrated LEAP card in most newsagents, at train stations, and in the Dublin Bus Head Office at 42 O’Connell Street (on the west side of the street, just north of the Spire). This can be used on the LUAS, DART, some suburban mainline trains, and on Dublin Bus routes. There is also a 3-day tourist pass, the Freedom Ticket, which provides good value. €28 will give you 72 hours transport, starting at the Airport; Airlink from the airport, the Hop-On-Hop –Off tourist bus and all local bus routes. Web: (website hidden) •The DART, the local electric commuter train, runs north/south along the coast. The northside city centre station is Connolly, on Amiens Street, facing Talbot Street, but I usually suggest people use Tara Street, as Connolly is also a mainline station, and is very big, and a bit confusing. Tara is purely a commuter station, and is about the same distance. It is on George’s Quay, just south of the Custom House. The other south-side city centre station is Pearse, on Westland Row, at the south end of the Trinity campus. •The LUAS Red Line runs east-west through the north side of the city, as far east as the docks, and serves both Connolly and Heuston mainline stations. The nearest stop to Mountjoy Square is Abbey, on Middle Abbey Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre. The LUAS Green Line serves the south suburbs; Ranelagh, Dundrum, Leopardstown Racecourse, and on out to Cherrywood, on the county boundary with Wicklow. •Main cross-city bus routes run north-south through O’Connell Street. The No.7 terminates on Mountjoy Square North, and there is a ‘shopper’s fare’ of 70c, to Grafton Street- alight at Trinity. On the return journey it skirts the Trinity campus and comes along Pearse, to the east of the campus - catch it on Clare Street, at the Millennium wing of the National Gallery. •DUBLIN BIKES are free to use for the first half hour, and have a stand on Mountjoy Square West, but one needs to go to the Princes Street stand (to the right hand side of the General Post Office (GPO)), to purchase a short term card. It costs €2, and is only available to credit card holders. SHOPPING WITH A DIFFERENCE Those interested in the local fashion, art and design scene should look out for the following addresses (in no particular order): •Designist, South Great George's Street (stock chosen for good design) •Irish Design Store, Drury Street •Article, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre (housewares) •Irish Designer Store, Top floor Powerscourt Townhouse Centre •Cow's Lane Gallery, Temple Bar (artist’s collective) •The Jam Factory, Nicholas Street (artist’s collective) •Avoca, Suffolk Street •Kilkenny Shop, Nassau Street •Designyard, South Frederick Street (jewellery) •Louise Kennedy, couturier, Merrion Square, and Tipperary Crystal •Gallery Zozimus, Francis Street (art gallery and carefully chosen crafts) •Graphic Studio Gallery, Temple Bar (artist-printmaker’s gallery) •Malthouse Design Centre and Shop, Distillery Court, 537 North Circular Road, just around the corner from Mountjoy Square (cluster of design-led businesses, 10-5 M-F) •Magee's of Donegal, Wicklow Street, and, •Kevin and Howlin, Nassau Street have hand-woven tweeds covered. •Dubarry's, College Green produce wonderful, country-style outerwear, including the most perfect alternative to sweaty, waterproof Wellington boots… •Monaghan's, Hibernian Way, the House of Ireland on Nassau Street and the Sweater Shops on Wicklow Street and Nassau Street has the best selections of traditional knitwear. Monaghan's specialise in cashmere. •Murphy and Sheehy, Castle Market, stock Irish tweed, Irish linen and a quirky selection of designer fabrics. Look out for their ‘Linen Union (linen/cotton blend) Glass Cloths- the best ever for polishing glassware, they make a super, useful, inexpensive and lightweight traditional gift! •The Cloth Shop, St. William Street, for interesting designer fabric, including a good selection of Irish Linen, and Liberty of London INDEPENDENT BOOKSHOPS and MUSIC STORES Eason’s, O’Connell Street, is a Dublin institution for over 100 years. It encompasses a large stationery department, a branch of Tower Records on the top floor, academic books in the basement, a nice café and two floors of general books. It is a good place to browse books of Irish interest, and they have a really good Information Desk. Chapters, Parnell Street West is my ‘local’. John Gannon is one of the best booksellers in the business, and his staff are hand-picked enthusiastic bibliophiles, one and all. Stock is a mixture of the latest releases, and carefully chosen remaindered books. Their ordering service is superlative, and they ALWAYS know exactly what one is talking about, even with just the vaguest, half-remembered clues from a newspaper review. Very strong on contemporary fiction, natural history, non-fiction and books of Irish interest. Extensive second-hand section upstairs. The Secret Bookstore, Wicklow Street is another favourite. It’s tucked away down a passage, near the L’Occitane shop and often throws up gems among its large second-hand stock. An eclectic music store occupies the rear of the shop. Cathach Rare Books, Duke Street, specializes in Irish first editions, and have an interesting selection of Irish maps and prints. Stokes Books is another interesting antiquarian/secondhand shop, specializing in books of Irish interest. You’ll find it in Georges Street Arcade. Claddagh Records, Cecelia Street, Temple Bar, is primarily a music publisher, but they have a retail outlet in Temple Bar, which is the oldest independent music shop in Dublin, and specializes in traditional Irish music, with some interesting World Music additions. The Celtic Note, on Nassau Street, beside the Kilkenny Shop is another good bet. PLACES OF WORSHIP: Roman Catholic: Many Catholic churches have Mass on Saturday evening, in addition to morning Masses. •St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, Upper Gardiner Street. Gospel Mass, 7.30pm Sundays, September to mid June. •St. Mary's Metropolitan Church - the Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough. Sung Mass, 11am, Sundays, with the Palestrina Choir. •St. Joseph’s Church, Berkeley Road, Dublin 7. •St. Teresa’s Church, Clarendon Street Church, choir sings at 11 o’clock Mass, Sunday’s •St. Peter’s Church, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, has wonderful Harry Clarke (phone number hidden)) stained glass windows. •Whitefriars Street Church, Aungier Street, church has relics of St. Valentine. Church of Ireland: •Christchurch Cathedral, Christchurch Place, sung Services Sundays, •St. Patrick's Cathedral, Nicholas Street, sung Services Sundays. •St. Anne’s Church, Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Jewish: Dublin Hebrew Congregation (website hidden) Daily services in Synagogue at 32a Rathfarnham Road, Public Transport: Buses: (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). Get off at Terenure Cross (road). Walk up Rathfarnham Road, pass AIB Bank and one row of terraced houses; shul is next building, with wooden/metal security gates. Across the street is a shop called Window Fashions. Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation (DJPC) Website: (website hidden) Email: (email hidden) Postal: PO Box 3059, Dublin 6 President: Mrs. Hilary Abrahamson Muslim: Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) 19 Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, Tel: (phone number hidden) Islamic Foundation of Ireland (IFI) 163 South Circular Road, Dublin (website hidden): (phone number hidden) Anwar-up-Madina Moore Street, Dublin 1. SHORT TRIPS OUTSIDE THE CITY BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT NORTH: Catch the No.46A bus, (heading north on O'Connell Street to the Phoenix Park- the largest enclosed urban park in the world, 1750 acres behind a seven-mile-long stone wall. Ashtown Castle Interpretive Centre, with its wonderful walled garden and café is a good place to orient oneself. From here, on Saturdays, it is possible to visit Aras an Uachtarian, the official residence of our President. One can also visit Farmliegh, the Official State Guesthouse, a former Guinness mansion. Among it’s attractions are an art gallery, café, occasional free concerts, and regular weekend Farmer’s Markets. The Park also houses the Dublin Zoo, (1827, the second-oldest Zoo in the world, after London’s Regent Park Zoo). Several herd of Fallow Deer roam at liberty. Many sports are catered for; there is Polo ground, a cricket club, and lots soccer pitches. The Duke of Wellington is commemorated by a marvelous granite obelisk, which can be seen for miles. The area know as the Forty Acres affords superb views over the city, with the Royal Hospital and Guinness in the foreground, along the south side of the River Liffey. Phoenix Park can also be reached via the LUAS Red Line, direction Tallagh, heading west. Alight at 'Museum' and take a detour into the National Museum-Collins Barracks, which houses the Decorative Arts, post-1700, wonderful collections of silver, furniture, glass and other artifacts. Just up the road, in Glasnevin there are three worthwhile attractions: Glasnevin Cemetary, was founded by Daniel O’Connell as one of his first initiatives, post Catholic Emancipation in 1829, to provide a dignified place for Catholic burial. The Glasnevin Musuem is new, and has superlative displays of Nationalist history. They also have a very good Geneology Department. The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, date from the end of 18thC. Though relatively small, they contain an internationally-aclaimed collection of plants and three iconic Glasshouses, by Turner of Dublin, which have all been restored in the recent past. There is a nice café in the Gardens, and entry is free. The Gravedigger’s Pub, over-looking a Green, is not to be missed. It got its name from the fact that there used to be a hatch in the rear wall, through which the gravediggers were served. They do nice simple pub food, and one can sit outside on sunny days. Walk back into town, and stop at either the The Botanic Bar at Harte’s Corner or the Brian Borus, typicl local bars. The Porter House, at Cross Guns Bridge, which is a micro-brewery, with nice food, is on the corner of the Royal Canal. Take a stroll east down the canal bank, and you will see swans, and moor-hens going about their business. At the next bridge, at Dorset Street look out for the lifesize bronze statue of Brendan Behan, a local author. From here is just a few minute’s stroll up Belvidere Place, with its charming stepped terraces of tall Georgian houses, to Mountjoy Square. Another favorite is the Marino Casino, in Fairview/Clontarf, an early 18th century pleasure house, built to the design of Sir William Chambers, for Lord Charlemont, purely for entertaining, also just a few miles by bus, north of the city centre. Catch the DART, the coastal commuter train, heading north, at Tara Street Station, on the South Liffey quays, at Butt Bridge, and take a short ride. You have the choice of Howth (a working fishing village) or Malahide. Howth Demesne or Howth Head, behind the village will both afford walks with great views; the Harbour has a dozen restaurants along the quay- ranging from take-out fish and chips to the very upmarket. Book an early-evening window table at Aqua, and be astonished by the sunset over the coast, looking north-west. Another favourite of mine is Deep, midway along the quay (and do watch out for the local tame and greedy Harbour Seal, who begs shamelessly from the trawler men, who tie up alongside). Malahide is a charming village, with some of the most expensive urban residential properties in the country. Good food and good shopping are to be had here. On the edge of the village you will find Malahide Castle and Demesne, open to the public, which includes a renowned private Arboretum, as Milo de Malahide, the last of his family, (who had occupied the castle continuously since Norman times, in the 10th-12th centuries) was a significant plants-man. The Castle contains the National Portrait Collection, as was as magnificent furniture and other contents. There is a smart new branch of the AVOCA Shop and Café in the Courtyard. SOUTH: South of the city you will find Rathfarnham Castle, and its Berkeley Costume and Toy Collection. Marley Park is a little further, just at the foot of the Dublin Mountains. It has wonderful parkland with easy walks, and a magnificent walled garden with a nice cafe. The No.16 bus, from O’Connell Street will leave you close by. Powerscourt is at the edge of Enniskerry, its associated estate village, at the end of the No.44 bus route, which winds its way through the south side suburbs, into Wicklow, through the Scalp, a deep and picturesque glacial valley. The 19th century gardens are fabulous, and make great use of the 'borrowed landscape' beyond. The terrace and Nepture fountain are centred on the Sugarloaf mountain, which marks the beginning of the Wicklow Mountains. The Powerscourt Waterfall, part of the same estate, is a few miles further on, and there are beautiful, way-marked, woodland and moorland walks in the hills nearby. Do be mindful; these ‘mountains’ can be deceptive- while not high, they can be treacherous, as weather conditions can change in minutes. Stick to the way-marked paths, and do keep an eye on the weather. Take the DART south to Bray and Greystones - via Dun Loughaire, Dalkey and Killiney - all interesting villages, with many cafes and restaurants. Killiney Hill, with its eighteenth century obelisk at the summit, is a short climb that results in amazing views over Dublin Bay, and down into the Wicklow Mountains beyond. There is a nice pub in in the ‘village’- ‘The Druid’s Chair’. Dalkey is a charming village with old-fashioned shops and lots of nice pubs, cafes and restaurants. The local Dalkey Castle Heritage Centre, is worth checking out, and in the summer run a theatre programme, and walking tours. Bray Esplanade is a classic Victorian seaside amenity, sturdily built from local granite - the perfect place to enjoy an ice-cream. Campo di Fiori, either the Restaurant or the Café, both near the train station and the north end of the Promenade, are particular favourites of mine. If one is feeling energetic, one could contemplate the Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones - 4miles/6km along the rough cliff path. Lots of nice pubs for a pint of Guinness at the other end, The Hungry Pear is my favourite café, among many. The DART will take you straight back into the city. But.. make sure to do it in the morning, as by mid-day the path is in shade, and it can be windy and cold. WEST: Travelling into the rich plains of Kildare, by the No. 67 bus route, you will come to the historic village of Celbridge, just twelve miles from the city centre. Castletown House is Ireland's finest Palladian mansion, and was saved from destruction by Desmond Guinness, in the early 1960's. He purchased it from the construction company who had acquired it. They intended to demolish it, to make way for a vast suburban housing estate. The Irish Georgian Society, founded by Desmond Guinness, restored the house and furnished it with the help of many volunteers and sponsors, and opened it to the public, a heroic task for a small membership conservation society. Today, it is in State ownership, and it is the flagship Georgian heritage property of Ireland. It is beautifully presented, and the parklands are undergoing restoration. A local bus, or the commuter train from Connolly Station in Amiens Street, will take one to Maynooth, a charming University town, with another magnificent Palladian mansion, Carton House, now operating as a very upmarket hotel and golf club. Lots of companies offer day-long coach tours. Some involve very long days, i.e, Cliffs of Moher in Clare and the Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim coast. Two more local, and very worthwhile ones are either: The Boyne Valley Tour (Newgrange Neolithic ( 5000 yr old World Heritage Site) / Mellifont Cistercian ruins- (12thC.)/ Monasterboice Early Christian (6th-8thC.) The Wicklow-Glendalough Tour (Powerscourt / Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough (Glen of the Two Lakes) a 6thC. Early Christian site, in beautiful wooded valley. Details of both of these trips, and others, are available in the big black folder in the apartment.

A beautiful, historic residential square, built in 1790's, within 5-10 minutes walk of down-town city centre. Elegance and convenience combined with a bit of inner city grittiness. I have loved it all, since 1978! Mountjoy Square is situated just NE of the historic city centre, within walking distance of just about all the main city attractions. It is the most densely populated area in the entire city: 1500 people have front doors opening onto the Square. The house fronts onto a 4acre/1.5ha park, across a fairly busy street. This apartment faces the side street, so it is quieter, but you will still hear traffic.....Please bear in mind that this is NOT LEAFY SUBURBIA, but a vibrant, living city community and it's definitely gritty in places... Having said that, I have lived here, uneventfully, for nearly 38 years, and consider the trade-offs well worth it, for the excitement and convenience of having the city on my doorstep..

Superb city centre location within walking distance of all major tourist attractions (see below for walking times). Located just outside the noisy pub and nightlife areas and overlooking a private roof garden for a peaceful nights sleep. Upscale, spacious (80 sq.m/860 sq.ft), modern, bright & chic apartment with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a balcony. The apartment contains everything you could expect for your stay and includes tasteful designer furniture and interiors.

Perfect location! Major attractions walking time: > The river Liffey, Smithfield Tram station, Jameson Distillery, Smithfield Square, Dublin Tourist Bus Stop - 1 minute > Christchurch Cathedral - 7 minutes > Temple Bar, Henry Street - 10 minutes > O'Connell Street & Dublin Visitor centre, Phoenix Park, Guinness Storehouse - 12 minutes > Grafton Street - 15 minutes This fantastic 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom modern apartment is ideally located in Dublin city centre within walking distance to all Dublin's major tourist attractions and 1 minute walk to Smithfield central tram station. The 2 bedrooms and living room overlook a private roof garden which ensures a low level of noise and a safe/peaceful nights sleep in the city centre yet just outside the noisy pub and nightlife areas (e.g. temple bar, along the Quays, etc). The apartment itself contains 2 spacious double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms both with shower and toilet facilities, a fully fitted modern kitchen (dishwasher, microwave, large fridge freezer, crockery, glasses, all utensils, etc.), a large living room/dining room area with floor length windows leading onto a balcony with a view of the private roof garden. We have carefully crafted detailed arrival instructions as well as a wide variety of tips/advice for the apartment, local area and Dublin city in general! We have put a lot of effort into these documents and improve them on a regular basis. Bedroom 1 - Double bed (2 persons) Bedroom 2 - Double bed (2 persons) Living room - Sofa bed (2 persons) The apartment has plenty of space for you to relax in peacefully with Dublin on your doorstep. An elevator takes you up up to our apartment and parking is available in the large public underground car park (prices vary). The apartment is professionally cleaned after every guest and freshly laundered bed sheets and towels come as standard with each booking. Both bedrooms have brand new deep fill, hotel grade mattresses and the bed sheets are 100% cotton with high thread count of minimum 200 threads per square inch. Duvets and pillows for all beds are hotel grade and a comfortable mattress topper ensures a good nights sleep.

Smithfield is a trendy inner city area just north of the river Liffey. Some local Artisian highlights of the Smithfield complex include the Light House Cinema/Gallery, the Generator Hostel, Third Space Cafe, Oscars Bar & Restaurant and the Fresh Good Food Shop. Despite the excellent location, the area is very quiet and removed from the bustling nightlife districts of Dublin city centre. Furthermore, the area is very safe and the building is secure.

Experience authentic Georgian elegance is this large bright studio apartment, overlooking park. Accommodates two in cosy sleeping loft. Light a fire, cook dinner in the designer kitchen, and then head out to enjoy the attractions of the city.

Come and have an authentic experience in one of Dublin's special Georgian apartments, situated on Mountjoy Square, in the heart of Dublin's North Georgian core, and just minutes from O'Connell Street. This large studio apartment is on the first floor of a beautiful redbrick townhouse, built in 1792. Both house and apartment retain all their original features, combined with modern comforts. The apartment has three full-length windows overlooking the gardens of Mountjoy Square. It has a working Georgian grey marble fireplace with a spectacular gilt over-mantle mirror. The fully equipped kitchen has a granite worktop, a gas hob, electric oven, dishwasher and microwave. The rest of the apartment is comfortably furnished with period furniture, including a square Georgian dining table and four matching chairs, a comfortable Victorian antique Chesterfield sofa, TV & DVD player along with an iPod/iPhone dock for music. there are pashminas and Kashmir hand-loomed wool wraps, for cosy evenings in front of the fire. The bedroom is upstairs and overlooks the apartment. It has a comfortable double mattress, goose down duvet and pillows, and pure cotton sheets. Read in comfort with vintage Anglepoise reading lights. Please note there is restricted headroom in the sleeping loft- 5'10-1/2", and consequently the bed is low. The bathroom has a high-pressure shower and loads of storage space. A single, contract-quality foldaway bed, or a single, memory-foam mattress, and extra linens are available for a third guest. Please see photos. A surcharge of €10, to cover the cost of the extra laundry, applies for the use of the apartment as a twin. This will be collected in cash upon arrival. • You will receive a welcome pack of the basics- quality tea, coffee, home-made granola and preserves, fruit, yoghurt, juice, milk and free-range eggs. • 100% cotton bed linen and towels are provided • Local tourist information and guide books available • Free wi-fi • Large flat-screen TV and DVD player, with selection of Irish themed DVD's • IPod/Iphone dock for music and charging • Library of Irish-themed books • Playing cards and board games • Hair dryer • Fuel, at cost price, is available for the fire, if required. • Washing machine and dryer are available in the building- €10:00 charge CHECK-IN IS FROM 3pm, and CHECK-OUT IS BY 11am, please. We are happy to take in your luggage earlier. Please let us have your flight/arrival details, so that we can plan our day around being here to greet you. The house is perfectly located for exploring the city; all of the city's cultural institutions are within walking distance and the transport connections are excellent. Airport bus (41) passes door, 8 min. walk to LUAS Red line, DART, (Connolly and Tara) and city busses. Dublin Bikes stand opposite house. KARIN'S GUIDE TO THE CITY LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING, SERVICES AND BREAKFAST OPTIONS In general, shopping hours are 9.30-6pm, with late-night shopping till 8pm on Thursdays. Sunday opening is from noon. BREAKFAST The Kingfisher Café, a Dublin institution, on the corner of Parnell Square and Parnell Street West is great for a 'Full Irish Breakfast', and numerous variations, including porridge. Everything is cooked to order and the sraff are professional and friendly. Breakfast served 9am-12:30, 7 days a week. Later in the day they have excellent fish and chips. Koffee and Kale, on the corner of Hill Street and Gardiner Place, two blocks away has great coffee and pastries, and soup/salad/sandwiches at lunchtime. LOCAL GROCERY SHOPPING Tops in Pops, just down the street to the right, for fresh local produce and basic groceries, 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. They are a fourth-generation local business, who have been trading on the site since 1931. The Londis corner store next door opens 8am to 10pm, but charge for privilege. There is an ATM machine at the back, right hand side of the store. Dunne's Stores, is the indigenous supermarket and department store chain, and has branches in every sizeable town throughout the country. There are two local branches. In North Earl Street, opposite O’Connell Street’s Spire, the Off-Licence (liquor store) is in a separate premises, a few doors apart - look for the James Joyce statue. You will find a bigger branch in the ILAC Shopping Centre, flanked by Henry Street, Moore Street and Parnell Street West . There is Metro Tesco on Parnell Street West, just past the Rotunda Hospital. A main branch is to be found in the basement of the Jervis Centre, off Henry Street. Carney’s Butchers, is another multi-generational local family business, which prides itself on the quality of its meat. In keeping with local tradition, they sell fresh fish on Friday’s. F.X. Buckley’s Butchers have two local branches; Moore Street and Talbot Street. This is a very old Dublin business and they have everything; free-range pork, beef and lamb from their own herds, poultry, game in season and fish, and, in the Moore Street branch, a deli counter for cooked meats next door. They are very obliging, and the lads have a great line in smart (sassy) chat. PHARMACIES Foley's Pharmacy on Parnell Street East is a 100+ year-old family business; they are very helpful. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9am 6pm. Michael recently (May 2017) won the National 'Community Pharmacist of the Year' award, and a nicer, kinder, or more helpful man you will never meet.... There is a late-night pharmacy, Hickey’s at 55 Lower O’Connell Street, (west side, within the block closest to the river). Opening hours: 8am -10pm M-F, 8.30am-10pm Saturday. 10am 10pm Sunday. Web: (EMAIL HIDDEN) POST OFFICES Nearest Post Office is Parnell Street East, at corner of Marlborough Street, but much nicer is the GPO, O’Connell Street. 1828 façade, but badly damaged in the 1916 Rising, and largely rebuilt in 1928. The main hall is beautiful, with its entire original, 1928, fittings intact. It also contains the iconic statue, by Oliver Shepherd, The Dying Cuchullin. You will find a booklet with postal rates in the black folder. BANKS Allied Irish Bank has a branch on O’Connell Street, at the SW junction with Parnell Street, opposite the Rotunda Hospital. ATM in the wall. Bank of Ireland has a branch at Lower O’Connell Street, on the east side of the street, between Middle Abbey Street and Ashton Quay. ATM inside, opens MEDICAL AND DENTAL PRACTICES Mountjoy Medical Practice, Dr. Gerry Roebuck, Dr. Holly Porter (female) Dr. Colm Killeen. 2-3 Baker’s Yard, Portland Street North. Tel (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). Opening hours 9-1.30 and 3.30-5.30. You can just drop in. €50 per visit. (Five blocks away, going North East) Frederick Dental Clinic, North Frederick Street. The dentist is happy to see people on an emergency basis. Call for appointment. Tel:(PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) blocks away, going West) NORTHSIDE LOCAL RESTAURANTS: 'The Cobalt Cafe', in a beautiful Georgian house on North Great Georges Street, which doubles as a gallery, is great for lunch. Parnell Street, Dublin's emerging 'Chinatown' is just a half a block to the south. Newly opened, on Parnell Square West is 'Mr Fox', serving modern Irish food in a smart and comfortable setting, by the same team who operate Dublin's much lauded 'The Pig's Ear' on Nassau Street, overlooking the Trinity College playing fields.. '147 Cafe' at 147, Parnell Street East, opp the Marlborough Street junction, serve good Illy coffee, and great sandwiches, daytime hours. Nearer the river, 'Le Bon Crubeen' (crubeen=pig's trotter- it's a modern Franco-Irish restaurant) is on Talbot Street, as is the venerable and immensely popular 'Talbot 101'. It is packed to the gunnels with locals between 5.54 and 7.15, enjoying their pre-theatre supper before the Abbey curtains rise at 7.30, when they relinquish their seats for the rest of us! On the riverfront, I love Panem, facing the Millennium Bridge, for a quick coffee and a delicious Sicilian almond biscuit, baked on the premises. A few doors down, you'll find a cluster of Italian bars, cafes and restaurants serving good quality food. Half a block to the east is the trendy 'Winding Stairs' restaurant, with its book-lined walls (relics of a former second-hand bookshop-cum-cafe of the same name); The woollen Mills on the corner of Liffey street does great casual food, including excellent brunch. Back on Capel Street, locals rave about Brother Hubbard, and the Soup Dragon, for lunch. Blas cafe in the Chocolate Factory, on Kings Inn Street, off Parnell Street West has an interesting, casual menu, in a bright, spacious and funky former factory (daytime). LOCAL PUBS include the 'Hill 16' just opposite the house, on Gardiner Street - very popular with the GAA crowd on match days (the Gaelic Athletic Association Stadium, Croke Park, is just 3 blocks to the east), they pull a superb 'pint'. ‘The Heritage Parnell’, on Parnell Street West, just around the corner from O’Connell Street, does 'pub grub'. 'The Flowing Tide', on the corner of Marlborough Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre, is one of my favorites - after the curtain goes down in the Abbey, half the cast are likely to be at the bar. A few doors closer to O’Connell Street is Mulligan’s, another very nice pub, dating from the Edwardian era. 'The Church' on Mary Street, in a converted 1720's church, is another fine place for a drink; the former owner won many accolades for the high quality of the restoration. Capel Street has many typical local pubs, which have the added benefit of serving a largely local population. They include 'O’Neill’s' and 'Slattery's which is good for music. 'The Black Sheep' has the local craft beers covered, and does good bar food, (as does its sister pub, ‘The Brew Dock’, on Store Street, at the bottom of Gardiner Street. The north side traditional music 'musician’s' bar is 'The Cobblestone', at the top of Smithfield, and is suitably grungy. DEPARTMENT STORES AND FASHION Henry Street, off O’Connell Street, at the SPIRE, is the premier shopping street on the north side of the river. Here you will find Arnott’s the local department store, which highlights Irish fashion and design, throughout the store, and has several nice cafes. Henry Street also contains large branches of Debenhams and Marks&Spencers, as well as branches of most of the high street fashion chains. There are two large shopping centres, the Jervis, with a large branch of Tesco’s in the Basement, and the ILAC, which has a Dunne's Department Store, with a Food Hall in the basement. (You can shop for fresh produce on adjacent Moore Street, Dublin's oldest street market, now also home to a thriving cluster of ethnic food markets and restaurants.) NORTHSIDE CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS The North side of Parnell Square is home to the city's Hugh Lane Gallery of Modern Art; we share a significant collection of Impressionist painting with the Tate Gallery in London, part of the Hugh Lane Bequest, which is rotated in seven-year cycles. (The cafe, overlooking an interior garden, is called 'Hatch'; the original is in the basement of the 'Little Museum of Dublin' on St. Stevens Green). Next door is the Writer's Centre, and next door again, is the Writer's Museum, with a Michelin-starred restaurant in the basement, the amazing Chapter One. Down on the East side of Parnell Square is the beautiful jewel-box that is the Gate Theatre - part of the 18th-century entertainment complex established by the entrepreneurial Dr. Bartholomew, to help support his new Rotunda Maternity Hospital (the oldest purpose-built such hospital in the world, and still delivering babies on a daily basis, 270 years later (9000 in 2012). You could be seated in either the Abbey or Gate Theatres within 10 minutes of leaving the house, and the James Joyce Cultural Centre is even closer, on North Great Georges Street (don't forget to check out the Cobalt Cafe, opposite). Hop on the Luas Red Line, going west, in Abbey Street, halfway between Mountjoy Square and the river, and alight ‘Museum’ stop. The National Museum, Collins Barracks, housed in an old military barracks, dating from 1702, contains the Decorative Arts Collections, (basically, everything post 1700). Descend at the next stop, ‘Heuston’ for IMMA, Ireland's National Museum of Modern Art, housed in the old Kilmainham Hospital, built in the1660’s. It pre-dates its more famous sibling, the Chelsea Hospital, in London by several years. Not to be missed is the Old Jameson Distillery, in Smithfield. Jameson was distilled here until 1971, when three historic distilleries amalgamated, and centralized distilling in Midleton, Co. Cork. The Museum is very well presented; one is guided around the distilling floor, among the huge old pot stills before retiring to the Bar to sample the goods. Nearby is one of the oldest churches in Dublin, St.Michan’s, on Church Street, dating from the mid-11thC. There are several mummified bodies in the basement, thought to be Crusaders. When I was a child, one was allowed to shake their hands….. SOUTHSIDE In the south city centre, the RESTAURANT HUB is in the pedestrian streets to either side of Grafton Street, and in Temple Bar. Particular favourites of mine include: * The Pig's Ear, Nassau Street * Nede, Temple Bar Square * Eden Bar and Grill, South William Street * The Green Hen, Wicklow Street * Fallon and Byrne, Exchequer Street, basement wine-bar, full service restaurant first- floor, and coffee bar within the food-hall on the ground floor. * Fade Street Social, Fade Street, tapas bar and full-service restaurant. * The Rustic Stone, Exchequer Street, upmarket, sophisticated and healthy ‘fast food’. * Cornucopia, Wicklow Street- vegetarian café day, full service by evening. * The Port House, South William Street, wine bar and tapas. * Stanley's, St. Andrew Street, off Wicklow Street- wine bar and full service * Pinxto, Crowe Street, Temple Bar, as above, same management. * Cleaver East, Clarence Hotel - chef Oliver Dunne had a Michelin star in the parent restaurant, Bon Appetit, Malahide village, until he decided to hand it back and get a life Southside city-centre TRADITIONAL PUBS we like are: * Mulligan's, Poolbeg Street * Neary's, Chatham Street * Grogan’s, South William Street * International Bar, Wicklow Street * O'Neill's, Suffolk Street * The Dawson Lounge, Dawson Street * The Stag's Head, Connaught Court * The Long Hall, South Great Georges Street * Doheny and Nesbitt’s, Merrion Row * Kehoe’s, South Anne Street * The Duke, Duke Street Fronting the river, TEMPLE BAR, with its vibrant mix of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, markets and cultural institutions occupies an area three blocks deep and ten blocks long. At the western end, look out for the two branches of the Queen of Tarts- a wonderful tea shop that offers really good home baking and teas and coffees, all served on mismatched antique china (Lord Edward Street and Cow's Lane). Piglet Wine Bar, on the same pedestrian street had a lovely wine selection and great tapas, at good prices. TEMPLE BAR FARMERS MARKET, is held every Saturday in Meeting House Square, 9-4.30, now has a smart new tensile roof for wet days, and is a good place to rub shoulders with the locals, whilst sampling local food culture. Don’t miss the Oyster Stall, , or David Llewyllan’s fantastic ‘Double L’ local cider- 100% apple (not even water), and the two local cheese stalls, among others. Don’t’ forget to check out the overflow stalls on Curved Street, where Rossa Crowe’s fantastic bread is on offer- Rossa took himself off to France for two years to train, and now produces slow fermented breads, made with the very best organic flours. SOUTHSIDE CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS TRINITY COLLEGE is a good orientation point; from here it is easy to find the mediaeval core, the cultural/political hub of the country around Kildare Street, and the Grafton Street fashion hub. The campus occupies a 40-acre (16ha.) site, and is over 400 years old, though what one sees today are mainly beautiful eighteenth-century buildings. It is worth a wander around, after a visit to spectacular Long Library, to see the Book of Kells and other illustrated Celtic manuscripts. From Front Gate, look south to Grafton Street or west up College Green and Dame Street, which lead to the mediaeval core. At the brow of the hill you will find: * Dublin Castle (visit the State Apartments, the Chester Beatty Library and the lovely garden in front (which is actually the helicopter-landing pad for the Castle). * The City Hall with its 'Museum of the Capital' in the basement is worth a look- the Hall is free, and there is a nominal charge for the Museum. * Christchurch Cathedral * Dublinia-in the Christchurch Chapterhouse (Viking Exhibition). * Old Saint Audeon's Church, built almost into the city wall. * St Patrick's Cathedral, and historic park beside. * Marshe's Library-the oldest public library in these islands, 1701. * Francis Street- the Antiques Quarter. * Thomas Street/Meath Street, for a touch of 'Old Dublin'. * The Guinness Storehouse. * Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, (IMMA) Ireland's National Gallery of Modern Art, with its wonderful, recently restored formal garden. KILMINHAM GAOL is worth a visit, and tells the story of Irish Nationalism. It can be reached via the grounds of IMMA, passing Bully’s Acre, and old graveyard, where Brian Boru was reputedly rested on his way to his final burial place in Armagh. Alternatively, exit onto Nassau Street, with its cluster of high-quality shops showcasing the best of Irish crafts - fashion, knitwear, weaving, glassware, ceramics and contemporary jewellery - the Kilkenny Shop has a great cafe upstairs, with views over College Park. The Pig's Ear restaurant is one of my all-time favourites. Continue along the College Park railings till you reach Kildare Street, the cultural-institutional hub of the country. All of our national cultural institutions have free admission. Here you will find the National Library, and the National Museum, facing each other over the forecourt of Leinster House, home to the Oireachtas, our National Parliament. The National Library has a lovely exhibit on the poet, W.B. Yeats, and the Treasury, in the National Museum houses both the Bronze Age and Early Christian collections. On the opposite side of the block, on Merrion Street/Merrion Square, you will find the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum (known to Dubliner's of my father's generation, as 'The Dead Zoo’. This is a very refreshing look to the past, with absolutely no interpretation, and nothing, not even a postcard, to buy). The National Gallery is almost through a four-year renovation programme; in the meantime, the Millennium Wing, on Clare Street, has a ‘highlights of’ exhibition, and the Café and Gift Shop are also accessed via the Clare Street Entrance. GETTING AROUND Two operators offer Hop-On/Hop-Off tours: (URL HIDDEN) (URL HIDDEN) They both offer a 2-day ticket, and cost roughly the same price - check them out online before you make up your mind. One can buy an integrated LEAP card in most newsagents, at train stations, and in the Dublin Bus Head Office at 42 O’Connell Street (on the west side of the street, just north of the Spire). This can be used on the LUAS, DART, some suburban mainline trains, and on Dublin Bus routes. There is also a 3-day tourist pass, the Freedom Ticket, which provides good value. €28 will give you 72 hours transport, starting at the Airport; Airlink from the airport, the Hop-On-Hop –Off tourist bus and all local bus routes. Web: (URL HIDDEN) •The DART, the local electric commuter train, runs north/south along the coast. The north-side city centre station is Connolly, on Amiens Street, facing Talbot Street, but I usually suggest people use Tara Street, as Connolly is also a mainline station, and is very big, and a bit confusing. Tara is purely a commuter station, and is about the same distance. It is on George’s Quay, just south of the Custom House. The other south-side city centre station is Pearse, on Westland Row, at the south end of the Trinity campus. •The LUAS Red Line runs east-west through the north side of the city, as far east as the docks, and serves both Connolly and Heuston mainline stations. The nearest stop to Mountjoy Square is Abbey, on Middle Abbey Street, opposite the Abbey Theatre. The LUAS Green Line serves the south suburbs; Ranelagh, Dundrum, Leopardstown Racecourse, and on out to Cherrywood, on the county boundary with Wicklow. •Main cross-city bus routes run north-south through O’Connell Street. The No.7 terminates on Mountjoy Square North, and there is a ‘shopper’s fare’ of 50c, to Grafton Street- alight at Trinity. On the return journey it skirts the Trinity campus and comes along Pearse, to the east of the campus - catch it on Clare Street, at the Millennium wing of the National Gallery. •DUBLIN BIKES are free to use for the first half hour, and have a stand on Mountjoy Square West, but one needs to go to the Princes Street stand (to the right hand side of the General Post Office (GPO)), to purchase a short term card. It costs €2, and is only available to credit card holders. SHOPPING WITH A DIFFERENCE Those interested in the local fashion, art and design scene should look out for the following addresses (in no particular order): •Designist, South Great George's Street (stock chosen for good design) •Irish Design Store, Drury Street •Article, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre (housewares) •Irish Designer Store, Top floor Powerscourt Townhouse Centre •Cow's Lane Gallery, Temple Bar (artist’s collective) •The Jam Factory, Nicholas Street (artist’s collective) •Avoca, Suffolk Street •Kilkenny Shop, Nassau Street •Designyard, South Frederick Street (jewellery) •Louise Kennedy, couturier, Merrion Square, and Tipperary Crystal •Gallery Zozimus, Francis Street (art gallery and carefully chosen crafts) •Graphic Studio Gallery, Temple Bar (artist-printmaker’s gallery) •Malthouse Design Centre and Shop, Distillery Court, 537 North Circular •Magee's of Donegal, Wicklow Street, and, •Kevin and Howlin, Nassau Street have hand-woven tweeds covered. •Dubarry's, College Green produce wonderful, country-style outerwear, including the most perfect alternative to sweaty, waterproof Wellington boots… •Monaghan's, Hibernian Way, the House of Ireland on Nassau Street and the Sweater Shops on Wicklow Street and Nassau Street has the best selections of traditional knitwear. Monaghan's specialise in cashmere. •The Cloth Shop, St. William Street, for interesting designer fabric, including a good selection of Irish Linen, and Liberty of London INDEPENDENT BOOKSHOPS and MUSIC STORES Eason’s, O’Connell Street, is a Dublin institution for over 100 years. It encompasses a large stationery department, a branch of Tower Records on the top floor, academic books in the basement, a nice café and two floors of general books. It is a good place to browse books of Irish interest, and they have a really good Information Desk. Chapters, Parnell Street West is my ‘local’. John Gannon is one of the best booksellers in the business, and his staff are hand-picked enthusiastic bibliophiles, one and all. Stock is a mixture of the latest releases, and carefully chosen remaindered books. Their ordering service is superlative, and they ALWAYS know exactly what one is talking about, even with just the vaguest, half-remembered clues from a newspaper review. Very strong on contemporary fiction, natural history, non-fiction and books of Irish interest. Extensive second-hand section upstairs. The Secret Bookstore, Wicklow Street is another favourite. It’s tucked away down a passage, near the L’Occitane shop and often throws up gems among its large second-hand stock. An eclectic music store occupies the rear of the shop. Cathach Rare Books, Duke Street, specializes in Irish first editions, and have an interesting selection of Irish maps and prints. Stokes Books is another interesting antiquarian/secondhand shop, specializing in books of Irish interest. You’ll find it in Georges Street Arcade. Claddagh Records, Cecelia Street, Temple Bar, is primarily a music publisher, but they have a retail outlet in Temple Bar, which is the oldest independent music shop in Dublin, and specializes in traditional Irish music, with some interesting World Music additions. PLACES OF WORSHIP: Roman Catholic: Many Catholic churches have Mass on Saturday evening, in addition to morning Masses. •St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, Upper Gardiner Street. Gospel Mass, 7.30pm Sundays, September to mid June. •St. Mary's Metropolitan Church - the Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough. Sung Mass, 11am, Sundays, with the Palestrina Choir. •St. Joseph’s Church, Berkeley Road, Dublin 7. •St. Teresa’s Church, Clarendon Street Church, choir sings at 11 o’clock Mass, Sunday’s •St. Peter’s Church, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, has wonderful Harry Clarke ((PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN)) stained glass windows. •Whitefriars Street Church, Aungier Street, church has relics of St. Valentine. Church of Ireland: •Christchurch Cathedral, Christchurch Place, sung Services Sundays, •St. Patrick's Cathedral, Nicholas Street, sung Services Sundays. •St. Anne’s Church, Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Jewish: Dublin Hebrew Congregation (URL HIDDEN) Daily services in Synagogue at 32a Rathfarnham Road, Public Transport: Buses: (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN). Get off at Terenure Cross (road). Walk up Rathfarnham Road, pass AIB Bank and one row of terraced houses; shul is next building, with wooden/metal security gates. Across the street is a shop called Window Fashions. Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation (DJPC) Website: (URL HIDDEN) Email: (EMAIL HIDDEN) Postal: PO Box 3059, Dublin 6 President: Mrs. Hilary Abrahamson Muslim: Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) 19 Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, Tel: (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) Islamic Foundation of Ireland (IFI) 163 South Circular Road, Dublin 8. Tel: +(PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) Anwar-up-Madina Moore Street, Dublin 1. SHORT TRIPS OUTSIDE THE CITY BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT NORTH: Catch the No.46A bus, (heading north on O'Connell Street to the Phoenix Park- the largest enclosed urban park in the world, 1750 acres behind a seven-mile-long stone wall. Ashtown Castle Interpretive Centre, with its wonderful walled garden and café is a good place to orient oneself. From here, on Saturdays, it is possible to visit Aras an Uachtarian, the official residence of our President. One can also visit Farmliegh, the Official State Guesthouse, a former Guinness mansion. Among it’s attractions are an art gallery, café, occasional free concerts, and regular weekend Farmer’s Markets. The Park also houses the Dublin Zoo, (1827, the second-oldest Zoo in the world, after London’s Regent Park Zoo). Several herd of Fallow Deer roam at liberty. Many sports are catered for; there is Polo ground, a cricket club, and lots soccer pitches. The Duke of Wellington is commemorated by a marvellous Sobelisk, and the Forty Acres affords superb views over the city, with the Royal Hospital and Guinness Brewery in the foreground, along the south side of the River Liffey. Phoenix Park can also be reached via the LUAS Red Line, direction Tallagh, heading west. Alight at 'Museum' and take a detour into the National Museum-Collins Barracks, which houses the Decorative Arts, post-1700, wonderful collections of silver, furniture, glass and other artifacts. Just up the road, in Glasnevin, there are three worthwhile attractions: Glasnevin Cemetary, was founded by Daniel O’Connell as one of his first initiatives, post Catholic Emancipation in 1829, to provide a dignified place for Catholic burial. The Glasnevin Museum is new, and has superlative displays of Nationalist history. They also have a very good Geneology Department. The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, date from the end of 18thC. Though relatively small, they contain an internationally-aclaimed collection of plants and three iconic Glasshouses, by Turner of Dublin, which have all been restored in the recent past. There is a nice café in the Gardens, and entry is free. The Gravedigger’s Pub, over-looking a Green, is not to be missed. It acquired its name from the fact that there used to be a hatch in the rear wall, through which the gravediggers were served. They do nice simple pub food, and one can sit outside on sunny days. Walk back into town, and stop at either the The Botanic Bar at Harte’s Corner or the Brian Boru, typicl local bars. The Whitworth, at Cross Guns Bridge, with nice food, is on the corner of the Royal Canal. Take a stroll east down the canal bank, and you will see swans, and moor-hens going about their business. At the next bridge, at Dorset Street, look out for the lifesize bronze statue of Brendan Behan, a local author. From here is just a few minute’s stroll up Belvidere Place, with its charming stepped terraces of tall Georgian houses, to Mountjoy Square. Another favourite is the Marino Casino, in Fairview/Clontarf, an early 18th century pleasure house, built to the design of Sir William Chambers, for Lord Charlemont, purely for entertaining, also just a few miles by bus, north of the city centre. Catch the DART, the coastal commuter train, heading north, at Tara Street Station, on the South Liffey quays, at Butt Bridge, and take a short ride. You have the choice of Howth (a working fishing village) or Malahide. Howth Demesne or Howth Head, behind the village will both afford walks with great views; the Harbour has a dozen restaurants along the quay- ranging from take-out fish and chips to the very upmarket. Book an early-evening window table at Aqua, and be astonished by the sunset over the coast, looking north-west. Another favourite of mine is Deep, midway along the quay (and do watch out for the local tame and greedy Harbour Seal, who begs shamelessly from the trawler men, who tie up alongside). Malahide is a charming village, with some of the most expensive urban residential properties in the country. Good food and good shopping are to be had here. On the edge of the village you will find Malahide Castle and Demesne, open to the public, which includes a renowned private Arboretum, as Milo de Malahide, the last of his family, (who had occupied the castle continuously since Norman times, in the 10th-12th centuries) was a significant plants-man. The Castle contains the National Portrait Collection, as was as magnificent furniture and other contents. There is a smart new branch of the AVOCA Shop and Café in the Courtyard. Oliver Dunne's restaurant, Bon Appetit, on St. James Terrace, has superb food in elegant, relaxed surroundings.(This restaurant had a Michelin star for years, but the chef/patron decided to return it, and simplify his life - a case of 'been there-done that'.) SOUTH: South of the city you will find Rathfarnham Castle, and its Berkeley Costume and Toy Collection (No. 16 bus). Marley Park is a little further, just at the foot of the Dublin Mountains. It has wonderful parkland with easy walks, and a magnificent walled garden with a nice cafe. The No.16 bus, from O’Connell Street will leave you close by. Powerscourt is at the edge of Enniskerry, its associated estate village, at the end of the No.44 bus route, which winds its way through the south side suburbs, into Wicklow, through the Scalp, a deep and picturesque glacial valley. The 19th century gardens are fabulous, and make great use of the 'borrowed landscape' beyond. The terrace and Nepture fountain are centred on the Sugarloaf mountain, which marks the beginning of the Wicklow Mountains. The Powerscourt Waterfall, part of the same estate, is a few miles further on, and there are beautiful, way-marked, woodland and moorland walks in the hills nearby. Do be mindful; these ‘mountains’ can be deceptive- while not high, they can be treacherous, as weather conditions can change in minutes. Stick to the way-marked paths, and do keep an eye on the weather. Take the DART south to Bray and Greystones - via Dun Loughaire, Dalkey and Killiney - all interesting villages, with many cafes and restaurants. Killiney Hill, with its eighteenth century obelisk at the summit, is a short climb that results in amazing views over Dublin Bay, and down into the Wicklow Mountains beyond. There is a nice pub in in the ‘village’- ‘The Druid’s Chair’. Dalkey is a charming village with old-fashioned shops and lots of nice pubs, cafes and restaurants. The local Dalkey Castle Heritage Centre, is worth checking out, and in the summer run a theatre programme, and walking tours. Bray Esplanade is a classic Victorian seaside amenity, sturdily built from local granite - the perfect place to enjoy an ice-cream. Campo di Fiori, either the Restaurant or the Café, both near the train station and the north end of the Promenade, are particular favourites of mine. If one is feeling energetic, one could contemplate the Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones - 4miles/6km along the rough cliff path. Lots of nice pubs for a pint of Guinness at the other end, The Hungry Pear is my favourite café, among many. The DART will take you straight back into the city. But.. make sure to do it in the morning, as by mid-day the path is in shade, and it can be windy and cold. WEST: Travelling into the rich plains of Kildare, by the No. 67 bus route, you will come to the historic village of Celbridge, just twelve miles from the city centre. Castletown House is Ireland's finest Palladian mansion, and was saved from destruction by Desmond Guinness, in the early 1960's. He purchased it from the construction company who had acquired it. They intended to demolish it, to make way for a vast suburban housing estate. The Irish Georgian Society, founded by Desmond Guinness, restored the house and furnished it with the help of many volunteers and sponsors, and opened it to the public, a heroic task for a small membership conservation society. Today, it is in State ownership, and it is the flagship Georgian heritage property of Ireland. It is beautifully presented, and the parklands are undergoing restoration. A local bus, or the commuter train from Connolly Station in Amiens Street, will take one to Maynooth, a charming University town, with another magnificent Palladian mansion, Carton House, now operating as a very upmarket hotel and golf club. Lots of companies offer day-long coach tours. Some involve very long days, i.e, Cliffs of Moher in Clare and the Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim coast. Two more local, and very worthwhile ones are either: The Boyne Valley Tour (Newgrange Neolithic ( 5000 yr old World Heritage Site) / Mellifont Cistercian ruins- (12thC.)/ Monasterboice Early Christian (6th-8thC.) The Wicklow-Glendalough Tour (Powerscourt / Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough (Glen of the Two Lakes) a 6thC. Early Christian site, in beautiful wooded valley. Details of both of these trips, and others, are available in the big black folder in the apartment.

A beautiful, historic residential square, built in 1790's, within 5-10 minutes walk of the city centre. Elegance and convenience combined with a bit of inner city grittiness. I have loved it all, since 1978!

The following is what past guests have said that they love about this property; Guests commented on how old world and elegent it looks. You have a sense of being in the country with birds and squirrels in the trees but yet you are only 10 minutes to the airport and 10 minutes to the city centre. Everyone adored our closeness to the phoenix park - the pool room looks into the park.There are many activities in the park including the zoo, the hop on hop off bus, segways, rent a bike to name a few.

The apartment is a 4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom home separated by the swimming pool from our own house around a courtyard near the world renowned Phoenix Park, home to the President of Ireland and the American Embassy. The park is very historic with several interesting building to explore and it is home to Dublin Zoo and also home to Cricket, Polo, and a great park to rent bikes and meander around. About our home: Our home is special as the atmosphere is relaxed,friendly and we will endeavour to help our guests have the best time possible. We have a separate self contained sauna all year round and a heated swimming pool at your disposal. There are 4 bedrooms; bedroom 1 & 2 have king size beds and are ensuite. Bedroom 3 has a double sized bed and bedroom 4: King size bed and single bed. In total beds for 9 people. Only 5 km from the centre of Dublin. Dublin is an intimate city with a bustling night life with a great choice of good restaurants. In our welcome book we have suggestions for restaurants in Dublin. Suitable for Business travellers, couples and families of up to 9 who are intending on discovering Ireland. Also suitable for events such as the Bloom Garden Festival, The Royal Dublin Horse Show, Dublin Marathon and many more events. Public transport is 50 meters from the house and by car, Dublin Centre is 5km.aaww

Our house is located at the gate of the famous Phoenix Park. The house has a beautiful country feel about it but yet it is 10 minutes from the City Centre. We are within 10 mins drive of 5 golf courses, so we are ideal for golf enthusiasts. We are only 20 minutes drive also from the Dublin mountains again ideal for hill walkers,and those that like horse riding.The village of Castleknock is 8 minutes walk from the house. Here you have 5 restaurants 3 pubs and all local amenities like hair dressers, dry cleaners, beauticians etc. As we are at the Phoenix Park gate, our house is ideally situated for any event being held in the Phoenix park, like Bloom in June, Iron Man in August and motor racing and Dublin Marathon

Fantastic Apartment in the heart of the city with river views. Refurbished by award winning A2 architects, this unique space offers modern, bright open plan accommodation with amazing views of the Ha'penny Bridge, one of Dublin most famous landmarks.

Fantastic Apartment in the heart of the city with river views. Refurbished by award winning A2 architects, this unique space offers modern, bright open plan accommodation with amazing views of the Ha'penny Bridge, one of Dublin most famous landmarks. Recently renovated by award winning A2 Architects, my 2nd floor, open plan studio apartment offers the perfect location to stay in Dublin. Situated right beside the symbol of Dublin, the Ha’penny Bridge, you are in the beating heart of the city. Everything is within walking distance, with Temple Bar and Trinity College for example just across the bridge and most other major sights a few minutes away . The airport bus is only 100 metres away, not to mention all the bars and restaurants just outside the door. Experiencing the true essence of Dublin couldn’t be any easier. Previously a 66-metres (710 sq ft) two-bedroom apartment, it was renovated to an open plan, creating a large space that allows full access to natural light. From the window overlooking the river Liffey, you get a great view of the sunset and the feeling of the city passing you by. It’s deceptively easy to just sit at the window and watch as people cross the Ha’penny bridge. I have Wi-fi, a great bathroom and fully functioning kitchen including a Nespresso coffee machine. Dublin is a conveniently compact city and my apartment is nestled right in the centre of it all, allowing for a hassle free, thoroughly enjoyable place to experience it to the full. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Location cannot be better. You are overlooking the River Liffey and directly above the beautiful Ha'penny Bridge. Cross the bridge and you are in Temple Bar with its numerous bars, restaurants, vintage clothes shops, Project Arts Centre, Gallery of Photography, Irish Film Institute and many other attractions. Dublin two main pedestrian shopping streets, Grafton and Henry St are about 5 minutes away. Trinity College with its famous Library is 3 minutes walk. The Aircoach bus from the airport drops you 5 minutes away. The LUAS tram stops in Jervis St 2 minutes away but the apartment is so central you probably won't be using public transport at all. I personally wouldn't recommend car hire as a lot of the streets are one way and it can be tricky to drive around if you are not familiar with the city. Notes: -The sofa bed in the pictures is BoConcept Melo 6070 Double Sofa with reclining and sleeping function. Size as double bed is 173cm wide x 197cm long so suitable for one or two people but not as comfortable as a bed. -The Bed is King Size (150 x 200cm) and has a memory foam mattress

Location cannot be better. You are overlooking the River Liffey and directly above the beautiful Ha'penny Bridge. Cross the bridge and you are in Temple Bar with its numerous bars, restaurants, vintage clothes shops, Project Arts Centre, Gallery of Photography, Irish Film Institute and many other attractions. Dublin two main pedestrian shopping streets, Grafton and Henry St are about 5 minutes away. Trinity College with its famous Library is 3 minutes walk. Dublin is experiencing a Renaissance after a long recession and every week a new exciting restaurant, cultural space or play is opening. It is a great time to be visiting!

Superb city centre location within walking distance of all major tourist attractions (see below for times). Located just outside the noisy pub and nightlife areas and overlooking a private roof garden for a peaceful nights sleep. Elegant, designer and upscale apartment with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and a balcony. The apartment contains everything you could expect for your stay and includes tasteful designer furniture and interiors. The space and high quality interiors are kept immaculately clean.

This fantastic 1 bedroom modern apartment is ideally located in Dublin city centre within walking distance to all Dublin's major tourist attractions and 1 minute walk to Smithfield central tram station. The bedroom and living room overlook a private roof garden which ensures a low level of noise and a safe/peaceful nights sleep just outside the noisy pub and nightlife areas (e.g. temple bar, along the Quays, etc). The apartment itself contains 1 spacious double bedroom, 1 bathroom with shower and toilet facilities, a fully fitted modern kitchen (dishwasher, microwave, large fridge freezer, crockery, glasses, all utensils, etc.), a large living room/dining room area with floor length windows leading onto a balcony with a view of the private roof garden. We have carefully crafted detailed arrival instructions as well as a wide variety of tips/advice for the apartment, local area and Dublin city in general! We have put a lot of effort into these documents and improve them on a regular basis. Bedroom 1 - Double bed for 2 persons Living room - Double Sofa Bed for 2 persons The apartment has plenty of space for you to relax in peacefully with Dublin on your doorstep. An elevator takes you up to our apartment. Parking is available in the large public underground car park (prices vary). Major attractions walking time: > The river Liffey, Smithfield Tram station, Jameson Distillery, Smithfield Square, Dublin Tourist Bus Stop - 1 minute > Christchurch Cathedral - 7 minutes > Temple Bar, Henry Street - 10 minutes > O'Connell Street & Dublin Visitor centre, Phoenix Park, Guinness Storehouse - 12 minutes > Grafton Street - 15 minutes The apartment is professionally cleaned after every guest and freshly laundered bed sheets and towels come as standard with each booking. The bedroom has a brand new deep fill, hotel grade mattress and the bed sheets are 100% cotton with high thread count of minimum 200 threads per square inch. Duvets and pillows for all beds are hotel grade and a comfortable mattress topper ensures a good nights sleep.

Smithfield is a trendy inner city area just north of the river Liffey. Some local Artisian highlights of the Smithfield complex include the Light House Cinema/Gallery, the Generator Hostel, Third Space Cafe, Oscars Bar & Restaurant and the Fresh Good Food Shop. Despite the excellent location, the area is very quiet and removed from the bustling nightlife districts of Dublin city centre. Furthermore, the area is very safe and the building is secure.

Our place is within a five minute walk to Dunboyne village which provides a public park, restaurants, coffee shops, art and culture, traditional music. We are within 7 minute walk to Dunboyne Castle and 10 minute drive to Carton House Golf and leisure complex. Our place is close to all major travel routes around the country. It is a 20 minute drive to Dublin City Centre and Dublin Airport. Also great shopping in nearby Blanchardstown Shopping Centre.

It is a self contained studio apartment with separate entrance in a quiet residential cul de sac. It is within walking distance to Dunboyne Village and Dunboyne Castle Hotel and within 15 minute drive to Carton House Hotel and Golf Course The apartment is spacious (400 sq ft) We also have a house listed on Airb&b in Westport, Co. Mayo (Nancy's, Sheaune, Tavanagh) for guests also looking for a taste of the rural west coast, look it up, its worth a view.

Although this apartment is close to Dublin City the village has held onto its rural character offering good traditional music and entertainment.

This is a shared room - with another guest as you see in the title. Our House is situated in the hearth of Dublin at 15 minutes walking to Trinity College, Dublin Business School, 10 minutes walking to Temple Bar, Mc Donalds, Burger king, 5 minutes walking to Cinema Tesco, Aldi, Lidl and very close of bus stops, luas

We share a common kitchen, everyone is welcome to prepare some food. The breakfast is self service in the morning and you can eat anything you like. There will be a selection of fruits in season,cereals, soy & almond drink, frozen fruits , eggs, beans and bread.

We are in a central location close to all touristic attractions, pubs, nightclubs, restaurants bus stops, typical central place

Located less than 50 meters (30seconds) away from Coolmine Train station which means that you can be in the city center in approx.15 minutes. 5-10 minutes away from Blancharstown shopping center.

Modern and cosy grey room in brand new house with a bathroom included shower and a bath. - Bus into to the city in 20-40min depending on trafic. - Nite-link Friday and Saturday night up to 3.50am. - Airport ab 15min by car. - Airport Hopper is every one hour from Lucan village. From "12 Gate" is a great road links to explore the West and South,Galway, Cork,Sligo,Waterford and Kilkenny. Enjoy

Lucan is a lovely village situated 12km from Dublin city centre with plenty of parks and pubs. Lucan is favourite spot for residents and visitors alike. It has a natural charm and is in easy reach of Dublin. The spectacular Phoenix Park is only 20min by bus from Lucan village.

Sgle Bedroom with Lounge/Den to relax. Lounge & Bathroom may have to be shared dependent on no. of guests booked. My place is cosy and welcoming and is located in a quiet cul de sac overlooking the green and adj. to the tennis court, is close to Weston Airport 3 klms/ Dublin Airport Hopper Bus is less than 5 mins walk/ Numerous buses to Dublin City Centre and a choice of at least 6 Golf Courses . The River Liffey Towpath walks, and Liffey Valley Shopping Center close by

Nice cosy single bedroom /Toiletries/Dressing Gowns/Slippers/Hairdryers /Bottled water all included.

Nice quiet area with easy access by Bus to/from Dublin Airport/ Dublin city center/ Liffey Tow path walks etc.

Small single bed room with desk and wardrobe

Quiet family home

Very nice residential area

Bright airy bedroom sharing bathroom. Close to amenities. Short bus trip to city centre with a regular service and Luas transport a short walk away. I will interact with guest as much or as little as guests like. Due to only 1 bathroom, only female guests accepted.

I will give information on local amenities and places of interest in Dublin.

Kilmainham Jail and The Phoenix Park is within walking distance

cosy warm family home walking distance from swimming pool, gym, schools,colleges, shops and bus stops to and from city Centre, liffy valley, blanchestown, st.james hospital, Mater hospital,Tallaght hospital .

bedroom is very cosy and warm and private space.

very quite and friendly

The house is a terraced house in a quiet cul de sac in Dublin, just 10 min away from the airport by car and 20 min away from the city centre by bus. There are groceries, pharmacy and places to grab food 2 min away by foot, as well as a bus stop where one can take a bus to the city centre every 5-10 minutes. The house has a kitchen, a living room, two bathrooms and a back garden, all of which I am happy to share with guests.

I live on my own in a small house. The decoration is very influenced by my work, my passion for old and crafted furniture and my time in Scandinavia. One should expect a lot of wood and white, with simple and rustic furniture and a very cosy feeling. There is a stove in the living room that makes the best company in the evenings.

Ballymun is a very interesting neighborhood and its story reflects some of the better and worse aspects of Dublin. The area in which the house is located is very quiet. There are supermarkets, food takeaway, pharmacy and a really nice coffee place at the rediscovery centre, which is located at the ol boiler house of the neighborhood.

> Superfast Wi-Fi + Apple TV + Netflix + Disney + Games Arcade + Kitchen > Fantastic apartment & location, spacious room with desk & private bathroom > Located beside Temple Bar, St Stephen Green, Shops, Airport bus & Luas I’m a young Irish male, professional, easy-going, friendly & I am committed to providing great stays for guests. I can offer a reduced rate on long term stays, If you have any questions click contact host and I can get back to you.

Perfect for travellers of all kinds who are looking for a base in the city centre. I can offer you lots of recommendations from the best places to visit in the neighbourhood, as well as the best places to eat, activities & tours.

Single room located in drumcondra. 30 mins walk to city centre, serviced by 9 bus routes to city centre and 2 to airport. This is a small room exactly how it appears in the photos, perfect for someone who needs a good value private room for a few nights!

Spacious duplex with queen bedroom & own bathroom. Second bedroom available for families for an additional fee. 20 minutes to Dublin Airport by car. Lift to and from airport can be arranged with the owner for a fee. Please refer to my detailed directions as google maps has trouble locating my house.

Contains 3 bedrooms (I live in one), living area, kitchen and two bathrooms. Bus stop is an 8 minute walk and then the bus is 50 minutes to Dublin CBD. Guests have access to 2 bedrooms and one bathroom.

Quite and safe. Shops, pubs, restaurants, gym and other facilities within a 10 minute walk.

Private single room, newly painted in a relaxed, family home with a toddler and dogs. Shared bathroom as well as downstairs toilet. The house is warm and cosy and in a lovely little, quiet residential estate. Continental breakfast included in the room rate on request. Beside Leixlip Louisa Bridge train station and 66 Bus routes as well as the Airport Hopper bus. Airport pickup on request at a fee of €40 to cover fuel, road tolls, parking and our time but will depend on our availability

Very convenient location Airport hopper leaves outside front door and takes 30-45 minutes maximum to Dublin Airport Beside train station and bus stop (35 minutes from Dublin City Centre) Airport pickup available on request for at a fee of €40 to cover fuel, road tolls, parking and our time but depends very much on our availability. Leixlip is on the Arthur Guinness Historical trail We live beside an old Spa and Romanesque Bath built in the 1800s. There is also a small waterfall and protected biodiversity area 10 minutes walk from our house. It’s possible to walk to Leixlip Confey or even as far as Maynooth along by the Canal

Our neighbours are quiet and mostly of an older generation so you will have your own space and privacy. There's a main road outside that can be noisy during rush hour but mostly very quiet housing estate with trees and green area outside. Nice for an urban/country stroll.

Cosy apartment in the city centre. 2 bedrooms apartment. 15 minutes walking from the temple bar and Guinness store house . 5 minutes to Jameson distillery and art corner. Few steps to the cobblestone (century pub). 10 minutes walking from the Brazen Head (oldest Irish pub). Market on the corner. Bus stop in the corner. 5min walking from the luas red line. 10min walking from luas cross city. Condominium Apartment with off street parking and cctv.

Condominium Apartment complex just beside many attractions on the city centre and easy access from the airport train and stations and port. 2 double bedrooms 1 Bathroom spacious living and dinning room. extra sofa bed on the living room. kitchen fully equipped. back garden on the condominium.

we are in a very safe are just beside the city centre With some pubs j around the corner and also the the Jameson distillery about 5 min walking from the house

small but bright single bedroom, use of SHARE BATHROOM, use of kitchen, laundry room and tv room, quite neighborhood, easy access to bus, around the corner, 20/60mn to city centre, heavy traffic at pick time, but very frequent service,and train will takes 25/30mn.

❤ For GIRLS ONLY ❤ 10 mins by car from the Airport with 24/7 pick up available for a small fee. 35 mins bus from Dublin centre. Bus stop in front of the house. Lots of buses throughout the day and early evening. 5 mins walk to the local Shopping Centre and National Aquatic Centre / Sport Campus, Connolly Hospital. Warm, clean and wooden floor. All you need.. kettle for free tea & coffee, hair dryer, comfy bed, Free Wifi, small desk... This is a REAL Airbnb, not a business!

Welcome ! or nearly ! This is a compact, comfortable, bright and warm single room packed with all the gadgets that will make your stay more comfortable. In the room you will find a mini-fridge, hairdryer, kettle with a selection of tea / coffee, collapsible desk, WiFi, DVDs, some Dublin books, Dublin maps and brochures, towels, plug adapters, USB wall sockets.. etc.. .etc.. I do offer also some extra service for a very small fee like Pick up / drop off from / to the Airport / City Centre or other place in Dublin. Anyway you can find everything described in details in the House Rules and Description. The house is in a vibrant, but quiet and well connected are in North Dublin but we are not in the City Centre. There are very frequent bus connections throughout the day. The bus stop is literally 1 minute walk from your room! We are not far from the airport too but only by car, there isn't a direct bus hence I do offer a pick up / drop off said above. Also the train station isn't far but I would recommend the bus. Also remember this is a real Airbnb, this is my home and I live here with my partner and my daughter. Isn't a business where someone just handle you a key!

The house is in a very well connected area in North Dublin, Blanchardstown. We are NOT in the city centre. There are many buses throughout the day and night to / from the City centre. Depending on the traffic but average time is 25 / 30 mintues to get to the hearth of Dublin,5 minutes to reach the largest shopping centre in Ireland, the “Blanchardstown Shopping Centre”. And the National Aquatic Centre, literally you just need to cross the road. We are very close to the airport too, 10 mins by car, but unfortunately by bus is taking longer as you have to change bus in the city centre. There is not direct bus. However I do offer a pick up / drop off service to / from the Airport and to/from the City Centre for a small fee (you will find full details in the following rules).

(((((( DESCRIPTION )))))) Ideally located! Clean and modern Ensuite double room. 5Km  to city center. 20 min to city centre by light rail tram (Luas) redline / 25 Min or more by Bus. (Both the bus stop and the tram near the  apartment 5 Min walk). ________________________ 17 Min -30 Min Max (depending on location) by transport to the Coolest Streets to  visit in Dublin: Dame St and Temple Bar. Grafton St and st stephen green. Mary St and Henry St. The Spire/ O'Connell St/O'Connell bridge. Trinity College and College Green. (Phoenix park 10 min by taxi around €12).  ________________________ Dublin Airport : It's easy from/to the airport as the airport bus is just 2 stops by tram from/to the apartment, and Vice Versa. ________________________ 5-10 Mins walk to : Aldi, Lidl, SuperValue, Centra, Boots, Pharmacy, Coffe Shop, Pubs, Takeaways and Restaurants. ________________________

The house is a bungalow in a very quiet neighbourhood of the Castleknock/Carpenterstown area of Dublin, North West side of the Phoenix Park. If you're looking for a calm and quiet place to stay relatively close to the Airport, Blanchardstown shopping centre and the Phoenix Park, this is it.

The room is equipped with a double bed available only for one person at a time. If you're looking for accommodation for two, you'll need to ask first.

Double room available in Dublin city center. Close to Temple Bar, O'Connell Street, Henry Street, Parnell Street, 10 minutes walking to Grafton Street and St Stephen's Green. NO KITCHEN AND LIVING ROOM AVAILABLE.

You will be sharing the apartment with me and other room which is rented as well.

Cosy home in Crumlin very close to city centre. Luxury double bedroom with tv and wi fi

Bedroom and bathroom kitchen and patio area

It is a quiet culdesac. Close to a good bus service to the city. There is pubs and takeaways plus a cafe and deli near by

Gardiner House is located in a beautiful historical building. It has been completely renovated to a high standard though it still retains its originality and charm. A former 200-years-old convent with its own Victorian chapel converted into a backpacker hostel for travelers from all over the world to meet and mingle. Our aim is to make your stay in Dublin as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, making you feel at home away from home, while providing a high-quality service at a budget price.

Each floor comes with its own wi-fi router – free wi-fi thought the whole building, and the shared rooms are equipped with all you need to ensure a comfy stay: fresh bed linen are included; power outlets for each bed; little reading lights and individual lockers underneath the bunks to lock up your valuables – bring your own padlock – otherwise padlocks, adapters and big shower towels can be purchased at reception. Hairdryers, iron, boarding games are available to borrow as well 😊 All rooms are bright and spacious and cleaned daily, each floor has multiple bathrooms, which are cleaned four times a day to ensure a high-quality standard of cleanliness.

A quaint single bedroom which is bright and sunny in the front of the house. Has a built in wardrobe and chest of drawers .Very comfortable room with bedside lamp for reading.

we are only 15 minutes from the AIRPORT.

We have lived in our house for the last 27 years and it has been wonderful, it's a quite neighbourhood and you'll have no problemgetting a good night's sleep. If you come by car your car will be safe outside under the tree. If you have to use public transport the bus stop is 5 minutes from our house into the city centre.

My place is close to bus & train links to city, 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, 8 minutes from Blanchardstown shopping mall... You’ll love my place because of the location, great host and warm welcome. My place is good for solo adventurers and business travellers. I am unable to collect you from the Airport but usually I can drop people off at Dublin Airport most of the time for no extra charge. Wifi speedy and fast. Nice back garden/yard to be used and enjoyed.

Single room over looking a green area to the front, the bed coverts into a desk ( it's really solid and sturdy)

Quiet leafy Dublin suburb, with green area to the front, good access to the city and surrounding counties via motorway.

Cosy room in modern home, near swords town . 3 km from airport. Bus stop 2 mins walk Ideal for early/ late flights and layovers

Small quiet bedroom with bathroom shared with no more than two others

Only 3 km from airport but not on a flight path. In quite estate no traffic noises either

20 Minutes drive to and fron Dublin City & Airport ❗️ DUNBOYNE CASTLE HOTEL & SPA is nest Door to us, 2 minutes walk. You Enjoy Staying Cheaper in our Quiet, Private, Comfort of HomeStay, in Luxurious Master En-suit with King size Bed & also avail of all what next door hotel have to offer. Extremely clean and Private Entrance. Accommodation close to Dublin but still rural enough to enjoy & experience the tranquillity, handy for Ferry, Airport & Night Bus

it actually rouses your holiday spirit making the holidays more festive and therefore more enjoyable❗️ imagine, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, A Guest once said “ I don’t feel like going back home, thank you” 😊 Our good quality SUPER KING mattress is built to provide you with superior & Luxurious comfort, so is our luxury duvet and pillows, selecting only the finest quality Hungarian goose down. The ultimate filling material for a duvet, Unlike Hotels is our Niche. The impressive & exclusive apartment is spacious and well layout such that Guest hardly bumps into each other hence a good privacy when needed. The development is ideally situated in a quiet & the heart of Dunboyne village with it’s designer landscaped open spaces with generous packing spaces. All other items in the room are for Decor photo purposes.

The location is a borderline to Dublin County, hence it is like a Country side or Village in a City, nice, Safe and quite with police station post near by. Home to a number of traditional Irish bars, cafés and boutiques it's the ideal way to experience local hospitality. Dunboyne Village will also appeal to our younger guests with its charming playground. HERITAGE SITES Co Meath, Ireland’s Heritage Capital was once the territory of the High Kings of Ireland. Steeped in heritage there is plenty to discover, Battle of the Boyne Site Bective Abbey, Dowth, Knowth, Hill of Tara,Loughcrew Cairns,Newgrange, wow!  https://www.tripadvisor.ie/AttractionsNear-g1077196-d597146-Dunboyne_Castle_Hotel_And_Spa-Dunboyne_County_Meath.html