This former prison is one of Dublin's most historic buildings. Dating back to 1796, the Kilmainham Gaol is a massive building that housed men, women and even children prisoners. Most notably, the Gaol is known for incarcerating famous rebels and prisoners of war. Today the building serves as a museum with exhibits, artifacts and docent-led tours.
A short bus ride from the city center, the splendid Botanic Gardens and its many floral wonders are a stunning treat to the senses. Accentuated all the more by the glimmering waters of River Tolka, these Irish gardens uphold an assemblage of hundreds of thousands of plants, and a smattering of botanical specimens. In all their floral glory, the gardens are a wonderland for naturalists and botany aficionados, its verdant course dotted by a string of splendid greenhouses, like the impressive, structural and glass-clad Curvilinear Range and the Palm House. The great glasshouses full of exotica were constructed in the mid 19th century and designed by Richard Turner, who was also the man behind the glasshouses at Kew Gardens. The gardens are divided into distinct areas of interest, featuring long herbaceous beds, a rose garden, alpine houses, a vegetable garden, orchid beds, an arboretum, a yew-clad walkway along the river, and a wonderful area exhibiting the various natural habitats of Ireland. Also sheltering willows plunging gracefully over gleaming waters, the National Botanic Gardens are a luxuriant canvas of natural glory and luminescence.
To many, Guinness is one of the most important features of Ireland. Completed at the cost of EUR30 million, the Guinness Storehouse is a fine addition to Dublin's ever-growing list of purpose-built attractions. Set inside a converted 18th-century fermentation building, it consists of six floors linked by a giant atrium in the shape of a pint glass. Although the actual brewery is not open to the public, the storehouse's new exhibition space outlines the 200-year history of the company and reveals many brewing secrets. The models and displays of the exhibition are followed by a short film and a glass of the famous brew! The storehouse is also home to the stylish Gravity Bar.
If whiskey is your poison, get ready to indulge to your heart's content. After the educational tour of the distillery, and your careful attention to the historical overview, retire to the in-house pub and make a little whiskey history of your own. There's also a restaurant with fixed-price menus for lunch and dinner. Whether you want to learn more about the whiskey-making process, indulge in hearty food, or taste new spirits, a visit to Old Jameson Distillery won't let you down.
More than 235 species of wild animals and birds inhabit Dublin Zoo, a vast expanse within Phoenix Park. Created in 1830 and recently restored and extended, this zoo is the third-oldest in the world, with London and Paris as "big siblings". The thirty acres (12.1 hectares) provide lots of treats for the family, including a pet's corner and new attractions such as City Farm, Monkey Island and Fringes of the Arctic. The train ride around the zoo is also fun and a welcome rest for weary legs! Refreshments are available in the restaurant and coffee shop, while a variety of cuddly toys can be found in the gift shop.
Founded in 1908 by art enthusiast Sir Hugh Lane, this elegant gallery houses Sir Hugh's collection of paintings by Dégas, Monet and Courbet; in addition to Rodin sculptures and a fine selection of modern Irish paintings. A magnificent stained glass room includes panels by Evie Hone and Harry Clarke: most notable of late, however, is the Lane's acquisition of Francis Bacon's studio, which is now reproduced in the gallery untouched. Free classical music concerts are held here on winter Sundays, lectures are frequently given: the Hugh Lane is worth a visit all year long. They also have a cafe and a bookshop that are open all the hours of the operation of the museum.
The Greystones Theatre presents art and entertainment events. From concerts and dance performances to art exhibitions, this centre has it all. There is also a recording and a photography studio along with a gallery in the complex where this theatre is located. The organizers take pride in mentioning that they have events for people of all ages and all tastes. With a capacity for an audience of 220-500, this venue is ideal for small to medium-sized crowds and is available on hire. The theatre also has a bar and a restaurant. Check website for event updates and more details.
Opened in 1988, Millbank Theatre is home to the Rush Dramatic Society. This 145-seater theater was completely renovated and refurbished in 2002, thereby further modernizing and upgrading its facilities. Patrons can enjoy theater experience complete with plush chairs, better lighting and acoustics system and a bar area. Apart from staging dramas, Millbank also conducts workshops, classes and art festivals on a regular basis.
Dublin has a lot to offer visitors - picturesque waterfronts, heritage landmarks and cultural hubs. One of the best ways to explore the city is on a bicycle. This is a fun, environmentally friendly option that showcases some of the city's major landmarks up close and personal. Marvel at the Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Custom House or discover where Bernard Shaw was born as the knowledgeable local guides offer up fascinating tidbits about this beautiful city. The tour takes between two to three hours and covers a distance of 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles). Tours operate between March and November daily. Visit the website for exact hours and to book a tour. Show up 30 minutes prior to pick up your gear and get briefed on the excursion.
When wandering along the historic Liberties district in Dublin, it is nearly impossible to miss the majestic stonewalled building, which houses the Dublin Liberties Distillery. While the building is steeped in eventful history, the new age, state-of-the-art distillery serves as a reminiscent of the grand ol’ days of whiskey making. With a visit to this exemplary establishment, tourists can not only savor the finest whiskeys and liqueur but also take a glimpse into the making of classic Dublin whiskey. When in the city, do take a tour of the Dublin Liberties Distillery for an unmatched history lesson and a divine whiskey-tasting session.
Housed in a former religious site on the historic streets of Dublin, Pearse Lyons Distillery offers a formidable tasting tour for whiskey lovers and history buffs. Touring the century-old complex, admiring the ornamented church tower, and learning the rich legacy of this family-owned distillery is truly compelling. Take an immersive journey through the history of making Irish Whiskey that ends with you tasting exclusive whiskeys and blended spirits. Guided by passionate storytellers, leading a remarkable course through an impressive church complex is worth the tour, even if you don’t drink. In the end, grab a limited edition Irish Whiskey as a souvenir.
A popular distillery chain, Roe & Co Distillery offers an exquisite variety of whiskey that is distributed all across the globe. While production at this distillery commenced in 2019, its roots date back to 1757 when it was established by George Roe. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, it was forced to shut down. Gain an insight into the working of the distillery during a guided tour f Roe & Co Distillery and treat your palate to fine Irish whiskey during the Tasting Sessions. A must-visit for connoisseurs.