Think of Ireland and you probably think of St Patrick’s Day and drinking Guinness.
And for good reason. There’s probably not a better spot on planet Earth next month to sample the delights and passions of Dublin than while the city is celebrating the country’s patron saint.
WHERE TO WAKE UP
Fitzwilliam Hotel
fitzwilliamhotel.com
After a night carousing and talking to anyone and everyone at Kehoe’s on South Anne’s Street it’s handy to be staying Fitzwilliam Hotel right in the heart of Dublin. Ideally located by Stephen’s Green and very handy for Dublin’s finest.
WHERE TO SPEND THE MORNING
Temple Bar
thetemplebarpub.com
The world famous Temple Bar has plenty of street entertainment and musicians to keep your mind off the Guinness. Or stroll down O’Connell Street to the historic General Post Office whete the 1916 Easter Uprising started.
WHERE TO LUNCH
The Stags Head
thestagshead.ie
A great Dublin haunt hidden away on Dame Square. Worth a trip to just for the classic decor and a great place for a few pints ahead of a night out. Four pints and two hearty bowls of Irish stew with soda bread will cost under 25 Euro, but not on Sunday.
WHERE TO SPEND THE AFTERNOON
Viking Splash Tours
vikingsplash.ie
Dublin is awash with fabulous bars and shopping is catered for in Brown Thomas’ elegant Grafton Street store. But for something different, try Viking Splash Tours for a land and water experience in a World War II amphibious vehicle.
WHERE TO HAVE DINNER
Abrakebabra
abrakebabra.com
On St Patrick’s Day you’re allowed to skip a meal to allow room for a drink or three.
Later a visit to a fast food store like Abrakebabra — no prizes for guessing what they sell — will be mandatory. Decent grub for less than $10.
WHERE TO SPEND THE NIGHT AWAY
O’Donoghue’s
odonoghues.ie
Dublin comes alive once the lights start to dim. O’Donoghue’s on Merrion Row is always a winner and has strong links with The Dubliners. Other Irish greats including Christy Moore, The Fureys, and Thin Lizzy’s Phil Lynott have all played there.
