Dublin is a city that causes its visitors lots of trouble by offering them too many things to see and do. To help you set your priorities, our Dublin local Aoife has come up with a list of things that can’t be found in any other city.
Carmelite Church Whitefriar Street
This church is remarkable for housing a shrine that contains some of the mortal remains of Saint Valentine. The remains were gifted to the Dublin preacher John Spratt after he gave a ceremony in Rome in 1835. It might sound like a weird gift, but it seems he appreciated it, as do all of the people who visit the shrine in the middle of February each year. Besides ruling love matters, Saint Valentine is also busy keeping an eye on beekeepers and people who faint, so even if you aren’t seeking love, you might still have a reason to visit his shrine.
Photo credit: Aoife O’Meara
Four Knocks
This prehistoric megalithic tomb is located slightly outside of Dublin. Compared to other megalithic tombs nearby, Four Knocks is less known publicly and has a far more private atmosphere. With the Irish being very practical people, the usual “open sesame!” won’t work, so in order to enter the tomb you’ll need to get the key from a local house and leave a refundable deposit. Keep in mind that resting souls can get very angry when disturbed, so try to act more respectfully than Lara Croft and Indiana Jones when visiting this place.
Photo credit: 2013spiritofirelandtour.blogspot.com
Fry Model Railway
Europe’s largest model railway is now kept in the village of Malahide, which is located north of Dublin city and easily reachable by train. The model railway is housed in a former hunting lodge called the Casino. Initially constructed in the 1920s, the railway was gradually updated until 1988 when it went on public display for the first time. It gives you a chance to see some well-known Irish landscapes and stations. Should you decide against seeing Fry Model Railway, Malahide Castle and Demesne are beautifully maintained and well worth visiting.
Photo credit: Irish Image Collection
Howth
Once a Viking village, today Howth is a busy fishing port that offers lots of things to do, see and taste. You can take a boat tour to the nearby island of Irelands Eye, visit the transport museum, select one of many walking paths around the headland or, should you decide against physical activity, just relax on the pier and enjoy some seafood. Keep an eye out for the footprints of King George IV, which are carved into the end of the West Pier.
Photo credit: Aoife O’Meara
Sweny’s Chemist
This is a great place for all James Joyce fans to visit, not only because it was mentioned in his famous book, but also because the writer himself used to hang out here. If you get your timing right, you might get a chance to participate in live readings of his works. Although it has been attracting more and more tourists in recent years, Sweny’s has conserved its authenticity and you can still buy traditional lemon soap that’s handmade the old way. “Ulysses” readings take place on Saturday mornings and, should you prove yourself to be a true Joyce expert, you might even be invited for coffee afterwards.
Photo credit: Sandra O’Rourke-Glynn
For more local recommendations read:
What locals like to do in Dublin
Where locals like to eat in Dublin
Where locals like to party in Dublin
Special tip:
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