Dublin is a vibrant and historic city that offers plenty of attractions for visitors, but if you want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, there are some hidden gems that will surprise and delight you. Here are 10 under-the-radar attractions you shouldn’t miss when you’re in Dublin, Ireland.
Take a tour of 14 Henrietta Street Tenement Museum
Learn about the social history of Dublin through the stories of the people who lived in this Georgian mansion turned tenement. You can take a guided tour of the museum and see how the living conditions changed from the 18th century to the 20th century. You’ll also hear about the challenges and struggles of the tenants, as well as their hopes and dreams.
Check out Dalkey Castle
Travel back in time to the medieval era at Dalkey Castle, where you can join actors in period costume as they show you around the castle’s features. You’ll see the murder hole, the battlements, the chapel, and the medieval toilet. You’ll also learn about medicine, hygiene and weaponry in the Middle Ages.
Take some hurling lessons
Hurling is one of the oldest and fastest field sports in the world, and it’s unique to Ireland. It involves hitting a small ball with a wooden stick called a hurley. If you want to try it yourself, you can join a hurling lesson at Clash Gaelic Games School, where you’ll learn the basic skills and rules of the game.
Stop for art-inspired tea at The Merrion Hotel
Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at The Merrion Hotel, where you can admire Ireland’s largest private art collection. The hotel’s pastry chefs have created a selection of pastries inspired by some of the artworks on display. You can also take an audio guide tour of the paintings and sculptures in the hotel.
Go deer spotting in Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, and it’s home to a herd of wild fallow deer. You can walk or cycle around the park and try to spot these graceful animals. You can also visit other attractions in the park, such as the Dublin Zoo, the Papal Cross and the Wellington Monument.
Visit a haunted library
Marsh’s Library is the oldest public library in Ireland, and it’s said to be haunted by some of its former readers. You can explore the library’s collection of rare books and manuscripts, and see if you can spot any ghostly figures. You can also view some of the library’s exhibitions, such as Bram Stoker’s notes for Dracula.
Enjoy a gig at the Dublin Unitarian Church
The Dublin Unitarian Church is not only a place of worship, but also a venue for live music. The church hosts concerts by local and international artists, ranging from classical to folk to jazz. You can enjoy the acoustics and atmosphere of this historic building while listening to some great tunes.
Explore a vintage radio museum inside a Martello tower
The Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio is located inside a Martello tower overlooking Dublin Bay. The museum displays a collection of radios, telephones, gramophones and other communication devices from the past century. You can also see some memorabilia from pirate radio stations that once operated in Ireland.
Try a brown-bread ice-cream cone from Murphys
Murphys is an Irish ice-cream company that makes its products from fresh cream and natural ingredients. One of their signature flavours is brown bread, which is made from caramelised breadcrumbs. You can try this unusual but delicious ice-cream at their shop in Dublin, or choose from other flavours like Irish coffee, sea salt or Dingle gin.
Take a secret street tour of Dublin’s Liberties area
Secret Street Tours is a social enterprise that empowers people who have experienced homelessness to share their stories and perspectives. You can join a walking tour of Dublin’s Liberties area, led by a local guide who has lived on the streets. You’ll learn about the history and culture of this neighbourhood, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by its residents.
