House of travel UK & Ireland Brochure 2017 | Page 41

Dublin
Even if you’ve never fancied Guinness before, there’s something in the Dublin air
that is going to compel you to sip a sample of Ireland’s most legendary liquid.
This dynamic European capital’s history stretches back 1000 years and Viking,
Medieval and Georgian legacies live on. The UNESCO World Heritage site at Boyne
Valley actually predates the pyramids of Egypt, and the city itself has a long
association with literary giants and musical luminaries. There are eerie reminders
of Ireland’s turbulent past in Kilmainham Gaol, now a museum, and at Malahide
Castle, there’s not one but five ghosts on the prowl! You can easily fill your days
with castles, museums and art galleries.
Our favourite things to see and do
Statue hunt – There are plenty to find and some have
acquired some interesting nicknames (ask a local!). Keep your
eyes peeled for James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Molly Malone,
and the tall, emaciated people of the Famine Memorial.
Kilmainham Gaol – Closed in 1924, this is a bleak but
fascinating attraction. The only way to visit the Gaol is with
a guided tour, which is great as you learn all about Ireland’s
turbulent past and independence as the jail housed the
leaders of the Easter 1916 rebellion.
© Tourism Ireland
Sample some local brews – Discover how the world
famous brews are made at the Guinness Storehouse or Old
Jameson Distillery, and enjoy a pint in the Temple Bar at a live
music ‘session’.
Francis Bacon’s studio – After his death in 1992, his
London studio was moved in all its messy glory to the Hugh
Lane Gallery. Look through a perspex window at the 7000
items: a huge easel, piles of paints, jars, brushes, rags, pots,
books, photos, towels and empty boxes of Krug Champagne.
Trinity College – The oldest University in Ireland, founded
in 1592, has prime real estate in central Dublin and is home
to one of the world’s most famous books, The Book of Kells.
© Tourism Ireland
Train to Dun Laoghaire – This quaint seaside town has
a complex heritage and is referr ed to as Dublin’s Riviera due
to its splendid harbour and town surrounded by rolling hills.
Irish Food Trail – Take a guided walking tour to see Dublin
city’s ‘hidden gems’ and be introduced to local Irish people in
some of Dublin’s most famous hot-spots. Taste authentic Irish
food and drink as you go around the city.
The 1916 Tour - Beyond the Barricades – Experience
the historical rebellion that would shape the nation. Move
around the city and see the various sites of the different
battles and incidents from the 1916 uprising.
© Tourism Ireland
37