Complete Guide to Dublin’s Writers Museum

Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature, it is home to numerous literature landmarks, and a place where three winners of the Nobel Prize for Literature were born: George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett and W.B. Yeats. Dublin has also inspired Irish authors and lead to some masterpiece such as Ulysses or Dracula. In 1991 Dublin Tourism created a place to be dedicated to the Irish literature: Dublin Writers Museum.

The museum is located in the centre of Dublin, 18 Parnell Square next to the Abbey Presbyterian Church in a converted a Georgian mansion. Once you step inside you start a journey though Irish literature. Focus is made on famous writers with James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett. You will find portraits and unique artefacts.  There is also a copy of the Book of Kells displayed, even if this manual hasn’t been written in Ireland it remains an important medieval manuscript.

But not only the big figures are highlighted in this museum, you will learn about some obscure writers of Dublin. The audio guide is very good to go back in time and explore Dublin’s literature history from the beginning to modern time. In the memorabilia section, you will discover letters, handwritten postcards and even first editions. For example, the first edition of Patrick Kavanagh’s poem The Great Hunger written by his own hand. The pricey piano of James Joyce is also present with Patrick Kavanah’s death mask. It is easy to say that you can spend the entire day looking at all those curiosities.

On the upper floors the Writers Gallery displays portraits and exhibitions. The room is stunning, paintings on the doors represent the month of the year are worth the visit. In another large room, you will discover the children’s literature. 

The bookshop at the back of the building sells all the seminal works of Irish literature and some nice souvenir.

The Dublin Writers Museum is definitively worth the visit. It is a fascinating little museum where you will explore the 300 years of Dublin’s literary history. 

Practical information:

Tours available in French, German, Italian, Spanish and Dutch
Opening Times:
January-December inclusive:
Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm
Last admission 4.15pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: 11am-5pm
Address: Dublin Writer’s Museum, 18 Parnell Square, Dublin 1, Ireland

For information on great places to stay, plan your stay at O Callaghan hotels Dublin, contact Alexanderhotel.ie now.

Hidden Dublin: Cool 8 Things to do While You're in Town

Dublin is a small capital but has many to offers. If you are coming for a week-end you might want to add a little bit of craziness and unusual experience to your planning. Here is a list of 8 cool things to do while you’re in Dublin.

 Have a drink in The Hacienda

The hacienda is a local treasure, a good place to order a pint of “the black stuff”. It is decorated with the face of famous persons that had a drink there. It is a nice place if you want to have a chat with the local but before you must ring the bell outside so they let you in!
 

Pick up some antiques at the Brocante market

Spend a great morning roaming through an abundance of vintage delights. The Brocante Market is open the first weekend of each month and propose a large selection unlike anywhere else. Each real-vendor as his own style and unique items. It is easy to spend time finding exciting goods with a funny story behind, don’t hesitate to ask! 

Grab a breakfast burrito in K Chido Mexico

Grab your breakfast out of a funky vintage Citroen HY. You will enjoy authentic Mexican food in a food truck atmosphere. Product are locally sourced and served by friendly staff! It is the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday.

See a movie in the Lighthouse Cinema

This is probably the Dublin’s most loved independent cinema. The Lighthouse showcase the cult classic and lasts releases in contemporary style rooms. A great place to go on a Saturday evening or even an afternoon. 

Sit by the Hungry Tree

Yes you read right, Dublin host an hungry Tree, and it is slowly eating the iron bench next to him. Considered as capital’s trees heritage the plane tree is about 80 years old. Located nearby the Constitution Hill, get the right angle and you will see its hungry face.

Visit the Sunday market in the People’s Park

A great escape to the city and only 30 minutes away, Dun Laoghaire offers a nice day strolling at the park and enjoy the market. You can buy food and have a picnic on the grass. After than we suggest you to walk along the pier and take the view of the beautiful Irish Sea.

Head to the Meeting House Square in Temple Bar

Another place for foodies is the Temple Bar weekly food market. Fresh bread, cheese, vegetable…and to eat on the go there is many freshly prepared food stalls.

See an exhibition in the Science Gallery

The science Gallery of Dublin host many exhibitions. There are always interactive and fun, a great way to have a taste of science. The Gallery is also exporting exhibition around the world and has a serious reputation! Check the program on their website.

So, are you ready to add a little bit a spice to your plan? Visit the o callaghan hotel and Use the #ocallaghanhotels on Instagram so we can follow your adventure!