The Temple Bar Pub’s Whistlestop Guide to Dublin

If it’s your first time in Dublin, you’ll be wondering where to go and what to do. There are entire books on the city, so we’re not about to pretend this is a ‘cover all’ guide. It’s just a few of our favourite things, and there’s no doubt you’ll find plenty more.

The Whiskey Reserve 

The new whiskey tasting room in The Temple Bar Pub promises a unique, authentic experience for both whiskey connoisseurs and novices. Brought to you by owner Tom Cleary, there are over 2,000 different bottles lining the shelves, with expert staff to help you discover,  navigate and appreciate exceptional whiskeys from around the world. The Whiskey Reserve is on a mission to introduce more people to whiskey, so pop in and get your questions answered.

The Guinness Storehouse

Take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse to discover more about Ireland’s most famous and best-loved beer. Spread across seven, wheelchair-friendly floors, you’ll progress through the history of Guinness including the world of advertising, a chance to taste, and culminating in the Gravity Bar at the top with its amazing panoramic views across Dublin.

Dublin Castle

The Dublin Castle today dates to the 18th century although there’s been a castle here for over 900 years. Some excavated and preserved Viking defences can still be seen beneath the castle. Take a guided or audio tour to get the most from the castle’s rich history including the medieval tower and the state apartments. Top it off with a wander around the grounds, including three memorial gardens to important Irish events.

The EPIC Museum

Discover Irish history and culture, and the profound influence it’s had on the rest of the world at EPIC. The modern, interactive, lively museum celebrates Irish emigration and goes a long way towards uncovering why Ireland and ‘being Irish’ resonates with so many people across the globe. EPIC offers a living, breathing, alive experience of Irishness that’s a million miles away from what you’d normally expect in a museum.

Dun Laoghaire

If you love the seaside, you’ll adore Dun Laoghaire. Stroll along the East Pier, admiring the yachts in the harbour, or walk the longest main street in Ireland and visit the People’s Park. If you go on a Sunday, you’ll find the Dun Laoghaire CoCo Market – a treat if you like artisan crafts and good food.

For history lovers, just being here is wonderful, taking in the Victorian heritage architecture with a delightful Mediterranean twist. But there is also the James Joyce Museum and the National Maritime Museum to while away an hour or three.

Dun Laoghaire is also popular for water sports, so learn to sail if that’s your ambition, or if you just want to get out on the water you could take a short cruise to nearby Howth.

Howth

Less than half an hour on the train from the city centre will get you to lovely Howth. It’s part of the Dublin Coastal Trail, so hikers will love it. Beautiful cliffs, lovely beaches and resident seals add to the charm.

You can go sea kayaking and explore caves and islands or take the leisurely route and opt for a ferry tour. 

When the fresh sea air has built up your appetite, you’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants serving fresh locally caught fish. From oysters to Dublin Bar prawns to a more casual fish and chip supper, you won’t go hungry. 

Live Trad Irish Music

After a trip to the sea or a good long hike, what could be better than a return to the city and a stirring evening driven by pure trad Irish live music. The Temple Bar Pub is home to amazing daily live events. There is no charge to you, just walk in and enjoy the show alongside your pint, your oysters, or your gourmet sandwich.

We haven’t even touched on theatres, shopping, cathedrals, river cruises, literary trails, and many other historical and interesting sights to see and experiences to have.

You’ll just have to visit and see it all for yourself. One thing we can promise is, you won’t be bored.