Thinking of making a move to a different Dublin neighbourhood? If so, D8 might be just the place for you.
Not only is it geographically central, being within short walking distance of both Grafton Street and Smithfield, but also spiritually — it’s the very heart of old Dublin, with a real sense of community still preserved in the area.
Dubliners are beginning to wake up to these facts, so it’s also becoming a more and more exciting place to be.
Overflowing with markets, cafés, nightlife, educational centres and history, there’s lots to appreciate about the area. Here are just a few of the things we love most about Dublin 8…
1. The Liberties
This is the very heart of old Dublin, still full of the character that’s sadly becoming more and more diluted throughout the rest of the city.
There’s no shortage of things to do and see here. Browse for footwear, fashion or photo-printing at The Bullring Market on Meath Street or go bargain hunting at street stalls on Thomas Street.
In the Antique Quarter, you’ll find an array of charming furniture and second hand shops were you can lose yourself for an afternoon or you can pop into 74 Francis Street Collective, where you’ll find vintage clothes and accessories at Lucy’s Lounge, Vertigo Vintage and Kiki’s Booteeki, funky haircuts at Velvet Moon Hair Guru and high-quality brews at Two Pups Coffee — but more on that last one later.
2. Vicar Street
This intimate venue is unquestionably one of the best spots in the city for a show.
So many greats have graced its stage over the years — like Bob Dylan, Justin Timberlake and Neil Young — so to live here is to live near greatness.
Not to mention how handy it’d be for gigs if your house was just around the corner from the venue.
3. Dublin Flea Market
This quirky little market has been taking place on the last Sunday of every month since November 2008 — so it’s safe to say it’s got plenty of fans.
More than 60 stalls assemble at The Co-op on Newmarket Square to sell vintage clothes, second hand bikes, retro furniture and all the random bits you’d expect at any self-respecting flea market.
You never know what treasures you’ll stumble upon here…
4. Kilmainham Gaol
Step right into history with a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol.
The prison was the scene of many pivotal moments in Ireland’s road to freedom, where political figures were incarcerated and ultimately killed.
Strangely enough, it’s also an ideal first date spot.
5. Two Pups
No visit to Francis Street is complete within popping in here for a treat.
This brightly lit, gorgeously decorated little café embodies the innovative spirit of the surrounding area and serves up premium coffee and food that looks as fantastic as it tastes.
It’s worth paying a visit just to pick up one of their loyalty cards alone…
6. Fumbally
If you count yourself as brunch fanatic but haven’t paid this spot a visit yet, then you need to rectify that mistake posthaste.
The spacious café’s menu includes eggs and ham (eggs with added Gubbeen hot smoked ham), pulled porchetta (ciabatta with slow roasted pork, caper mayo and spiced apple sauce), and their special Fumbally eggs (scrambled with olive oil, Gubbeen cheese, garlic and tomatoes on toasted brioche).
A great spot to spend a lazy weekend morning.
7. Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)
If you haven’t popped in into IMMA yet, do so immediately.
This free museum is built on the beautiful grounds of The Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, which dates all the way back to the 17th century Dublin.
The exhibitions mix the art of established artists with that of up-and-comers that all you culture vultures will want to know about.
8. Camden Street
This is probably the most exciting street for nightlife in the city.
Blending into Richmond Street, Wexford Street, Aungier Street and George’s Street to form the Camden Mile, you can spend a whole night wandering from one vibrant spot to another and never get bored.
Now that’s convenience for ya.
9. The Brazen Head
Since this pub dates all the way back to 1198, this is more ancient than old Dublin.
A beacon for visitors to the city, the oldest pub in the capital has played host to many giants of Irish history in its time; James Joyce, Brendan Behan and Michael Collins are just a few of the great figures that have been counted as its patrons.
The rich sense of history within these walls is palpable.
10. Guinness Storehouse
You just can’t talk about Dublin 8 without addressing its biggest attraction.
An astounding 1,647,408 people visited the Storehouse last year to learn about the history of Ireland’s most iconic beer and the man who brought it to life, Arthur Guinness.
The tour will take you across seven floors of interactive experiences and culminates with the perfect pint of the Black Stuff poured in the Gravity Bar, where you’ll also get to enjoy a panoramic view of the city below.
11. Tasty 8
This Meath Street eatery is all about taking fresh, locally sourced ingredients to serve up exciting dishes in a chilled atmosphere.
Pop in at lunchtime to enjoy one of the Mexican chicken wraps, hummus and courgette bagels or, our personal favourite, Tasty8 Specials (slow braised ham, cheddar, tomato & sweet red onions).
These guys also pride themselves on having gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options, so there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy.
12. Phoenix Park
It started its life as a royal deer park for King Charles II back in 1662 and it’s become so much more since.
Now a peaceful oasis in the city, Phoenix Park is the perfect place to de-stress should you need a quick and easy escape from the rat race.
Take a long stroll through gorgeous greenery, take in those wide open spaces and finish up your day with a few drinks and hearty meal in the 400-year-old The Hole In The Wall.
Is there a better way to spend a Sunday in Dublin?
If you’re considering a move to D8, then you might want to check out the latest project from Salamisso, a brand new apartment development which is launching in the area very soon.
Sponsored By
Salamisso/Tramyard Exchange
Salamisso brings you Tramyard Exchange, brand new apartments in the heart of Dublin 8.
Salmisso has been involved in inner city regeneration schemes in Dublin City Centre (particularly Dublin 8) for over 30 years.
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