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| *This post is in collaboration with Last Night of Freedom |
The capital of
the emerald isles, Dublin is the preconception of Ireland embodied. From
Guinness to the clandestine atmosphere that the Irish are famous for, Dublin is
on the bucket list for travellers from all around the world. However, what to
do in Dublin is something many struggle with and coming up with an itinerary is
essential to get the most out of such a beautiful city. For some inspiration
check out Last Night of Freedom’s list of Dublin’s best kept secrets.
The Blind Pig
Paying homage to
the 1920s prohibition era, the Blind Pig offers patrons the chance to
experience what it was like when you had to be hush hush about alcohol. The
secret bar is only accessible through a small door down a brick passage way,
but say the password to the man at the door and let the secret world be
revealed before your eyes. Themed drinks are on offer to customers, simply
refer to the menus that are printed on the back of old books and let your taste
buds take you back to 20s New York and absorb the remarkable atmosphere the
Blind Pig offers.
Napoleon’s Toothbrush
Not something
you’ll hear every day, but considering it is something related to one of
history’s greatest generals, you should take time out to go and see it. This
quirky little item can be found in Dublin’s Royal College of Physicians thanks
to one of the little Frenchman’s closest friends, Irish physician Barry Edwards
O’Meara. Napoleon gifted his buddy a
number of keepsakes including a number of personalised snuff boxes, as well as this
famous toothbrush. Quirky, but something to tell your friends.
Bagots Hutton
Claustrophobic
yet comfortable, Bagots Hutton is a one for any hidden hipster looking for that
niche place to have a drink. Located in the commonly referred to ‘Hipster
Triangle’, the bar takes inspirations from a mix of gothic décor and Da Vinci
style. And if the wine bars style still doesn’t appeal to you, the place offers
weekly food specials like Meaty Monday and Cheesy Tuesday. With a capacity of
just 65, make sure you get there early to grab yourself one of the limited
Chesterfield sofas.
The Library Bar
Located inside
the Central Hotel, the Library bar is perfect for that chilled out drink in
comfortable surroundings. Named the Library Bar due to their strict ‘No Music’
stance, the bars offers its customers the chance to relax and catch up with
their days activities. The country-club styled décor which includes high back
chairs and crackling open fire is ideal for the morning after recovery, or a
central base for those wanting to go out and explore what else Dublin has to
offer.
Sweny’s Pharamacy
A one for all
literature fans, Sweny’s pharmacy has become a must visit for those whom have
read James Joyce’s Ulysses. In the story, the main character visits the
pharmacy to pick up some face cream for his wife. Coming back to modern day the
pharmacy is still going – being run by volunteers who try to recreate that
period feel. But don’t expect to go in and get some paracetamol, the ‘pharmacy’
now sells a range of second hand books and lemon scented soaps. It’s basically
a period themed Lush.
The Bar With No Name
The bar calls
itself as Dublin’s “worst kept secrets” (we don’t think so) but unless you know
what to look for then you’ll easily miss it. The bar is located in the middle
of Dublin, but the only way to know where to go is to look out for a huge
wooden snail hanging above the door. Once you’ve found the place, go up the
stairs and be met with patrons sinking into the sofas and sipping mojito’s.
Definitely worth keeping an eye out for that big, wooden snail.
Vintage Cocktail Club
Nestled behind
an iron door in the famous Temple Bar, the Vintage Cocktail Club is a step back
through the ages. To gain access you have to first find the bar and ring the
bell. However, one you’ve gained entry you will be taken back to the vintage-age
of speakeasy and glamorous movie stars, with a drinks menu to match. The
cocktail options make this bar what it is, and where it gains its notoriety,
which includes drinks inspired from as early as the 1400s to the Tiki craze of
the mid-1900s.
Montpelier Hill
More of a one
for the scary list, the Hell Fire Club at Montpelier Hill has a paranormal
past. Built back in the 1700s, the building has had a chequered past being
built using grave stones which some believe is the reason why it is cursed.
After the building was completed, the roof was blown off which was the start of
some of the spooky stuff that happened on the hallowed ground. After the owner’s
death, the Hell Fire Club bought the property and became their base for their
‘activities’. Rumours are the club used the building for occult practices,
including demonic possession, and other paranormal activities. Check it out if
you dare.
Hacienda Bar
The Hacienda,
much like its Manchester name sake, has a cult following like no other. Not
your typical pub, the place is set by the famous fruit and veg marketing and
like many other hush bars, you have to ring a buzzer to get in. But once you’re
in you will not be disappointed. Favorited by many celebs including Ed Sheeran
and Mathew McConaughey, the place only opens at the owner’s discretion. With
80s music on constant loop and good beer with numerous pool tables, this is a
must for anyone looking for that salt-of-the-earth style pub.
Planning a stag
or hen do to Dublin? Get in touch with Last Night of Freedom for that weekend
to remember: https://www.lastnightoffreedom.co.uk/stag-do-guide/dublin/
*this post is in collaboration with Last Night of Freedom
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