#poolbeglighthousewalk

[hiddengemsireland-blog]

Top 5 of Dublin’s Hidden Gems in photos! 

[hiddengemsireland-blog]

Top 5 Hidden Gems - Dublin

Welcome back again to Ireland’s Hidden Gems. Today we’re going to have a look at Dublin, and route out what secret spots Ireland’s capital has to offer.  

Without surprise, tourism numbers into Dublin's City Center are continuously growing, as the capital city of Ireland, this is where tourist want to visit and to be in among the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Dublin has a variety of well-known tourist attractions to offer such as the Guinness Store House, Trinity College, and Temple Bar. Among all the craziness there is lesser-known tourist attraction hidden, that not every tourist that comes to Dublin gets to see and in our opinion are definitely missing out. So, let's move on and get down to business to reviling the top 5 hidden gems that Dublin has to offer!

(Website links have been added so you can look at the information and check out opening times!)

No.1 Driminagh Castle

Along the suburbs of Dublin’s City center lays Driminagh Castle, with a wealth of culture and history behinds its doors. There are guided tours priced at a very low rate which won't dig a hole too deep in your pocket if you decide to bring the whole fam. (be sure to have cash, does not accept card) Around the grounds of the castle, there are gorgeous scenic views of the castle as well as a beautifully cared for garden, which when in full blossom is to die for. Public transport to the castle is very easily accessible as it is only a short distance from the city center. Throughout the year they host events such as Christmas wonderland walk to raise money for a local charity, there is a true sense of local community felt throughout the castle. As we are in the week of Halloween, they also host a Halloween walk which will be sure to give you a Spooktacular time!

Website link: https://www.drimnaghcastle.org/

No.2 Poolbeg Lighthouse Walk

A short walking distance from Dublin’s City Centre is the Poolbeg Lighthouse, which stands tall along the along Dublin Bay. The walk up to the lighthouse is known as the Great South Wall, which an ideal place for those who love a relaxing coastal stroll along Dublin’s bay and breath in the fresh sea air. Before entering the 4km walk down to the lighthouse Hibs coffee van is there selling hot drinks to keep your tummy warm along with yummy nibbles to keep your belly full. It is also the perfect place to take a nice relaxing bike ride in the City Centre as there are fewer crowds and a lot safer. On a sunny hot day stood along the lighthouse edge are fishermen fishing and if you're lucky enough to be there when the sun is setting breath will be taken away, a perfect photo opportunity. Overlooking the bay is beautiful views of Dublin such as Dublin port, Howth and Dublin Mountains, which really allow you to see Dublin for all its glory. Close by the lighthouse is Irishtown Park, enriched with beautiful wildflowers and birds along with a fab view of the bay. Poolbeg Lighthouse offers a haven of relaxation to those who want to get about from the busyness of the city center. Another perk is that there is free parking, which is nearly non-existent in Dublin!

Website link: https://www.allaroundireland.ie/great-south-wall/

No.3 Irish Famine Exhibition

Allows tourists to delve into the most catastrophic event to occur in Ireland's history from 1845-1852. This exhibition is a real eye-opener for those who are unsure of the exact events of the famine, there is informative and interesting information that interests you to learn more and get a better understanding of the true extents of this catastrophe. There is an emotional connection made with this exhibition and can be recognized as a must-see for anyone who is interested in their Irish ancestry. This hidden gem is located on the 2nd floor of St. Stephens Green Shopping Centre, the perfect place for tourists to get their Irish gifts and Celtic souvenirs or grab an Irish coffee in the famous Bewley's café on Grafton Street!

Website link: https://www.theirishpotatofamine.com/

No.4 St. Michan’s Church

Was one of the only churches on the north side of Dublin many moons ago, inside St. Michans Church you will still see its original structure with help of preservation. This is a must-see for any history buff. Down under the church, there are five burial vaults that hold mummified remains of well known Dubliner's families such as Bram Stoker’s mother, he is the creator of Dracula. To get to these vaults can be considered an experience along for those who may be squeamish. It has been reported by others that during their visit that they have heard whispering around them, they felt like they are been watched and being touched by unseen hands. This may be a place to visit this Halloween if you feel up to the challenge! Although the tours are quite calming with their fun and lighthearted approach.

Website link: http://www.cccgroup.dublin.anglican.org/Christ_Church_Cathedral_Group/St._Michans.html

No. 5 Ardgillian Castle

Located in North County Dublin 36 minutes outside of Dublin’s City Center in Ardgillan Castle, which offers an array of activities for all the family. There are guided tours that last approximately 1 hour that allows visitors to walk through the castle and get a real understating of it was to live in the castle back in the period of 1738. There is a cute little café located in the castle that serves hot drinks and yummy treats, the guest then has the option to sit in the pretty tea rooms or outside on the porch which is gorgeous on a hot summer's days. On the castle ground is a gorgeous garden filled with fabulous flower, this is the perfect place to take a nice picture with the family. Close by the castle on the ground is a large playground, it could be one of the biggest playgrounds in Dublin. This is a great place to let the kids burn off those yummy treats from the café. From the playground area, there is an unbelievable view of the coastal line, there couldn't be a better place to chill out and read a good more?  There is even more for the children to take part such as a fairy trail, pop up games during the summer such as rock climbing and there are hosted events such as Santa's grotto and an Easter egg throughout the year and more much. This is the type of place you could spend all day so make sure to take a packed lunch.

Website link: https://ardgillancastle.ie/