Winter Breaks in Dublin

Thinking of a Winter Break in Dublin ? Winter often brings beautiful crispy sunny days but sadly Dublin cannot be relied upon for weather at any time of year .So for the shorter days and longer nights, it’s probably best to have a cunning plan up for your sleeve to dodge the wind and rain!  Here are a few sample lesser known itineraries for winter breaks in Dublin to combine indoor attractions with nearby Pitstops or a blast of fresh air if the sun comes out.

1) Little Museum of Dublin This small and intimate quirky museum will give you an unusual insight into Dublin and it’s characters. Make sure to do the guided tour and watch out for the excellent temporary exhibitions. It’s opposite St. Stephen’s Green so if the weather is good you can blow the cobwebs out there and then wander down to James Toners pub on Lower Baggot Street or Doheny and Nesbitts for a pint

2) Smithfield area if it’s really lashing then retreat to catch a movie at the excellent Lighthouse Cinema. After then head to Mulligan’s Grocers pub in Stoneybatter or the Third Space for coffee. If you want to pack some history  the hidden gem of St Michan’s Church and Crypt is well worth a visit.  Down a set of dimly lit narrow stone steps, in a vault underneath the church, lay dozens of coffins, and one mummy ready to shake your hand. Do the tour but check opening times which are erratic!

3) Science gallery – Just opposite Pearse station, this fascinating off shoot of Trinity College has different exhibitions throughout the year and a nice coffee shop. 200m up the road  Il Café di Napoli is loved by Dublin commuters for a quality coffee stop and  the Italian goodies . Sun out ? Then carry on to Merrion Square Gardens which is an oasis of calm.  You can wax lyrical with the Oscar Wilde statue here or just sit on a bench with your sandwich

4) St Patrick’s Cathedral is a little bit out of the central Dublin area. It is walkable but it is also on the Hop on Hop off bus route and well worth a visit. Marsh’s library has an amazing collection and is just next door. For eats you could try Fumbally Café which is a real foodie haunt or head back towards the Liffey and the Brazen head ( one of the oldest pubs in Dublin)  If lunch in fresh air is feasible then grab takeaway Fish and chips from Leo Burdocks (reputedly the best chipper in Dublin ) and eat in the park by St Patrick’s Cathedral