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02nd Aug 2019

Your super swift guide to discovering the most spectacular things to do in The Liberties

Louise Carroll

Liberties

Brought to you by Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin

So, you’ve probably heard about the all-new Hyatt Centric hotel that’s due to open its doors in The Liberties this September.

With its launch, The Liberties, one of Dublin’s (and Ireland’s) most treasured cultural and historical hubs will be introduced to a huge new international audience through the World of Hyatt loyalty programme which boasts close to 15 million members, so it’s sure to mean plenty more visitors and opportunity for businesses and locals in the area.

Of course, all those new visitors will have an exceptionally comfortable and accommodating place to stay in the Hyatt Centric which is championing its new home in every way possible. The team even took great care to preserve The Liberties’ rich history by sharing stories of the ancient artefacts dating from as far back as the 11th century which were found during the development of the hotel site.

The Liberties is the perfect base for new visitors to the capital as there’s a never-ending supply of things to see and do.

In fact, six of the area’s attractions were named in Fáilte Ireland’s list of Ireland’s top 20 most popular attractions — the Guinness Storehouse (where the black stuff has been brewed for over 250 years), St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin Castle, Christchurch Cathedral and the Chester Beatty Library — all very much worth a visit.

Other attractions close by include Trinity, St. Stephen’s Green, The Liberties’ Whiskey Trail and Vicar Street.

 

Here’s our swift guide to some of the best things to do:

The Chester Beatty Library is where you’ll see an incredible collection that belonged to the Irish-American mining mogul — Sir Alfred Chester Beatty. Having travelled far and wide during his life (and having the financial means to bring back so many beautiful things) he gathered manuscripts, paintings, rare books and artefacts from Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe. He donated many of his treasure to the State so we’re the lucky bunch who get to see them on the grounds of Dublin Castle, and entry is free!

Take a tour of The Liberties Distilleries Trail and uncover stories from the 19th century’s Golden Triangle, so-called because it was where the brewing and distilling magnates and brands like The Guinness Storehouse, Teelings Whiskey and Pearse Lyons Distillery were becoming mega. Now, you’ll find new additions like Roe & Co Distillery (on James Street) and The Dublin Liberties Distillery.

If whiskey’s not your thing, there’s also the Design Trail which any art or fashion fanatics will enjoy for sure. The National College of Art & Design, with its main campus on Thomas Street, often hosts gatherings and gives regular talks while Pallas Studios (as well as others) runs excellent exhibitions throughout the year.


It’s very easy to spend time gawking about Francis Street — Dublin’s Art & Antiques Quarter — where, if you’ve even a little bit of cash to splash, you’re likely to find yourself a gem you absolutely adore (often with a great story behind it). Look out for artistic and cultural events here too.

When you’re on the hunt for a great show, Vicar Street will sort you out. Keep your eyes peeled for superb musical talent, comedians and various acts coming to town.

You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to live trad or other little events that are held most days in the many pubs and venues in the area. Arthurs is super if you’re feeling in the mood for jazz and blues, while at Thomas House, you might find something a little more alternative.

Well, with so much to do and explore, we’ll leave you to get started. To The Liberties!

Brought to you by Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin, opening in September 2019, is adjacent to many of Dublin’s most popular attractions. The modern 234 room hotel is designed for the savvy explorer, promising that while guests may arrive as strangers, they will leave as locals.

To find out more about the Hyatt Centric and book your first stay go to hyattcentricthelibertiesdublin.com