My daughter and I planned for a girls weekend in Dublin to visit Trinity College. A quick 50 minute flight from London had us there in no time at all and then a 15 minute cab ride into the city. We stayed at The Mont Hotel in the Trinity District. It was hip, very clean, minimalist without being empty. The room was warm and cosy, decorated in black wood (reminded me of a pub) and had everything we needed. It was a 10 minute walk to Temple Bar and the school, however, this made for a quiet neighbourhood just next to the museums.

We took a student lead tour of the college on Saturday morning. Our guide, Connor, was witty and fun an we learn a lot about the architecture and urban legends of the buildings on campus. Two identical buildings as you enter the campus are lovingly named “Heaven” and “Hell”. Heaven was where the original chapel was and Hell is where exams are held.

If you dare walk under the Campanile (bell tower) anywhere near to exams you will surely fail. The green behind the tower is where the old monastery lies and many monks are buried. Prior to covid it was not allowed to walk on this grass. However, students needed fresh air during the pandemic and so this sacred green space, for the first time, became a hang out / study space.

We spent the remainder of our Saturday visiting as much as we could: Dublin Castle, Dublinia, Christchurch Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and St Stephen’s Green.

Constructed in the early thirteenth century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle served for centuries as the headquarters of English, and later British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland’s independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government. 

Christchurch Cathedral was founded in the early 11th century under the Viking king Sitric Silkenbeard. It is a gorgeous church, the inside is very warmly lit, gorgeous earthen coloured stone floors, dark woods and reds decorate the interior. It felt like a very peaceful place, although my daughter felt it was very sombre. The crypt underneath was a gorgeous stone cave which housed some treasures, like a copy of the Magna Carta and a fossilised cat and rat nicknamed “Tom and Jerry”.

Dublinia is a “living” museum showcasing the story of the Viking rule in this part of Ireland and takes you on a journey through medieval Dublin. It was a fun and interactive learning experience.

St Patrick’s Cathedral was founded in 1191 as a Roman Catholic cathedral, is currently the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. We did not enter the church as there was a fee to go inside and we had just left Christchurch, which was stunning. It was enough for us for one afternoon.

We enjoyed an evening out in Temple Bar at the Craic Den comedy club. We were entertained by four local comedians who did not disappoint, Always a learning place in a new city when you get to hear political and cultural views from comedians. It’s eye opening and very fun.

Sunday, after sufficient food and coffee, we took an hour to see the Guinness Storehouse. It was my third time visiting, I seem to always be in Dublin with someone who hasn’t been. It was fun to learn the story of Arthur Guinness and how beer is made. the Gravity Bar at the end is a highlight – a pint and a view.

We took the DART train to the seaside village of Howth on a friend’s recommendation. A 25 minute ride had us by the sea, enjoying warm salt and vinegar chips and a walk along the coast.

Back to Dublin Airport we go, satisfied that we made the most of our weekend away on the Emerald Isle. Slán go fóill