16 Distinctively Irish Things to Buy in Dublin
The birthplace of many artistic talents, such as Jonathan Swift and Oscar Wilde, Dublin is the show-window of Ireland, a small country renowned for its rich cultural scene encompassing music, writing, poetry, dance, craftsmanship and more. The food & drink scene of Dublin (much as the whole of Ireland) is just as rich which, in turn, makes it hard, yet exciting, to embrace it in its entirety. This article brings highlight upon some of the classiest and most peculiar Irish-born items that you might wish to have back home from a trip to Dublin!
(To visit the venues mentioned in this article, check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Dublin)
1. Chocolate
While Ireland is not necessarily a country you think of when considering chocolate, Irish chocolate manufacturers, such as Butlers and Lir, will be championed by the locals as, at the very least, equal to Swiss and Belgian offerings. Both Butlers and Lir take their craft extremely seriously and produce Irish chocolate that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but utterly irresistible to the taste buds.
Butlers has strong ties to Irish society ever since it was founded in the early 20th century by Ms. Bailey-Butler on a small lane in Dublin city. Now it has become a flourishing, world-renowned international business with a vast array of customers, but it has never forgotten its humble beginnings. Upon visiting Ireland, you must sample some of their truffles, fudge, toffee and chocolate bars, to name but a few – and don’t worry, exploring the beautiful and historic Dublin will do more than enough to burn off the extra calories! Butlers assortment boxes range from €5 for a 185g box to €48 for a delicious 1000g box for the whole family. Butlers has a number of wonderful cafes in Dublin’s city centre at: 18 Nassau Street, 9 Chatham, and 51a Grafton Street. Opening hours are 7:30am to 7pm Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 7:30am to 9pm Thursday, 8:30am to 7pm Saturday and 10am to 7pm Sunday.
Butlers has strong ties to Irish society ever since it was founded in the early 20th century by Ms. Bailey-Butler on a small lane in Dublin city. Now it has become a flourishing, world-renowned international business with a vast array of customers, but it has never forgotten its humble beginnings. Upon visiting Ireland, you must sample some of their truffles, fudge, toffee and chocolate bars, to name but a few – and don’t worry, exploring the beautiful and historic Dublin will do more than enough to burn off the extra calories! Butlers assortment boxes range from €5 for a 185g box to €48 for a delicious 1000g box for the whole family. Butlers has a number of wonderful cafes in Dublin’s city centre at: 18 Nassau Street, 9 Chatham, and 51a Grafton Street. Opening hours are 7:30am to 7pm Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 7:30am to 9pm Thursday, 8:30am to 7pm Saturday and 10am to 7pm Sunday.
Where to find it:
ButlersAddress: 18 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 07:30-19:00; Thursday: 07:30-21:00; Friday: 07:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-19:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
Address: 9 Chatham
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 07:30-19:00; Thursday: 07:30-21:00; Friday: 07:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-19:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
Address: 51a Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 07:30-19:00; Thursday: 07:30-21:00; Friday: 07:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-19:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
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2. Newbridge Silverware
Newbridge Silverware, based in County Kildare, adjacent to Dublin, started as a cutlery manufacturer. Today they produce jewellery, cutlery and a range of giftware. Many newlyweds will be gifted with a set of Newbridge silver-plated cutlery with which to start their married life, and smaller items, such as napkin rings and candle holders, are common Christmas and anniversary gifts. Newbridge also crafts pieces of fine jewellery and other gift items. You can get small gifts, such as keyrings and keepsakes, for around €10, and while an 88 piece set of sterling silver cutlery could run you more than €1,200, smaller gift packs of cutlery can be had for under €80. They offer a range of different collections and designs to suit different budgets, all crafted with skill and care in the heart of Ireland.
If you want to stay in the city centre, Newbridge Silverware stockists include Arnotts at 12 Henry St, Dublin 1, opening from 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Otherwise, head out to Blackrock Shopping Centre on Frascati Road, Blackrock and visit Concepts from 9:00 to 6:00 Monday to Wednesday, 9:00 to 21:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 19:00 Saturday and 10:00 to 18:00 Sunday.
If you want to stay in the city centre, Newbridge Silverware stockists include Arnotts at 12 Henry St, Dublin 1, opening from 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Otherwise, head out to Blackrock Shopping Centre on Frascati Road, Blackrock and visit Concepts from 9:00 to 6:00 Monday to Wednesday, 9:00 to 21:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 19:00 Saturday and 10:00 to 18:00 Sunday.
Where to find it:
ArnottsAddress: 12 Henry Street, Dublin 1
Operation Hours: Monday-Tuesday: 10:00-19:00; Wednesday: 10:00-20:00; Thursday: 10:00-21:00; Friday: 10:00-20:00; Saturday: 09:00-20:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
Concepts, Blackrock Shopping Centre
Address: Frascati Road, Blackrock
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:00-6:00; Thursday-Friday: 09:00-21:00; Saturday: 09:00-19:00; Sunday: 10:00-18:00
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3. Linen
Made from flax fibers, linen was historically a very important Irish trade good. While in days gone by it was a ubiquitous fabric in various kinds of clothing, today the labor-intensive nature of its manufacture makes it a luxury good that is generally reserved for use only on special occasions. Table linen and linen bed sets are a common wedding gift, although most contemporary Irish household would keep it for the most special of guests, as well as for celebratory meals. Companies, such as Thomas Ferguson Irish Linen, which has been supplying linen for over 150 years, provide their fine goods to various retail stores in Ireland and across the world. The finest Irish linens carry the Irish Linen Guild logo, which means that they were not woven abroad and simply bleached in Ireland, but that they were genuinely woven in Ireland to the highest quality possible. Prices can range from €15 for a pair of linen tea cosies to hundreds of euros for the finest linen bed sets.
Here are a number of excellent stores for real Irish linen. Kilkenny Store at 15 Nassau Street is open 8:30am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00pm Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30pm on Saturdays. It is open from 11:00 to 18:00 on Sunday. Arnotts at 12 Henry Street is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday.
Here are a number of excellent stores for real Irish linen. Kilkenny Store at 15 Nassau Street is open 8:30am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00pm Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30pm on Saturdays. It is open from 11:00 to 18:00 on Sunday. Arnotts at 12 Henry Street is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday.
Where to find it:
Kilkenny StoreAddress: 15 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:30-19:00; Thursday: 08:30-20:00; Friday: 08:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-18:30; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
Arnotts
Address: 12 Henry Street, Dublin 1
Operation Hours: Monday-Tuesday: 10:00-19:00; Wednesday: 10:00-20:00; Thursday: 10:00-21:00; Friday: 10:00-20:00; Saturday: 09:00-20:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
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4. Connemara Marble
Quarried in the western part of the country, in the county of Galway, Connemara marble is a distinctive green variegated stone that is prized for use in interior design and ornaments. Craftsmen, such as J.C. Walsh and Sons, quarry the rock from natural outcrops and carve and polish the stone to best show off its natural beauty. Connemara marble graces the halls of Trinity College Dublin and can be seen in Kensington Palace in the United Kingdom. It is also used for the creation of beautiful pendants, rosary beads and other jewellery. Its dappled nature makes every piece unique, and its green hue makes it a fitting stone for the island of Ireland. Ornaments range in price from €30 for a small clock to €800 for a carved chess set and board. Rosary beads will set you back around €30.
Lapis Jewelers have two stores in central Dublin, at 17 Nassau Street and 10 Johnson's Court. They specialize in Connemara marble jewellery, incorporating the unique stone into bracelets, rings, necklaces and Celtic crosses. McEvoys Irish Gifts, just across the river at 106 Talbot Street, has provided beautiful Irish souvenirs for over 100 years. Alternatively, swing by the Kilkenny Shop at 15 Nassau Street to check out their Connemara Marble ornaments.
Lapis Jewelers have two stores in central Dublin, at 17 Nassau Street and 10 Johnson's Court. They specialize in Connemara marble jewellery, incorporating the unique stone into bracelets, rings, necklaces and Celtic crosses. McEvoys Irish Gifts, just across the river at 106 Talbot Street, has provided beautiful Irish souvenirs for over 100 years. Alternatively, swing by the Kilkenny Shop at 15 Nassau Street to check out their Connemara Marble ornaments.
5. Irish Soda Bread
This traditional Irish bread can be made with white or wholemeal flour, along with buttermilk, a pinch of salt and bicarbonate of soda. Rather than using yeast as a raising agent, soda bread gets its lift from a chemical reaction between bicarbonate of soda and the lactic acid present in the buttermilk. The process results in a dense, nutty bread that goes perfectly with smoked Irish salmon or can be toasted to serve with paté. The locals normally spread it thickly with jam or golden Irish butter for a deliciously simple treat. Irish Soda bread can be bought in whole loaves and pre-sliced forms, and can also be found with dried fruit incorporated into the dough for a more indulgent treat. You shouldn’t expect to pay more than €2 or €3 for a loaf, but once you’ve had a taste of this particularly Irish food, you’ll find it difficult to stop at just one.
Midway down Grafton Street at number 15 is the Marks & Spencer's Food Hall, located in the basement of the main store. It opens from 09:00 to 20:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 09:00 to 21:00 on Thursdays, 08:30 to 20:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. The Fallon & Byrne Food Hall is just a few streets away, at 11-17 Exchequer Street. This store offers a variety of breads, many of them organic, from 8:00 to 21:00 Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 to 22:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 21:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. Alternatively, hop on the Luas (Dublin Light Rail) out to Ranelagh. At No. 33 on the main Street you will find Gammells bakery, open from 08:00 to 20:00 every day of the week.
Midway down Grafton Street at number 15 is the Marks & Spencer's Food Hall, located in the basement of the main store. It opens from 09:00 to 20:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 09:00 to 21:00 on Thursdays, 08:30 to 20:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. The Fallon & Byrne Food Hall is just a few streets away, at 11-17 Exchequer Street. This store offers a variety of breads, many of them organic, from 8:00 to 21:00 Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 to 22:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 21:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. Alternatively, hop on the Luas (Dublin Light Rail) out to Ranelagh. At No. 33 on the main Street you will find Gammells bakery, open from 08:00 to 20:00 every day of the week.
Where to find it:
Marks & Spencer's Food HallAddress: 15 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:00-20:00; Thursday: 09:00-21:00; Friday: 09:00-20:00; Saturday: 08:30-20:00; Sunday: 11:00-19:00
Fallon & Byrne Food Hall
Address: 11-17 Exchequer Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:00-21:00; Thursday-Friday: 08:00-22:00; Saturday: 09:00-21:00; Sunday: 11:00-19:00
Gammells bakery
Address: 33 Ranelagh
Operation Hours: Monday-Sunday: 08:00-20:00
6. Whiskey
While nobody likes a stereotype, the Irish are proud of their local distilleries. Whiskey takes its name from the Irish phrase ‘uisce beatha’ or the water of life. The Scots and the Irish often argue about who makes the best whiskey. With various distilleries to choose from, you can make up your own mind, although after a few rounds you may forget exactly what you were trying to find out. There are various different options, with single malt, blended whiskeys, single grain, and pure pot still whiskey all available from Irish distillers. Black Bush Irish Whisky costs around €25 per 700ml bottle, while Bushmill Original Irish Whisky is a few euros cheaper. As the whiskey ages, expect to pay more, for example Jameson 12 year old whiskey costs €35, compared to €24 for a regular bottle.
The Celtic Whiskey Shop at 27-28 Dawson Street has a huge selection and very knowledgeable staff. They open their doors from 10:30 to 20:00 Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, with late opening to 21:00 on Thursdays and from 12:30 to 19:00 on Sundays. The James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store at 119 Grafton Street, beside Trinity College, opens Monday to Saturday 9.30 to 18.00 and Sunday 12.30 to 17.30. If you want to go straight to the source, try the Old Jameson Distillery at Bow Street, Dublin 7 from 09:30 to 18:00 daily.
The Celtic Whiskey Shop at 27-28 Dawson Street has a huge selection and very knowledgeable staff. They open their doors from 10:30 to 20:00 Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, with late opening to 21:00 on Thursdays and from 12:30 to 19:00 on Sundays. The James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store at 119 Grafton Street, beside Trinity College, opens Monday to Saturday 9.30 to 18.00 and Sunday 12.30 to 17.30. If you want to go straight to the source, try the Old Jameson Distillery at Bow Street, Dublin 7 from 09:30 to 18:00 daily.
Where to find it:
Celtic Whiskey ShopAddress: 27-28 Dawson Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 10:30-20:00; Thursday: late opening-21:00; Friday: 10:30-20:00; Saturday: 10:30-20:00; Sunday: 12:30-19:00
James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store
Address: 119 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday: 09:30-18:00; Sunday: 12.30-17.30
Old Jameson Distillery
Address: Bow Street, Dublin 7
Operation Hours: Monday-Sunday: 09:30-18:00
7. Irish Cheeses
The dairy industry is a huge part of Irish agriculture, and it is hard to take a drive through the country without seeing numerous dairy cows lazily chewing their cud in the green fields. Local producers take advantage of the abundance of high-quality milk to create tasty cheeses. Cheeses, such as Dubliner, Coolee, Gumbeen and Cashel Blue, will always be found in a Dublin refrigerator and their unique taste and local craftsmanship make them a must-try. In recent years, many Irish dairy farmers have sought to increase their profits by producing their own artisan cheeses, but even the more commercial operations produce delicious cheese varieties. Dubliner Cheddar cheese retails at around €15 a kilo, while Cashel Blue Farmhouse Cheese will run you €3 for 125 grams.
Your first stop for Irish cheese has to be Sheridan’s Cheesemongers at 11 South Anne Street. This independent Cheesemongers offers artisan and handmade cheese from Ireland and Europe. They open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 6pm, Thursday 10.30am to 7pm and Saturday 9.30am - 6pm. Just around the corner, at 15 Grafton Street, you will find the Marks & Spencer's Food Hall in the basement of the main store. It opens from 09:00 to 20:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 09:00 to 21:00 on Thursdays, 08:30 to 20:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. The Fallon & Byrne Food Hall is just a few minutes walk away at 11-17 Exchequer Street. Their cheese counter is excellent and the store opens from 8:00 to 21:00 Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 to 22:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 21:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays.
Your first stop for Irish cheese has to be Sheridan’s Cheesemongers at 11 South Anne Street. This independent Cheesemongers offers artisan and handmade cheese from Ireland and Europe. They open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 6pm, Thursday 10.30am to 7pm and Saturday 9.30am - 6pm. Just around the corner, at 15 Grafton Street, you will find the Marks & Spencer's Food Hall in the basement of the main store. It opens from 09:00 to 20:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 09:00 to 21:00 on Thursdays, 08:30 to 20:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays. The Fallon & Byrne Food Hall is just a few minutes walk away at 11-17 Exchequer Street. Their cheese counter is excellent and the store opens from 8:00 to 21:00 Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 to 22:00 Thursday and Friday, 9:00 to 21:00 Saturdays and 11:00 to 19:00 on Sundays.
Where to find it:
Sheridan’s CheesemongersAddress: 11 South Anne Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 10:00-18:00; Thursday: 10.30-19:00; Friday: 10:00-18:00; Saturday: 09.30-18:00
Marks & Spencer's Food Hall
Address: 15 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:00-20:00; Thursday: 09:00-21:00; Friday: 09:00-20:00; Saturday: 08:30-20:00; Sunday: 11:00-19:00
Fallon & Byrne Food Hall
Address: 11-17 Exchequer Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:00-21:00; Thursday-Friday: 08:00-22:00; Saturday: 09:00-21:00; Sunday: 11:00-19:00
8. Musical Instruments
One of the highlights of any visit to Ireland is a ‘seisiún’ or session, where traditional musicians sit down to play in a pub, with any other musicians welcome to pull up a chair and join in, if they know the tune, or start up their own tune in a lull. It can seem astonishing that such beautiful and cohesive music can be produced by musicians who do not know each other, with an almost anarchic switch between leaders and followers. While some traditional instruments, such as Uillen pipes and fiddles, can be difficult to master, penny whistles and hide drums (bodhrans) are essential parts of traditional Irish music, with novices quickly able to pick up the basics. Indeed, they do on a regular basis!
Dublin is host to many fine musical instrument stores, with varying prices. Tin whistles can cost as little as €3, while the best guitars can range into the thousands. A number of quality music stores can be round in the inner city. Paul Ryan is located at 4 Eustace Street, open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Dublin is host to many fine musical instrument stores, with varying prices. Tin whistles can cost as little as €3, while the best guitars can range into the thousands. A number of quality music stores can be round in the inner city. Paul Ryan is located at 4 Eustace Street, open from Tuesday to Saturday.
9. Irish Music
If you spend any time in Ireland, you will soon grow used to the sounds of Irish music. Indeed, local pubs at the weekend are often hubs for lively traditional Irish music. Traditional jigs, reels and folk songs are as much enjoyed as modern pop and rock from bands, such as U2 and Westlife. Indeed, many current commercial bands are taking inspiration from the folk songs of the past, as Thin Lizzy did with their 1972 breakout single ‘Whiskey in the Jar’ – a rock version of a traditional Irish Ballad. Some of Ireland’s best folk bands are from Dublin, such as the Furey Brothers and Luke Kelly, and their CDs are still as relevant today as they were when they were released. In fact, if you find yourself seeing the sights on O’Connell or Talbot Street on the north side of the city, why not take a short stroll to nearby Sheriff Street where you can see where the great Luke Kelly and Boyzone’s Stephen Gately grew up.
Tower Records at 6-8 Wicklow Street is a great independent record store where one can buy traditional Irish music for between €4 and €20. It is open from 9-8pm Monday to Saturday and 12-7pm on Sunday. Claddagh Records stocks a great range of traditional Irish music at reasonable prices and is located at 2 Cecilia Street. Traditional local music can be found at Waltons, located at 2 North Frederick Street Dublin, opening 9-6pm Monday to Saturday and 12-5pm on Sunday.
Tower Records at 6-8 Wicklow Street is a great independent record store where one can buy traditional Irish music for between €4 and €20. It is open from 9-8pm Monday to Saturday and 12-7pm on Sunday. Claddagh Records stocks a great range of traditional Irish music at reasonable prices and is located at 2 Cecilia Street. Traditional local music can be found at Waltons, located at 2 North Frederick Street Dublin, opening 9-6pm Monday to Saturday and 12-5pm on Sunday.
10. Knitwear
Image Courtesy of: Lisa Dusseault
The often cold and changeable weather of Ireland means that few natives are without a selection of warm knitwear in their closets. Traditional chunky Aran sweaters are often seen in postcards and photobooks of Ireland, but in recent years more delicate designs have become fashionable both for winter wear and layering in the months of autumn and spring. Local designers use the wool of native sheep and more esoteric yarns from llamas, alpacas and goats to create lightweight shawls, scarves and sweaters that are suitable for year-round wear. Prices range from €15, for a simple scarf, all the way up to hundreds of euros for more complicated pieces. If you can’t resist one of those famous traditional Aran sweaters, be prepared to pay between €60 and €110.
Nassau Street beside Trinity College Dublin is the best place to go for knitwear. Trinity Sweaters at 30 Nassau St offers Irish handknits and Aran sweaters and is open from 9:30 to 18:00 Monday to Saturday and 11:30 to 17:30 on Sundays. The Kilkenny Shop at 6-15 Nassau St is open from 8:30 am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00 Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30 on Saturdays. Sundays it opens from 11:00 to 18:00. It offers three-piece knitwear sets from the Irish Countrywoman’s association for €30. Leading of Nassau Street is Suffolk Street, where the Avoca Handweavers Store is located, at number 11-13, and capes, jackets and cardigans sell for between €80 and €200. Avoca is open from 9:30 to 18:30 Monday to Wednesday, 9:30 to 19:00 Thursday to Saturday, and 11:00 to 18:00 on Sundays.
Nassau Street beside Trinity College Dublin is the best place to go for knitwear. Trinity Sweaters at 30 Nassau St offers Irish handknits and Aran sweaters and is open from 9:30 to 18:00 Monday to Saturday and 11:30 to 17:30 on Sundays. The Kilkenny Shop at 6-15 Nassau St is open from 8:30 am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00 Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30 on Saturdays. Sundays it opens from 11:00 to 18:00. It offers three-piece knitwear sets from the Irish Countrywoman’s association for €30. Leading of Nassau Street is Suffolk Street, where the Avoca Handweavers Store is located, at number 11-13, and capes, jackets and cardigans sell for between €80 and €200. Avoca is open from 9:30 to 18:30 Monday to Wednesday, 9:30 to 19:00 Thursday to Saturday, and 11:00 to 18:00 on Sundays.
Where to find it:
Trinity SweatersAddress: 30 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday: 09:30-18:00; Sunday: 11:30-17:30
Kilkenny Shop
Address: 6-15 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:30-19:00; Thursday: late opening-20:00; Friday: 08:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-18:30; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
Avoca Handweavers Store
Address: 11-13 Suffolk Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:30-18:30; Thursday-Saturday: 09:30-19:00; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
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11. Pottery
Ireland is home to successful commercial potteries, such as Belleek, but there are also more than 300 studio, craft and hobby potteries in the country. Many homes have a few pieces of traditional heavy earthenware that have been passed down through generations. More modern pottery and ceramics are also produced, both for tableware and ornamental use. Prices range by designer, collection and item – a four-mug set from Avoca will cost €50, while a single dinner plate from Belleek’s luxury range can cost upwards of €80. Irish pottery offers gifts to suit many different budgets and, because of the diversity of producers, you are sure to find a pottery gift that will suit the decor and design aesthetic of the recipient. Tableware and other pottery is ideal for wedding gifts for young couples and anniversary gifts for those who like to entertain.
Arnotts at 12 Henry Street has a range of Beleek Pottery and is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Avoca at 11-13 Suffolk Street opens at 9:30 am Monday to Saturday, closing at 18:30 Monday to Wednesday and 19:00 Thursday to Saturday. Sundays, it opens at 11:00 and closes at 18:00. The Kilkenny Shop also offers Irish pottery at 6-16 Nassau St from 8:30 to 19:00 Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30 to 20:00 Thursdays, 8:30 to 18:30 on Saturdays and 11:00 to 18:00 on Sundays.
Arnotts at 12 Henry Street has a range of Beleek Pottery and is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Avoca at 11-13 Suffolk Street opens at 9:30 am Monday to Saturday, closing at 18:30 Monday to Wednesday and 19:00 Thursday to Saturday. Sundays, it opens at 11:00 and closes at 18:00. The Kilkenny Shop also offers Irish pottery at 6-16 Nassau St from 8:30 to 19:00 Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30 to 20:00 Thursdays, 8:30 to 18:30 on Saturdays and 11:00 to 18:00 on Sundays.
Where to find it:
ArnottsAddress: 12 Henry Street, Dublin 1
Operation Hours: Monday-Tuesday: 10:00-19:00; Wednesday: 10:00-20:00; Thursday: 10:00-21:00; Friday: 10:00-20:00; Saturday: 09:00-20:00; Sunday: 10:00-19:00
Avoca
Address: 11-13 Suffolk Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:30-18:30; Thursday-Saturday: 09:30-19:00; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
Kilkenny Shop
Address: 6-16 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:30-19:00; Thursday: 08:30-20:00; Friday: 08:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-18:30; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
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12. Bog Oak Sculptures
Ireland was long ago covered with ancient forests, consisting of oak, yew and pine wood. Those huge forests were all but decimated by stone age farming many thousands of years ago. However, the remnants of those trees remained buried, preserved and undiscovered in the bog lands for up to 7,000 years. This ‘bog oak’ is selected and excavated by talented Irish craftsmen, dried for at least 3 years and then finally sculpted into the most beautiful shapes and designs. It is an extremely precise and skillful trade and many such artists claim that no two bog oak sculptures are alike. These sculptures make beautiful additions to your garden and can also be used to grace you hallway or even living room. Unfortunately, quality bog oak sculptures do not come cheap. Small items may cost roughly €100 to 200, but larger sculptures and furniture will set you back about €500 at least. However, this is a small price to pay for art of such ancient beauty.
Kilkenny store is the best place in Dublin to buy bog oak sculptures. It is located at 6-15 Nassau Street and is open 8:30am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00 Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30 on Saturdays. It is open from 11:00 to 18:00 on Sunday. The Jam Art Factory is a wonderful little gallery at 64 Patrick Street, which sometimes features bog oak art. It is open 10am-6pm on Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday. The Doorway Gallery is another good place for bog oak, located at 24 South Frederick Street, opening 10:30am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 2-5pm on Sunday.
Kilkenny store is the best place in Dublin to buy bog oak sculptures. It is located at 6-15 Nassau Street and is open 8:30am Monday to Saturday, closing at 19:00 Monday-Wed and Friday, with late opening to 20:00 on Thursdays and a closing time of 18:30 on Saturdays. It is open from 11:00 to 18:00 on Sunday. The Jam Art Factory is a wonderful little gallery at 64 Patrick Street, which sometimes features bog oak art. It is open 10am-6pm on Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday. The Doorway Gallery is another good place for bog oak, located at 24 South Frederick Street, opening 10:30am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 2-5pm on Sunday.
Where to find it:
Kilkenny ShopAddress: 6-15 Nassau Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 08:30-19:00; Thursday: late opening-20:00; Friday: 08:30-19:00; Saturday: 08:30-18:30; Sunday: 11:00-18:00
Jam Art Factory
Address: 64 Patrick Street
Operation Hours: Saturday: 10:00-18:00; Sunday: 11:00-17:00
The Doorway Gallery
Address: 24 South Frederick Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:30-18:00; Sunday: 14:00-17:00
13. Irish Tea
Ireland is ranked second in the world for per capita consumption of tea, with morning breakfasts, lunchtime meals and evening relaxation all considered to be best complemented with a steaming mug of lovely tea. While the Irish may quibble about which brand is best, and whether it should be served with or without sugar, they are all united in the knowledge that Irish brands, such as Barry’s and Lyons, are head and shoulders above any foreign varieties. Irish ex-pats are well-known for importing these brands if they are living abroad, as others just don’t taste quite right. Prices start at around €3 for 80 teabags, but there is always the option of treating yourself with pyramid-shaped bags or premium blends.
Given the Irish habit for daily tea consumption, tea is plentiful and cheap to purchase. Walk into, literally, any major supermarket, like Dunnes Stores or Tesco, and marvel at the huge display of teas. Alternatively, just duck into a corner store, both independents and chains, such as Spar and Centra, and you will find a variety of teas available for purchase. For a more bohemian experience, visit Organic Flower Power – located at 7 Berkeley Street, open 8-9pm Monday to Friday and 8-8pm on Sunday.
Given the Irish habit for daily tea consumption, tea is plentiful and cheap to purchase. Walk into, literally, any major supermarket, like Dunnes Stores or Tesco, and marvel at the huge display of teas. Alternatively, just duck into a corner store, both independents and chains, such as Spar and Centra, and you will find a variety of teas available for purchase. For a more bohemian experience, visit Organic Flower Power – located at 7 Berkeley Street, open 8-9pm Monday to Friday and 8-8pm on Sunday.
14. Sporting Equipment
Ireland has several unique sports that come under the banner of Gaelic games. Hurling, Gaelic Football and Irish Handball can all trace their roots back to Celtic times, with the legend of Cu Chullain making particular reference to his skill with the hurl. The yearly national championships or ‘All Ireland’ are attended by tens of thousands, with many more watching the matches at home or down the pub decked out in their county colors. Two hurleys and a ‘sliotar’ allow you to have your own try at hurling, which is similar to field hockey – the world’s fastest team field game. Gaelic football too is a rapid grass sport, which shares common features with rugby and soccer, but has a very unique style of its own. It requires no specialist equipment like hurling, just a special football that can be found at most Irish sports stores for between €15 and €50.
Excellent Irish sports stores include Elverys at 19 Suffolk Street – opening hours 9:30-9pm Monday-Friday, 9-7pm Saturday and Sunday. Champion sports store can be found at the main terminal of Dublin airport, open 5am-8pm every day. Furthermore, why not go and watch a genuine Gaelic sports match at the world famous Croke Park stadium in the north inner city? Adult tickets range from €39.50 to €49.50, with children’s tickets costing €9.50.
Excellent Irish sports stores include Elverys at 19 Suffolk Street – opening hours 9:30-9pm Monday-Friday, 9-7pm Saturday and Sunday. Champion sports store can be found at the main terminal of Dublin airport, open 5am-8pm every day. Furthermore, why not go and watch a genuine Gaelic sports match at the world famous Croke Park stadium in the north inner city? Adult tickets range from €39.50 to €49.50, with children’s tickets costing €9.50.
15. Crystal
Irish Crystal is well known throughout the world for its high quality, and the shamrocks that are presented to the US president on St Patrick’s day are traditionally placed in a crystal bowl. The AFCA National Championship Trophy, the People’s Choice Awards, and the Formula One German Grand Prix Trophies are all designed by Waterford Crystal, which gained a reputation in the 1700s for terrifically fine flint glass of the best quality. Tipperary and Kilkenny crystal are other well-known brands. Crystal is a popular wedding gift throughout Ireland and abroad. Its popularity derives from the beautiful intricacy of the design, which consists of deeply cut and incredibly precise patterns across the crystal using age old techniques handed down from generations to generations. Indeed, Irish crystal graces the dining rooms of many Irish households and is a particular point of pride that is often displayed to guests!
Sets of Irish crystal usually range between about €40 and €60, but for the very finest you are looking into the hundreds. The good store is Arnotts at 12 Henry Street. It is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. The House of Ireland at 37 Nassau Street is also an excellent store for crystal.
Sets of Irish crystal usually range between about €40 and €60, but for the very finest you are looking into the hundreds. The good store is Arnotts at 12 Henry Street. It is open 10am to 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 8pm Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. The House of Ireland at 37 Nassau Street is also an excellent store for crystal.
16. Jewelry
Gold and silver jewelry was popular with the Celtic ancestors of the modern-day Irish, and their beautiful craftsmanship and elegant designs are often reflected in modern pieces. Traditional Claddagh rings, with a crowned heart cupped by two hands, are an indication of romantic availability – if the heart points away from the body, the wearer is available, but if the ring is worn with the heart pointing inwards, then their heart belongs to another. Knots, braids and spirals, all work their way into local designs, as does traditional Irish religious imagery, such as Celtic crosses. Prices vary according to style, designer and size. A Claddagh ring in sterling silver will set you back €30, while white gold will cost around €300, and gold and silver Celtic-inspired pendants range from €30 upwards.
Grafton Street, the main shopping street in Dublin, has plenty of jewelers, and the side streets are dotted with smaller boutiques. Fields Jewelers at 22 Grafton Street opens Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 6pm, Thursday 9.30am to 8pm, and Sundays 12pm to 6pm. Weir and Sons at 96 Grafton Street opens Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 6pm, Thursday 9.30am to 8pm, and is closed on Sundays. Rocks Jewelers at 73 Grafton Street is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.45 - 5:45, Thursday 9.45 - 7:30, and Sunday 12:45 - 5:45.
Grafton Street, the main shopping street in Dublin, has plenty of jewelers, and the side streets are dotted with smaller boutiques. Fields Jewelers at 22 Grafton Street opens Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 6pm, Thursday 9.30am to 8pm, and Sundays 12pm to 6pm. Weir and Sons at 96 Grafton Street opens Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 6pm, Thursday 9.30am to 8pm, and is closed on Sundays. Rocks Jewelers at 73 Grafton Street is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9.45 - 5:45, Thursday 9.45 - 7:30, and Sunday 12:45 - 5:45.
Where to find it:
Fields JewelersAddress: 22 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:30-18:00; Thursday: 09.30-20:00; Friday-Saturday: 09.30-18:00; Sunday: 12:00-18:00
Weir and Sons
Address: 96 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:30-18:00; Thursday: 09.30-20:00; Friday-Saturday: 09.30-18:00; Sunday: Closed
Rocks Jewelers
Address: 73 Grafton Street
Operation Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 09:45-17:45; Thursday: 09.45-19:30; Friday-Saturday: 09.45-17:45; Sunday: 12:45-17:45
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Other Interesting Souvenirs from Ireland
If traveling to Ireland is not on your immediate agenda, or you simply can't afford an extra space in your luggage, fortunately, these days, you can find a wide selection of authentic and truly interesting Irish souvenirs online. Presented here are some of the Irish products sought by foreign visitors, now available online for your convenience.
1. Celtic Motif Leather Goods - Handcrafted in Ireland bracelets, wallets, belts, and bags, made of genuine leather that will last you a lifetime, featuring embossed Celtic knot designs, are cool, comfortable, and as Celtic as you can possibly get. The Celtic knot represents eternal love, thus making the item it adorns a great Irish gift for a true loved one!
2. “Scent of Ireland” Candles - The essence of Ireland captured in a candle. Just light it and fill the room with the scent of Irish meadows, turf, flowers, or, perhaps, fresh linen. Close your eyes and imagine yourself back on the Emerald Island, where the green is greener, spending a day in the bog with the sun upon your back, coming home to the unique smell of an open fire, black tea and cut sandwiches, friends and family, stories and a song.
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Walking Tours in Dublin, Ireland
Create Your Own Walk in Dublin
Creating your own self-guided walk in Dublin is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
A Walk Along Liffey River
The Liffey River is a major waterway that flows through the Irish capital, stretching approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) and dividing the city into two halves: the Northside and the Southside.
A stroll along the river is bound to take you to the places steeped in history, associated with the events and people that played a significant role in the culture and development of Dublin, the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
A stroll along the river is bound to take you to the places steeped in history, associated with the events and people that played a significant role in the culture and development of Dublin, the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
A Walk with Famous Irish Writers
Albeit a small country, Ireland has given the world a plethora of remarkable writers and poets, many of whom were born, lived, and studied in Dublin. Needless to say, as an epicenter of Ireland's literary scene, Dublin boasts a myriad of hallowed locations closely associated with the luminaries of Irish literature, such as James Joyce, William Butler Yeats, Samuel Beckett, and many of their... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.5 Km or 2.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.5 Km or 2.8 Miles
Dublin Introduction Walking Tour
Sitting on the country's east coast, the capital of the Republic of Ireland is the national center for education, arts, administration and industry. The name Dublin derives from the Irish word Dubhlind. Dubh means "black, dark", and lind means "pool", referring to a dark tidal pool located where the River Poddle enters the Liffey.
Dublin celebrated its “official”... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Dublin celebrated its “official”... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles