After an early flight to Dublin from Bristol (thanks to Sarah for dropping us at the crack of dawn) we arrived in the gorgeous Irish summer. The pouring rain and freezing temperatures was ‘a bit of a laugh’ while we battled to find the bus with our massive bags.
Our first experience taking a bus from the airport. We feel like real travellers now and the 8Euro was well worth it as we were dropped right outside the Ripley Court Hotel. We were such early birds so check in was a few hours away. The perfect time to explore the city.
After a warming coffee we walked to Trinity College. The oldest University founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. The Book of Kells Library is an absolute must. A small fee to enjoy the enormous library.
Cornucopia for lunch!! We really needed a warming meal and the array of vegetarian or vegan meals were so delicious. We didn’t quite have room for their treats but they looked divine. 9/10 🌟 for sure!! Even James loved the vegan pie…..
There are plenty of boutique shops around this area. A favourite of mine being the Brown Thomas department store on Grafton street.
After a leisurely afternoon we walked back into town for dinner at Market Bar. Scrumptious Spanish Tapas perfect for sharing 8/🌟 10 . They also cater to dietary requirements ☺️
Top Tip:
although they are tapas wow! their portion sizes are massive. We struggled to get through it all. Only really needed one each.
Exploring Dublin Day Two
After a very traditional Irish breakfast at the hotel (for James) we began another one of Jimmy’s Tours.
Another Top Tip:
there was no fruit for breakfast so if you’re fussy like myself making your own is key!
The Dublin tour started at The Dublin Castle. It’s great to wander through and learn the political and historical events that occurred here. Most of the rooms are decorated to make you feel as though your living through many of these significant times
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is stunning. It’s almost set up as a museum with plenty of historical references as well as quiet areas dedicated to prayer or meditation.
A small coffee stop at The Fumbally was just what we needed to continue the walking tour. The Little Museum of Dublin is a great opportunity to learn some of the history. A 30minute tour takes you into an old Georgian building with 2 decorated rooms of history. Our guide was funny and engaging and left us inspired to learn more.
A stop for Guinness and cricket watching for James while I wandered the shops.
Brother Hubbard was the spot for dinner on the way home. Thanks to Court for the fab recommendation. So this was James’ dinner of the trip! This excludes the incredible home cooking in NYC. We had a savoury carrot cake, beef short ribs and potatoes- you cannot go to Ireland and ignore their love of potatoes!
Top Tip:
restaurants with a small menu seem to have the best flavours. I think it’s down to seasonal menus with the freshest flavours. It really shows how creative the chefs are with a small handful of ingredients!
100 Days of Travel 
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