The tapestry of centuries-old architecture, jubilant local culture, and natural allure make Dublin a fantastic getaway destination. Cast your worries away as you join the locals doing the Irish dance at pubs, follow the footsteps of Oscar Wilde, or feel the ocean breeze in Howth. We know that Dublin is eccentric, but can it be more quirky? Well, these Dublin hidden gems might have the answer!
Dublin Hidden Gems – Summary
- National Leprechaun Museum
- Ballycorus Lead Mines
- The Hungry Tree
- Ye Old Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio
- Skyview Tower Dublin
- Christ Church’s Bizarre Collection
- Rory Gallagher Corner
- Druid’s Ancient Chair
- 9 Below
National Leprechaun Museum
If we have to name one thing that reminds us of Ireland, we would say leprechaun. The dwarf-like creature has played a significant role in Irish culture. See the supernatural beings come to life in the National Leprechaun Museum. Sitting a stone’s throw away from the famous Dublin Castle, this museum takes storytelling to another level. Find yourself strolling through exhibitions of oversized furniture and light works, delving into folklore like St.Brigid.
Furthermore, the National Leprechaun Museum offers two main tours. The Daytime Storytelling tour is packed with sunshine and rainbows. It suits the little ones, but adults would also enjoy the ‘catch the leprechaun’ experience. Besides that, you can choose the DarkLand tour. As its name suggests, it takes you delving into the twisted stories in Irish folklore. Therefore, the National Leprechaun Museum is one of the most unique Dublin hidden gems.
Ballycorus Lead Mines
Witness the remnants of Ireland’s first mining industry in Ballycorus Lead Mines. It stopped its operation in 1913, but its legacy stands tall on the outskirts of Dublin. Today, the only remaining part of Ballycorus Lead Mines is the towering flue chimney. It stands on Carrickgollogan Hill, framed with tall meadows and blossoming bushes. Reaching the chimney requires you to take a hike. However, get ready to be stunned by the bird-eye view of Dublin city. The surrounding forests add to the scenery’s beauty and create a refreshing atmosphere. Moreover, we recommend visiting during the sunset to get a spectacular view. Therefore, it is one of the best Dublin hidden gems to visit.
The Hungry Tree
The Hungry Tree gets the nickname ‘hungry’ for a reason. This 80-year-old London Plane tree devours a cast iron bench, engulfing half of it into its trunk. Of course, this kind of phenomenon does not happen every day. Although trees can naturally grow over things that get in their way, the Hungry Tree’s distinctive scene makes it Ireland’s Heritage.
So, where can you see the Hungry Tree? Head to King’s Inns, Ireland’s oldest law school tucked in the heart of Dublin. The grounds are accessible to the public, so it is no rocket science to see the tree. Therefore, the Hungry Tree is one of the most unique Dublin hidden gems to see.
This 60 meters-tall tower takes you to see Dublin from another angle. Skyview Tower sits in Smithfield, a trendy district lined with antique cinema and excellent coffee shops. It was once a part of the 19th-century Jameson Distillery, specifically its chimney. Now, it transforms into a viewpoint that can fit around 300 people. You can see Smithfield and the nearby Dublin Bay looking like a miniature. Moreover, to reach the top, you must climb a 259-step spiral staircase that makes you feel like you are traveling back in time. It is one of the most exciting Dublin hidden gems to visit.
Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio
Dublin is a treasure trove of quirky museums, including Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio. It is set inside a Martello Tower in the coastal village of Howth. The museum, just like its name suggests, features a wide collection of communication tools. They are compiled by audiophile Pat Herbert in the 1950s. You can find gramophones, valve radios, early TVs, needle boxes, and many more. Moreover, the museum houses early Morse equipment. Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio still stays out of the tourists’ radar, making it one of a must-visit Dublin hidden gems.
Christ Church’s Bizarre Collection
This 11th-century church has become an important part of Irish history. It was originally a Viking church built in 1030 and went through developments due to the Norman invasion. Today, Christ Church Cathedral stands with its beautiful neo-classical facade, structured with stones. Thus, one of the most intriguing parts of Christ Church is the collection. It houses antique silverware, ancient religious scripts, royal attire dating back to King Henry VII’s reign, to mummies of cats and mice. Although the church still serves religious purposes, it welcomes tourists who want to learn about history and discover the collection.
Rory Gallagher Corner
Dublin deserves to be referred to as ‘The City of Arts’ as it was the birthplace of famous artists. Oscar Wilde is a notable example and you can follow his footsteps in several places in Dublin. Thus, another legend whose legacy become a Dublin hidden gem is William Rory Gallagher. The talented musician has popularized Irish blues rock and gained fans from across the United Kingdom. Then, you can head to his ‘corner’ in Temple Bar. A replica of his guitar hangs on the intersection of Temple Bar. Put on an eagle eye to spot this monument!
Druid’s Chair
Taking a walk along Dublin’s well-loved Killiney Hill is one of the best things you can do in the city. Besides a breathtaking view of meadowed hills and the pale ocean, you can also find historical remnants. One of them is Druid’s Chair, which dates back to the Bronze Age. It features a formation of megalithic rocks shaped like a chair. Legend says that druids – ancient Celtic high priestesses, use the ‘chair’ as their thrones. Nonetheless, the Druid’s Chair is an interesting hidden gem in Dublin to spot. Overlooking the ocean and a series of hills, it shares a mythical vibe.
9 Below
If you are a fan of speakeasy bars, 9 Below is for you to check out. The chic
Exploring Dublin and visiting its hidden gems is a great idea to spend your day-offs! You can enter the world of Irish folklores in National Leprechaun Museum, sip a house cocktail in 9 Below, or spot the Druid’s Chair while hiking.
Thinking about visiting Dublin or Ireland? Explore plenty of Ireland trips in JoinMyTrip. Besides amazing travel experiences, you can also find new TripMates with JoinMyTrip!