ATTRACTIONS

ENDA CAVANAGH

DUBLIN CASTLE Dame Street, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 645 8813 dublincastle.ie Dating from the early 13th century, Dublin Castle was originally built on the site of a Viking Settlement as a defensive fortification, and for centuries served as the headquarters for British administration in Ireland. Following Ireland’s independence, Dublin Castle was handed over to the new Irish government and continues to be a major government complex, in addition to a must-see tourist destination. Visitors can experience the castle’s rich history through the ornate bedrooms, dining rooms, picture gallery and drawing rooms, with tours running daily. The complex is also home to the beautiful Chester Beatty Library, housing a collection of rare books.

NATIONAL WAX MUSEUM PLUS 22-25 Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 671 8373 waxmuseumplus.ie The National Wax Museum Plus was opened in the iconic Lafayette building that divides Westmoreland Street and D’Olier Street – an appropriately central location for a museum full of figures central to

44 DUBLIN CASTLE GLASNEVIN CEMETERY TOURS

Irish history. Visitors can explore the past via the museum’s own Augmented Reality app – watch Brendan Behan’s face spring to life and recite poetry, or a sketch of the Liffey morph into an animated pictorial history of Dublin. Kids will love how the app gamifies the museum too, with treasures (and ghosts!) to find and Night at the Museum events, where visitors are taken through the museum in masks and actors bring exhibits to life. Game Of Thrones fans will also want to watch out for the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen, who was unveiled earlier this year to coincide with the final season of the epic series. Be sure to visit their sister museum The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum (Curved Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2), to experience the wonderful history of Irish music.

EPIC – THE IRISH EMIGRATION MUSEUM The CHQ building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 906 0861 epicchq.com One of the newest major attractions in Dublin, EPIC tells the unforgettable story of the 10 million Irish people who left their homeland over the centuries – and how they influenced and shaped the world. The interactive galleries make this family-friendly experience an essential destination for everyone with an interest in Ireland’s people, culture and history. The museum also houses the Irish Family History Centre, with experts helping visitors uncover their Irish roots. Shortlisted for European Museum of the Year 2018 and included in the Top 5 Irish Museums on TripAdvisor, EPIC is open from 10am to 6.45pm daily (last entry 5pm)

GLASNEVIN CEMETERY TOURS Finglas Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 11 Tel: (01) 882 6500, glasnevinmuseum.ie The largest non-denominational cemetery in Ireland, Glasnevin is the resting place of some of the most famous figures in Irish history. Daniel O’Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell, Michael Collins and Eamonn DeValera are buried here, next to well-known artists such as Brendan Behan, Luke Kelly and Christy Brown. The hauntingly gorgeous Victorian Garden cemetery covers 124 acres of glorious parkland. Guided tours of the cemetery and museum are available daily, with each guide passionate about telling the stories of Ireland’s complex and fascinating history. The tour of Glasnevin Cemetery gives a fascinating view of its heritage.

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE St. Jame’s Gate, Dublin 8 Tel: (01) 408 4800 guinness-storehouse.com Leased to Arthur Guinness in 1759 for 9,000 years, St. James’s Gate Brewery has been the home of Guinness for more than two centuries. Formerly a fermentation plant at the brewery, it was transformed into the seven-floor Guinness Storehouse. It offers daily tours, and includes the ‘Taste experience’, where visitors can learn about the four ingredients that go into Guinness and the all-important pouring process. The beer is poured first about three quarters full, left for about a minute to settle, and then filled to the top. It takes 119.5 seconds to craft a perfect pint of Guinness, and visitors are guided through the full process.

BELFAST CATHEDRAL

BELFAST CATHEDRAL The Cathedral Church Of St. Anne, Donegall Street, Belfast Tel: (028) 9032 8332 belfastcathedral.org One of Belfast’s most magnificent buildings, the Cathedral Church of St Anne is situated in the heart of the bustling Cathedral Quarter. Dedicated in 1904, there is much to explore within its walls, including mosaics by the Martin sisters, sculptures by Rosamond Praeger, the handcrafted Titanic Pall made in memory of the ship’s victims, and stunning stained glass windows. The Cathedral also has an amazing choir, and holds Choral Evensong every Monday to Friday during term-time, with Choral Services on Sundays at 11am and 3.30pm. Visitors and believers alike are welcome to step in and explore the building and stay to experience the spiritual impact of the Evensong.

BOTANIC GARDENS College Park, Botanic Avenue Tel: (028) 9031 4762 Visitbelfast.com Occupying 28 acres, the Botanic Gardens are a must-see attraction for all lovers of the outdoors. This lush public space opened in 1828 as a private park run by the Royal Belfast Botanical Gardens and attracted thousands of visitors per day. Today, the gardens, which feature two stunning Victorian conservatories – the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine – are fully open to the public. A number of notable concerts have also taken place amongst the gorgeous scenery from the likes of U2, The Kings of Leon and Snow Patrol.

TITANIC BELFAST 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast Tel: (028) 9076 6386 titanicbelfast.com “It’s really quite phenomenal. It’s a magnificent, dramatic building, the biggest Titanic exhibit in the world,” enthuses Titanic film director James Cameron, and we’re not about to disagree with him. The Titanic Belfast is an unforgettable experience and since opening, thousands of visitors have thronged to the centre to learn about the history of the world’s most famous shipping disaster. It was voted the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the 2016 World Travel Awards in the Maldives – the Oscars of tourism. CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL

CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL 53-55 Crumlin Road, Belfast Tel: (028) 9074 1500 The Crumlin Road Gaol is a 19th century Grade A listed jail and the only Victorian prison left in Northern Ireland. Much like Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin, its story is synonymous with the history of Belfast, and some notable historical figures have passed through its walls, including Eamonn DeValera and Martin McGuinness. The tour of the Gaol allows access to all areas, including the underground tunnel which links to the courthouse on the other side of the Crumlin Road, the hanging cell, the Governor’s office, the hospital and the graveyard.

W5 The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast Tel: (028) 9046 7700 w5online.co.uk Right beside the River Lagan, W5 will fascinate children and adults alike with its interactive and fun methods of learning. With humanoid robots, and a MED lab explaining pharmaceutical and biomedical science in an entertaining way, it is not to be missed. W5 also recently revealed their new technological space AMAZE. This immersive experience has state-of-the-art screen projectors with soundscapes, motion graphics and props that will take you to some of Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes without leaving the room. W5 also has Quiet Sessions for children with special needs, who may need a more relaxed and quieter environment. W5 is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5:30pm.

BLACK TAXI TOURS Tel: (028) 9064 2264 belfasttours.com A great way to soak up the history of Belfast is to take a tour in a classic black taxi. Out of the chaos of the Troubles came some of Belfast’s most recognisable landmarks: its murals. The 90-minute taxi ride will take you from east to west and north to south, taking in both sides of the community and how they depicted the conflict through amazingly detailed murals. All of the drivers have their own lived experience and are always willing to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history.

FADE STREET SOCIAL, DUBLIN

FADE STREET SOCIAL 6 Fade Street, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 604 0066, fadestreetsocial.com Fade Street Social is one of Dublin’s hippest eateries – and for good reason. It’s a meeting place, restaurant, tapas bar and cocktail winter garden, with each constituent part sitting effortlessly alongside the others; each attracts its own crowd and projects its own vibe. The restaurant offers homegrown produce assembled into simple dishes packed with flavour. The gastro bar, meanwhile, allows you to delve into the sharing menu, choosing bite-size, tapas-style taste bursts.

YAMAMORI NOODLES/ IZAKAYA/ SUSHI 71 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2. Tel: (01) 475 5001/ 12 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2. Tel: (01) 645 8001/ 38 Ormond Quay Lower, Dublin 1. Tel: (01) 872 0003 yamamori.ie A Mecca for Japanese food fans for over 20 years, these three, striking restaurants are renowned for their quality food and drinks. The superfresh sushi, norimaki, temaki and sashimi with the Chef’s Selections are always a good bet when you’re in Yamamori Sushi, while the upstairs Tengu Bar is one of the best places to find yourself on a night out. Elsewhere, the wok fried noodle, ramen, grilled and hot fish dishes are also superbly executed in Yamamori Noodles, with Haddock Tempura, Cha Han and Tatsuta Age among the generous house specials. But perhaps the most unique prospect is Yamamori Izakaya, with its delightful Victorian setting, great food, and jaw-dropping whiskey and sake selection. Try the Nigiri Platter and Dassai wine if you’re feeling adventurous.

THE WINDING STAIR 40 Lower Ormond Quay, North City, Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 872 7320 winding-stair.com For a wholesome Irish restaurant overlooking the River Liffey, complete with a downstairs bookshop, look no further than the Winding Stair. Dishes showcase the finest Irish ingredients by focusing on old-fashioned home cooking and no-fuss recipes. Named after Yeats’ poem, the Winding Stair combines fine cuisine with literary delights, with two floors connected by an 18th century staircase. After treating yourself to a delicious brunch, lunch or dinner, be sure to wander down and peruse the vast selection of books on offer.

BIA REBEL 409 Ormeau Road, Belfast Tel: (028) 9543 5964 biarebel.com While you have to be an Irish speaker to appreciate its punsome name, everyone will love the steaming bowls of ramen in this Cathedral Quarter newcomer. “36 hours; 26 ingredients; a lifetime of knowledge” proclaims the shortsharp menu, which also includes a wondrous Ewings Smoked Salmon Bánh Mi baguette. No wonder it’s such a popular student hangout.

SIX BY NICO 23 Waring Street, Belfast Tel: (028) 9032 9467 sixbynico.co.uk Already a big hit in his native Glasgow, Nico Simeone has now crossed the Irish Sea with his unique dining concept. A man who loves to have fun with the food he creates, he’ll be treating the Cathedral Quarter to a new themed menu every six weeks. First up is The Chippie, which includes contemporary takes on Chips ‘n’ Cheese, Scampi, Steak Pie, Fish Supper Smoked Sausage and – best of all! – Deep-Fried Mars Bar. The six-course experimental feast is £28 or £53 with paired drinks included. THE MUDDLERS CLUB

THE MUDDLERS CLUB, 1 Warehouse Lane. Belfast. Tel: (028) 9031 3199 themuddlersclubbelfast.com Named after the 200-year-old secret society that used to gather there, the Muddlers Club is tucked away in the historic backstreets of Cathedral Corner. What’s no secret is the success of the venue, having won the award for Best Restaurant in Ulster at the Irish Restaurant Awards 2018. The Michelin-rated venue has an open kitchen providing a sense of theatre to the dining experience, allowing customers to watch as local ingredients are transformed into delicious dishes. It also stocks an enticing selection of wines, beers and spirits to complement the mouthwatering food.

Sale of the century: Titanic Belfast

IDLEWILD 14 Fade St, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 253 0593 Idlewilddublin.com Inspired by the affair between JFK and Marilyn Monroe, this cosy bar in Dublin’s creative quarter has a lot to offer, whether you’re looking for a date spot or a low-key night out. The plush green velvet sofas in the back of the bar make a stunning centrepiece, and the bar also boasts a beautiful interior and friendly staff. Stocking a great range of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails in a laidback setting, IdleWild's intimate vibe provides a true throwback to exquisite '50s style.

THE OLD ROYAL OAK 11 High Road, Kilmainham Lane, Dublin 8 Tel: (01) 671 3967 facebook.com/theoakd8 Offering up a little slice of the country in the bustle of Dublin 8, the Old Royal Oak is one of the city’s most treasured hidden gems. While it may have the outward appearance a classic old-timer’s pub, the Old Royal Oak attracts a diverse range of customers across a range of ages, and is famed locally for its inclusive atmosphere. Tucked away on Kilmainham Lane, the pub has been operated by the highly accommodating Costello family for over 46 years. To many of its IDLEWILD

KELLY'S CELLARS

frequent customers, the Old Royal Oak serves as a trip back in time, from its simple interior décor to the perfection of its Guinness

THE BLACK SHEEP 61 Capel Street, Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 873 0013 galwaybaybrewery.com/blacksheep Affectionately known as ‘The People’s Pub’, The Black Sheep is conveniently located at the corner of Capel Street and Parnell Street. Featuring an eye-popping range of craft beers and spirits, you’ll be able to go back time and again and try something new on each occasion. The Black Sheep also serves food from noon up until ten in the evening, with succulent steaks and mouth-watering wings among the highlights. Great as an after-work spot, or as a pre/post-cinema location, you’ll find yourself at home here on both weekdays and weekends.

KELLY’S CELLARS 30-32 Bank Street, Belfast Tel: (028) 9024 6058 Kellyscellars.com Famed as Belfast’s oldest traditional Irish pub, Kelly’s Cellars is an intimate venue full of character. The best place to grab a pint without any fuss or pretension, Kelly’s oozes rustic charm. Grab a seat by the bar or in one of the cosy corners and prepare for a night of laughs, stories and entertainment. With a rich history of Irish traditional music, if you’re wise enough to go on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening during one of their trad sessions, you’ll be treated to the enchanting sounds of superb musicians from all over the country.

THE NATIONAL 62 High Street, Belfast Tel: (028) 9031 1130 thenationalbelfast.com Situated on Belfast’s famous High Street, with the Merchant Hotel beside it and the trendy Club 66 above – not to mention the Cathedral Quarter on its doorstep – the National Grande Café has become a hub for students and young professionals in recent years. Hardly a surprise, given its stunning décor, good music and excellent range of drinks (the Aren’t You Glad? cocktail comes highly recommended). A spot that’s sure to provide a memorable night.

THE SPANIARD 3 Skipper St, Belfast Tel: (028) 9023 2448, thespaniardbar.com Tucked away in the Cathedral Quarter, there’s a chance you could pass this gem without even realising; we can’t stress what a mistake that would be. Combining a traditional feel with flavours of Iberia and good old-fashioned rock’n’roll, it boasts a flabbergasting array of rums and an unbeatable atmosphere, ensuring there’s never a quiet night. Keep your eyes peeled for a familiar face or two, as the likes of Bill Murray and Sean Bean have been known to pop by when in town.

PAUL TIERNEY

FOLKSTER

COVET Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 679 9313 covet.ie Described as a store that provides ‘luxurious lends’, Covet will make you feel as if you’re on your way to the Oscars. With dresses to rent from Alexander McQueen, Oscar de la Renta, Badgley Mischka and Rachel Gilbert, they will also style your hair and make-up for a big night out. You can even borrow a pair of Christian Louboutins to match your outfit.

NOWHERE 65 Aungier Street, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 607 8983 nowhere.ie This upmarket, independent menswear store on Aungier Street features an array of incredible designers, labels and collaborations: individual pieces in the store ooze class and style. We love their perfectly tailored coats and shirts, their cutting-edge Craig Green collections and their Adidas X line, which sees the trainer giant collaborate with new designers. We also love the retro-inspired backpacks and watches.

FOLKSTER 9 Eustace Street, Dublin 2 Tel: (056) 770 3312 folkster.com An affordable, street style-inspired vintage store, Folkster sells everything from uber-glamorous sequin dresses to rough and ready military jackets. Dublin’s Folkster was initially meant to be a pop-up, but its eclectic boutique blend of vintage, contemporary fashion, and interiors has captured many hearts. With stunning costume jewellery, delightful flapper designs and a beautiful bridal section, as well as modern pieces, each handpicked by the owners, we can’t get enough of this gorgeous fashion chest.

INDUSTRY & CO DUBLIN 41 A/B Drury St, Dublin 2 (01) 613 9111 industryandco.com Located just off Grafton Street, Industry has been a welcome addition to Dublin’s design scene since 2010, when it started out as a small boutique. Since then it has expanded to become one of the capital's best-known lifestyle stores, housing both Irish and international products. The award-winning Industry & Co stock everything from plants to cutlery and furniture. As you peruse, be sure to stop by the café for some healthy, freshly made soups, salads and cakes .

PEEL FASHION 107 Bloomfield Avenue Tel: (028) 9045 2665 peel.fashion.com Spread across three floors, Peel is a mini-department clothing store, stocking collections from fashion capitals such as London, Milan, Paris and LA. Covering everything including edgy, sophisticated, fun and affordable, this is a one-stop shop for fashionistas. In addition to clothes, they have a wide range of accessories and jewellery to complement any style.

BELFAST PRINT WORKSHOP Cotton Court, 30-42 Waring Street (028) 90 231 323 bpw.org.uk Located in the city’s Cathedral Quarter, the Belfast Print Workshop is a playground for artists. At present over 100 artists are involved in the company, rekindling a passion for printmaking. The public can visit the workshop to browse, pick up some prints or book one of the courses available and learn the craft.

LIBERTY BLUE 19-21 Lombard Street, Belfast, Tel: (028) 9023 0396 libertybluebelfast.co.uk Liberty Blue is renowned throughout the city for selling ST. GEORGE'S MARKET

local, independent labels that have a glam vintage flare. An alternative to high street fashion, Liberty Blue is perfect for women who want a touch of uniqueness to their wardrobe without breaking the bank. Not just stocking clothes, the shop sells jewellery and accessories to match your new outfit.

ST GEORGE'S MARKET 12-20 East Bridge Street, Belfast Tel: (028) 9024 6609 If it’s atmosphere you’re after, look no further than this indoor market known for its selection of beautifully crafted goods and mouthwatering street food stalls. St. Georges is particularly brought to life by a live band strumming in the awe-inspiring surrounds and it’s local independent retailers. The last surviving Victorian covered market is open for only three days a week, Friday - Sunday so be sure to plan accordingly.

ROB DURSTON

THE CLARENCE

THE CLARENCE 6–8 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 407 0800 theclarence.ie Located on Wellington Quay, the Clarence was one of Dublin’s first boutique hotels. All the furnishing has been designed and crafted by Irish artisans, including the comfortable super kingsize beds. The Octagon bar is not to be missed – the art deco-style watering hole so impressed Bono and The Edge they decided to buy the entire hotel. Equally impressive is the Liquor Rooms, a basement venue dedicated to cocktails; perfect to unwind in after a long day.

THE INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL Simmonscourt road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: (01) 665-4000 intercontinentaldublin.ie Minutes away from Dublin’s city centre, the award winning Intercontinental hotel sits on two acres of landscaped gardens in the heart of Ballsbridge. This five-star hotel is just steps from the historic RDS and central to locations such as the Aviva Stadium and the 3Arena. Formerly owned by the Four Seasons, the InterContinental has retained all of the style and elegance of its predecessor, offering travellers a tranquil retreat. With afternoon tea, bottomless brunch, a whiskey bar and the iconic Seasons Restaurant, the Intercontinental boasts a fine array of dinning options sure to cater for any palette.

BROOKS HOTEL 62 Drury St, Dublin 2 (01) 670 4000 brookshotel.ie Brooks Hotel is a distinctive, luxury four-star boutique hotel in Dublin’s Creative Quarter, a short walk from Grafton Street. Enjoy modern Irish and international cuisine at Francesca’s Restaurant, a favourite of the critics, where Head Chef Pat McLarnon serves dishes created from locally sourced ingredients, including fresh herbs from the Brook’s very own ‘urban herb garden’. Elsewhere, you can also visit Jasmine Bar at Brooks, an award-winning Great Whiskey Bar of the World with over 100 different varieties on offer. Bedrooms are well appointed and spacious with quirky designs. The hotel also boasts an oak-panelled Residents Lounge, a private cinema room and a fitness suite.

TEN SQUARE

TEN SQUARE 10 Donegall Square South, Belfast Tel: (028) 9024 1001 tensquare.co.uk An extraordinary boutique hotel located in the centre of Belfast city’s shopping, business and culture hub, Ten Square impresses guests with its uber-stylish, eclectic look. Aesthetics aside, this is the perfect place to spend a busy city centre break and for a girlie getaway. The cocktails in a teapot come highly recommended!

RAMADA ENCORE 20 Talbot Street, Belfast BT1 2LD, UK Tel: (028) 9026 1800 encorebelfast.co.uk For luxury comfort in a great location, The Ramada Encore is a perfect choice to experience the best of Belfast. With 165 ensuite bedrooms including double, twin and family rooms, it is ideal for business travel as well as short city breaks. Situated in St. Anne’s Square adjacent to The MAC - Belfast’s arts centre, The Encore Belfast is also close to many other local attractions including the must see visitor attraction - the Titanic Belfast, St. Anne’s Cathedral and City Hall. The hotel is also home to the beating heart of the Cathedral Quarter, The SQ Bar & Grill. With live entertainment, an inviting outside terrace seating area overlooking the square, and a tempting cocktail list created by the in house mixologist, the Ramada Encore is sure to give you a night to remember.

BULLITT HOTEL 40a Church Lane, Belfast Tel: (028) 9590 0600 bullitthotel.com Want to stay somewhere with all the necessities, none of the nonsense and extra comfort? Look no further than the Belfast Bullitt Hotel, named in honour of the classic 1968 mob movie starring Steve McQueen. Straddling Victoria Street and Ann Street, the hotel has 74 rooms and three bars including an Espresso Bar. If you’re a foodie (who isn’t?) you can get a good grilling at Taylor & Clay, the in-house restaurant, before washing it down with a Bullitt beer in the Bullitt Bar or head on up to the rooftop bar and garden, Babel – a quirky spot for some seriously cool customers. Bullitt offers a variety of room choices, ranging from ‘Dinky’ over ‘Comfy’ to ‘Roomy’, catering for both those travelling solo and those on a family city break.

50 A warm atmosphere awaits you at one of Dublin’s best Italian restaurants. Located right at the foot of Grafton Street, Pacino’s is a superb spot to replenish your energy reserves after an activity-packed day out in town. With rustic brickwork, mosaic tiles and ambient lighting, Pacino’s has a comfortable and relaxing feel. The friendly and fun energy in the dining room makes the already excellent dishes even more

delectable. All of Pacino’s fine Italian cuisine is cooked to order and their tasty wines are expertly chosen by the in-house professional sommelier. A member of Good Food Ireland, their ingredients are locally sourced for the most delicious and sustainable results. Ask the staff to guide you towards the kitchen’s signature dishes and specials of the day.

Find out more at pacinos.ie

The winner of the Enterprise competition will enjoy a delicious meal for two with wine at Pacinos great Italian city centre restaurant. To enter simply email your answer to enterprise@hotpress.ie. Please include your contact details.

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3. Lesley Manville stars opposite which actor in Ordinary Love? - Brendan Gleeson - Liam Neeson - Gabriel Byrne