a day ago
This is where Holywood star Grace Kelly stayed in Dublin
SLEEPING MATTERS
The Martin Burke suite door opens onto a hall, and I walk into a bright room where the sun beams through a large window. The view of St Stephen's Green is stunning. In front of me is a chaise longue and coffee table with books, bottles of water and some luxury Irish chocolates. The bedroom provides 300-thread Egyptian cotton bedding. A power shower decorated in marble is the ideal way to recover from an early flight. Comfortable robes and slippers are also provided. The hotel features a variety of rooms, all with style and character.
NICE TOUCH
The Horseshoe Bar is the ideal place to start or finish a night in Dublin with one of their classic cocktails. The friendly barman is happy to freestyle and chat through several options. The Horseshoe is frequented by politicians and cultural figures who stop by for a quiet drink. The film-noir lighting, red walls and brass-trimmed curved bar all add to the low-key atmosphere. Upstairs 1824 displays a variety of Irish figures in a mythological setting featured on mural panels painted by artist Paul Slater. Every choice of late-night tipple you can imagine is on display behind the bar in rich wood panelling. Even better is that both of these magnificent bars are on site.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Sunday evening in the Saddle Room was a relaxing and enjoyable experience, I was well looked after by the staff on a warm, quiet evening with a view. I opted for Bantry Bay scallops for the starter and a fillet of Black Angus beef. The sommelier was happy to answer questions and provided the perfect red wine. Another excellent choice, a two-minute walk away, is Hugo's. The turquoise blue outside decor with gold lettering is an iconic Dublin landmark. It's like entering into another magical world brimming with atmosphere. The Guinness & black treacle bread and dressed West Cork crab are a hunger-quenching start to the evening. Murphy is passionate about local produce, and the Andarl Farm pork chop was a mouth-watering highlight.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
Glasnevin is Ireland's National Cemetery. I was given a tour that included fascinating stories from the world of sport, art and politics. Among them was Manchester United player Billy (Liam) Whelan, who was killed in the Munich Air Disaster in 1958, musician Luke Kelly from The Dubliners and writer Brendan Behan. A short walk from Behan's grave is a pub appropriately known as The Gravediggers, also known as John Kavanagh's, built into the cemetery walls. It's known to serve the best pint of Guinness in Ireland.
GETTING THERE
Direct access to Dublin is available from airports across Scotland.
DETAILS
Rates begin at £523.
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