IF YOU HAVE a longing to escape from the beginning of the Christmas rush, look no further.
1. The Iveagh Gardens
Not so much a secret at this stage, but a lot more peaceful than Stephen’s Green but not used half as much. The ideal spot for sipping hot chocolate and hiding from the crowds.
2. Meeting House Square
The perfect lunch spot for anyone who works around the Dame Street area. Just avoid it when it’s a busy haven on Saturdays.
3. Marsh’s Library, Saint Patrick’s Close
The city’s first library, dating from 1707. It contains over 25,000 books and 300 manuscripts of the late Renaissance and early Enlightenment. You’ll feel like you’re inacompletely different era.
4. St Anne’s Church, Dawson’s Street
How many times have you walked by this place on Dawson’s Street? Step inside and enjoy the calm in the beautiful surroundings.
5. The Royal Hospital, Kilmainham
This is like Dublin’s secret garden, and just the right distance outside the city to make it feel like you’re running off.
6. Blessington Street Basin
This little bit of tranquility in the city is like a secret garden.
7. Pearse Square Park
Just a stones throw from Grand Canal Dock, this park has plenty of shelter for those rotten days but is a joy to walk around or sit with a book.
8. The Dublin Writer’s Museum, Parnell Square
A celebration of all things Irish and literary. It’s a beautiful haven off busy Parnell Street.
9. CHQ Centre, IFSC
Dublin’s quietest shopping centre.
10. The Dublin Fruit Market
It hasn’t lost its charm throughout the years, and is a great place to get bargains on good quality veg,fruit, and flowers. You also don’t have to worry about tourists and crowds. Perfect.
