At Dylan Hotel, we believe that luxury is not just about comfort, it is about connection. Connection to place, to history, and to the stories that shape the world around us. That is why we have curated a self-guided walking tour that begins right here in our elegant lobby and takes you on a journey through centuries of Dublin’s rich and layered past.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning guest, this immersive experience offers a unique way to explore the city at your own pace, with a touch of five-star flair.
Dylan Hotel
Your journey begins in the heart of the hotel, where you will enjoy a short introduction to Dublin’s fascinating history from the arrival of St. Patrick to the Norman invasion and British rule. You will also discover the story behind Dylan Hotel itself, a building steeped in character and charm, once a nurses' home for the Royal City of Dublin Hospital.
Eastmoreland Place & Baggotrath Castle
Step outside and into the story of Eastmoreland Place, once part of the ancient township of Pembroke. Learn about the origins of the names Baggot and Pembroke, and how this area once sought self-governance. As you walk, you will uncover the layered histories of Merrion and Fitzwilliam Squares, elegant Georgian enclaves that still whisper of Dublin’s aristocratic past.
Baggot Street Upper
This vibrant Victorian neighbourhood is alive with character. Once home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated poets and writers, Upper Baggot Street is dotted with historic pubs, charming cafés, and the former Royal City of Dublin Hospital. Pause here to soak in the atmosphere and imagine the literary greats who once walked these same streets.
Baggot Street Lower
As you continue down Lower Baggot Street, you will notice the striking contrast between architectural styles — from stately Georgian townhouses to the bold lines of the 1970s Modernist Bank of Ireland Headquarters. This stretch of the tour is a visual journey through Dublin’s evolving identity.
Baggot Street Pubs & Gallows Road
Turning toward Merrion Street, you will uncover the more shadowy side of 18th-century Dublin. Once known as Gallows Road, this area was home to lively pubs and colourful characters, including young musicians who brought the streets to life with their songs.
Merrion Street & Merrion Square South
Merrion Square is a jewel in Dublin’s cultural crown. Surrounded by Government Buildings, the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum, this elegant square has long been a hub of art, politics, and society. Here, you will learn about the influential figures who shaped both the city and the nation.
Mount Street Upper & Mount Street Crescent
As you stroll along Mount Street Upper, you will pass the striking St. Stephen’s Church and the charming curve of Mount Street Crescent, a location that once served as the backdrop for a famous music video. Keep an eye out for the ornate lampposts adorned with shamrock motifs, a subtle nod to Irish heritage.
Herbert Place, Grand Canal, Haddington Rd & St Mary's Road
Your final stretch takes you along the tranquil Grand Canal, a feat of 18th-century engineering that transformed this part of the city. As you meander back toward the hotel via Haddington Road and St. Mary’s Church, you will uncover the local connections of Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins, who once walked these very streets.
As your tour concludes, return to Dylan Hotel for a well-earned refreshment or a quiet moment in our lounge. Whether you choose to unwind with a cocktail, enjoy a light bite, or simply reflect on the journey, we hope this walk has deepened your connection to Dublin and to the stories that make it so unforgettable.
We hope you enjoy the walking tour and your stay at Dylan Hotel.
The Dylan Hotel Team
This 50 minute self-guided walking tour is best enjoyed by simultaneously listening to the episodes linked below and following the route on the printed map. There is a complimentary map in each guest's room as well as being available here, or at the Front Desk to neighbours and friends with the hotel's compliments.
