It’s that time of year again where we celebrate our little island, and raise a glass to St. Patrick. All around the world, festivities will kick off as descendants from the Emerald Isle (or just those who want to join in on the fun) honour the history and rich culture of Ireland. And for those heading to our shores to celebrate, the party is an even bigger affair.
The St. Patrick’s Day Dublin festival is a world-renowned event in Ireland, giving tourists and locals alike the chance to indulge in Irish music, dance, food, and merriment. Here at Carroll’s, it’s no secret that we love Irish culture, and celebrate it every day. And this year, we want to give visitors to our capital city a list of fun things to do on St. Patrick’s Day that don’t center around the parade.
If you’re paying a visit to Dublin and want to celebrate Irish culture in a unique way, this list is for you. We’ve got blood-pumping adventure, rich historical landmarks, delicious Dublin seafood, and even a whiskey tea party. What more could you want for St. Patrick’s weekend?
1. The Teeling Whiskey Distillery
Teeling Whiskey made history in Dublin in 2015, when it opened its doors and became the first new distillery in the city for over 125 years.
The Teeling Distillery lies in the heart of the Liberties in Dublin 8 – the historic distilling district of the city which is now experiencing a cultural revival. A tour of Teeling’s is the perfect way to steep in Irish whiskey culture, and learn about the rich history of distilling in the area.
Choose from a variety of tasting tour options, available every 20 minutes at the distillery, seven days a week.
2. Dublin Bay Cruises
The beauty of Dublin city doesn’t stop at its coastline. If you’re lucky enough to get a clear day on your trip to Dublin, hop on a Dublin Bay Cruise and set sail to any of the county’s beautiful ports. Our personal favourite option is taking a 60-minute cruise from Dún Laoghaire out to Dalkey Island, sailing past some of the best landmarks of the southern coast of Dublin. And if you really strike the luck of the Irish, you may be joined on your journey by a pod of dolphins. Prices start at €25.
3. Experience Gaelic Games
For a truly Irish St. Patrick’s Day, throw yourself into the fun of Gaelic games. If you’ve ever been curious about Ireland’s national games, head out to Na Fianna GAA Club in Glasnevin and experience the rush for yourself.
Learn about the history of our national games, including hurling, the oldest and fastest field sport in the world. You can even take part in a Gaelic football game to see how you measure up against local players. A must for sport-lovers, and even those just interested in watching from the sidelines, group or single bookings are available Tuesday to Saturday.
4. Zipit Ziplining in Tibradden Wood
Want an activity where you can get pulses racing, while still enjoying the beauty of Irish nature? Look no further than Zipit ziplining in the beautiful Dublin mountains.
The perfect activity for a thrill-seeking family, Zipit’s circuits include zip lines, swinging logs, cargo nets and rope bridges. And don’t worry if you have no experience – the circuits are suitable for everyone. Open seven days a week from 9am til 6pm.
5. In the Footsteps of St. Patrick Walking Tour
Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours offer a number of fantastic ways to explore Dublin, but its St. Patrick’s-themed tour this year is a definite highlight.
Running each day from the 16th to the 19th of March, this two-hour tour will bring you in St. Patrick’s footsteps around the city. You’ll visit some of the most prolific landmarks in Dublin, and end the experience in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, with entry included in the tour price. We expect this one to be in high demand, so book soon to avoid disappointment!
6. The Pearse Lyons Distillery Whiskey Tour
Founded and named after Pearse Lyons, an outstanding contributor to the Irish whiskey industry, this Dublin 8 distillery is housed in the beautiful setting of an old church.
The team at Pearse Lyons offers a number of cool tours for every kind of whiskey enthusiast, from the art of distilling, to cocktail making. But our personal favourite is the Afternoon Tea & Tasting Experience. Visitors can enjoy a delicious selection of sandwiches, pastries and scones with whiskey jam, before embarking on a tour of the distillery, and choosing a number of Pearse Irish Whiskeys to sample. Open from 11:30 to 18:30, seven days a week.
7. Marsh’s Library
If you’ve got some bookworms in your group, or simply want to take some time away in a quiet oasis in Dublin city, Marsh’s Library is must-see.
Founded in the early 18th century, Marsh’s Library was the first public library in the country, providing a place in the city for everyone to access literature. Over the centuries, it has played host to some of Ireland’s most prolific writers, and is even mentioned in James Joyce’s Ulysses.
Today, the library is open to everyone to explore the exhibits, inspect the vast book collections, and, for the kids, take part in scavenger hunts. Open Tuesdays to Saturdays, visitors can book self-guided tours online, or just arrive on the day.
8. The Oar House
If you find yourself peckish on your tour of the city, hop on the Dart to Howth, a village on the north coast of Dublin, for some of the best seafood in Ireland.
Our particular favourite is The Oar House, which serves award-winning seafood and shellfish right on the water on Howth’s west pier. With everything from traditional fish and chips to mussels, oysters, and seafood chowder, this is a way to experience Irish cuisine at its best.
9. Dublin Under Sail
Ever wanted to try your hand at traditional sailing, while taking in the stunning views of Dublin bay? Set sail on the Brian Ború with Dublin Under Sail and see what it takes to run a vessel in the Irish sea. Learning from experienced local crew members, you and your group can test your sea legs and create memories for life.
Casting off from Dún Laoghaire harbour on the south coast of Dublin, the three-hour tour takes in views of some of the Dublin coastline’s most iconic landmarks. And, if you’re hungry for more, the crew even offer training for a number of certifications, as well as private charters of the Brian Ború. Open seven days a week depending on availability and weather.
