Easter 1916: a Dublin walking tour of the city's historical locations
As cities go Dublin isn’t exactly big, making it the perfect spot to go for a wander. This year marks the one hundredth anniversary of the Easter Rising, a seminal moment in Irish history that is seen as the catalyst that would eventually lead Ireland to independence from Great Britain. Several Dublin landmarks were seized by Irish rebels at the time, with the names of buildings like the GPO, Dublin Castle and Liberty Hall synonymous with the events of Easter 1916.
If you are visiting Dublin, the occupied buildings of 1916 make for a brilliant walking route that will let you take in some of Ireland’s history while also appreciating how much the country has changed in the last century. Here’s a run through of the 1916 sites throughout the city, giving you plenty of tips for what to do there in 2016.
Mount Street Bridge, Dublin 2
Image courtesy of William Murphy.
Mount Street is very much part of Dublin’s officeland, but much of the area around here has remained untouched since the days of the Rising. Mount Street bridge crosses Dublin’s Grand Canal which is a beautifully tranquil walkway along the southside of the city. Head west up the canal and admire the Georgian architecture of the quays and stop off in nearby Merrion Sqaure for a picnic if you get the weather for it!
Bolands Mill, Ringsend Road, Dublin 4
Image courtesy of William Murphy.
The area around Bolands Mill in Ringsend has experienced significant change since the rising. Where once it was an area of industrial docklands, now it is the tech hub of Ireland. Multinationals like Facebook and Google have their offices in the area and nearby Grand Canal Dock is a major hipster hangout spot. The mills themselves have sadly fallen into disrepair but the area is still worth a visit if you want a glimpse at modern Ireland. Nearby Bath Avenue has plenty pubs and cafes where you can try the local cuisine. We recommend Farmer Browns or if you want to treat yourself, The Chop House. Anthony Bourdain is said to be a fan, and if it’s good enough for him, it’s good enough for us.
Royal College of Surgeons and The Shelbourne Hotel, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Image courtesy of William Murphy.
St Stephen’s Green is the real heart of the southside of Dublin city, with Grafton Street in one corner and the picturesque park a great spot to meet people, chill out or bring your kids to keep them happy. In 1916 two of the square’s more iconic buildings, the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI) and The Shelbourne Hotel were overtaken by rebels, with the Irish constitution also being drawn up in the latter’s dining room. Both buildings are still in operation today, although prices at the Shelbourne are not for the faint-hearted. If you do want a gawk, go for a drink in the main bar of the hotel where they have some splendid paintings of the adjacent park.
Jacob’s Biscuit Factory, Aungier Street, Dublin 2
Image courtesy of William Murphy.
One of the few buildings that is no longer standing in this list, the Jacobs Biscuit Factory, was a landmark building in the city, and a major employer in central Dublin. Today Aungier Street where it was located is an eclectic street from the university that dominates the street as well as the plethora of bars in the area. Try The Swan or The Long Hall further down on South Great George’s Street for a bar that will take you back in time and let you drink with the locals.
City Hall and Dublin Castle, Dame Street, Dublin 2
Image courtesy of David Ramalho.
Dublin Castle was once a strong symbol of colonial power and while much of the buildings still hold official government departments, much of the Castle proper is used to hold State functions and events. A tour of the castle is well worth taking if you’re interested in the history of Dublin, both before and after the events of 1916 while City Hall - which sits in front of the Castle on Dame Street - is another gem of Georgian architecture in the city. The murals in the interior of the building tell of the history of Dublin from Viking times. For a lunchtime stop-off try the set menu at Chez Max on Palace Street at the entrance to the Castle and for a lesser-known museum, follow the signs for the Chester Beatty Library within the walls of the castle. The museum houses an impressive hoard of religious iconography from around the world which was bequeathed to the state in 1950.
Liberty Hall, Eden Quay, Dublin 1
Liberty Hall as it stood in 1916 no longer exists, being replaced with one of the tallest and more recognisable buildings along the quays in the city. Take a walk along the banks of the River Liffey, away from the city, towards the docks, to take in some stunning views of the bay. This area is the modern day financial hub of Dublin and is a great spot for lovers of urban photography. There’s also a great little sushi restaurant called Musashi, located just off the quayside – if you can find it!
The GPO and Moore Street, Dublin 1
The focal point of the 1916 Rising was on Dublin’s main thoroughfare, O’Connell Street. The General Post Office (GPO) is the most iconic building of the Rising and in spite of being significantly damaged by shelling at the time, still stands as a post office today. The street itself is filled with monuments of figures from Irish history while nearby Moore Street is best known for its flower and fruit markets that locals flock to. The shopping along Henry Street is great and significantly more affordable than Grafton Street while Dublin’s newest icon, The Spire can also be found here.
The Four Courts, Inns Quay, Dublin 7
Similarly to the GPO, The Four Courts on Inns Quay are another iconic Dublin building that still serve their purpose to this day. During the weekdays, this area is a hive of legal activity but if you know where to look, there’s plenty for tourists too. Head behind the courts to the nearby area of Smithfield and visit the Old Jameson Distillery as well as trying some of the great and affordable restaurants that have opened up in the area. Jo’Burger is a favourite of the Homestay.com crew while Dice Bar at the corner of Queen and Benburb Streets is a legendary late night spot.
North King Street, Dublin 7
Image courtesy of William Murphy.
Our final stop off on this historical walking tour is located just behind the main square of Smithfield in what is a predominantly residential area. In recent times, the area has undergone something of a regeneration and is now a foodie hotspot. Try L. Mulligan Grocer in nearby Stoneybatter for high quality, local beers, whiskey and food. And for some traditional Irish music, the Cobblestone on North King Street is the ultimate go-to spot.
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If you want to find out more about the events and sites of Easter 1916, download this 1916 walking tour app for iOS to find out more about these sites and their historical significance.
If you're walking around Dublin, you're going to need a place to stay. Book a homestay with one of our Dublin hosts and live like a local in this welcoming city.
Written by Mary Plunkett
Mary’s curious personality means that she is forever looking to explore new places and cultures. Like many Irish kids, Mary first got a taste for travel on family camping holidays to France.
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