In the heart of Dublin lies a treasure that bridges the past and present with extraordinary grace: The Merrion, a luxurious 143-unit hotel that encapsulates the charm and elegance of 18th-century Dublin. As the only hotel in the Irish capital to hold a prestigious two-key rating from the Michelin Guide, The Merrion is more than just a place to stay it’s a journey into history.
The Merrion is a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. It was created by merging four meticulously restored Georgian houses, originally built in the 1760s. These listed buildings, with their iconic doors and architectural details, are integral to the hotel’s character.
No. 22 Upper Merrion Street serves as the hotel’s main entrance, leading to its elegant reception and drawing rooms. Adorned with a remarkable art collection, these rooms are perfect for enjoying a quintessentially Irish afternoon tea. Meanwhile, the unused door at No. 23 finds new purpose as part of the décor in the chic No. 23 Cocktail Bar, an intimate spot for classic drinks with a contemporary twist.
Perhaps the most storied door belongs to No. 24, the birthplace of the Duke of Wellington, Napoleon’s famous adversary. This entrance is now reserved for special events, while a side door leads to the atmospheric Cellar Bar, nestled in the original wine vaults. Rounding out the quartet is No. 21, home to the celebrated Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, a two-Michelin-star dining destination that elevates the Irish culinary scene.
Behind the historic façade lies The Merrion’s Garden Room, a modern addition unveiled in 2017. Overlooking a tranquil courtyard garden, the Garden Room offers a serene dining experience that feels worlds away from the bustling city center. This light-filled space also serves as the hotel’s breakfast venue, seamlessly combining contemporary comfort with views of the lush greenery.
For those seeking a stay with modern amenities, the hotel’s Garden Wing houses 110 of its 143 units. Guests in this section can enjoy sleek, comfortable accommodations while still accessing the charm of the historic main building.
The Merrion’s central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Dublin’s rich cultural heritage.
- The Book of Kells Experience: Starting in January 2024, visitors can enjoy an enhanced experience that includes the historic Old Library and the new Red Pavilion, featuring immersive digital exhibits that breathe new life into the history of the illuminated ninth-century manuscript.
- EPIC Irish Emigration Museum: This all-digital museum in Dublin’s Docklands tells the story of Ireland’s emigrants and diaspora. Interactive displays guide visitors through 1,500 years of history, while the affiliated Irish Family History Centre offers a chance to trace ancestral roots.
- Windmill Lane Recording Studios: Music lovers can delve into the history of this iconic studio, where legends like U2 have recorded, and even record their own short track.
A stay at The Merrion is an experience in itself. Rooms in the main building echo the elegance of the Georgian era, with tasteful fabrics, period-style furnishings, and fireplaces. These touches are complemented by modern comforts, such as luxurious marble bathrooms. For guests arriving on Aer Lingus’ business class, the seamless transition from a lie-flat seat to the cozy confines of The Merrion ensures a journey of unmatched comfort.
With rates for a standard double starting at approximately $390 (excluding breakfast), The Merrion offers an unmatched blend of luxury, history, and location. Whether you’re drawn by its storied past, culinary excellence, or proximity to Dublin’s finest attractions, The Merrion promises an unforgettable escape into the soul of 18th-century Dublin.
