Dublin: Books and Beer

 

Dublin: must-visit for all bibliophiles and hop heads 

There’s something charming and unassuming about Dublin. As someone who cherishes both the art of storytelling and the comfort of a well-poured pint, I found myself completely taken by this city — its cobbled streets, the shared history with great writers, and the cheerful glow of its pubs.

Walking through Dublin felt like stepping into a living novel, whose streets were once walked by literary legends like Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce. The locals are witty, at times crafty (we were completely hoodwinked by a taxi driver - the punk) and most of all amazing at story telling. The Celtic lore, the magic and the generations of belief in the whimsical (that may have inspired LoTR) lives on. 

A Literary Journey Through Time

For me, a naturalized American who was born and grew up in India reading Swift's Gulliver's Travels, Wilde's stories,  Dublin offered a blend quite unlike any other city. 

One of the highlights was visiting Trinity College, a masterpiece of Irish Georgian architecture that felt like stepping back in time. The grandeur of the college’s historic buildings and the reverence for knowledge is something all bibliophiles will appreciate. Standing in the Long Room Library, was an experience quite enlightening even though at the time of our visit (March 2025) most of the books (except for the Book of Kells) were removed for restoration. So quite unexpectedly we saw this space in its almost-pristine glory. 

The Merrion and Georgian Elegance

Our stay at The Merrion Hotel was the perfect complement to exploring Dublin’s Georgian heritage. The hotel itself is a beautiful collection of restored Georgian townhouses, blending elegance with warm Irish hospitality. This was the best hotel we stayed at west of India. 

Afternoon tea at The Merrion was an experience to savor — delicate pastries, fragrant teas, and a refined atmosphere that brought the spirit of Georgian Irish-English culture to life. It felt like a moment of calm and grace amidst the city’s lively rhythm, a space to pause and reflect on Dublin’s rich history and charm. Although my all time favorite tea is still Claridge's in London. 

Shared Histories: Reflections in St. Stephen’s Green

A particularly relatable moment for all Indians would be discovering the bust of Rabindranath Tagore in St. Stephen’s Green — a gift from India to Ireland. 

Standing there, I was reminded of the parallels between Ireland’s and India’s colonial pasts. Both nations endured centuries of British rule, marked by political domination, cultural suppression, and economic exploitation. Ireland’s long struggle for independence — marked by events like the 1916 Easter Rising and the War of Independence — mirrors India’s own fight, which culminated in independence in 1947 after decades of persistent nonviolent resistance and political activism.

Yet, what stands out is not just the hardship, but the unyielding spirit of both peoples. Ireland and India nurtured vibrant cultural identities even under colonial pressure, using literature, music, and language as means of preserving and expressing their unique voices. Figures like W.B. Yeats and James Joyce in Ireland, and Rabindranath Tagore and Gandhi in India, exemplify how art and thought became tools of both resistance and renewal.

Enough with the sap... now off to some barley juice!  

Pints and Stories: Dublin’s Pub Culture

For many of us, the perfect day includes a good book and a great beer. Dublin’s pubs are the beating heart of the city, where history, storytelling, and craft brewing come together beautifully.

• The Brazen Head: Known as Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198, the Brazen Head is a treasure trove of history. Sitting here with a Guinness feels like sharing a moment with centuries of storytellers and dreamers.

• The Porterhouse: For those who love variety, this craft beer haven offers a range of unique brews. It’s modern yet steeped in tradition, perfect for anyone who appreciates both classic flavors and innovation.

• The Long Hall: A classic Victorian pub where the atmosphere feels like a warm embrace — wood-paneled walls, vintage decor, and a genuine sense of community. It’s a place to savor slow conversations and slow pints.

• Against the Grain: A cozy craft beer bar with innovative brews and a great atmosphere.

Must-Visit Places for the Literary and Beer Enthusiast

For Fans of Jonathan Swift

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Explore where Swift served and wrote, with a quiet reverence for his sharp mind.

• The Swift Monument in St. Stephen’s Green: A peaceful spot commemorating this literary giant.

For Admirers of Oscar Wilde

• Merrion Square Park: Stroll among whimsical statues and learn about Wilde’s playful legacy.

• Oscar Wilde Centre (Trinity College): For those who want to dive deeper into his work and life.

For Devotees of James Joyce

• James Joyce Centre: Engage with exhibits and tours dedicated to the life and works of Joyce.

• Sweny’s Pharmacy: A charming little spot mentioned in Ulysses where you can pick up a copy of the book and breathe in the literary atmosphere.

Finally....

Dublin is a city that feels like home to anyone who loves stories—whether told on the page or over a pint. It’s a place where the old world and the new meet, where literature and life intertwine.

For someone like me, whose life journey spans continents and cultures, Dublin’s rich history and vibrant present offer a unique mirror — a city that celebrates identity, creativity, and community in ways that feel both timeless and deeply personal.

If you’re a book lover, a beer enthusiast, or both, Dublin is a city that will show you a great time! Just don't believe the taxi drivers who ask for cash :)