Temple Bar, Dublin guide

Temple Bar knows how to party. You’ll find an endless stream of pubs packed to the rafters and traditional jam sessions and singalongs spilling out into the cobbled streets. Come on a special occasion or just pass through for a frothy Guinness and a taste of Irish culture. On St. Patrick’s Day, the neighbourhood turns as green as the Emerald Isle’s rolling hills.

Live music is everywhere in Temple Bar, with traditional Irish bands providing the soundtrack to many pubs. You’ll also find two of Dublin’s best concert venues here. At The Workman’s Club, big-name artists take to the stage in the Main Room while the Vintage Room welcomes emerging acts. And don’t miss 3Olympia Theatre for headline gigs, stand-up comedy and family theatre.

To learn about some of Ireland’s most celebrated characters, stroll The Icon Walk. This community-led project features artwork, interpretive panels and plaques that have injected a new lease of life into once-neglected streets. Discover the stories of actors, musicians, athletes and playwrights while strolling the 12 themed sections.

Temple Bar isn’t just where grown-ups come to play. The Ark is an arts centre dedicated to encouraging creativity in kids. It puts on innovative programs like art exhibitions, hands-on workshops and theatrical shows. For a rainy day activity, watch a family-friendly movie at the Irish Film Institute.

You’ll find plenty of visual art and musical heritage at the museums in Temple Bar. Check out the Photo Museum Ireland for a snapshot of contemporary photography from around the country and abroad. Or peer into Irish life past and present via the rotating exhibitions at the National Photographic Archive. If music is your thing, make your way to the Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum Experience.

Meaty breakfasts, hearty stews and ‘colcannon’ (mashed potato with cabbage) are mainstays on menus in the area. On Saturdays, go to Temple Bar Food Market at Meeting House Square to pick up artisanal cheese and baked treats from local traders. For international flavours, Dame Street has some of the best restaurants in Temple Bar for Italian, Middle Eastern and Nepalese cuisine.

Find the best local nightlife along the cobblestone corridor of Essex Street, Temple Bar and Fleet Street. A quick afternoon pint here can easily turn into an all-singing, all-dancing night at a trad music session. Start at the legendary Temple Bar Pub, then see where things take you. With centuries-old taverns, cocktail bars and dance clubs nearby, anything is possible.

Browse the offbeat and speciality stores on Cow’s Lane. Every Saturday, its Designer Mart is a lively scene of Irish traders selling handmade jewellery, unique artwork and crafts. Add to your literature and vinyl collection at the Book Market on Barnardo Square, also held on Saturdays. Looking for a bargain? Rummage around the vintage shops along Merchant’s Arch.

The biggest event on Ireland’s festival calendar is St Patrick’s Day. Parties take place all over the city, with Temple Bar being a hot spot for revelry. If you’re visiting in January, don’t miss TradFest, when neighbourhood pubs welcome more than 50 live concerts.