Dublin's most luxurious five-star hotel occupying four Georgian townhouses near Trinity College. Features elegant rooms with period furnishings, two Michelin-starred restaurants, a spa, and an impressive art collection throughout the property.
The Merrion Hotel occupies four elegantly restored Georgian townhouses on Upper Merrion Street in Dublin 2, directly opposite the Irish government's buildings at Leinster House and a short walk from the National Gallery of Ireland. The hotel sits at the heart of Dublin's historic Georgian quarter, with Merrion Square's park — famous for its association with Oscar Wilde and other literary figures — just moments away. Trinity College, the National Museum, and the city's main shopping streets on Grafton Street are within easy walking distance, and St. Stephen's Green is less than ten minutes on foot.
Built around 1760, the four interconnected Georgian townhouses have been meticulously converted to preserve period features including original plasterwork ceilings, marble fireplaces, and sweeping staircases, while incorporating contemporary comforts. The result is one of Ireland's most celebrated luxury hotels, consistently rated among the finest in Europe.
Accommodation spans 142 rooms and suites, ranging from Classic Rooms with garden or street views to grand suites overlooking the private walled garden. All rooms feature bespoke furnishings, marble bathrooms, and an in-room library. The hotel's private art collection, displayed throughout public and private spaces, ranks among the largest private collections in Ireland, featuring works by Jack B. Yeats, William Orpen, and other major Irish artists.
Dining at the Merrion centres on Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, which holds two Michelin stars and consistently ranks among Ireland's very best restaurants. The Drawing Rooms offer a celebrated afternoon tea service, while The Cellar Bar — set in the original vaulted wine cellar — provides a convivial setting for lighter meals and cocktails throughout the day and evening.
The Merrion Spa occupies a purpose-built wing and features an 18-metre swimming pool, a hydrotherapy suite, steam room, and a comprehensive range of treatments. A fully equipped gym adjoins the spa facilities.
Service at the Merrion is notably personal for a property of its size. The concierge team is consistently praised for its depth of knowledge of Dublin and Ireland, and the hotel maintains a butler service for suite guests. The hotel is well suited to both leisure and business travellers, with discreet meeting rooms and strong connectivity throughout.
Amenities
- spa
- restaurant
- bar
- gym
- concierge
- room service
- art gallery
Location
Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2, D02 XN29
53.3400, -6.2527 View on map
Highlights
- Occupies four restored Georgian townhouses (c.1760) opposite Leinster House, with original plasterwork ceilings and marble fireplaces throughout.
- Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, Ireland's only two-Michelin-star restaurant, is located within the hotel.
- Ireland's largest private art collection on display, featuring major works by Jack B. Yeats and William Orpen.
- 18-metre swimming pool and full-service spa in a purpose-built wing off the historic townhouses.
- Walled garden provides a tranquil retreat in the centre of Dublin 2, visible from many guest rooms.
Tips for visiting
- Book Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud several weeks in advance, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings — it fills quickly year-round.
- Request a garden-facing room for quieter surroundings; street-facing rooms offer views of Leinster House but can carry more noise.
- Afternoon tea in The Drawing Rooms requires advance reservation; the weekend service is particularly popular with Dublin visitors.
- The hotel is within walking distance of DART rail at Pearse Street for day trips to Howth, Malahide, or Bray along the coast.
- Merrion Square Park is free to enter and worth an hour on a fine day — Oscar Wilde's family home is on the north-east corner.
Accessibility
The Merrion Hotel provides step-free access via an alternative entrance and offers accessible rooms with wider doorways, roll-in showers, and adapted bathroom fittings. The hotel's Georgian architecture means some public areas retain period stairs; guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the concierge before arrival to discuss specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Is parking available at The Merrion Hotel?
The hotel offers valet parking for a nightly fee. Alternatively, a public car park is located on Merrion Square, a two-minute walk from the front entrance. Dublin city centre parking is limited, and most attractions are walkable from the hotel.
Does the hotel have a swimming pool?
Yes, the Merrion Spa features an 18-metre indoor swimming pool, steam room, and hydrotherapy suite. The spa is open to hotel guests during standard hours and charges a separate fee for non-residents.
How far is The Merrion from Dublin Airport?
Dublin Airport is approximately 12 km from the hotel, or around 25 to 45 minutes by car depending on traffic. Airlink bus service 747 connects the airport to O'Connell Street in under an hour, from where the hotel is a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride.
Does the hotel accept children?
Children are welcome at the Merrion. The hotel offers interconnecting room options for families, and the concierge team can assist with arrangements for babysitting services and family-friendly itineraries in Dublin.