A Journey Through Time and Memories

Dublin holds a special place in my heart. It was the first international city that I travelled to and ultimately it became my first non-Australian home town. It is a city that weaves together history, culture, and personal nostalgia in the most enchanting way.

When I revisited in January last year, I set out on a journey through its streets and once again found myself immersed in its stories—both ancient and my own.

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

The Book of Kells - Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Our first stop was the legendary Book of Kells at Trinity College. While I had previously visited the Trinity College grounds back in 2006/07, I had missed taking the time to visit and view the Book of Kells itself.

Trinity College grounds are themselves peaceful. Beyond the entrance gates the courtyard is serene. The hustle and bustle of the city simply seems to fade away and it’s easy to become lost in the romanticism of prestige that the college exudes. Realising that you are walking in the same footsteps of renowned writers such as Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde, it has the ability to transport you to another time.

The Book of Kells experience is truly extraordinary!

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but its iconic pages—illuminated with breathtakingly intricate designs—completely captivated me. Each enlarged and meticulously recreated image seemed to shimmer with life, showcasing the unparalleled artistry of Ireland’s early monastic scribes. Then, in a darkened, cool room, sat the book itself. Carefully preserved in a secure glass case, it stood as a tangible thread to Ireland’s past—a connection to the soul of this nation. It felt like more than just a historical artifact; it was a treasure to be safeguarded for as long as life endures.

From there, it was up the stairs to the Long Room.

Towering oak bookcases stretched to the heavens, lining the nearly 65-meter-long library space with a majestic sense of timelessness. At the far end, a beautiful globe hung suspended, spinning gently, adding a celestial grace to an already awe-inspiring scene. It was a moment of quiet reverence, a testament to the enduring legacy of knowledge and creativity.

“Towering oak bookcases stretched to the heavens, lining the nearly 65-meter-long library space with a majestic sense of timelessness.”

Darky Kelly’s: A Whiskey Lover’s Retreat

A short walk up Dame Street and then right onto Fishamble Street brought us to Darky Kelly’s, a quaint Irish pub steeped in character. Here, we switch out our daily sweet treats and instead opted for four tasters of Irish whiskey. The whisky warmed our hearts and souls. While each taster also offered its own story through subtle notes of vanilla, oak, and spice.

The cozy atmosphere and warmth of the locals made it feel like I was catching up with old friends, all while savoring some of Ireland’s finest spirits.

Upon leaving Darkys, The cobblestone streets of Temple Bar beckoned. I had previously spend many a morning and night wondering through this area on my way to and from work in my previous life here. The street were always alive with energy, the sounds of Irish folk music spilling from every corner.

Iconic bars lined the streets, drawing tourists from far and wide. Shops brimmed with trinkets—everything from Claddagh rings to shamrock keychains. Once again I wandered through Carroll’s, marveling at its selection of Irish gifts before promising myself to return later to stock up on gifts for those at home.

“Old memories resurfaced as I approached Kings Inn Street and the Kings Inn Apartment Building”

Crossing the Liffey: A Trip Back ‘Home’

Crossing the River Liffey, I entered an area that felt like stepping back in time to 17 years ago. Walking down Henry Street, I paused to once again take in The Spire, the towering needle often referred to by locals with a mix of fondness and wit. Nostalgia deepened as I visited Penny’s, a store that once played a starring role in my everyday life.

“The Church” - Dublin, Ireland: Good Food, Great Drinks, Awesome Memories.

Old memories resurfaced as I approached Kings Inn Street and the Kings Inn Apartment Building, once my home. I stood for a moment, taking it all in and posing for a few quick photos before making my way to the Woolshed Baa & Grill. Although its doors were closed, the echoes of Sunday sessions filled my mind—snakebites with extra blackcurrant and ice, laughter shared with friends and of course, your man Joe Walsh - there was lots of memories made in both of those places, many I will never forget.

Down Jervis Street, and at the corner of Mary Street (of which Henry turns into) The Church offered a comforting stop for lunch. Once a place of worship, it now hums with vibrant conversation and the clinking of glasses and again provides some opportunities for me to reminisce over a hearty meal. We struck up a conversation with two lovely elderly ladies. We recalled tales of our recent adventures from Prague to Bucharest and they inspired us with stories of their recent trip to Morocco, a reminder of how travel connects us all.

Shopping for Treasures

Shopping in Dublin has a magic all its own. I had decided before we left for Prague that I wanted a traditional Irish spun woollen throw rug to take home with me.. a memory of not only this visit to Ireland, but also of my time spent living in this beautiful country. At Weavers of Ireland, an Irish gift shop, I found the perfect John Hanley & Co Merino Wool & Cashmere throw. As I arranged to have it shipped home, I imagined snuggling under it on a winters evenings back home in Australia, a constant cherished reminder of this journey and of life abroad.

A final visit to Carroll’s ensured I had just the right gifts to share with loved ones—tokens of Irish charm that would carry Ireland’s magic far beyond its shores.

A Pint at The Temple Bar

Our day ended fittingly at The Temple Bar Pub. Its vibrant red façade welcomed us inside, where music, laughter, and the scent of freshly poured Guinness filled the air. As the bartender expertly poured my pint, and I pulled up a stool at the bar, I admired the golden harp tap—a symbol not only of Ireland itself, but another reminder of my days working for Diageo at St James Gate, in Arthur Guinessess home and in the shadows of the famous Guinness brewhouse.

The first sip of that pint was like tasting the very essence of Dublin: rich, warm, and unforgettable.

Sitting there, pint in hand, I reflected on my day filled with history, memories, and new discoveries. Dublin had offered me more than just a walk through its streets—it had given me a journey through time and a reconnection with a piece of my soul. As I raised my glass, I toasted to Dublin, a city I’ll carry with me forever.