Hotel
The Merrion Hotel
A five-star hotel in four restored Georgian townhouses on Upper Merrion Street, with an 18-metre pool, an art collection and Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud.
The Shelbourne
Dublin's grand five-star hotel on St Stephen's Green, welcoming guests since 1824, with the Horseshoe Bar, the Saddle Room and afternoon tea.
At a glance
- Type
- Historic luxury hotel
- Area
- St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
- Hotel class
- 5-star
- Official site
- theshelbourne.com
Good to know
- Afternoon tea
- Several bars
- Restaurant
- Health club
- Marriott Bonvoy
Why we recommend it
The Shelbourne has been receiving guests on St Stephen's Green since 1824, and for most of that time it has been the address in Dublin for grand occasions. The hotel describes itself as the city's five-star landmark, and it is now part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, so members of Marriott Bonvoy can earn points during a stay.
Much of the hotel's appeal lies in its public rooms, which non-residents can enjoy too. The Lord Mayor's Lounge is the setting for afternoon tea, a Dublin tradition for celebrations. The Horseshoe Bar is a classic hotel bar, the 1824 Bar and No. 27 Bar and Lounge offer other places for a drink, and The Terrace adds space for warmer days. For dinner, The Saddle Room is the hotel's main restaurant. Booking ahead is wise for afternoon tea and for dinner at weekends.
Ask about the outlook when booking if a view of St Stephen's Green matters to you. Guests have use of the health club. Note that the hotel states that its spa, including the swimming pool, is now closed, so do not book expecting those facilities. Check the website for the current details of each room category.
The Shelbourne suits travellers who want a sense of occasion, couples on a special trip, and business travellers who value a central address. It is also a good choice for anyone who wants to walk to most of the main sights, since almost everything in the south city centre is within twenty minutes on foot. As with any hotel of this standard, rates vary greatly by season and day, so compare dates if you are flexible.
The hotel faces St Stephen's Green, with the Luas Green Line stop at the top of Grafton Street a few minutes away. Grafton Street, the Little Museum of Dublin, the National Museum of Archaeology and the Iveagh Gardens are all close by, and Trinity College is about ten minutes' walk north. For enquiries, contact guest services on +353 1 663 4500 or at [email protected].
Even if you are not staying, a drink in the Horseshoe Bar or afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge is a way to experience the hotel. Dress smartly for afternoon tea and allow a couple of hours, and book well ahead in December, when festive demand is high.
The Shelbourne FAQs
Is The Shelbourne a five-star hotel?
Yes, the hotel describes itself as Dublin's five-star hotel.
When did The Shelbourne open?
The hotel has offered hospitality since 1824.
Is The Shelbourne part of a hotel group?
Yes, it is part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, and guests can earn Marriott Bonvoy points.
Does The Shelbourne have a pool?
The hotel states that the spa, including the swimming pool, is now closed. The health club is listed separately.
Can non-residents have afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is served in The Lord Mayor's Lounge; book ahead, especially at weekends.
What bars are there?
The Horseshoe Bar, the 1824 Bar and No. 27 Bar and Lounge, plus The Terrace.
Where is the hotel?
At 27 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, close to Grafton Street.
How do I contact the hotel?
Call +353 1 663 4500 or email [email protected].