Generator Dublin

Generator Dublin is a hostel on Smithfield Square, on the north side of the Liffey. It offers both shared dorms and private rooms, which makes it a good budget choice for solo travellers, groups of friends and families who want a simple, central place to sleep with plenty of social space.

The range of rooms is wide. Dorms come in sizes from four beds up to ten, all with en-suite or shared bathrooms depending on the room, and there are female-only dorms for those who prefer them. Private options include single rooms with a shared bathroom, deluxe twin and king rooms, a family room for four, and larger private rooms for groups. Prices are quoted per bed in dorms and per room for private rooms, and they vary with demand, so book early for summer weekends and big events.

The social side is a big part of the experience. The Shuffleboard Bar has shuffleboard tables, pool, darts and ping-pong, a full bar, food and live sports, and it is open every day until late. The café serves from early morning until late evening, with longer hours on Friday and Saturday. There is also a cinema room, event and meeting space, a laundry, a travel shop and luggage storage, and the hostel offers discounted tours of the Jameson distillery nearby.

Practical details are straightforward. Reception is open 24 hours, Wi-Fi is free and the hostel is wheelchair accessible. Bring a padlock if you are staying in a dorm, and ask at reception about storing bags on your day of departure. The building is lively, so earplugs are a good idea if you are a light sleeper.

Smithfield is close to Temple Bar, which is a short walk across the river, and the Jameson Distillery is on the same side of the river. The Airlink 747 airport bus stops at Ushers Quay, a short walk away, and the Luas Red Line serves Smithfield, making it easy to reach Heuston Station, Connolly Station and the city centre. For enquiries, call +353 1 901 0222.

Families can book the family room for four, and groups of friends can take a whole private room, which keeps the group together and gives more privacy than a shared dorm.