Best Museums in Maynooth

"Dating back to the mid-19th Century and packed full of fantastic pieces, the National Gallery of Ireland is one of the best ways to spend an inclement afternoon in Dublin. You can take your time exploring the many wings of art and sculpture that it has on offer for free. Take a free audio guide from the information desk or take a free tour to properly immerse yourself in the European and Irish masterpieces, you'll soon find that many hours have passed along with the bad weather."

"Located in the centre of Dublin, the National Gallery of Ireland displays over 2,500 paintings and roughly 10,000 art works in other mediums. The National Gallery also includes a Yeats archive where a prestigious collection is held, a small part of which includes Jack. B Yeats’ sketchbooks for over fifty years."

"There are a number of great free museums in Dublin which include the National Museum of Ireland, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin City Hall, and the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Also keep an eye out for discount cards, coupons, and special deals to save money on tickets, tours, and meals."

"Dublin Castle is a fine choice and way to begin the first day of your 2 days in Dublin itinerary. Dublin Castle is steeped in history and you will definitely want to take their guided tour, admission fee required. You can opt out and tour the grounds by yourself, but you will not have access to the staterooms on the second floor. I took the tour and found it fascinating."

"Built in 1204, Dublin Castle was the seat of power for British rule for over 700 years. In April 1684, a fire ripped through the castle, destroying much of the structure. A stunning Georgian palace was built in its place."

"As the stronghold of British power in Ireland for more than 700 years, Dublin Castle has played a central - and often adversarial - role in the history of the nation. A mix of buildings from..."

"Based in a renovated 17th century hospital, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) hosts different exhibitions from Irish designers such as Elieen Gray to international artists like Philippe Parreno. The IMMA is a mix between old and new culture which makes it unique. It’s a really original gallery we recommend you to visit it."

"Housed on the grounds of the Royal Kilmainham Hospital, not only does IMMA offer renowned permanent and temporary exhibitions but it is also a fine setting for a stroll on a sunny day."

"Out in Kilmainham, IMMA is worth a visit for the striking building and gardens alone. Contemporary art is spread throughout the former hospital, with free guided tours available too."

"The Hugh Lane Gallery is the first known public gallery of modern art in the world. Founded in 1908 by Sir Hugh Lane, an Irish art dealer, collector and gallery director, it includes a permanent exhibition and other revolving exhibitions, mostly by contemporary Irish artists. Be sure to visit the stained-glass room, which contains a popular piece called “The Eve of St. Agnes,” as well as other stained-glass work from 20th-century glass artists."

"Hugh Lane Art Gallery – A contemporary and modern art museum housed in a 18th century former home that includes the Francis Bacon studio. Founded in 1908, it is believed to be the first public gallery of modern art in the world."

"Imaginosity, the Dublin Children’s Museum, is a unique child-centred creative space for children up to nine years of age and their families. The Museum celebrates children’s imaginations on the journey from curiosity to discovery. Imaginosity offers a wide variety of workshops and classes in arts and crafts, computers, music and theatre every day in the Art Studio, in the Children's Theatre Space and in the Cyber Room – and most are free with admission."

"Here you can play supermarket, doctor, rock star, you can drive a real car (kind of), build a house with foam bricks and even pretend to work at the post office. They also have soft play areas for children under 3 and a nice cafe. This is a super fun place in Dublin for kids and adults like it too as they can play with their kids or relax in the cafe while little ones make discoveries and friends in this fun, safe space."

"It is super interactive and educational and allows little minds (up to the age of nine) to engage in epic exhibits."

"Magnificent Castletown House simply has no peer. It is Ireland’s most imposing Georgian estate, and a testament to the vast wealth enjoyed by the Anglo-Irish gentry during the 18th century. Hour-long guided tours begin at noon and 3pm, offering an insight into how the 1% made out in the 18th century; otherwise you can wander at will. Don't miss a stroll down to the river for grand views back to the house. Castletown is signposted from junction 6 on the M4."

"The Olivier Cornet Gallery on Denmark Street represents some incredible contemporary Irish and international artists, who's works include painting, sculpture, ceramics, fine art prints, photography and installations. They're always running incredible exhibitions too, so have a look at their site to see which artists they're showcasing at the moment."

"Set in the beautiful St Anne's Park in Clontarf, the Red Stables Food Market is ideal for a romantic stroll, a day out with the family, or just a browse with your mates. It runs every Saturday from 10am to 5pm (10am to 4 pm in winter) and is set against a Victorian two-storey building which features design studios, artist workspaces, a commercial gallery, café and courtyard area where the market takes place."

"A little trip away from Dublin City Centre, it’s the perfect romantic location for beach strolls or some sunset portraits. It has the tall grass, sea air and the iconic Poolbeg Towers as the quintessentially-Dublin backdrop!. A great spot for an engagement session, an elopement or a lovely portrait spot on a wedding day if you’re driving in from the south side."

"Cherry Comedy at Whelan’s is one of the finest and funniest nights of laughter on in this fair city. Taking place in Ireland’s leading music venue, Whelans, every Monday from 8pm, this often sell-out show is a sure thing. Featuring the best of Irish comedic talent, as well as a strong line-up of up-and-comers, this is your ultimate night out."

"Among the newest comedy clubs in the city is Pop The Cherry, offering great comedy nights every Monday evening. These nights bring together a mixture of established names from the world of comedy and newer voices just getting started in stand-up."

"Get ready for a night of belly-aching fun at Laughter Lines at The Duke. This non-stop, fun-filled comedy night is sure to be one to remember as this fivesome (consisting of Josephine Mc Caffrey, Gráinne Boyle, Aislinn Ní Uallacháin, Declan Mc Fadden and Noel Aungier) take to the stage offering sketches, stand-up, scenes and songs all likely to have you in stitches. Although this is their weekly home (at The Duke), the collective also performs sporadically in venues across Dublin and Ireland, and are quickly climbing their way to becoming one of Dublin’s most dynamic acts."

"With its florescent light signage and bold clashing colour palette, Pichet attracts a trendy, fashion-forward crowd. The holder of a coveted Bib Gourmand, this French bistro comes with a distinctly Irish twist thanks to locally sourced ingredients and direction from passionate owner Steph Gibson, whose stints cooking abroad have influenced his restaurant’s offering. There are a whole host of menus to pick from, including a pre-theatre, a Tuesday tasting menu special and a line-up of bar snacks."

"You'll find locally-inspired dishes with a French twist at this Trinity Street spot. The menus are changed regularly but you'll always find something to tickle your taste buds. A great option if you've got something to celebrate."

"Named after a commune in south west France known for its spa facilities, Dax Restaurant reflects the spirit of the town by creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere where visitors can experience unique food in a charming setting. Dax Restaurant serves modern Irish-French cuisine in an intimate Georgian basement. There is an open fire, hardwood furniture and flagstone floors, combined with rough walls and modern art pieces."

"Located in a period property in the heart of Georgian Dublin, Dax Restaurant exudes French style, professional service and exemplary cuisine. One of Dublin’s finest dining experiences, the menus are seasonal and the wine list runs from house to rare vintage Grand Crus."

"Welcome to Dax Restaurant, one of the best fine dining restaurants in Dublin city center offering modern Irish-French cuisine for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Saturday. Open for lunch and dinnerDress code: Smart CasualPhone: +353 1 676 1494"

"This dining room inspired by an old European architectural style makes visitors feel like they have just stepped back in time, and the classic French dishes perfect the atmosphere. The restaurant is elegant and peaceful, with fantastic Parisian artwork lining the walls. La Maison is the latest of Breton chef Olivier Quenet’s famous restaurants, serving a selection of French dishes such as huitre(oysters), traditionnel Coq au vin and Filet de Chevreuil (Venison fillet)."

"Whether you are travelling to Dublin for a romantic getaway or want to surprise your significant other with a romantic dinner, we came up with a list of our favourite intimate and delicious restaurants. Dublin is a very cosmopolitan city and has a wide range when it comes to dining options. As the proverb says, “food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate”: This is why we gathered various options that will suit all budgets and preferences."

"La Maison offers fine French cuisine and is known for its beautifully cooked and prepared fish. They've a fabulous outdoor patio area for the warmer evenings, yet it's both cosy and chic inside. Treat yourself, and dine like the French do."