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St James' Church: A Testament to Dublin's History
Explore centuries of history at St James' Church, now home to the Pearse Lyons Distillery in Dublin 8.
St James' Church, located in Dublin 8, has witnessed centuries of Irish history. Originally a Church of Ireland parish established in 1707, the current building dates back to 1859 and was designed by Joseph Welland. Today, it is home to the Pearse Lyons Distillery and offers visitors a unique blend of historical and cultural experiences.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St James' Church
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Walking
From Heuston Station, St James' Church is approximately a 3.5km walk, taking around 45 minutes. Head east on St John's Road West, then turn left onto James's Street. The church will be on your right.
Public Transport
Several Dublin Bus routes serve St James' Church, including the 13, S2, G1, G2 and 123. Alight at the James Street stop, which is a short walk from the church. Alternatively, take the Luas Red Line to the James's stop and turn right onto James's Street. A single adult TFI 90-minute fare is €2.00 when using a Leap Card. Cash fares are also available but are more expensive.
Taxi
A taxi from Dublin city center to St James' Church typically costs between €8 and €15, depending on traffic. Taxi fares are metered, with an initial charge of €4.80 and a rate of €1.71 per km. Note that fares may be higher during nights, Sundays, and public holidays.
Local tips
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Check the Pearse Lyons Distillery website for tour times and ticket prices before visiting.
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Consider taking public transportation or a taxi, as parking in the immediate area can be limited.
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Visit the nearby Catholic St James's Church to experience an active parish with its own rich history.
Discover more about St James' Church
St James' Church, situated in the historic Dublin 8 neighborhood, boasts a rich and multifaceted past. Established as a Church of Ireland parish in 1707, its origins are linked to the medieval shrine of St. James at St. James's Gate, a significant point for pilgrims. The existing church, designed by Joseph Welland, was constructed in 1859. The architecture reflects a Gothic style, a popular choice during the 19th-century Gothic Revival.
Throughout its history, St James' Church has been associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, with pilgrims visiting the church before embarking on their journey. The churchyard is the final resting place of notable figures, including Sir Mark Rainsford, a former Mayor of Dublin.
Deconsecrated in 1963, the building was purchased in 2014 by Pearse Lyons and meticulously restored before being transformed into the Pearse Lyons Distillery, which opened in 2017. Today, visitors can explore the distillery while admiring the church's architectural features, including a replacement glass spire and a stained-glass window that represents the Santiago pilgrimage.
While the original Church of Ireland parish has a long history, the Catholic parish of St. James was established in 1724. The current Catholic St James's Church opened in 1854 and remains an active place of worship.
A brief summary to St James' Church
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