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The Confession Box: A Pint of History

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Experience Dublin's history and hospitality at The Confession Box, a traditional Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere and a legendary past.

The Confession Box, nestled on Marlborough Street in Dublin, is a historic Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere and a rich past tied to Ireland's fight for independence. Known for its friendly ambiance and perfectly poured Guinness, this pub offers an authentic Dublin experience.

A brief summary to The Confession Box

  • Monday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
  • Tuesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
  • Wednesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
  • Friday 11 am-12 am
  • Saturday 11:30 am-12:30 am
  • Sunday 12:30 pm-11 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the pub can get crowded due to its popularity and cozy size.
  • Try the Guinness; it's known to be poured to perfection.
  • Chat with the locals; they're friendly and full of stories about the pub's history.
  • Look for the memorabilia related to Michael Collins and the War of Independence.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Spire on O'Connell Street, walk north on O'Connell Street Upper, then turn right onto Parnell Street. Continue onto Marlborough Street; The Confession Box will be on your left in about 200m. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are no tolls or specific tickets needed.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Luas Green Line to the O'Connell Upper stop. From the Luas stop, walk north on O'Connell Street Upper, then turn right onto Parnell Street. Continue onto Marlborough Street; The Confession Box will be on your left in about 200m. Alternatively, numerous Dublin Bus routes serve O'Connell Street. A single adult fare on Dublin Bus is €2.00 - €2.60 if paying cash, or €1.50 - €2.00 using a Leap Card. The TFI 90-minute fare is €2.00 for adults using a Leap Card, allowing transfers between Dublin Bus, Luas, DART, and commuter rail services. Leap Visitor Cards are available for unlimited travel: 24 hours (€8.00), 72 hours (€16.00), or 7 days (€32.00).

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Dublin city center. A taxi from O'Connell Street to The Confession Box will cost approximately €8-€15, depending on traffic and time of day. The initial charge is €4.40, with a rate of €1.32 per km during standard hours. Note that fares can be higher during evenings and weekends.

Discover more about The Confession Box

The Confession Box, located at 88 Marlborough St, Dublin, is more than just a pub; it's a piece of Irish history. Originally a house built around 1800, it was the birthplace of Dionysius Lardner, a noted science writer. However, the pub's fame stems from its role during the War of Independence (1919-1921) when it was known as The Maid of Erin. Sympathetic priests from the nearby Pro-Cathedral would secretly hear confessions of rebel fighters, including those of Michael Collins, within its walls. This clandestine activity led to the pub being nicknamed The Confession Box, a name that has stuck ever since. Today, the pub proudly displays awards and memorabilia from that era, honoring its connection to Irish independence. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The pub is known for its friendly banter, excellent Guinness, and staff that make everyone feel at home. It's a place where locals and tourists mingle, sharing stories and laughter. While some may dispute its claim as the smallest pub in Dublin, its historical significance and cozy charm make it a must-visit. Whether you're seeking a perfectly poured pint, a glimpse into Dublin's past, or simply a friendly place to relax, The Confession Box offers an authentic Irish pub experience.

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