Wood Quay: Dublin's Viking Past Unearthed
Explore Dublin's Viking roots at Wood Quay, where ancient history meets modern city life along the River Liffey.
Wood Quay, situated along the River Liffey, marks the site of Dublin's original Viking settlement in 841 AD. Today, it's home to Dublin City Council offices, but historical remnants, including a preserved section of the Hiberno-Norse City Wall dating back to 1100 AD, offer glimpses into its fascinating past.
A brief summary to Wood Quay
- Dublin, Wood Quay, IE
Local tips
- Visit the National Museum of Ireland to see artifacts discovered during the Wood Quay excavations.
- Take a stroll along the River Liffey to view the Viking longship sculpture and bronze plaques.
- Explore the remains of the Hiberno-Norse City Wall inside the Dublin City Council building.
Getting There
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Walking
From Dublin Castle, head east towards the River Liffey. Cross the bridge and follow the riverbank path south for about 10 minutes. Wood Quay will be on your left, just past the historic buildings.
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Public Transport
If you are near O'Connell Street, head to the nearest bus stop and take bus routes 25, 27, or 151. Get off at the 'Civic Offices' stop. Wood Quay will be a short walk away. A single fare is approximately €3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app and input 'Wood Quay, Dublin' as your destination. A short taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately €8-€11.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wood Quay
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Four Courts
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Sunlight Chambers
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St. Michael’s Tower the Archangel
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Parliament St
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Dublin Castle Apartment
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Bad Bobs Temple Bar
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Old Dublin City Wall
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Rory Gallagher Corner
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The Chapel Royal
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The Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum Experience
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Irish Music Wall of Fame
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The Temple Bar Pub
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Unmissable attractions to see
Báite - Viking Longboat (1988) by Betty Newman Maguire
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Viking Area
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Christ Church Cathedral
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The Temple Bar Art Gallery
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Dublinia
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Grattan Bridge
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The Lord Edward
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Porterhouse Temple Bar
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St Audoen's Church (Church of Ireland)
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St Audoen's Catholic Church
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Cadenas Cécé & Nono
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Essential places to dine
Piglet Wine Bar
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The Larder Restaurant & BrewHouse
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Variety Jones
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Rosa Madre
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tamp & Stitch
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Durt Co
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Rebirth of Cool
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The Temple Bar Trading Company
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The Wild Duck Dublin
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The Dame Tavern
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The Ha'penny Bridge Inn
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The Snug
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The Long Hall
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