A Guide To The Buzzy Village Of Stoneybatter In Dublin

If you’re debating staying in the village of Stoneybatter in Dublin, you’ve landed in the right place.

Dubbed as one of the ‘world’s coolest neighbourhoods’, Stoneybatter has shot to popularity over the last 10-15 years, and is now one of the more desirable areas in Dublin.

Home to many quirky shops and an almost endless stream of great pubs and restaurants, it’s a fine base to explore Dublin from.

In the guide below, you’ll find everything from the history of the area to the various things to do in Stoneybatter (plus where to eat, sleep and drink).

Some quick need-to-knows before visiting Stoneybatter in Dublin

Although a visit to Stoneybatter in Dublin is nice and straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Located just to the north-north-west of Dublin’s city centre, Stoneybatter is hemmed by the River Liffey, Smithfield Market, and the North Circular Road. Whilst it’s been referred to as Dublin’s “hipster quarter” it is, in fact, one of Dublin’s oldest neighbourhoods, with street names linking to the city’s Viking history.

2. Ireland’s ‘Coolest Neighbourhood’

In 2019, Stoneybatter was voted by Time Out magazine as one of the top 40 coolest neighbourhoods in the world, and for good reason. With an eclectic blend of long-term residents, well-to-do students, and a flurry of AirBnB guests, the neighbourhood has a rich tapestry, including great coffee, contemporary restaurants, and renowned sights.

3. A good base to explore the city

Whether you’re visiting Dublin for the weekend, a mid-week escape, or a sustained period, Stoneybatter is the perfect location. The neighbourhood boasts easy access on public transport to the heart of the city; great local walks to all of the must-see attractions, and some of the city’s tastiest eateries.

About Stoneybatter

Once upon a time, Stoneybatter was known by another name; Bothar-na-gCloch (Bohernaglogh), or the road of stones. It was, since ancient times, and still is the main thoroughfare into Dublin from the west and north-western counties of Ireland.

Over the last millennia, Stoneybatter has seen it all. From Iron Age through to the digital revolution, Stoneybatter has been home to those seeking community and proximity to Dublin.

With excellent transport links into central Dublin, Stoneybatter remains one of Dublin’s most beloved urban escape destinations. To the west lies the Phoenix Park with its meandering paths and deer.

Dublin Zoo sits to the southeast of the park, with ample parking nearby, and diagonally opposite is Magazine Fort, an 18th-century fortification.

A quick stroll over the river is Kilmainham Gaol, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and the Irish National War Memorial Gardens, all of which should not missed when staying in nearby Stoneybatter.

Things to do in Stoneybatter

Although there’s only a handful of things to do in Stoneybatter, the big draw of this town is its proximity to some of the best places to visit in Dublin.

Below, you’ll find some places to visit in the town along with heaps of things to do a stone’s throw away.

1. The Phoenix Park (15-minute walk)

The Phoenix Park is the ideal destination for those wanting either passive or active entertainment. It’s home to a variety of monuments, statues, and Áras an Uachtaráin – home of the President of Ireland.

There’s something for everyone in Phoenix Park, from the ancient dolmen of Knockmaree to the mummified bodies of Dublin’s rich and famous of the 1600-1800s, this 707 hectare park will keep you busy all day! Worry not, there are also great cafes and rest stops to take in the park’s beauty while you relax.

2. Dublin Zoo (15-minute walk)

Since 1831, Dublin Zoo has been involved in zoological studies and conservation. Opening its doors to the public in 1840, it has enjoyed a rich and affectionate relationship with Dubliners for nearly 200 hundred years.

Spanning 28 hectares, it’s officially Ireland’s largest family attraction. There are 400 animals, a diverse ecosystem, and an impressive annual light show to entertain and educate. Open daily from 9:30-5:30pm, last admissions at 3:30pm, and all tickets must be pre-booked on a timed slot.

3. The Jameson Distillery (15-minute walk)

There’s more to the Jameson Distillery than sipping on whiskey. A constant presence in Dublin since 1780, Jameson Distillery is steeped in Irish history and heritage. Onsite you can enjoy a range of activities, including the Black Barrel Blending Class, or a Whiskey Cocktail Making Class.

You can also take their 40minute small group and fully guided tour, which includes a comparative whiskey tasting. Bookings are essential and arrive ahead of your ticket time to avoid any disappointment. Open daily 12-7pm.

4. St Michan’s Church (20-minute walk)

Just around the corner from Jameson’s is St. Michan’s Church. This church is steeped in Dublin’s history as it was originally founded in 1095. It was also the only church north of the Liffey for nearly 500years!

Heavily rebuilt in 1685, it houses a large pipe organ reputed to have been played by Handel, and several mummies from 1600-1800s; including those of the Earls of Leitrim, the legendary Sheares brothers, and even the death mask of Wolf Tone.

5. The Brazen Head (20-minute walk)

When it comes to historic pubs, you won’t find any older in Dublin. With a hostelry on the site since the late 1100s, the current Brazen Head dates back to the mid 18th century.

With some of Dublin’s best pub food, including Brazen Head’s Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger, or the iconic Irish favourite, Beef and Guinness Stew. It’s the atmosphere you’ll love most, it’s everything and more you imagined an Irish pub to be! Open daily 12-11:30pm.

6. Guinness Storehouse (23-minute walk)

Guinness has been brewed in Dublin since 1759, and the Guinness Storehouse at St James Gate is Dublin’s most popular tourist attraction.

It’s here that you’ll be taken through an interactive experience that’ll offer an insight into the history of Guinness along with how it’s made.

The tour climaxes in the Gravity Bar, where you’ll be able to sample a pint of the black stuff while soaking up stunning city views.

7. Kilmainham Gaol (30-minute walk)

Opening in 1796, Kilmainham Goal was built on Gallows Hill, replacing another nearby prison. Since it’s opening, it has played host to many famous and infamous inmates, including political prisoner Henry Joy McCracken. The prison was also used to house those awaiting transportation to Australia.

Kilmainham prison has a tumultuous history, housing both male and female prisoners. It experienced severe overcrowding during the famine, more again during the Fenian uprising, and was eventually used as an army detention centre from 1910. Open daily 9:30-17:30pm

Places to eat in Stoneybatter

There are plenty of solid places to eat in Stoneybatter if you’re looking for a feed after a long day on the road. Below, you’ll find some of our favourites:

1. Social Fabric Cafe

Located in the old post office, this venue is perfect for a relaxed coffee with friends or even a sociable Sunday brunch. Check out their healthy and delicious menu, with classics like eggs Benedict and the traditional Fry, or contemporary Buddha Bowls and Breakfast Burritos.

2. Slice

With their doors open early in the morning, Slice serves up some of Stoneybatter’s best breakfasts, brunch, lunch and even private dinners. Their menu boasts a ‘healthy’ reputation, with ingredients from local and trusted suppliers.

3. L. Mulligan Grocer

With an outward appearance of a traditional Irish pub, L. Mulligan Grocer is a true hidden gem. Whilst it might be well known to locals, it’s an oasis for visitors and those uninitiated to Stoneybatter.

Pubs in Stoneybatter

There’s a handful of brilliant pubs in Stoneybatter for those of you itching to kick-back with a post adventure-tipple after a day of exploring. Here are our favourite spots:

1. Walsh’s

Offering the finest beers on tap, wine, and an impressive range of spirits, Walsh’s of Stoneybatter is your new local. With a cosy snug you can hide away in, or stick around in the main bar and soak up the scene, there’s always room to keep your elbow bent.

2. Ryan’s of Parkgate Street

Ryan’s of Parkgate Street is one of our favourite pubs in Dublin. This is a mighty, old-world pub where the service, the pints and the food are the business! Take a seat at one of their outdoor tables, or even at the bar, and enjoy a range of beers, wines, and spirits.

3. The Glimmer Man

With high ceilings and stained glass windows, The Glimmer Man’s aesthetic is unapologetically everything you dreamed of in an Irish pub. The bar is stained with years of patronage, and locals who call it home make themselves comfortable.

Stoneybatter accommodation

So, there’s a handful of places to stay a short distance from Stoneybatter in Dublin, with something that’ll hopefully suit most budgets.

Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Ashling Hotel

4-star comforts and sophistication, and a view of the skyline that will take your breath away, are just a few of Ashling Hotel’s benefits. With contemporary food and drinks menus, and service to match, you’ll have everything you need for a pleasant and relaxing stay.

Check prices + see more photos here

2. The Hendrick (Smithfield)

Edgy and urban, the rooms at The Hendrick will have you in a prime position to make the most of your time in Stoneybatter’s rich and varied cultural sights. Surrounded by the arts of Smithfield, this is where you want to be to find quirky personal handmade crafts, check out an indie film, or spend time with friends at the Hendrick bar or a nearby cafe.

Check prices + see more photos here

3. McGettigan’s Townhouse

McGettigan’s Townhouse is run in conjunction by the same owners as the famous pub with the same name. With seven stunning and luxurious bedrooms, and a central location to all of Dublin’s main attractions. All rooms have an ensuite with a shower, and guests can enjoy a complimentary cooked breakfast, served in the pub, between 8:30-11:30am, 7 days a week.

Check prices + see more photos here

FAQs about visiting Stoneybatter in Dublin

Since mentioning the area in a guide on where to stay in Dublin that we published several years ago, we’ve had hundreds of emails asking various things about Stoneybatter in Dublin.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Stoneybatter?

If you’re looking for things to do in Stoneybatter and nearby, the Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo and the Jameson Distillery are worth a look.

Is Stoneybatter worth visiting?

Stoneybatter makes a great base to explore Dublin from. However, we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to visit.

Are there many pubs and restaurants in Stoneybatter?

Pub wise, you’ve The Glimmer Man, Ryan’s of Parkgate Street and Walsh’s. For food, L. Mulligan Grocer, Slice and Social Fabric Cafe all pack a tasty punch.