The Shelbourne Hotel

An historic five-star hotel on Dublin's main square

An imposing red-and-white facade on St. Stephen's Green, Dublin's most stately square of greenery, announces this historic hotel, now a five-star jewel in the Marriott Renaisance crown following a $100 million renovation in 2007.

Built in 1824, the Shelbourne has been host to actors, writers, and—in 1922—the signing of Ireland's constitution.

Crackling fires and Waterford chandeliers greet you in the clubby entrance lounges, while the 265 guest rooms play out their varied-size comforts with modern conveniences and antique furnishings.

The Horseshoe Bar is popular with international business tycoons and Celtic Tiger cubs (Irish for "90s yuppie"), while members of Parliament seem to prefer the green-muraled Number 27 bar with its picture windows overlooking St. Stpehen's.

Take afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge (€23.95, or €33.95 with champagne), or dinner in the golden-upholstered Saddle Room restaurant (complete with oyster bar).

A spa will open in spring 2012.

Shelbourne Hotel
27 St. Stephen's Green (right in the center of town, on the north side of the Green)
tel. +353-(0)1/663-4500
www.marriott.co.uk
Airport bus: Air Coach to Grafton Street, or 747 Arilink to College Green/Temple Bar. Bus: 11, 15, 15a, 15b, 128. DART: Pearse Station. LUAS: Abbey Street.
Price: €€€€–€€€€€
Reid's Rating: ★★★
Booking.com

» More hotels in Dublin (from €41)

» B&Bs in Dublin (from €35)

» Apartments in Dublin (from €62)

» Guesthouses in Dublin (from €39)

» Hostels in Dublin (from €9 per person)