Smithfield, Dublin

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A very nice square in the Western part of the northbank of the Liffey is a square called Smithfield Plaza. The square is mostly famous because it has the Jameson Distillery at its eastside. Today you can visit this distillery and enter the old chimney that is now used as a viewpoint from where you can overlook the complete centre of Dublin.

But Smithfield itself is a very nice square. It is made of cobblestones and was first paved in the 17th century, when it was used as a marketplace where especially horses were traded. This horsemarket took place until recently, but it has been moved now. Today the square is a peaceful square where you can find luxurious apartments, some shops and in the streets around it, you can find plenty of pubs and trendy bars.

Smithfield square is closed for traffic, but it is easily accessible by the tram that goes there from O’Connell Street, from the crossing O’Connell Street/Talbot Street. From here it is 4 stops until you reach Smithfield.

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There are hardly any chances in town to see Dublin from above if you don't want to spend a fortune for the Guinness storehouse and its gravity bar. There is one cheaper option though: The chimney at Smithfield. A chimney of Jameson Distillery was turned into a viewing platform some years ago. On a fair day you get good panoramic views of the mountains around Dublin, the sea, the city centre, the Liberties, the Liffey merging into the Irish sea and the grounds of the Guinness Brewery.

For 5 EUR you can join a tour. Check times at the Comfort Inn Hotel next door. This is also where you buy your tickets. BTW: If you are too early as we were they have great tea in the hotel bar!

On a busy day it's a bit crowded up the tower but we waited for a while and took our pictures when almost everybody had gone down again.

Smithfield is an area north of the Liffey that has been going under some regeneration in recent years. Right in the middle, next to the Jamesons Distillery, is the Smithfield chimney. A lift and viewing platform have been added and for a few Euros you can go to the top and enjoy the great views over the city centre and beyond!

There are set times for viewings so be aware you may have to wait [or as we did, go to the distillery for a tour and then come back at the right time], you won't be able to just go up and down as you please. Entry is available with the Dublin Pass

Located in Smithfield Village. This 220ft chimney was restored and is equipped with a glass observation tower. Pick a clear day. Its also close to Jameson Distillery and the National Museum at Collins Barracks which if my information is correct is linked to The National Museum at Kildare Street by the Museum link bus. Take my advice and visit Guinness gravity bar instead, its more expensive but you get a better view and can sit and have a pint of the black stuff (guinness) at the same time as looking out at the view.
Opening times are Mon to Sat form 10am to 5.30pm. Admission charge is €5. €3.50 for students. Alos around this area is a hotel which is not to expensive for lunch or a sandwich and the food is not bad. In the winter time the square is covered and and ice rink is layed. During the summer months you can find the chinese markets and various different events going on. Check free magazines for more details.

If you are thinking about getting up THE Chimney, near Jameson, don't do it. It is not worth the 5 Euros.

Also, Book of Kells, large queue, ridiculous price of ~7 Euros for seeing 2 pages of an old book, come on guys.

It is not necessary that you have to see everything from your touristguide to be able to tell other people that you were in Dublin.

Go to the Jameson Distillery in Smithfield.
If you get picked for the Whiskey Taste Test, you will have to knock back 5 straight shots of various brands of whiskey, scotch & bourbon. You can dilute the free 6th one ;) You also get a certificate declaring your utter brilliance and dedication to whiskey tasting...I now have 2. ;)

Tour is 7euros and for that price you get a audio visual presentation on the history of the company, guided tour of the distillery (dont forget to checkout the stuffed cat!) and of course a free sample or 5 ;)

Personally, I love "Jimmy & Ginger" - Jameson with Ginger Ale, it is a lovely combination! :)

Next to the Old Jameson Distillery, you can take the elevator up to the Chimney. Originally, the Chimney used to distill the famous Jameson Whiskey, but not anymore. On top, you get a 360° view over Dublin. Of course, a lot depends on the weather. The guide gives you a detailed explanation of the landmarks you see below. The price is 5 euro.

Chinese New Year in Dublin was January 27th, this is the year of the MONKEY.

I have no idea why I keep trying to take pictures of flags in the wind, like they will stop for me.

Click on the pic for better detail.

Those born in the year of the Monkey are said to be clever, original, quick-witted and skilful. They are lively, entertaining and mischievous. Usually good at just about everything they try.

May not actually be a distillary, but go to Smithfield and have a look at how they make "Whiskey" thats with an "e". In my opinion the Irish version is far superior to that produced either by the Scots or the Yanks, but thats just my uneducated opinion. Anyway see what you think yourself!! Also is a great place for lunch - can highly recommend the food!

Climb Smithfield Chimney. Once the weather is nice you get a panoramic view of Dublin city & county and the Wicklow mountains. Look out for Croke Park, Phoenix Park, The Spire, back of the Four Courts, Mater Hospital, Ballymun Towers, River Liffey.

It's €5 to go up but you can stay as long as you want. Buy your ticket in the shop beside Chief O'Neill's bar.