I enjoy standing on the northern shore of the River Liffey as the sun begins to set. It’s magic watching the copper dome reflected on the surface of the water. This part of the city is Arran Quay Dublin. There, the law comes into its own. Barristers hurrying to court are a familiar sight as I take my morning walks, especially when exploring the area on an electric bike in Dublin along the riverside.
But come evening, it is the students and locals who are taking a pint of craft beer nearby. It is a 0.5km stretch and offers the best of Dublin, combining the heavy past of the city with the future so beautifully. The first time I visited the quay, the mix of stone pillars and cafes left me amazed.
There are ancient mummies and the greatest iced coffee in the city, which are enough things that one gets to see there. Let us have a walk through the historic legal center of this city.
If you are not afraid to visit a crypt housing mummies from centuries past, prepare for a treat because you are in for some fun. This is a quay that is a great combination of legal history, religious background, and contemporary development. Read on to see the interesting places for history, cuisine, and a glimpse of the river.
- See the famous dome at the Four Grand Courts.
- Visit the famous mummies in St. Michan’s Church.
- Enjoy the finest specialty coffee available at Copper + Straw.
Well…, does a riverside stroll through the history of Dublin sound like your ideal day? Shall we dive in?
The Legal Heart of Ireland: The Four Courts
Every time I walk by these massive iron gates, I reminisce about Irish history. The most prominent landmark on Arran Quay is the majestic Four Courts building. It has remained at the heart of Irish law for more than two hundred years now. It’s impossible to miss this massive green dome rising above the river level, serving as a perpetual compass for anyone navigating the North Quays.
The Architecture of James Gandon
This work was designed by none other than the great James Gandon in the late 1700s. It is the sister building to the Custom House down the river. The Corinthians and the dome make it truly regal-looking. I always find the symmetry of this building and the quay so calming. It is meant to be impressive, and believe me when I say it certainly is! The granite-fronted building looks different at every time of day.
The Civil War Legacy
The Four Courts Building has a very dramatic and resilient history. In the Civil War of 1922, the building came very close to being reduced to ruins. There was a massive explosion, and centuries of legal documents went soaring into the Dublin sky, looking like confetti.
This was a tragedy in the history of Ireland. However, the building was restored and opened by 1932. As I look at the stone façade of the building, trust me…I really see the strength of Ireland in them.
Hidden Gems and Cultural Landmarks
Just a few steps away from the hustle and bustle of legal activity, I often find Dublin’s weirdest secrets, making this stretch one of the best places to go in Dublin. Arran Quay: a corridor of artistic and religious history, with tales lurking around each and every turn. A part of Dublin that pays tribute to those who take the time to look closer at each of the old facades.
St. Michan’s Church and the Mummies
If you veer a little from the quay, you will see St. Michan’s Church. It is famous worldwide for its mummified bodies in its crypts. The arid atmosphere of its crypts has conserved these dead bodies for so many centuries.
I remember feeling a certain chill as I gazed at “The Crusader” lying in his coffin. It is an icy thrill that you won’t get anywhere else. The church has an organ from 1724, which is said to have been played by Handel.
St. Paul’s: A Granite Pioneer
Right on the quay is St. Paul’s Church, established on St. Patrick’s Day in 1835. This was the first Catholic church in Dublin to feature a granite frontage. Designed by architect Patrick Byrne, it boasts an impressive Greek Revival Ionic portico.
In fact, in the year 1835, it was described as the ‘principal ornament’ of the quay. I love how it complements the Four Courts buildings in creating a beautiful frame for the river. Its shallow barrel roof is segmented into five parts, featuring striking rosettes.
Scandals and Social Care
The quay has had its share of drama, too. Five Georgian houses were illegally knocked down by the Linders family in 1989. This was a huge scandal regarding Dublin’s heritage. On a more humble note, the Capuchin Centre still maintains its soup kitchen to this day.
You will usually see the “daily bread line,” and this is a reminder that the place has a caring soul to it. This contrasts with the upmarket world of law just around the corner.
How Modern Lifestyle Fair Living on the Quay?
I have observed over the years that this dock area has undergone a transformation from an older industrial area into a trendy living area where people have designated modern buildings as their homes. This area is one of the most lively parts of Dublin 7.
Apartment Living and Urban Renewal
This move to modern living has certainly injected some new life into the area. Arran Quay is actually one of the hottest spots for anyone looking to live in the heart of the city. The proximity to the heart of the city and the Luas line make it incredibly convenient.
Personally…I love the “Brooklyn of Dublin” atmosphere, which National Geographic tipped as the trend for 2026. It has the buzzy quality associated with big cities, which is rooted in local culture.
The Coffee Boom: Copper + Straw
For quality specialty coffee, I go to Copper + Straw, which can be found at 1 Arran Quay. They are rated 4.8/5 and are “completely dog-friendly.” They utilize Bailies Belfast roasters and feature superb monthly guest beans.
Fantastic iced brews are their claimed expertise, which are absolute perfection during warm afternoons. They are wheelchair accessible, and all credit cards are accepted. They serve toasted sandwiches and “vegan treats sourced from local bakers.
Smithfield’s Nightlife and Dining
Living in the area puts you just a two-minute walk away from Smithfield Square. For a multi-course seafood dinner, I go to the Fish Shop on Queen Street. For a pint of beer, the Brazen Head, which dates back to 1198 and is Ireland’s oldest pub, is just five minutes’ walk from where you’ll be living.
And then, of course, there is the Cobblestone, among the best pubs in the world for folk music performances, so it is an ideal spot to cap off an intense day of exploring Dublin, which you’ll be doing, anyway.
Logistics for A Better Experience
Whenever I have friends coming over, I tell them that Arran Quay is where you can get most connected to all places with ease because you can walk to almost all landmarks within fifteen minutes.
Transport Links: LUAS and Walking Routes
The stops on the Red Line Luas are Smithfield and Four Courts. Both of these are only a two-minute walk away from the quay. Walking distance would get you to Christ Church Cathedral in 10 minutes or Temple Bar in 15 minutes.
Walking would, of course, be an option for you, with the Guinness Storehouse merely 1km away. Car owners would be pleased with Q-Park Smithfield, which has 500 parking spaces at a rate of €3 an hour. Indeed, there is no better place from which to tour the North Quays.
The Arran Quay skyline has become a favorite for photos on Instagram. The way that sunset catches St. Paul’s granite frontage is simply amazing. I have recently noticed some amazing photos of Liffey River reflections that have been added under the hashtag #ArranQuayViews.
What’s your favorite view of Arran Quay?
- The Four Courts dome lit up at night.
- The Liffey reflections at sunset.
- The mysterious mummies of St. Michan’s.
- The modern coffee shops of Smithfield.
The Four Courts complex is one of the most-photographed areas in Ireland. Have you captured the fantastic shot of the reflections on the river or the church spire? If yes….let’s share and connect!
Bell of The Time Bridge Dingles
As I go around for my walk around Arran Quay Dublin, I recall it as an integral element of our city. Not only does it have its foundations in law and history, but comes alive as a result of current living. The history is apparent at Four Courts and St. Paul’s. But it is apparent that this is a vision of the future at the bustling café and new apartments.
Whether or not you are going to the mummies or are just hunting down a city apartment, all of this is here, too. This is a region of contrasts, a region of culture and stunning views along the River Liffey. I hope you enjoy your stay here as much as I always have! And follow Dublinz Facebook and Dublinz Instagram for more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you visit the inside of the Four Courts?
Yes, indeed. The general public has access to theFour Courts to watch court proceedings. However, there is security screening, and it is prohibited to take photos inside. It is a very interesting experience of the Irish legal system at work.
Is Arran Quay safe for evening walks?
Yes, Arran Quay is a well-lit area and pretty busy, especially because of the Luas there. Of course, as in any city center, you would need to be mindful of your surroundings. The riverside walkway is a pretty popular route for joggers and commuters in the evenings.
How far is Arran Quay from Temple Bar?
It is only a very short and pleasant walking route, taking approximately 15 minutes in total. You can walk along the quays and cross either the Millennium Bridge or Grattan Bridge, both of which provide some of the best viewing opportunities of the city.
Where is the best coffee on Arran Quay?
Copper + Straw at 1 Arran Quay has the highest rating, and it has a 4.8/5 rating. The restaurant has a great reputation because of its cold brew and great service. The restaurant has a wheelchair-friendly and pet-friendly setting.
What is the history of St. Paul’s Church?
Founded in 1835, St. Paul’s Church opened its doors in 1837. It was the first Catholic church in Dublin with a granite front. It is a Greek Revival triumph located directly on the quay and was designed by Patrick Byrne.