I remember my first evening walk down Baggot Street Upper Dublin. The sun was setting over the Grand Canal nearby, much like the gentle evening strolls people enjoy around Poolbeg Street Dublin, where the city slows down just enough to be noticed. Professionals in sharp suits were spilling out of beautiful pubs. The air felt energetic yet very sophisticated. It is a place where history meets modern success.
This stretch of 0.8km is a lifeline for the city, linking St. Stephen’s Green all the way to the Grand Canal Dock. Residents fondly refer to this mid-20th-century era as “Baggotonia,” as it was the home of the most accomplished writers and journalists. Even today, it remains the most elite social setting within Dublin. Let us delve into what truly makes this street stand out.
So… Do you want to know where the best professionals in Dublin go for a pint? Or maybe the street on which poets shared secrets of success. This is a beautiful part of Dublin 4, just full of secrets and treats for the elite. Read on to find your spot in the city.
- Find the top Victorian pubs.
- Pay the finest-rated Italian diners a visit with me.
- Visit the historical Georgian Mile at your back and call.
And, if you ask me, I’d say start with a canal walk and find the best seat on the street! Let’s go through it all…shall we?
The “Georgian Mile” and Local History
Baggot Street Upper is renowned for its excellent architecture. As you walk down this area, you will behold magnificent Georgian houses from the 1790s. Most of these buildings have since been turned into lovely Offices and Pubs.
Architecture and the Grand Canal
The name of this street in its past life was “Gallows Road,” which was in the 18th century. It was renamed in 1773 in memory of John Baggot, who was an MP in this region. The Baggot Street Bridge is one of the symbols of this region.
This is the best place to start your journey into town. This is also the best place to relax while taking a walk along the sides of this canal. The sight of the water as well as trees is simply stunning. This is my favorite place to observe colorful boats.
Famous Residents and Literary Links
This was the playground for Dublin’s literary greats. A statue of poet Patrick Kavanagh can be found 200m south. It was his habit to sit by the canal looking for inspiration. Writers such as Brendan Behan and Flann O’Brien were familiar faces here. They resided nearby on Avoca Road and filled the pubs with yarns. That creative spirit is still in the air today. It is if the ghost of “Baggotonia” is still with us.
Dining and Drinking: The Baggot Street Upper Social Guide
The nightlife here is simply incomparable in the city. It is a judicious mix of old-world charm with modern luxury. You can find everything from a quiet pint to a feast.
The Legendary Pub Scene
The pubs here are like living time capsules from the Victorian era. Searsons has a license from October 1845. It’s a renowned ‘rugby oasis’ close to the Aviva Stadium. I adore their three copper pot stills in their whiskey bar. Another must-visit pub on this street is Doheny & Nesbitt.
Their interior decoration has ‘been frozen in 1885 with dark carvings.’ Many a political and journalistic decision has been sometimes made here. Finally, take a look at The Waterloo for their impressive polished mahogany bar. Their coffered ceilings sport green and maroon. They display true splendor.
A Foodie’s Paradise: Best Restaurants and Cafes
Of course, if you get hungry, you will have 221 restaurants within the radius! Angelina’s is hot for contemporary Italian food. The rating of this place is 4.5 from more than 2,700 reviews. Oxhorn Grill is one of the best-rated places if you like steak. And if you’re more in the mood for relaxed bites and warm conversations, you’ll also find some of the city’s best spots listed in our guide to top cozy cafes in Dublin.
If you want something healthier, then Eathons at 13a does a great vegetarian and vegan breakfast. And finally, if you want a “happy meeting place,” go to Saba for Thai dishes. You will find from €10 lunches to €49 mains.
Shopping and Local Amenities
The shopping here is a reflection of the upmarket D4 area. There aren’t many chain shops of this caliber.
Boutique Shopping and Gourmet Food Stores
Baggot Street is where specialty and boutique shops are located. At No. 40, there is indeed one-of-a-kind clothing, as in the Victorian suits from Bergin’s Drapery. You’re just steps away from Donnybrook Fair, too, which is a premium grocery store for gourmet delights, and for special occasions, many locals also browse nearby options for debs dress Dublin to find elegant, standout pieces.
This is hands down where you’ll find artisanal goodies for your picnic. Several embassies, including the US Consulate and Italian Embassy, too, are located nearby. The whole area feels very international and very safe. It’s actually an ideal location to go browsing for one-of-a-kind gifts from Ireland.
Oh…and just so you know, recently folks online are raving about the “Baggot Brunch” trend on weekends. It is the ultimate spot for a sophisticated Saturday morning.
What’s the best thing about Baggot Street Upper that stands out to you?
- The post-work pint at Searsons.
- The morning coffee run.
- The beautiful Georgian architecture.
- Walking along the Grand Canal.
Upper Baggot Street is the perfect spot for brunch. Tag your favorite cafe on the street! Use the hashtags #BaggotBrunch and #Dublin4Life to share your best food photos.
Visitor Logistics for Getting to The Stretching Wonder
Accessibility to such a prestigious facility as Baggot Street Upper Dublin is reasonably easy. A 10-minute walk from Trinity College would have been sufficient.
Public Transport and Proximity
The Green Line in the Luas network will take you to Charlemont station. It is only 300 meters away from the main street. The 46A and 39 major bus routes pass through this area. The number of buses traveling on this primary corridor is in excess of 120 per day.
The Lansdowne Road DART station is 800 meters away. The cost of parking in the tariff zones is approximately €3 per hour. It is a very walkable neighborhood exuding prosperity in the Victorian era.
Your Perfect Dublin Afternoon Awaits!
The character of professional energy is perfectly blended on Baggot Street Upper, Dublin. It’s a place to go when you want quality food and relaxation. Begin your day with an early canal walk. Then, make your way to a historic pub for a pint. You surely will see why this street is one of the favorites of the city.
No visit to the Southside is complete without stopping here. You can enjoy the history of “Baggotonia” while dining in style. It truly is the heart of Dublin’s social and professional life. We hope to see you there for a weekend brunch soon! Make sure to bring your appetite and your curiosity.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Baggot Street Upper known for?
Upper Baggot Street is Dublin’s upmarket D4 road. Renowned for having Victorian pubs such as Searsons and restaurants, it also has a rich literary heritage with the ‘Baggotonia’ tradition related to Patrick Kavanagh. It is an important workplace during the day and a nighttime social center.
Where are the best pubs on Baggot Street Upper?
Searsons is a rugby mecca that has been open since 1845. Doheny & Nesbitt features a “frozen 1885” Victorian interior. The Waterloo Bar is known for its mahogany splendor and Ryan-owned charm. These are the anchors of the historic “Georgian Mile.”
What restaurants are on Baggot Street Upper?
Angelina’s is a popular modern Italian restaurant with a large number of reviews. The Oxhorn Grill is an upmarket steakhouse favored by locals. Eathons provides healthy European breakfasts, lunches, etc. There are more than 221 eateries in the vicinity.
Is Baggot Street Upper safe at night and good for tourists?
Yes, it is a very wealthy and well-lit part of town. It is known as a place of work and socializing that is very secure. The forums on TripAdvisor rave about how it is authentic and does not resemble Temple Bar. It is close to many embassies and Aviva Stadium.
How do I get to Baggot Street Upper by public transport?
It is also possible to use the Luas Green Line and alight at the Charlemont stop. The street is also served by the 4, 7, and 46A Bus lines. It is also within a 10-minute walk to St. Stephen’s Green. Parking spaces cost €3 an hour within local areas.