Three Dublin sites among the country’s top ‘hidden gems’ for tourists

Three lesser-known Dublin locations have been ranked among the top ‘hidden gems’ visited by tourists.

A new study ranked Ireland third worldwide for having the most hidden gems, as recommended by tourists, with England and the USA ahead of us.

According to the report by Bókun, which is part of the Tripadvisor family, Dublin is home to three of the top ten in Ireland – Drimnagh Castle, Casino Marino and Marsh’s Library.

Drimnagh Castle, described as a “meticulously restored Norman Castle, boasting the distinction of being the sole remaining moated castle in Ireland”, ranked number one nationwide.

“Once the esteemed seat of the de Bernival family, who were granted lands in Drimnagh and Terenure by King John in 1215, the castle now serves primarily as a cherished heritage site,” the survey said.

It is the only remaining castle in Ireland with a flooded moat around it fed by a tributary of the Camac river.

A number of films and TV shows have been shot at Drimnagh Castle, including The Abduction Club (2002); Ella Enchanted (2004); The Old Curiosty Shop (2007); and The Tudors (2007).

Other secretly admired locations on the Dublin list include Richmond Barracks, St Audoen’s Church, Chester Beatty, the Hugh Lane Gallery, 14 Henrietta Street, and the Little Museum of Dublin.

“Dublin appears to have made a remarkable impression on tourists, with a total of nine destinations appearing on the global list of ‘hidden gem’ spots,” a Bókun spokesperson said.

“From the nine that made it to the list, Drimnagh Castle emerged as the front-runner, claiming the top spot in both Dublin and Ireland overall. 19pc of all reviews called the historical site a ‘hidden gem’ location.

“Among the nine acknowledged spots in Dublin were Casino Marino, Marsh’s Library, Dublin City Gallery and Richmond Barracks.

“This recognition shines a spotlight on Dublin as a city with huge cultural significance, placing it amongst some very esteemed wonders worldwide,” the spokesperson added.

Meanwhile, other nationwide hidden gems identified by tourists include: Kilfane Waterfall and Glen in Co Kilkenny; National Botanic Gardens in Kilmacurragh, Co Wicklow; Dooks Golf Club, Glenbeigh, Co Kerry; Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, Co Longford; Victor’s Way in Co Wicklow; and Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Tramore, Co Waterford.

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