Maldron Hotel Smithfield stands on Smithfield Square on Dublin's north side, in the old market district that has been reborn around the Jameson Distillery Bow St. It is a good-value choice for visitors who want a comfortable modern hotel, a calmer base than Temple Bar and quick links to the sights. The Luas stop at Smithfield is on the doorstep, which gives a straightforward line to the north side and, with a change, the south, while the walk to Temple Bar, Christ Church Cathedral and the Ha'penny Bridge is about fifteen minutes along the quays. Smithfield itself is a pleasant area to wander, with an open cobbled square, cafes and a mix of modern buildings and old warehouses, and the nearby district of Stoneybatter has become one of the city's best-liked neighbourhoods for traditional pubs, independent restaurants and coffee shops. Rooms in the hotel are practical and comfortable, with modern bathrooms, and the hotel has a bar and restaurant for guests. Check the details of facilities and breakfast when you book.
Location, honestly
Smithfield is a short walk from many sights but not in the very centre, and you will use the Luas or walk for most attractions. The area is quiet in the evenings compared with Temple Bar, which can be an advantage, and it is well placed for the Jameson tour, the Cobblestone's traditional sessions in the Smithfield area and the nearby Four Courts and the Liffey quays.
After dark, take the usual city precautions on the quays and choose well-lit routes back. The Phoenix Park is a short tram or bus ride away, which makes the hotel a useful base for visitors who want to cycle or walk among the deer.
Living in it
Rooms are designed for comfort and value, with good bedding and reliable facilities, and staff are used to guests who are exploring the city on foot and by tram. Ask for a room on a higher floor if you want a quieter night, and check the details of breakfast, parking and accessibility when you book.
The hotel is a good option for families because rooms can accommodate extra beds in some categories, though that depends on availability, so confirm when you book. As with other city-centre hotels, prices rise on big event weekends, so book early for rugby and concert dates.
Who it suits
Travellers who want good value, a quieter base and easy tram links, whiskey fans who want the Jameson tour on their doorstep, families who want space and visitors who plan to explore the north side, including Stoneybatter and the Phoenix Park. It is less suited to those who want to be in the middle of Grafton Street shopping or the Temple Bar nightlife, for whom the Fitzwilliam or the Clarence will be closer. Combine your stay with a Jameson tour, a traditional pub evening in Stoneybatter and a morning in Phoenix Park, and use the Luas to reach the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaol on the western side.
Why stay here
- ✓On Smithfield Square
- ✓Luas stop at the door
- ✓Next to Jameson Bow St
- ✓Walk to Temple Bar quays
- ✓Near Stoneybatter pubs
- ✓Bar and restaurant on site
- ✓Good value city base
- ✓Close to Phoenix Park
Good questions
Is Maldron Smithfield near the Jameson Distillery?+
Yes. The hotel is on Smithfield Square, a short walk from the Jameson Distillery Bow St.
How do I get to Temple Bar?+
It is about a fifteen-minute walk along the quays, or a short ride on the Luas and a short walk.
Is the area safe in the evening?+
Smithfield and Stoneybatter are popular, lively areas. As in any city centre, use well-lit routes and normal sensible precautions late at night.
