Nina Sheil

If there is an alternative Dublin somewhere out there, populated by faerie and other magical beings, and the odd human who manage to make their way there, an entrance to it surely lies hidden in Iveagh Gardens. This small, quiet park is situated behind the National Concert Hall, with access to it from Lower Hatch Street and Clonmel Street (off Harcourt Street). Despite its central location, it never gets the same kind of hordes of visitors as St Stephen’s Green, or even Merrion Square. Instead, you can enjoy the tranquility as you munch on your lunch on one of the benches or in the lush grass, or just wandering around.

Trees and bushes form avenues and paths here and there, inviting you to explore, like Alice, what might lie around the corner. There are disused archery grounds, an artificial waterfall, which still manages to please both eyes and ears, a rose garden, a maze, and a wooded area through which are dotted Classical-style statues, celebrating Artemis and her ilk. While the Gardens have been carefully restored to their original 1860s look, they still clearly have a thick layer of Time coating them, which, together with the quietness in the middle of the city, creates an atmosphere of detachment, of being Elsewhere. Speaking of time, fans of Doctor Who might find themselves somewhat alarmed on their arrival in the middle of the park – two large stone fountains in the shape of angels face each other with stern expressions across the open area. Just don’t blink!

During the summer months, events take place in the gardens now and again, so if it’s peace you’re looking for, you might want to check an events calendar in advance. Concerts, summer theatre and even the city’s major food festival find their way here, with the environment managing to add an extra level of sophistication to the revels.

You can find Iveagh Gardens, as well as all the other locations we’ve featured on Nerdy Dublin, on our interactive map:

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(and with thanks to all the people who’ve helped us to update this page!)

You’ve spent a long day Dublin’s fair city, perhaps on a long journey around the city’s museums and tourist spots, or an equally long and tiring walk around the halls of a convention centre. You’re in need of some good food to refuel your nerdy adventures. Well, we’ve got you covered! The contributors of the Dublin2019 blog have submitted their suggestions for the best places to rest your tired feet and fill your grumbling stomach.

Chips! There are claims that the Irish Civil War was actually over whether Beshoff or Leo Burdock’s make the best chips, but that’s obviously not true because the answer is Marco’s. Fresh cod with chips (and trust me, chippers are generous with their sides of chips here) costs somewhere between €5 and €7, depending on what chipper you decide to ally yourself with!

The Silk Road Cafe also offers food courses and workshops.

The Silk Road Cafe in The Chester Beatty Library has some of the best, most affordable food in Dublin, conveniently located one of our best museums.

Accents Coffee & Tea Lounge (which we recommended in our post about places to hand out and play tabletop games) – Tea, coffee, and Wi-Fi. What more do you need?

KC Peaches – high quality food at low prices. Operates on a per-plate basis, so channel your Tetris skills and pile it high. Breakfast will cost you about a fiver, and salads and sandwiches on their lunch menu range from €5 to €7.

Salamancas – tapas! Good food, reasonable prices, and tends to have early bird/lunch menus at even better prices. Tapas start from €3 up to about €12 for seafood tapas.

HAVE YOUR SAY!

If you’ve been to Dublin before, what’s your favourite place to eat? If you’re a Dubliner yourself, got any tips on finding the best value and best quality food? Let us know!

Below you’ll see our handy Nerdy Dublin map, which features the venues mentioned in this blog post (the blue “Hangouts” pins). If we win the Dublin 2019 Bid for a Worldcon in Ireland, we’d love for you to visit some of the places on our map. You can find ALL of our Nerdy Dublin entries on it!

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Nerdy Dublin: Marsh’s Library. 

by Nina Shiel

What do Bram Stoker, the ghost of an Archbishop, Newton’s Principia Mathematica and an ancient Egyptian mummy have in common? At one time or another, they have all been found in Marsh’s Library, Dublin’s first public library situated right next to St Patrick’s Cathedral.Libraries of Dublin: Marsh’s Library.

Founded in 1707 by the then Archbishop of Dublin, who sported the name of Narcissus Marsh, the interior of this treasure trove of a building still comfortably lingers in the 18th century, with original oak book cases majestically towering on either side of the visitor. The little Library is little known, but therefore it is usually reasonably quiet, which provides the visitor with an opportunity to take their time savouring the scent of old wood and books, admiring written works that date as far as the fifteenth century, and listening to the myriad stories connected to this enchanting building.

As a person of the Enlightenment era, Marsh felt strongly about the importance of reading and researching widely. Dismayed by the restrictions imposed on the students using the library at Trinity College, by using his own funds to acquire three sizable book collections in addition to his own, Marsh opened up the opportunity to read and research for everyone – at least, everyone with the ability to read and access to polite society!

Throughout the years, a number of famous authors came to read in the library, including Bram Stoker, Jonathan Swift, Walter Scott and James Joyce. The Old Reading Room still houses the large, sturdy table and chairs used by Joyce in 1902. Somewhat incongruously, considering Marsh’s original intention of freedom to read, the back of the library features several “cages”: lockable enclosures, each with some shelves, a desk and a chair, in which unfortunate readers were shut to do their reading later in the 18th century, after an influx of books stolen out of the library.

At the far end of the library, an intriguing door floats in the wall on top of a spiral staircase, seemingly entirely out of place. Now bricked up, it used to lead to an astronomical observatory constructed for Marsh, which also acted as his own private passage between the library and his official residence. It is said that his ghost arrives through the door to search through the books for a letter from his niece, Grace.

The library contains a number of scientific works, but without question the brightest jewel in the collection is a first edition of Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica from 1687. Due to its value, the book only comes out on very special occasions, but its presence alone tickles the imagination and sense of history!

For reasons of conservation and preservation, Marsh’s Library charges a nominal admission fee of €3/€2. Under-16s and the unemployed are given free entry. The library usually stages special exhibitions throughout the year on particular themes in the collections. Many of the cheerful staff are volunteers, who are very happy to answer your questions and to regale you with quirky tales of the library. About that mummy? Apparently, in 1888 a 3,500 year old mummy was discovered in a coffin in a cupboard in the library. Nobody knew how or when it had ended up there.

You can find Marsh’s Library on our interactive map, along with all of the other ‘Nerdy’ items featured on the blog. We really hope that if we win the Dublin 2019 bid for a Worldcon in Ireland that you’ll also take some time to enjoy our fantastic city – and Nerdy Dublin has all the best places to go!:

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Peadar displays his apocalyptic Irish roots by going completely green! 

You can sign up for the course here, and we’ve linked the IWC on our Nerdy Dublin map (below)!

http://www.zeemaps.com/pub?group=1791408&legend=1&list=1&h=sunflower,candle&x=-6.254394&y=53.347319&z=3

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So, you’ve come to Dublin’s fair city, perhaps as a tourist, or to pay your Dublin friends a visit. Maybe you’re attending a convention, but want to extend the fun beyond the convention itself. You’re looking a suitable place to socialize with old friends, or the new friends you made at a convention in Dublin! Or maybe you just need a place to play some casual tabletop games? Well, we’ve got you covered! In this series of blog posts, we’ll show you some noteworthy places in Dublin City Centre’s nerd scene. This week, we’re going to look at three nerd-friendly cafés and pubs that you could try out.

If you’re looking for a place to hang out in the afternoon with a cuppa or some caffeine, Accents Coffee on Stephen Street Lower is a lovely little hang out. Order your hot drinks and sweet things upstairs, then take your plate downstairs to sit on one of the cosy little couches huddled around coffee tables. Raid Accent’s own game collection (Connect Four, playing cards, Jenga, Operation, etc) or bring your own games. The only problem is trying to gain the willpower to leave the couches.

Cosy and Snug in Accents Coffee

Another option would be the Tea Garden (disclaimer – not actually a garden!) on Ormond Quay. The staff are very hospitable and knowledgeable about different kinds of teas. They too have a collection of standard card and board games at the front of the shop. This place is even more relaxed and cosy than Accent Cafe, and I very nearly fell asleep during a game of cards the last time I hung out with friends there. The relaxed atmosphere makes this venue a very hushed place, so maybe it’s not the best place for a very loud game of Werewolf or Codenames. Maybe save that for the pub.

Speaking of which, if you’re looking for more of an evening-time venue, with a few pints for good measure, you could try Cassidy’s Bar on Westmoreland Street. It’s quite central, and does lovely hot pizzas – though you may want to order your pizza as soon as possible if you’re hungry, as it can take a while to get to you when the bar is busy. Be warned, it gets very busy at peak hours of the weekend, and therefore music can get a bit loud. Otherwise, it’s a great venue to play games in – book a table downstairs to reap the benefits of a foosball table and Jenga, in addition to your own card games of course. Plus, they have chairs upholstered in comics, and have an entire wall painted with The Joker’s face (Heath Ledger style). I don’t know about you, but that should count for extra points. It’s a bit dim downstairs though, so if you need to be able to see someone’s cards on the other side of a long table, bring your glasses.

I’m Batman! at Cassidy’s Bar.

Below you’ll see our handy Nerdy Dublin map, which features the venues mentioned in this blog post (the blue “Hangouts” pins). If we win the Dublin 2019 Bid for a Worldcon in Ireland, we’d love for you to visit some of the places on our map. You can find ALL of our Nerdy Dublin entries on it!

HAVE YOUR SAY!

Dublin being, well, Dublin, there’s loads more possibilities out there for social venues. If you’ve been to Dublin before, what’s your favourite place to hang out? If you’re a Dubliner yourself, got any tips on finding the best venues? If you have any additional recommendations, let us know!

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NERDY DUBLIN, A TOURISTS GUIDE: PART 1

So, you’ve come to visit Dublin, but aren’t able to attend any of our book, comic, anime or gaming conventions. Or maybe you ARE attending a convention, but want to extend the fun beyond the convention itself. You’re in need of a directory of all the comic book stores and hangouts in the city… Well, we’ve got you covered! In this series of blog posts, we’ll show you some noteworthy places in Dublin City Centre’s nerd scene. This week, we’re going to look for…

PLACES THAT SELL COMICS, GRAPHIC NOVELS AND BOOKS

If  you’re looking for a place that specializes purely in comic books, Sub City Comics is the place for you. It’s located on Dame Street, which is down the road from Trinity College and nearby Temple Bar, if you’re planning on hitting some tourist spots on the same day! If you have enough wiggle room in your schedule to choose what day you visit the shop, it might be good to note that they get new imports from the US of A every Wednesday.

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, so if you’re in a hurry and can’t find what you’re looking for (like me when I walk in on my lunch break!) they’ll be able to help you. If you still haven’t gotten your fill and want a another similar shop, Dublin City Comics is another option, located on Bolton Street. For those staying outside of the city centre, there’s also Big Bang Comics in Dundrum, who’ve recently gotten a massive (and awesome) makeover.

On the other hand, if your holiday is short and you need to get all your bits and bobs in one fell swoop, you may consider going to Forbidden Planet. It’s a large shop located on Crampton Quay, which as a tourist you can find easily enough due to it’s proximity to the Merchant’s Arch end of the Ha’penny Bridge. On the upper level, you’ll find a large selection of comics, which are stocked up every Wednesday – the shop’s New Comic Book Day:

Doesn’t need mentioned but hey.. It’s #NewComicBookDay – with 9000 new issues ones out so prepare your bank account pic.twitter.com/YcVepxFcyp

— ForbiddenPlanet Éire (@FPDublin) October 7, 2015

But what if you have enough Marvel comics (is that even possible?) and want to bring back something you wouldn’t find at home? Wander downstairs and you’ll find comics made by Irish writers and artists, such as Hound , created by Paul Bolger. There’s even some comics written in the Irish language, such as An Sclábhaí (“the slave”), with artwork by Tomm Moore (director at Cartoon Saloon). But we’d give you a warning for your wallet’s sake – when you walk into this shop, you may or may not get distracted by all the shiney and fluffy merchandise (we’ll discuss all these wonderful things in another installment).

Other Irish comic names you should look for while you’re visiting these comic books shops include Maura McHugh, Will Sliney, Michael Carroll and Jordie Bellaire (An American artist who resides here on the Emerald Isle). If you want to delve more into Irish comic names, check out Irish Comics Wikia.

If comics aren’t your forte, head downstairs, where you’ll find more reading material: shelves upon shelves of manga (which, as far as I know as of the writing of this article, often have a deal on them), plus a nice chunk of fantasy & scifi books. And of course a sale bin for all of the above! If you’re a film-and-animation nerd, like myself, you’ll be coveting the artbooks and magazines. Just leave me on this floor whispering “so pretty…!” for a few minutes (or hours).

For a wider spectrum of reading material, head to shops like Hodges & Figgs on Dawson Street, or Chapters on Parnell Street; they are Dublin’s book-heaven! Beyond the usual bookshop stock, which is wonderfully large enough as it is (let’s be honest, you’ll probably find me buried in the fantasy and sci-fi shelves, breathing in the new book smell), these shops have sections dedicated to graphic novels, manga, and some comics thrown in for good measure. On one of the upper floors of Hodges & Figgs, or the back of Chapters, you’ll find a large range of books on art, film, photography, and other media. Are you a student? Don’t forget to bring along your student ID and Chapters will give you a discount! (In fact, do as I do and bring your student card EVERYWHERE and always ask if they can give you a discount). If you’re looking for something a little more Irish, they have sections dedicated to Irish literature and authors.

If you’re looking for smaller, independent bookshop experiences, try places like Books Upstairs (with an entire ground floor dedicated to Irish literature, and with a quiet little cafe on the top floor); Gutterbookshop (who run events regularly, and are conveniently placed in Temple Bar); and The Winding Stair (which has the combined superpowers of a bookshop, cafe and a highly rated restaurant).

Thanks to the recent popularity of superhero films, you can also find comic books and graphic novels in Ireland’s bookshop chain, Easons – though this is mainly in their flagship branches such as on O’Connell Street. Be prepared to only find those comics that HAVE been made into films, such as Suicide Squad, The Avengers and Deadpool. If you’re looking for novels and the like, though, there’s plenty of branches of this shop all over the city. Maybe not one of every corner like Starbucks, but still, plenty!

HAVE YOUR SAY!

If you’ve been to Dublin before, what’s your favourite comic/book shop place to visit? If you’re a Dubliner yourself, got any tips on finding the best deal? If you have any additional recommendations, let us know!

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