If you are an avid reader of this blog, follow me on Instagram, or know me in the real world, you’ll know I’m kind of obsessed with all things books. I love wandering the stacks at my local Barnes and Noble looking for a new story to dive into. My to-be-read pile is kind of insane. I bought a “Boys are Better in Books” sweatshirt. (Just waiting for it to be delivered.)
My love of books is just one of the many reasons I love Ireland.
Ireland is a book lover’s paradise. From the words and wit of literary giants like Oscar Wilde and James Joyce to contemporary creators like Cecelia Ahern and Mike McCormack, Irish writers have been shaping the world of literature for generations. There is a little bit of literary magic wherever you turn and a never-ending supply of bookish things to do.
Want to get the Irish bookworm experience? Here are a few fun things every book lover should do on your next adventure to Ireland.
Visit the Old Library at Trinity College.
The Old Library at Trinity College in Dublin is a must for any book lover journeying through the Emerald Isle. (It was my top must-see place during my trip.) Dating back to the 18th century, sunlight softly illuminates the college’s impressively exquisite antique book collection that line the oak shelves as busts of some of literature and philosophy’s greatest minds stand guard. With its high ceilings and old-world details, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. (Or to Belle’s favorite room in the Beast’s castle, or to the magical school of Hogwarts for those Disney and Harry Potter fans out there.)
Click here for more information on hours and ticket prices.
Strike a pose with a famous writer.
Want to pose for a picture with wordsmith Oscar Wilde? Snap a selfie with poet William Butler Yeats? Keep your eyes peeled for one of the many statues scattered around depicting Ireland’s literary greats in various forms. Looking to get a little more up close and personal with your favorite writer? Do a little research on where they are buried and make a stop at their grave. Okay, it’s a little morbid, but how many times in your life are you going to be able to say you stood by the final resting place of a literary giant?
Check out the Frank McCourt Museum.
While there are various museums featuring Irish writers all over the country, my personal favorite is the Frank McCourt Museum in the city of Limerick dedicated to Angela’s Ashes author Frank McCourt. The museum is housed in the old Leamy School McCourt attended as a child and mentioned in his memoir. With child-like murals lining the walls and black footprints imprinted with “Frank’s Way” lining the floor, it houses a large collection of memorabilia from McCourt’s life and the various incarnations of Angela’s Ashes, and features recreations of his two room flat and school room. You are guided through McCourt’s world by the museum’s enthusiastic tour guides who are a wealth of knowledge and fun facts about the author. (In addition to answering all of our questions, ours pointed out a small box said to contain part of McCourt’s ashes.) Hit the gift shop on your way out and purchase your very own piece of the Leamy School’s wall. It’s a really cool souvenir and proceeds go to keeping this cool museum in operation.
Click here for more information on hours and ticket prices.
Walk a mile in a fictional character’s shoes.
Do you have a favorite book (or movie) set in Ireland? Look up some of the places featured in your favorite story and incorporate them into your journey if possible. It is a great way to feel a great way to build an even deeper connection with your beloved characters and to stand in the places you fell in love with on the page. Bring a copy of your favorite read and snap some pics of it at the real-life places that inspired its author. (Need some recommendations? My personal favorites are Herself by Leslie Carroll, Love and Luck by Jenna Evans Welch, and anything by Cecelia Ahern.)
Stop at a bookshop.
What is the best way to commemorate you bookish journey? With a new book, of course! Before you return home, make sure to stop at one of the many bookshops scattered across the country and pick up a new read. (Pro tip: If you have your heart set on something by an Irish writer, keep your eyes peeled for an Irish Authors section.) Whether it’s your new favorite Irish writer or a cool international version of one a beloved favorite, this will be one book you will treasure forever.
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