Rathmines
Next to Ranelagh sits the pretty neighbouring village of Rathmines. Considered one of Dublin’s trendiest city spots for its excellent range of shops, quirky vintage shops, eateries, hot yoga and cool bars. It is also home to the Stella, an iconic cinematic landmark in the heart of the village where you can enjoy an evening out at its best.
Rathmines is home to the Swan centre, a long established compact upmarket shopping centre with small boutiques, cafes, eateries and a multiplex cinema.
Dublin city centre is a brisk stroll away or if you prefer a bus or taxi these are plentiful. The Luas green line is close by at Charlemont and Ranelagh for easy commutes across the city.
History & Culture
The area between Rathmines and Ranelagh was once known as “Bloody Fields” and in more recent times this area is one of the oldest parts of well-off Dublin today with facilities and location to match.
It is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful distinctive examples of Dublin’s old “Townships”. From its origin as the site of the fort of a medieval Norman Baron, it expanded dramatically in the 19th century, resulting in stunning redbrick Georgian-style townhouses lining its streets and squares, and with smaller artisan cottages tucked away in alleys and sides streets off the main broad street.
Rathmines has been a thriving commercial centre for well over a hundred years, with its fine landmark buildings a testament to the wealth and history of the area.
Education
There are several primary and secondary schools in the area.
There are two primary schools: St Louis (Catholic, mixed) and Kildare Place NS (Church of Ireland, mixed).
There are three post-primary schools: St Louis (Catholic, girls, 632 pupils); St Marys (Catholic, boys); and Rathmines College (interdenominational vocational school).
Dine & Drink
There are a vast number of great independent restaurants to choose from and you will find a restaurant to satisfy your every taste. Restaurants, bars and are coffee shops are countless and include the coolest spots in town.
Enjoy pub quizzes and comedy in Mother Reilly's, craft beers and board games in the hip Blackbird and all things sport in the famous sports bar Rody Bolands.
The Bowery is the only place to go for the most serious of music lovers, a live music venue that covers almost every taste with some of the best up and coming bands playing at weekends.
Enjoy a burger at Farmer Browns, the finest pizza at Manifesto, great European food at Kafka. The highly regarded chicken wings can be appreciated at Elephant & Castle.
Neighbourhood Offerings
Two cinemas, gyms, pools, parks, playgrounds, restaurants, library, shops, cool pubs, renowned music venue, the list really is endless.
Rathmines is well known for its collection of vintage and charity shops and has some of the best in the city.
Art plays an important local part with the Mart Gallery and Studios. The Mart is a cool renovated fire station with a platform for new media, installation, sculpture, experimental performance artists.
