My family has started the tedious process of purging and sorting the things we will keep as we prepare to return back home to the USA. Moving isn’t new for us but it never seems to get easier. As I look around I realize how short a time we have left in Ireland. I have loved living here. One of the things I will truly miss when I leave Ireland is going into town and walking up Grafton St, Henry St. and just strolling along the Liffey river in Dublin. There is a mix of small shops and huge department stores. I sincerely enjoy Dublin’s city centre. There are so many great places to shop or browse and I’ve been thinking of a few of my favorites that I will miss the most!
Avoca
Avoca is a shop that has several locations around the Dublin area. They have some shops that are markets with food and bakeries and coffee shops. Other stores sell everything from books to clothing to beautiful woven blankets. They have locations in must see places like Malahide Castle, Powerscourt House, and many other areas, including one shop just off Grafton st.
The Sweater Shop
The Sweater Shop is also not too far from the famous Grafton St. It is on Nassau St. just across from Trinity College. They have several locations in other cities throughout Ireland as well. They sell beautiful sweaters, as their name suggests, along with knit scarves, blankets and hats and gloves.
The Kilkenny Shop
The Kilkenny Shop also has several shops all over Ireland. It is one of the stores that I always like to browse even if I am just passing by. They have a section of Waterford Crystal, Newbridge silver, handmade pottery, jewelry, clothing, art, knitwear and more. A little something for everyone. There is a nice cafe on the 2nd level of the shop on Nassau St. as well.
Aran Sweater Market
Yes, I’ve already mentioned an Irish Sweater shop but the Aran Sweater Market is another of my favorites. The shop carries many different styles and colors of sweaters for men, women and children. In addition, they have a nice selection of woven hats, blankets, scarves, mittens, handbags and more. I have been to their location in the Aran Islands as well as the the location on Grafton St. Both carry a great variety.
House of Ireland
This is another shop that sells a little of everything from different parts of Ireland. House of Ireland is also on Grafton St. I have found that it is best for our family budget if I don’t visit too often. They have a selection of crystal, men and women’s clothing, knitwear, handbags and some unique and lovely jewelry.
These are just some of the many places I like to go when I’m out and about in Dublin. I know I’ll miss the small coffee shops and cafes along with the bigger department stores. I’ll miss waking by the famous Ha’Penny Bridge and enjoying the local art displayed along St. Stephens Green and Merrion Square. I will especially miss Dublin during the Christmas season when everything is sparkling with fairy lights and holiday magic. I’ll pack my sweaters and take my jewelry with me as I move on. When I wear it I’ll smile, remembering some of my favorite places in Dublin.
