Christmas Shopping in Dublin

Traditionally, December 8th, the ‘Feast of the Immaculate Conception’ was the day when bargain hunters from all over Ireland descended on the big smoke to pick up their Christmas shopping. With the spread of better regional shopping centres, not to mention online shopping, the tradition is no longer as popular, but that doesn’t mean Dublin isn’t a great place to find quirky and uniquely Irish gifts. The following is Travel Edits’ pick of the best this year…

• Avoca Suffolk Street: Irish handmade goods, cute and quirky homeware, books, and gifts and also a nice food department downstairs and restaurant upstairs.

• Fallon and Byrne Exchequer Street: Boutique–style supermarket/delicatessen, impressive range of imported international ingredients and products as well as local specialities. Perfect for Irish-themed gourmet hampers.

• Brown Thomas, Grafton Street: High End Retailer – check out The Marvel Room for some very cool gift ideas. Plus, take a minute or two to browse the super-creative window dressing.

• Arnotts, Henry Street: Department store with a slightly edgier range than Brown Thomas. Excellent cosmetics department and interesting fashion labels. Their window displays are always extra special at this time of year.

• Kilkenny Nassau Street: Selection of Irish designed jewellery, homeware, clothing and artwork.

• Designist Georges St: Cool design pieces including art, kitchenware and lighting – all with an Irish influence.

• Article Powerscourt Town Centre, South William Street: Trendy and creative (mostly Irish –designed) homeware and gifts.

• Stable of Ireland Westbury Mall, Dublin 2: Irish tweeds, woven blankets, linen tableware and everything you need to bring cosiness into your home.

• Butler’s Irish Chocolate Café, Wicklow Street The home of Irish chocolate, hot chocolate and other tempting treats.

Where’s your favourite place to shop in Dublin at Christmas time? Leave a comment and share your tips!