About National Museum Collins Barracks
Over in Smithfield, a brisk DART or bus from Drumcondra through Phibsborough, Collins Barracks is the massive campus housing the National Museum's Decorative Arts & History branch. This 1702 cavalry barracks spans 26 acres, with cobblestones echoing soldiers' boots amid Georgian squares. It's Dublin's largest museum, free, with 500,000 objects spanning prehistory to postmodern.
What to Expect
Stars include the Áras Mhic Dhiarmada exhibition on 1916 Rising arms, a medieval Soldiers of Fortune gallery with chainmail, and Irish silver/costume wings. The Money Gallery traces punt to euro; seasonal shows like 'Soldiers and Chiefs' thrill. Wander vast halls under vaulted ceilings, picnic in the parade ground. Cafés offer stew amid musket displays.
Insider Tips
Luas Red Line drops at museum doors. From Drumcondra, 41 bus via Cabra. Kids adore weaponry; audio tours free. Thursday eves for quiet. Park nearby for Luasby bikes. Vast, so prioritise Rising exhibit. This barracks-turned-treasure-house links Drumcondra's GAA fields to Ireland's turbulent past, armoury smells linger like ghosts.