From hidden bookshops to classic gems, Scholar Ambassador Yukta Kanoria shares her favorite classic spots in Dublin for books, data, trend and extra. A must-read for anybody who loves shopping for timeless treasures.
In a world dominated by quick trend, fleeting developments, fast-rising costs and ever-decreasing high quality, classic shops stand as charming portals to the previous. Fortuitously, Dublin has loads of these to supply, whether or not you’re on the lookout for a flowery outfit on the cheaper facet, are a collector, or, like me, merely love the scent of previous books and the sensation of holding one in your palms with out eager to spend €20 on it.
On this weblog put up, I’ll discuss three classic shops I didn’t find out about that basically stood out to me whereas roaming Dublin final month.
The Secret E book and Report Retailer
Deal with: 15A Wicklow Road, Dublin 2, D02 Y765, Eire
I stumbled upon this place on an Instagram reel and had been that means to go to ever since. Whereas it will not be probably the most hidden spot, I had no concept it existed and neither did my associates. We have been thrilled to find the abundance of second-hand books and previous vinyl data we had been lacking out on.
It’s known as the Secret Bookstore as a result of it’s tucked away within the passage of an previous constructing. Even earlier than stepping inside, you get a way it is going to be a cool place, with quirky posters and handwritten notes lining the partitions resulting in the store. Many vinyl data are offered for €5 every, although there are pricier ones too, so control what you choose.
As somebody who reads plenty of philosophy, I discovered a variety of books for fairly a low worth in comparison with customary bookstores. A number of the titles I picked up began from round €5 every.
In my view, this place is a haven for guide and music lovers, and undoubtedly value a go to in case you are within the temper for shopping by means of previous books and data.
Below the Bridge
Deal with: 60–61 Talbot Road, Mountjoy, Dublin, D01 E431, Eire
This store is, as you would possibly anticipate, positioned beneath the railway bridge on Talbot Road. It’s not flashy, however for those who stroll alongside the best facet of the road, you’ll spot its large window show stuffed with classic statues and previous crockery. It appears like strolling into the attic of a grandparent’s residence. The store shares every part from real classic items to what some would possibly contemplate previous junk.
So as to add to the ambiance, every time a practice passes overhead, the porcelain on show begins to clink, creating an eerie however enjoyable sound. It’s open till 6 pm on weekdays and till 5 pm on weekends. This store additionally has an ideal collection of classic garments. You will discover fancy coats, leather-based jackets, boots, clothes and extra.
Personally, I used to be drawn to the gathering of previous hardcover books. Throughout my go to, I discovered a stunning copy of The Final of the Mohicans for an ideal worth. You probably have time to dig by means of some treasures from the previous, this place is a enjoyable cease. You by no means know what you would possibly uncover within the organised chaos of this store.
Classic and Retro
Deal with: 19A Predominant Road, Newtown Blackrock, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 C8Y1, Eire
That is one in every of my private favourites. It has that good “blast from the previous” vibe. The store is positioned inside Blackrock Market and is stuffed with previous books at actually low costs. If I bear in mind accurately, all books price the identical, regardless of their age or measurement.
Additionally, you will discover classic toys, jewelry and trinkets. Music lovers will benefit from the collection of vinyl data and the prospect to identify an previous musical instrument or two. Sadly, the store solely opens from 11 am to five.30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, so it’s best saved for a weekend outing.
I beloved rummaging by means of the cabinets to discover a significant memento to deliver again, and afterwards handled myself to a cup of hand-rolled ice cream from the close by stall — tasty and budget-friendly.
So, subsequent time you’re in Dublin with a while to spare, strive one in every of these spots to hunt for hidden gems. Or flip it right into a day trip with your folks, exploring, discovering enjoyable objects, and making new reminiscences.
Yukta Kanoria is learning at Trinity Faculty Dublin by way of Training in Eire

