As soon as you step through the elegant Georgian doors of the Merrion Hotel in Dublin, you’re immediately transported into a world of luxury and charm, wrapped in a warm Irish welcome. This place embodies grace, romance, and hospitality – making it an unrivaled destination wedding venue in the heart of Ireland.
The Merrion Hotel takes its distinctive character from 18th-century townhouses, which once belonged to influential Irish figures — boasting 123 guest rooms and 19 suites, a two-star Michelin restaurant, a luxurious spa, and meticulously manicured private gardens. The hotel exemplifies grandeur, splendor, and comfort – everything you might wish for your wedding day.
You cannot go wrong with a Merrion Hotel wedding, it is undoubtedly a testament to Ireland’s rich history, elegantly situated within four meticulously restored Georgian townhouses in Dublin. These 18th-century townhouses, once the homes of notable figures such as Viscount Monck and Garret Wesley, were designed by famed Irish architect Richard Cassels. Over the years, they have witnessed significant events in Irish history, such as the birth of Arthur Wellesley, the future Duke of Wellington. The hotel’s name, ‘Merrion’, comes from the title ‘Viscount Merrion’, granted to Sir Charles Monck in 1760. Today, the hotel blends its historic grandeur with modern luxury, offering a unique retreat that is deeply rooted in the city’s architectural and social history. It serves as a beautiful reminder of Dublin’s Georgian heritage while providing world-class services to its guests.
Let’s dive deeper into why it is the quintessential choice for your wedding –
Unrivaled Location
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, the Merrion is conveniently located for you and your guests. Not only is it close to Dublin’s airport, but it also offers proximity to the city’s top attractions. From its doors, you can easily access Trinity College, the National Gallery, and the iconic Temple Bar. Moreover, the hotel’s Georgian neighbourhood is dotted with fashionable boutiques and Irish artisanal shops, offering your guests a slice of Ireland’s finest.
Hosting your guests in Dublin will give them the opportunity to enjoy the city which is always bursting at the seams with fun things to do. For history buffs, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is a must. They’ll discover the rich history of the “black stuff,” and top off their tour with a pint at the Gravity Bar, boasting the best view of the city. If whiskey’s more their speed, they can swing by the Jameson Distillery for a swig of the smooth stuff.
Bookish pals will geek out at Trinity College, home to the iconic Book of Kells, while art aficionados can lose hours in the National Gallery. Tell them to pack comfy shoes – the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar are calling for an evening pub crawl, where they can discover traditional Irish music sessions. And if they’re looking for a breath of fresh air after all that city fun, a hike up to Howth Head promises killer coastal views.
When hunger strikes, they can munch their way through Dublin, from the street food markets to the swanky bistros. Trust us – they won’t want to miss out on the local specialties like Boxty or a traditional Irish stew!
Romantic & Artistic Setting
The hotel’s architecture, comprising two meticulously restored period wings, is in itself a romantic backdrop. The white Portland stone façade, enriched with ornate plasterwork and beautiful antiques, sets an ambiance of historical sophistication. The Garden Wing overlooks the beautiful private gardens, which bloom with many flowers and feature striking sculpture pieces, perfect for wedding photographs.
A unique feature of the Merrion is the extensive private art collection comprised of pieces from many 19th- and 20th-century artists. As soon as you step into the hotel, you are greeted by the extensive collection that adorns the hotel’s public rooms and corridors. Masterpieces by celebrated artists like Paul Henry, Jack B. Yeats, and Louis le Brocquy create an inspiring atmosphere that brings the rich history and creative spirit of Ireland alive. These pieces showcase Ireland’s natural beauty, its vibrant cityscapes, and portray its people and their stories, making each stroll around the hotel a journey through Irish art history.
One of the most significant pieces you’ll encounter is the Jack B. Yeats painting, entitled ‘Morning in a City.’ Yeats, brother of Nobel laureate W.B. Yeats, is known for his expressionistic, often vibrant depictions of Irish life. His painting in the Merrion, a poignant depiction of early morning city life, is a testament to his evocative style.
Art lovers will also appreciate the works of Paul Henry, renowned for his landscape paintings that celebrate Ireland’s rural charm. His paintings, characterized by a strong sense of color and form, are like visual poems dedicated to the Irish countryside. They encapsulate the rugged beauty and tranquility of the Irish landscapes.
Another important artist represented in the collection is Louis le Brocquy, considered one of the foremost Irish painters of the 20th century. His work, known for its exploration of the human condition, adds a contemporary contrast to the otherwise traditional collection.
And it’s not just the established masters that are represented; the Merrion collection also includes works by emerging artists, showcasing the future of Irish art. It’s a testament to the hotel’s dedication to supporting local culture and talent.
The best way to fully appreciate the collection is through the ‘Art Tea,’ a unique experience offered by the hotel where guests can enjoy fine pastries inspired by the artwork, whilst learning about the pieces from a dedicated art guide. It’s the perfect blend of cultural exploration and culinary indulgence, making art appreciation a delight for all senses.
Accommodation Excellence
Each room exudes comfort and style, designed with Irish fabrics, antiques, and artwork. The period-style rooms retain the classic charm of the 18th-century townhouses, while the Garden Wing rooms provide a more modern aesthetic, overlooking the tranquil private gardens. With a blend of classic and contemporary, hosting your guests at Merrion caters to every guest’s preference, ensuring that they’re accommodated in luxury and comfort.
Culinary Masterpieces
When it comes to wedding feasts, the Merrion excels with Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, Ireland’s only two-star Michelin restaurant, and was the first restaurant in Ireland to hold 2 Michelin stars. Led by Executive Chef Patrick Guilbaud, the restaurant offers exquisite French cuisine with a distinctly Irish twist. From succulent canapés to mouthwatering four-course meals, each dish is expertly crafted and beautifully presented. If you prefer a more relaxed setting, the Cellar Bar, set in the original 18th-century wine vaults, offers a more casual dining experience without compromising on quality and taste.
In addition to the fine dining restaurants, the Garden Room at the hotel is a delightful garden dining experience nestled in the heart of Dublin. Designed to bring the tranquility and beauty of the hotel’s private garden indoors, The Garden Room offers panoramic views and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu is a celebration of local and seasonal cuisine, masterfully prepared by Executive Chef Ed Cooney. It features a blend of modern dishes and traditional Irish classics, showcasing the best of Ireland’s rich culinary heritage. The Garden Room is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it the perfect spot for any meal, whether it’s a leisurely brunch, an intimate dinner, or a casual bite between sightseeing excursions. The dining experience at The Garden Room is complemented by an impressive wine list and attentive, friendly service, ensuring a memorable meal in an enchanting setting.
Unparalleled Amenities
Beyond the wedding itself, the Merrion pampers its guests with amenities like the Tethra Spa. Your guests can unwind with bespoke treatments in serene settings, or relax in the infinity pool that overlooks the private garden.
Immerse yourself in a world of relaxation and serenity at the Tethra Spa. This luxury wellness retreat, with its soothing decor and calming atmosphere, is designed to provide a tranquil sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s more than just a spa – it’s a blissful escape that elevates your stay at the Merrion to an even more memorable experience.
The centerpiece of the Tethra Spa is the stunning 18-meter infinity swimming pool, bathed in natural light and overlooking the Merrion’s private gardens. It’s a truly calming space, perfect for leisurely swims or energetic workouts.
Alongside the pool, you’ll find a fully equipped gym, kitted out with state-of-the-art exercise machines and free weights. If you’re after personalized attention, the spa’s experienced personal trainers are on hand to tailor a fitness regime to your needs, ensuring you maintain your wellness routine even while away from home.
The Tethra Spa also offers an extensive menu of holistic treatments that focus on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. From invigorating massages and rejuvenating facials to soothing body wraps and treatments, each service is designed to provide an elevated spa experience. The spa uses premium product lines like ESPA and Darphin, known for their natural ingredients and proven results.
If you’re preparing for your wedding at the Merrion, the spa offers a variety of bridal packages to help you relax and get ready for your big day. These packages, tailored to your needs, can include a range of treatments such as facials, massages, manicures, and pedicures, ensuring you look and feel your best as you walk down the aisle.
Additional amenities at the Merrion enhance your stay even further. The hotel offers 24-hour room service, so you can indulge in the hotel’s culinary offerings anytime you wish. And, of course, the hotel’s private gardens offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city – a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing or pre-wedding festivities.
Ceremony and Reception Spaces
The pièce de résistance for a Merrion Hotel wedding is undoubtedly its reception and venue space. The hotel offers an array of stunning event rooms to suit weddings of varying scales. The grandeur of the Merrion’s magnificent ballroom, with its ornate detailing and stunning chandeliers, sets the stage for an unforgettable reception. This ballroom can comfortably accommodate up to 100 guests for a seated dinner and up to 150 for a cocktail reception.
For a more intimate setting, the Merrion’s private drawing rooms, with their authentic 18th-century décor and striking views of the garden, provide a more personal and serene atmosphere. The Wellington and Drawing rooms, distinguished by their period furniture, original artworks, and marble fireplaces, are perfect for smaller receptions of up to 50 guests.
If you dream of an outdoor wedding, Merrion’s private garden, which features manicured lawns, colorful blooms, and a variety of sculptures, can transform into an enchanting open-air venue. Here, you can exchange your vows under the Dublin sky, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the soothing trickle of fountains.
Each available space for a Merrion Hotel wedding echoes the elegant charm that has become synonymous with the venue. Attention to detail, impeccable service, and an unwavering commitment to excellence insures that your wedding reception unfolds just as you’ve always imagined, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Merrion Hotel Wedding – Venue at A Glance
Address: The Merrion Hotel, Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. D02 KF79
Website: https://www.merrionhotel.com/
Capacity: 100 Guests
To see some of our work from a real Merrion Hotel wedding, check out this festive 3-day Merrion Hotel wedding of Ellen & Geoff.
Slán go Fóill,
Tara
Images by Merrion Hotel
