Located in Ballsbridge, The Schoolhouse Hotel and Gastrobar is an iconic piece of Dublin’s past, making it perfect for those looking for some boutique comfort for a stay, high quality food (and some delicious cocktails) in a gorgeous setting!
Before we dive into what The Schoolhouse offers today, let’s step back in time. Built in 1859 as a school, this building played a significant role during the 1916 Easter Rising. It was used as a communications post by the rebels – talk about staying somewhere with a bit of historical weight!
Because of this, the Schoolhouse is hard to miss from the outside. Its gorgeous, almost castle-like architecture stands out, with its tower and stone walls giving it a unique look. Once you step inside, it gets even better! High ceilings with large overarching beams, a gorgeous colorway over the walls – the atmosphere is instantly warm and welcoming. The Schoolhouse has plenty of fireplaces crackling away in different sections of the building, including in the dining areas, as well as lots of little nooks and crannies to discover in the upper sections of the building. Located so close to the city centre itself, it’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life!
The rooms themselves are a lovely mix of classic and contemporary. You’ve got all the modern comforts—plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and those little touches that make your stay extra comfortable. Yet, the charm of the building remains intact, making it feel both luxurious and homely at the same time.
The Gastrobar – A Foodie’s Dream
Now, let’s talk food. The Schoolhouse Gastrobar is a serious gem when it comes to dining in Dublin. First of all, the setting is fantastic—like the rest of the building, it’s full of character, with an overall cosy vibe all over. They have multiple dining sections, with a garden available in the warmer months. There is plenty of seating, and is, in our opinion, the perfect place to go for high quality food and drink year round, especially because of the general ambience of the building.
As for the food? It’s simply top-notch. We started off with a fruity cocktail that was super refreshing and creamy—exactly what you’d want after a long day. Then came the espresso martini, and let’s just say, they know how to make a good one! Smooth, strong, and delicious. But the real highlight was the food. We had the beef wellington, which was tender and perfectly cooked with a golden pastry crust. It’s the kind of dish that left me thinking about its comfort for days. We also tried the roasted hake with chorizo—light, fresh, and packed with flavour. Every bite was a treat, and the whole experience just felt like a special occasion.
The Schoolhouse menu also changes seasonally, so get ready for their Christmas 2024 offering…from what we’ve seen, it’ll be a delicious one!
There’s plenty of cosy spots upstairs too, so if you’re not looking for a full meal you can settle into a comfy armchair and lose yourself in conversation—or just relax with a good book and a drink. The bartender certainly knows what he’s doing!
The Conference Room
The Schoolhouse is also a brilliant spot for business. They’ve got a stylish conference room that’s perfect for meetings, workshops, or small events. The room has all the modern amenities you’d need. t’s a great option if you want to impress your colleagues or clients without the usual corporate feel. And after your meeting? Head straight downstairs to the gastrobar for a post-work drink or meal. Couldn’t be easier.
What You Need to Know
The Schoolhouse Hotel is located on Northumberland Road in Ballsbridge, just a few minutes from Dublin’s city center. It’s a great base whether you’re here for business, sightseeing (the trail by the canal is lovely during every season!), or simply to unwind. For more details or to book a stay, head over to their official website at schoolhouse.ie.
Want to see more? Head over to our Instagram @Travel2Ireland for a reel of the Schoolhouse!
