Special Places to Stay - More than a bed for the night

Stepping into the Georgian coach house of a merchant’s house on handsome Merrion Square is like slipping back in time. The square is one of the city's finest addresses: discreet, quiet and perfectly placed for the sights. Through the high gate, enter the 'working' courtyards, still used to refresh the police horses today (delightful to watch); then it's up wooden steps and into your quaint first-floor apartment, all pine floors, tongue-and-groove panelling and crewel-curtains. Furniture is comfortable and traditional; the place has a homely fresh feel. The three double bedrooms are country-cottage snug with painted panelled walls, shelves of books, pretty rugs and Shaker pegs. One has a four-poster (not huge but lovely), another a double shower, and there's a Victorian roll top in the main bathroom. The charming 'parlour', with its rosebud wallpaper, has a wood-burning stove, and there’s a big family table in the charming kitchen. No TV, just sweet simplicity. Leinster House, the National Gallery, museums, canal walks, restaurants and bars are a stroll. Modestly, historically special.