George’s Street Arcade

The George's Street Arcade, a Victorian jewel of Dublin

The Dublin audio-guided tour lets you discover the George's Street Arcade, a superb example of Victorian architecture with its characteristic red bricks. This covered market, very popular in the city, opened in 1881 under the name South City Markets.

An inauguration badly received

Considered one of the first shopping centres in Europe, the market was designed by a duo of English architects who won a competition. At the grand inauguration, the mayor's guests were mainly great families with interests in the project: not a single ordinary Dubliner was invited, which was badly received and explains the site's poor success at first.

What there is to see

Today, the arcade houses a colourful, lively market, where designer boutiques, record shops, vintage stores and fresh-produce stalls rub shoulders. Its red-brick architecture and its characteristic tower make it a landmark of the city centre, in the heart of the cultural quarter. It is one of the most picturesque places to stroll and make good finds in Dublin.

Practical information

The George's Street Arcade is between South Great George's Street and Drury Street, in the heart of central Dublin. The covered market usually opens during the day; the hours of the shops may vary. Access is on the level and crossing is free.

When did the George's Street Arcade open?

It opened in 1881 under the name South City Markets and is considered one of the first shopping centres in Europe.

What is in the arcade today?

There is a lively market with designer boutiques, record shops, vintage stores and fresh-produce stalls, in a Victorian red-brick setting.