How long does it take to walk the Dublin rock 'n' roll route?

The walk typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. This includes time to take photos at the statues and read the inscriptions at the Wall of Fame.

Where is the Phil Lynott statue located in Dublin?

The statue is located on Harry Street, just off Grafton Street. It stands outside the Bruxelles pub, a famous gathering spot for the Irish rock community.

Can I see where U2 recorded their albums?

Yes, the walk ends at Windmill Lane near the Grand Canal Docks. This is the area where the original Windmill Lane Studios were located and where U2 recorded many of their biggest hits.

Is the Dublin rock 'n' roll walk free?

Yes, this self-guided walk focuses on outdoor landmarks and historic facades that are free to view. You only need to pay if you choose to enter a venue for a show or buy a drink.

Is this walking route accessible for wheelchairs?

Most of the route is accessible via city sidewalks, but the Temple Bar area has historic cobblestones that can be difficult to navigate. Most of the landmarks themselves are visible from the street.

What is the best time of day for a music walk in Dublin?

Late afternoon is ideal. You can see the landmarks clearly in the daylight, and as you finish near Wexford Street, the venues like Whelan's begin to come alive with evening music.

Are there any famous pubs on this music route?

Absolutely. The route passes Bruxelles, famous for its rock heritage, and Whelan's, which is one of the most famous live music pubs in the world.

Is it worth visiting the Irish Music Wall of Fame?

Yes, it is a great spot for a photo and offers a quick overview of Ireland's most successful musicians. It is located in the heart of Temple Bar, making it very easy to find.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 15 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Dublin is a city with a pulse that beats to the rhythm of rock 'n' roll. While many visitors flock to the capital for its literary history or medieval architecture, this self-guided walk reveals a different side of the city—one defined by distorted guitars, rebellious spirits, and legendary performances. This walking route takes you through the heart of Dublin’s music scene, tracing the evolution of Irish rock from its humble beginnings in the 1960s to the global dominance of bands like U2 and Thin Lizzy. You will explore the vibrant streets of Temple Bar, visit historic theaters that have hosted the world’s biggest stars, and stand before the monuments of local icons. Unlike a typical walking tour Dublin often offers, this experience allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, perhaps stopping for a pint where a famous song was penned or lingering to admire the street art dedicated to musical legends. From the iconic Wall of Fame to the gritty charm of Whelan’s, this journey is an essential neighborhood stroll for anyone who believes that music is the soul of a city. You will discover the stories behind the songs and the venues that served as the launchpads for Ireland's greatest cultural exports. Whether you are a die-hard fan of Phil Lynott or curious about the origins of the Dublin indie scene, this audio walk provides a deep dive into the sounds that shaped a nation. The route concludes at the legendary Windmill Lane, where the walls themselves seem to echo with the recordings of international superstars. This is more than just a exploration of landmarks; it is a tribute to the creative energy that continues to make Dublin one of the most vibrant musical hubs in the world. Experience the city’s sonic history independently and discover why this walking route is a must for music lovers.

Highlights

The Irish Music Wall of Fame in Temple Bar
The legendary 3Olympia Theatre and its Victorian charm
The bronze Phil Lynott Statue on Harry Street
Whelan's, the heart of Dublin's indie music scene
The historic Windmill Lane and its famous recording legacy
The storied stage of The Gaiety Theatre

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Irish Music Wall of Fame

Start your journey in the heart of Temple Bar at the Irish Music Wall of Fame. This outdoor tribute honors the giants of Irish music, from the global phenomenon of U2 to the soulful sounds of Sinéad O'Connor and the hard-rocking legacy of Rory Gallagher. As you look at the larger-than-life photos, consider how such a small island has produced so many world-class artists. This wall isn't just a photo gallery; it's a testament to the diverse genres that have flourished here, including folk, rock, and pop. It serves as a gateway to the Temple Bar district, which has long been the epicenter of Dublin's cultural and musical identity.

2

3Olympia Theatre

Just a short walk away stands the 3Olympia Theatre, one of Dublin’s most beloved and historic venues. Originally opened in 1879 as a music hall, its ornate Victorian architecture has witnessed over a century of entertainment history. For rock fans, the Olympia is legendary for its intimate atmosphere. It has hosted iconic performances by artists like David Bowie, REM, and The Killers. The venue is famous for its 'midnight shows' and its role in launching the careers of countless Irish bands. Even from the outside, you can feel the energy of the thousands of fans who have queued here for a chance to see their idols in such a grand setting.

3

Phil Lynott Statue

On Harry Street, just off the bustling Grafton Street, you’ll find the bronze statue of Phil Lynott, the charismatic frontman of Thin Lizzy. Unveiled in 2005, this life-sized tribute depicts Lynott with his trademark bass guitar and cool, effortless style. Lynott was Dublin’s first true rock star, blending poetic lyrics with hard rock riffs. Fans from all over the world come here to pay their respects to the man who gave us 'The Boys Are Back in Town.' The statue’s location near Bruxelles pub is no coincidence; it was a favorite haunt of Lynott and remains a popular spot for rockers to this day.

4

The Gaiety Theatre

Located on South King Street, The Gaiety Theatre is Dublin’s longest-established continuously producing theater, dating back to 1871. While it is famous for opera, drama, and pantomime, it has played a significant role in the city's musical heritage. The Gaiety has hosted everything from the Eurovision Song Contest to legendary musical reviews. Look down at the pavement in front of the theater to see the 'Gaiety Walk of Fame,' featuring handprints of famous performers. Its grand facade and rich history represent the more formal side of Dublin’s performance arts, providing a contrast to the gritty rock clubs found elsewhere on this route.

5

Whelan's

Whelan's on Wexford Street is widely considered the spiritual home of indie music in Ireland. Since opening in 1989, it has become a rite of passage for every aspiring Irish musician. The venue’s dark, wood-paneled interior and storied stage have hosted early performances by Ed Sheeran, Arctic Monkeys, and Jeff Buckley. It also gained international fame as a filming location for the movie 'P.S. I Love You.' Whelan's isn't just a bar; it’s a living museum of contemporary Irish music culture. The atmosphere here is always electric, making it the perfect place to discover the next big thing in the Dublin music scene.

6

Windmill Lane

Your final stop is Windmill Lane, a name synonymous with U2. While the original 'Windmill Lane Studios' moved to a new location, the street itself remains a site of pilgrimage. The walls here were once covered in elaborate graffiti from fans worldwide, known as the 'U2 Wall.' The studios were where U2 recorded their early masterpieces, including 'The Joshua Tree.' Beyond U2, the studios have hosted legends like The Rolling Stones and Lady Gaga. As you explore the area near the Grand Canal Dock, you are standing in the place where some of the most famous songs in modern history were brought to life, marking the end of your rock 'n' roll journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Rock 'n' Roll Trail is the top choice for music lovers. It covers iconic spots like the Phil Lynott statue, the Wall of Fame, and legendary venues like Whelan's and the 3Olympia Theatre.