University College Dublin

University College Dublin
University College Dublin


Originally founded in 1854 as part of the Catholic University of Ireland, then reformed in 1880 and declared a university in its own right in 1908, University College Dublin is one of the Republic of Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious education institutions.

The university quickly established a reputation for attracting the best students and faculty in the country, including Fr. Gerald Manley Hopkins and writer James Joyce, becoming one of the most well-respected centres of learning in Europe.

By the 1940s, University College Dublin had outgrown its existing site in the city centre and a move to a new site at Bellfield was proposed. The new campus was located two and a half miles south of the city. Its design incorporated existing Georgian structures along with notable modern buildings, including the iconic water tower.

Today, University College Dublin plays a big part in city life, being home to around 30,000 students and 1,300 staff who add a huge amount to the social, artistic and sporting life of Dublin. Any visitor to the city should pay a visit to the campus and surrounding student areas, where they’ll discover a vibrant, fun and energetic scene.

Particular highlights include the Newman House building at St. Stephen’s Green and The Gardens behind Earlsford Terrace. Former University College Dublin buildings in the city centre have also become home to various government facilities, with one even being home to the Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Department.

Plan a trip to see University College Dublin

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The Strand Hotel, the former residence of Oscar Wilde
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
Grafton Street Studios

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UCD Campus Accommodation

UCD Campus Accommodation

2.5 out of 5
Belfield, Stillorgan Road,, Dublin 4, Dublin, Dublin
UCD Campus Accommodation
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

4 out of 5
Burlington Road, Upper Leeson Street, Dublin 4, Dublin, Dublin
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road
Broc House Suites

Broc House Suites

3.5 out of 5
53 Nutley Lane, Donnybrook, Dublin
Broc House Suites
Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel

Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel

5 out of 5
Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Dublin, Dublin
Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel
Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

4 out of 5
Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin, Dublin
Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Maldron Hotel Merrion Road

Maldron Hotel Merrion Road

4 out of 5
Bellevue Ave, Merrion Rd, Dublin
Maldron Hotel Merrion Road
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

4 out of 5
Stillorgan Road, Dublin, Dublin
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
26 - 33 Arran Street East, Dublin
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

4 out of 5
11 Bow Ln E, Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University College Dublin

Near University College Dublin, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including sports events, local football matches, and vibrant art exhibitions. The campus itself often hosts cultural events and provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an engaging destination for both relaxation and entertainment. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or an art lover, there's something to delight every visitor in this lively area.

Shopping

Dundrum Town Centre, located 1.2km away, offers a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. Blackrock Shopping Centre, also 1.2km away, provides a similar lively atmosphere. For a unique experience, the Brown Thomas Flagship Store is just 1.9km away, showcasing luxury gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Aviva Stadium, a mere 1.2km from University College Dublin, offers an electrifying atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Experience vibrant concerts at the nearby 3Arena, located 1.9km away, while Rathfarnham Golf Club, 2.5km distant, invites you to unwind amidst stunning outdoor settings and invigorating golf.

Adventure

Clara Lara Fun Park, located 1.9km from University College Dublin, offers exhilarating ziplining and ropes courses amidst a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For a more tranquil experience, Tinnahinch Fly Fishing Centre, 5.6km away, provides a peaceful outdoor setting for fishing enthusiasts. The scenic Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, 11.9km distant, promises breathtaking views and adventure along the cliffs.

Nightlife

In Dublin, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and Gaiety Theatre, both 1.9km from University College Dublin, offer vibrant performances and cultural experiences. Closer by, the Royal Dublin Society, just 621m away, hosts entertaining events, making for an exciting nightlife atmosphere filled with family-friendly and romantic vibes.

Find the best attractions near University College Dublin

University College Dublin offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including urban parks, vibrant piazzas, and event conference venues. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and a taste of city life. Whether you're exploring the campus or the surrounding area, there's plenty to see and do.

  • St. Stephen's Green: This beautiful urban park, located 1.2km from University College Dublin, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. Enjoy picturesque landscapes, vibrant flowerbeds, and charming statues, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.
  • Grafton Street: Just 1.9km away, Grafton Street is a bustling thoroughfare renowned for its lively atmosphere. Explore a variety of shops, boutiques, and street performers, creating an energetic vibe that captures the essence of Dublin's city life.
  • The Convention Centre Dublin: Situated 1.9km from the university, this modern event venue boasts impressive architecture and hosts various conferences and exhibitions. Its business-oriented environment is perfect for networking and engaging with professionals from around the globe.

Best time to go to University College Dublin

The best time to visit University College Dublin can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University College Dublin falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University College Dublin falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University College Dublin

To save money during your visit to University College Dublin, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel one month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can help you secure better rates, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to compare room rates and special offers, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. For transport, take advantage of Dublin's affordable public transport options and enjoy free attractions around the university.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University College Dublin are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around University College Dublin is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University College Dublin is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around University College Dublin is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you'd prefer. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at University College Dublin with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.