It should be noted that I have included, in this series of photographs, images of a narrow lane that connects North Princes Street to Middle Abbey Street as well as the GPO Arcade. The laneway is named William’s Lane and while many accounts claim that it is no longer shown on maps I checked Google Maps and it is identified. And while no one appears to know why it is named William’s Lane I am suggesting the following – the name William’s Lane may well be linked to a son of King George, potentially William IV who also served as Duke of Clarence. This would align with the naming of Princes Street (discussed below). I had to visit the area a second time as some images were unusable because they showed homeless people who could be identified and that would have impacted on their right to privacy.
Princes Street North, a historic gem off O’Connell Street, offers a fascinating blend of past and present for locals and visitors alike.
Its roots trace back to Henry Moore, 3rd Earl of Drogheda, who initiated development in the northeastern part of the former St. Mary’s Abbey lands. Moore’s influence is still evident today in the names of nearby streets: Henry Street, Moore Street, and (North) Earl Street.
Originally, the street we now know as Upper O’Connell Street was called Drogheda Street. Unlike today’s bustling O’Connell Street, this street was narrower and primarily residential. The section of O’Connell Street extending to the present-day location of the Spire was part of Drogheda Street.
Luke Gardiner’s Transformation:
In the mid-18th century, Luke Gardiner acquired much of the old Moore estates in northern Dublin. Gardiner, known for developing Dublin’s first Georgian street (Henrietta Street), turned his attention to Drogheda Street. He demolished existing housing and replaced it with elegant Georgian townhouses. The street was widened to its current size, allowing for a central mall where affluent residents could promenade and display their finery.
The name changed from Drogheda Street to Sackville Mall or Sackville Street, honouring Lionel Sackville, the Duke of Dorset, who served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
Princes Street North Origins
Princes Street North, situated just off O’Connell Street, has a fascinating history. It is believed to have been developed in part by the Dominick family, who played a significant role in shaping the area. [I have had difficulty confirming the Dominick family’s role] Princes Street North derives its name from the sons of King George III. Specifically, it honours the Duke of Rothesay (the title given to the heir apparent to the British throne) and the Duke of York. These royal titles were bestowed upon the sons of King George III during the late 18th century.
Freemans Journal
The office of the Freeman’s Journal was located on Princes Street North in Dublin’s city centre. During the 1916 Easter Rising, the building was heavily damaged.
Today, only one original property on Princes Street remains, preserving its historical significance
Metropole Cinema and Capitol Theatre
Metropole Cinema: Located on O’Connell Street, the Metropole Cinema opened in 1922. It was once a vibrant venue, hosting films and events. The Metropole was taken over by the Rank Organisation in the 1950s and screened popular movies like “Doctor Zhivago” and “Mary Poppins.” Unfortunately, it closed its doors in 1972.
Capitol Theatre: Originally known as the La Scala Theatre and Opera House, the Capitol Theatre stood on Prince’s Street, adjacent to the Metropole Cinema. Designed by architect T. F. McNamara, it featured a 1,900-seat auditorium with two balconies and 32 private boxes. Despite its name, La Scala was primarily a cinema. In 1927, Paramount Pictures took over the lease and renamed it the Capitol. The Capitol hosted live shows alongside film screenings. Notable Irish acts graced its stage. The last stage show occurred in 1953, and it continued as a cinema until 1972.
Demolition and Transformation: Both the Metropole Cinema and the Capitol Theatre were demolished. In their place, the British Home Stores (now occupied by Penneys) was constructed.
The GPO Arcade Is Off Princes Street North
The General Post Office was most famously the rebel stronghold in the 1916 Easter Rising. It, along with much of O’Connell Street Lower, was reduced to a burnt-out shell. The building was only cleared of debris in 1924 when the Free State government approved reconstruction plans, carried out principally by T.J. Byrne and J. Fairweather and reopened in 1929.
The GPO Arcade is an Art Deco-style shopping arcade situated at the rear of the General Post Office (GPO) complex. Accessible from both Henry Street and Princes Street North, this arcade has a unique charm that draws visitors and shoppers. The arcade was built by the Office of Public Works following the 1916 Easter Rising. Its construction aimed to enhance the GPO area and provide a covered shopping space for Dubliners. The GPO Arcade boasts an elegant design with polygonal glazed roofing. Its architecture reflects the Art Deco style prevalent during the early 20th century.
I have not been inside this pub for about thirty years and to the best of my knowledge it has changed ownership at least once since then. The current owners purchased and refurbished it in 2018 and before that it had not been trading for at least 3 years.
The Kings Inn Pub in Dublin, Ireland, is a traditional Irish pub with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. While the exact date of its establishment is uncertain, it is believed to have been operating since at least the 1860s, with some sources suggesting it may have been even earlier.
The pub is located on Henrietta Street, just a short distance from the iconic King’s Inns complex, which is one of Ireland’s most important legal institutions.
THE KINGS INN PUB [THIS COULD BE DESCRIBED AS MY LOCAL]-226197-1
THE KINGS INN PUB [THIS COULD BE DESCRIBED AS MY LOCAL]-226198-1
THE KINGS INN PUB [THIS COULD BE DESCRIBED AS MY LOCAL]-226199-1
AS SEEN ON UPPER DOMINICK STREET – IS IT STREET FURNITURE
A few years ago as I was walking along the street near my apartment a sofa landed on the footpath in front of me … I was really lucky that it missed me. Apparently two people were having a dispute and someone decided to solve the problem by throwing the large piece of furniture out off the third floor window.
SOMEONE LOST THEIR DRAWERS [I CANNOT EVEN GUESS WHY THIS IS HERE]-226015-1
Francis Street in Dublin’s Liberties district underwent a significant regeneration project over a period of years, transforming the street into a more pedestrian-friendly and visually appealing destination. The project focused on enhancing the street’s public realm, improving accessibility, and introducing sustainable elements.
Widened Footpaths and Kerb Buildouts: Francis Street’s footpaths were significantly widened, creating a more spacious and inviting environment for pedestrians. Kerb buildouts were also added along the street, providing additional seating and visual interest.
Landscaping and Sustainable Drainage Measures (SUDs): The street was adorned with a variety of landscaping elements, including new trees, planters, and flowerbeds. These enhancements not only enhanced the aesthetics of the street but also contributed to its sustainability by absorbing rainwater and reducing surface runoff.
Improved Lighting and Street Furniture: The street’s lighting was upgraded with new, energy-efficient fixtures, providing better illumination and a more welcoming atmosphere. New street furniture, such as benches, bins, and signage, was also installed, contributing to the street’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Enhanced Pedestrian Crosswalks and Ramps: The project included the construction of raised pedestrian crossings and ramps, making it easier for people with disabilities and mobility issues to navigate the street safely.
Resurfacing and Traffic Management: The carriageway was resurfaced to provide a smoother and more durable surface for both pedestrians and vehicles. Traffic management measures were also implemented to reduce congestion and prioritise pedestrian movement.
Overall Impact: The regeneration of Francis Street has transformed the street into a vibrant and inviting destination, attracting more visitors and businesses to the area. The improved public realm, enhanced accessibility, and sustainable elements have further enhanced the street’s appeal and established it as a key part of Dublin’s cultural and historical landscape.
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225913-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225914-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225915-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225916-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225918-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225918-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225919-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225905-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225906-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225907-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225908-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225909-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225910-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225911-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225912-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225897-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225898-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225899-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225900-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225901-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225902-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225903-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225891-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225892-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225893-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225894-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225895-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225896-1
THE FRANCIS STREET REGENERATION PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE [IT TOOK A LONG TIME]-225890-1