Buy The Current Southern Bride Magazine Fall 2025

the shelbourne exterior (1)
Hotel Exterior

By Sherra Meyers

 

Get Acquainted
In the heart of Ireland’s capital, overlooking the tree-lined beauty of St. Stephen’s Green, stands The Shelbourne Dublin, a five-star hotel where romance and history live side by side. Established nearly two centuries ago, The Shelbourne has long been a symbol of Irish elegance—a place where grand celebrations, historic moments, and timeless love stories unfold beneath its stately roof.

In 2024, the hotel marked its 200-year anniversary, a milestone that reflects not only its longevity but its enduring place in Dublin’s cultural and social tapestry. Inside, the design is a seamless blend of classical heritage and modern refinement—ornate ceilings, marble fireplaces, and sparkling chandeliers coexist beautifully with sleek contemporary furnishings and updated amenities. Guests are enveloped in an atmosphere that feels both majestic and intimate, whether relaxing in one of the recently refurbished suites, enjoying afternoon tea in the drawing room, or unwinding in the award-winning spa and salon.

The Shelbourne has hosted countless luminaries—from poets and presidents to brides and dreamers—and even served as the birthplace of Ireland’s first constitution in 1922. It remains a destination where history is not merely remembered but celebrated.

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwinedLobby
Lobby

 

Big Day Details
For couples seeking a wedding venue that captures both grandeur and heart, The Shelbourne offers a collection of spectacular event spaces designed to reflect every type of love story. From the stately Great Room, adorned with soaring ceilings and glittering chandeliers, to the softly lit intimacy of the Constitution Room, each space tells its own story.

Couples can choose between a lavish ballroom celebration or a refined dinner for two surrounded by family and close friends. The hotel’s in-house wedding specialists take pride in crafting every event with artistry and precision—creating personalized experiences that reflect the couple’s vision, cultural traditions, and romantic ideals. From hand-selected floral arrangements to custom menu tastings and tablescapes infused with Irish character, every element feels considered, authentic, and deeply personal.

A dedicated wedding manager ensures the planning journey feels effortless, guiding couples through every decision with the same care and grace that has become synonymous with The Shelbourne name.

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwinedLord Mayors Lounge
Lord Mayors Lounge

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwined bar
1824 Bar

 

Eat, Drink & Celebrate
Dining at The Shelbourne is an experience steeped in flavor and storytelling. The hotel’s six restaurants and bars each offer a distinctive atmosphere—ranging from refined and romantic to lively and local.

At The Saddle Room, seasonal Irish ingredients take center stage in a menu that celebrates Ireland’s land and sea—think Atlantic seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, and tender cuts of Irish beef served with contemporary flair. For afternoon indulgence, The Lord Mayor’s Lounge
offers one of Dublin’s most elegant tea services, complete with fine china, pastries, and panoramic views of St. Stephen’s Green.

As twilight falls, No. 27 Bar & Lounge buzzes with conversation and music, serving classic cocktails and small bites in an elegant yet inviting setting. Couples seeking something more private can escape to The 1824 Bar, a hidden gem reserved for hotel guests. With its polished wood paneling, antique mirrors, and murals depicting scenes from Irish literature and lore, it’s the perfect backdrop for a celebratory toast or a quiet nightcap after the festivities.

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwined Horseshoe Bar
Horseshoe Bar

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwined terrace
The Champagne Terrace

 

Out and About
Beyond the hotel’s grand façade lies the vibrant heart of Dublin—a city that enchants with charm, creativity, and culture at every turn. From The Shelbourne’s front doors, it’s only a short stroll to the cobblestone lanes of Temple Bar, where live music spills into the streets and the energy of the city pulses day and night.

Art and architecture lovers can wander through the National Gallery of Ireland, home to masterpieces spanning centuries, or explore the storybook beauty of Dublin Castle, whose walls hold tales that stretch back to the 13th century. On nearby Grafton Street, boutique shopping, street performers, and café culture create the perfect blend of elegance and whimsy for guests seeking local treasures.
Whether savoring a romantic carriage ride through the park, listening to live traditional music in a tucked-away pub, or simply watching the golden evening light sweep across St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin has a way of making even the simplest moments feel unforgettable.

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwined spa relaxation room
Spa Relaxation Room

the shelbourne dublin where history and romance are forever intertwined thermal spa
Thermal Spa

 

The Essence of The Shelbourne
Every love story deserves a setting worthy of its depth—and The Shelbourne delivers that in every way. It’s more than a venue; it’s a living piece of Irish history that invites couples to add their own chapter. From its marble corridors to its candlelit ballrooms, every detail speaks of craftsmanship, heritage, and the kind of romance that never goes out of style. At The Shelbourne Dublin, timeless elegance isn’t just the atmosphere—it’s the experience.

 

photography: courtesy of The Shelbourne Dublin

Join the Southern Bride Newsletter

Sign up to get the latest from Southern Bride every week.

Join the Southern Bride Newsletter

PLEASE CHECK YOUR INBOX NOW TO COMPLETE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION REGISTRATION...

Shopping cart0
There are no products in the cart!
Continue shopping
0