Grafton Street

If you are planning to go shopping while visiting Dublin, Grafton Street is most likely going to be your starting point. It is the most fashionable shopping street in Dublin and runs from College Green to St Stephens Green. The street is for pedestrians only and this only serves to add to the charm of the street. No matter what time of day or night, Grafton Street is full of people, character and atmosphere. Part of the charm of the street is provided by the singers, artists and buskers who ply their trade here almost 24 hours a day.

The street is named after the first Duke of Grafton who owned the land that Grafton Street now stands on. Initially it was just a country lane, but was developed in 1709 by the Dawson family. The Dawson family is also commemorated in Dublin as the street that runs parallel to Grafton Street is named after them.

The decision to make the street into a pedestrian only street was taken during the 1980s and since then the street has gone from strength to strength to its current status as the shopping center of Dublin, a reputation that is reflected in the price of the goods on sale here.

Part of the attraction of Grafton Street is that just off it are many other streets that are well worth a visit and the major attractions of St Stephens Green and Trinity College. Among the many major shops located here are HMV, Brown Thomas, Marks and Spencer along with many many others.