Dublin sights

We stuck to south of the river, it's where the big tourist beasts are. Heavy day, knackered now, so bare bones. Started with tram into centre, very civilised. 

First up Trinity guided tour, an hour in and out of the rain sometimes torrential.

L's recent emergency purchase raincoat doing sterling work. Then the Book Of Kells, astonishing work over a thousand years ago. After the beautiful exhibition all about it, the book itself in a glass case in its own room seemed a little underwhelming (pics not allowed). Followed by the astonishing Long Room library.

Next a Seamus Heaney exhibition in the Bank of Ireland building (!). L enjoyed, N rested feet. Bus to cafe near Guinness Storehouse - actually 2 buses and a walk because N got us off too early, an atypical geographical lapse. Lovely lunch in Mannings Bakery. The Guinness experience was very Disney and absolutely stuffed with mostly young people.

The self-guided story was good, the video of barrel-making was excellent, and the pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar with the 7th floor view was superb, not least because L hovered successfully for seats.

We suddenly realised our overall impression wherever we go is that we are raising the average age. Where are all the old people?

Bus back east to Dublin Castle, preceded by a side-street cafe for tea and sticky unnecessaries. Tour guide and resting actor Tristan was very clear. We saw the Chapel with wonderful organ and the State Apartments, including a throne room with a giant red throne, which really brought home home how appallingly the British lorded it over the Irish.

After some debate about how tired we were, decided to stick with the pub food & music plan. Just missed the required bus by standing at the wrong stop. Walked a bit then changed to a different target pub ... with the same name but much closer. Happily the waitress who greeted us installed us upstairs where it was quiet, and the burgers were good. More Guinness for N. Despite what it said outside the waitress said music at 10pm - we're not staying that long. Oh, well. Even more happily realised we ended up 2 mins walk from tram stop to take us home.

Now feet up on bed listening to fireworks - it's Halloween.