Overview
Dublin Connolly, commonly known simply as Connolly Station, sits on the north side of the River Liffey. It is the busiest railway hub in both Dublin and the Republic of Ireland, acting as a key interchange for InterCity, Enterprise, commuter, DART and Luas Red‑line services. The station’s central location puts the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Custom House, St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Docklands within a five‑minute walk, making it an ideal launch‑pad for exploring the capital’s cultural and architectural highlights.
History
The story begins on 24 May 1844 when the Dublin and Drogheda Railway laid the foundation stone on Amiens Street under the patronage of the Earl de Grey. Designed by William Deane Butler, the original Italianate terminus opened on 29 November 1844 as Dublin Station and was renamed Amiens Street Station a decade later.
- 1853 – Through services to Belfast were introduced under the Great Northern Railway Ireland (GNRI).
- 1891 – Amiens Street Junction opened, allowing trains to cross the Loopline Bridge to the south side of the city.
- Late 1950s – The two stations merged, creating the present platform layout: terminals 1‑4 (original DDR platforms) and through‑platforms 5‑7 (former junction).
- 1966 – Renamed Connolly Station to honour James Connolly, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising.
- 1984 – Electrification introduced DART services.
- 1990s – A major refurbishment added a new concourse, modern roof, retail outlets and a pharmacy.
- 2004 – The Luas Red Line tram stop opened, turning Connolly into a multimodal transport node.
- 2020 – Signalling upgrades now permit up to 20 trains per hour through the Connolly‑Grand Canal Dock corridor.
What to See & Do
- Architectural details – The original Italianate tower and Wicklow‑granite façade dominate Amiens Street, while a later red‑brick CDJR building sits beside it. Visitors can admire the blend of Victorian stonework and contemporary glass.
- Retail & refreshments – The concourse hosts a range of cafés and shops: Starbucks, Pret A Manger, O‑Briens, Insomnia Coffee, Madigan’s Bar, Bean & Gone Deli, a newsagent and a pharmacy. Perfect for a quick bite before a journey.
- Luas connection – The Luas Red Line platforms sit under a large canopy directly opposite the main entrance, with escalators and lifts providing seamless transfers between tram and train.
- Nearby attractions – A short stroll leads to the EPIC Museum, the historic Custom House, St Patrick’s Cathedral and the vibrant Docklands. The station also serves as a gateway to Dublin Port’s ferry links to Holyhead, Cherbourg and the Isle of Man.
Practical Information
- Transport links – InterCity, Enterprise, commuter and DART trains operate from platforms 1‑7; the Luas Red Line tram stop is integrated into the main concourse.
- Accessibility – Lifts connect the concourse to the Luas platforms and to the through‑platforms, providing step‑free access throughout the station.
- Facilities – Free Wi‑Fi, a pharmacy, ticket offices, automated ticket machines and ample seating are available.
- Opening hours – The main concourse and most retail outlets are generally open from early morning until late evening; the station itself remains operational around the clock for passengers. Specific shop times vary and should be checked on arrival.
- Travel tips – Arrive early during peak hours, as up to 20 trains per hour can pass through. Use the station’s information screens for real‑time service updates.