Overview
Stretching from the Spire of Dublin and the historic General Post Office on O’Connell Street in the east to Liffey Street in the west, Henry Street (Irish: Sráid Anraí) is one of Dublin’s two principal shopping thoroughfares. Fully pedestrianised since the 1980s, the avenue offers a seamless blend of high-street retail, modern shopping centres, and spontaneous street entertainment. A short walk from the southside places you directly into this bustling northside hub, where shopping is as much about soaking up the city’s energy as it is about browsing the stores.
History & Evolution
The land that now hosts Henry Street was originally part of the estate of St Mary’s Abbey, granted to James FitzGerald following the 1537 dissolution of the monasteries. The street itself was laid out in 1614 by Henry Moore, 1st Earl of Drogheda, and its name reflects his influence. While early development accelerated in the 1760s, none of the original Georgian façades survive today. A series of fires – most notably the 1894 blaze – and the heavy damage inflicted during the 1916 Easter Rising reshaped the streetscape. Only two 19th-century buildings remain: the flagship Arnotts department store (nos. 9–15) and No. 6.
Arnotts opened in 1843 and has remained a retail anchor for nearly two centuries. The street’s modern identity was cemented in the late 20th century with the construction of the Ilac Centre, which began in 1977 and stands as Dublin’s first purpose-built shopping centre. A €60 million refurbishment in 2006 introduced a sleek glass façade, over 80 stores, and Dublin City’s Central Library, reinforcing the street’s role as a cultural and commercial hub. Nearby, the Jervis Shopping Centre on Mary Street (which continues Henry Street westward) opened in 1996, bringing major UK high-street brands to Ireland for the first time.
What to See & Do
Shopping & Landmarks
Henry Street is a shopper’s destination, but it’s also rich with architectural and cultural touchstones:
- Arnotts Department Store – Wander through Ireland’s oldest department store, which has occupied its current Henry Street location since 1843. The multi-floor flagship stocks everything from designer fashion and homeware to children’s toys and a gourmet food hall.
- Ilac Centre & Central Library – Home to more than 80 retailers, the Ilac Centre also houses Dublin City’s Central Library. The library’s modern design and free public programme make it a perfect spot for a quiet break between shopping sprees.
- High-Street Staples – The street is lined with Ireland’s most beloved retail chains, including flagship Dunnes Stores, Marks & Spencer, and Next. Just across Liffey Street, Mary Street is home to Penneys (Primark), whose first Irish store opened there in 1969 and remains a cornerstone of Dublin’s retail scene.
- The GPO Arcade – Located at the eastern end of Henry Street, this elegant Victorian passageway connects directly to Princes Street North and the General Post Office, offering a covered escape from Dublin’s unpredictable weather.
Street Life & Dining
The pedestrianised promenade is a stage for Dublin’s creative community. Musicians, poets, and street performers regularly draw crowds, adding a lively soundtrack to your stroll. When you need a break, the street and its immediate side alleys offer plenty of options:
- Butler’s Chocolate Café – Treat yourself to award-winning hot chocolate made with a secret sauce recipe. Every hot beverage comes with a complimentary piece of luxury chocolate, making it a popular mid-shopping indulgence.
- Winding Stair Bookshop & Restaurant – A short walk west to Liffey Street places you at this literary institution, offering fine dining and an extensive collection of books with views overlooking the River Liffey.
- Moore Street Market – Just one block north, this historic covered market has been a Dublin fixture since the 18th century. It’s the place to go for fresh produce, street food, and authentic local atmosphere.
Seasonal Highlights
Henry Street’s character shifts with the seasons, with December being the most transformative month.
- Henry Street Christmas Market – Every December, the avenue transforms into a festive market lined with artisan stalls selling decorations, gifts, toys, and seasonal treats. It’s a long-standing tradition for Dubliners and visitors alike, drawing crowds who come to browse the traders and soak up the winter atmosphere.
Getting There & Practical Tips
Henry Street is fully pedestrianised, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace without traffic interruptions. Public transport links are excellent:
- Bus: O’Connell Street (GPO) and North Earl Street stops serve multiple routes, including the 747 Airlink from Dublin Airport.
- Luas: The Green Line stops at O’Connell – GPO (3-minute walk), while the Red Line stops at Jervis (5-minute walk via Mary Street).
- Train: Tara Street Station (DART & commuter services) is a 10-minute walk west, and Dublin Connolly is an 18-minute walk east.
Accessibility – The pedestrianised promenade is level and wheelchair-friendly, with tactile paving at key crossings. Both the Ilac Centre and Jervis Shopping Centre provide accessible entrances, elevators, and toilets.
Opening Hours – While individual retailers set their own schedules, most high-street stores and shopping centres operate from approximately 9:30 am to 7:30 pm Monday to Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays (typically 12 pm to 5:30 pm). It’s always wise to check specific store websites before your visit, as hours can vary during public holidays and seasonal sales periods.
For a complete northside experience, start your walk at the Spire, browse the independent stalls on Moore Street for a fresh coffee, and finish your afternoon at the Winding Stair as the evening light hits the Liffey. Henry Street rewards those who take the time to look beyond the shop windows and soak in the rhythm of Dublin’s everyday life.