Review: The Hendrick Smithfield, Dublin

When I arrived in in Dublin in the early morning, fresh off an overnight flight, the new boutique hotel The Hendrick was quiet. The stylish lobby with its bar and grab-and-go market was empty; however, the front desk staff was perky and welcoming despite the early hour. Wanting sleep above all else, I asked if it was possible to pay for an early check-in; the staff informed me that, while they had no rooms available at that time, I could certainly purchase an early check-in within a few hours, once guests had checked out and the rooms were cleaned.

Satisfied, I dropped my luggage at the desk and set off to grab some breakfast and see a few sights around Dublin. Unfortunately, when I returned to the hotel some five or six hours later, the new front desk staff had no idea what I was talking about when I mentioned early check-in. They informed me the cleaning staff does not start cleaning any guestrooms until all guests for the day had checked out, meaning early check-ins were never possible.

Regardless, after lunch and some more sightseeing, I was able to check into my guestroom, and I found it, though small, cozy. Guestroom options include double rooms, twin rooms and double bunk rooms. I had a double room with just enough space for a double bed nestled into a crevice between the far wall and the bathroom wall, with a television hung over the foot of the bed. A small desk with a chair for one found a home under the room’s lone window. The bathroom was nearly the same size as the sleeping area of the guestroom. However small, though, I found the room clean, well-styled and quiet. While I wouldn’t recommend the room for two travelers, it’s perfectly fine for one.

During my stay, I made use of the lobby bar several times and found the lobby a buzzing, social space in the evening hours. The tables and couches were often filled with travelers sharing drinks or a meal. The lobby itself features lots of quirky artwork and light fixtures for a modern, hip feel.

Easily the best part of The Hendrick is its location. The Smithfield hotel is just steps away from Smithfield Square and attractions such as the Jameson Distillery. Restaurants in the area are plentiful, as are shopping options.

The Hendrick Smithfield

6-11 Hendrick St

Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 A8N1, Ireland

tel 353 1 482 6500