We have an evening/overnight layover on July 9 and have all morning of the 10th before heading to the airport around 1 pm (flight is at 4:20). Assuming we get tickets to the Book of Kells for the opening time of 8:30 on the 10th, would we have enough time to also visit Marsh’s Library before heading to the airport? We will have time to meander Dublin the night before as we will stay right next to Trinity College.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6713 posts
You should be fine for the Book of Kells. (I think the Long Room above is closed now.) I hadn't heard of Marsh's Library, but after looking it up I'm sorry I missed it. Since it's near St. Patrick's Cathedral, it might take awhile to get there and then on to the airport. And if you're leaving your bags at the hotel that would add some time. Another poster might have better advice for you, but I'd probably settle for the Book and then head to the airport.
Keep in mind that the airport will take longer than usual because you're clearing US immigration there. That will cost time before you fly but save time after landing.
Posted by
125 posts
Just tagging onto this question - has anyone been to the new Book of Kells experience?
It looks a lot like the Van Gogh multimedia shows that pop up.
My daughter is a design student and really wants to go, but interested in a less "technology heavy" experience - getting there requires some complicated juggling that may not pay off. thank you...
Posted by
TX, USA
4805 posts
I don’t think the library is closed. Not all the books are there but some are. I would guess you could easily see the Long Library in 2 hours at a slow pace. I am no help on Marsh’s Library.
Posted by
10 posts
We just visited the Book of Kells Experience about 6 weeks ago. It did take a few hours including going through Trinity's Library. They are in the process of moving the collection, but going through the library was still amazing. You may be able to get through the exhibits faster. My father-in-law was with us and he does not move quickly!
For @mcm, the exhibit is set up to first view large panels about the Book of Kells. These included copies of many pages with explanations of the meanings, the history on the authors and illustrators, and how everything was drawn. The, you go into a room with the book open to two pages under glass. Very low-tech!
The second half of the exhibit was the multi-media experience. This was neat, but really didn't add too much more to my understanding of the Book. If your daughter wanted to skip that part or if you were limited on time, you certainly could cut out the second half.