On a short break in Dublin, one hotel gives you your cultural fill without needing to set foot outside. Not only is The Merrion steeped in history, its four Grade I listed Georgian townhouses including the first Duke of Wellington's birthplace. It also boasts the country's largest private art collection, with some 90 works from the 19th and 20th centuries dotted around the elegant premises.
Along with a free audio tour for guests, even the afternoon tea is art-themed, including Battenberg in unexpectedly garish hues to resemble a piece by artist Sean Scully. I was presented not only with a menu but a catalogue of the works on display.
Struggling to choose from an extensive tea selection, I took my waiter's recommendation of the Irish malt (local whiskey blended with a malty assam), which proved hugely moreish and not just because of the alcoholic element. The sandwiches and sweet things also included other Irish-influenced delicacies such as porter cake flavoured with Guinness.
And a final artistic flourish came with the pastries reflecting artworks from The Merrion collection created by the hotel's executive pastry chef Paul Kelly, a Great Irish Bake Off judge. The trio change on a daily basis and diners receive explanatory postcards featuring the chosen works.
My bedroom featured its own interesting art, not least an 1819 map of the city, while the coffee table options included a book on Roderic O'Conor, one of the featured painters. Bright and airy, pastel shades were complemented by Asian influenced designs on cushions and pillows. Toiletries are from Asprey, and if the seasonal room temperature is too chilly, cashmere socks, blankets and hot water bottles are available.
A leisurely stroll from the Irish Jewish Museum and short walk off Trinity College, The Merrion prides itself on its family friendliness with mini-robes and mocktails for young visitors, along with tailored menus.
Their parents' dining choices include Patrick Guibaud, Ireland's only two-star Michelin restaurant. So don't forget to save some space after the art tea.
