Photo: Courtesy of The Croke Park
The Croke Park hotel in Dublin is located across the street from, and named after, the historic Croke Park Stadium — Ireland’s largest major sports and entertainment arena, and one of the largest in all of Europe.
The four-star property recently unveiled 232 refurbished guestrooms — which range from classic doubles to two-bedroom suites designed for families — as well as a chic new restaurant, The Hawthorn, which boasts a greenery-filled heated outdoor terrace. Its spacious and stylish Sideline Bar serves food all day and overlooks the stadium, making it popular for visitors and locals looking for a pre- or post-game drink and bite.
Its location, just a short distance from Dublin's city center, provides easy access to many of the city's attractions and landmarks. The Croke Park is owned and managed by The Doyle Collection, an Irish family-owned luxury hotel group with hotels in Dublin, London, Washington D.C., Cork, and Bristol.
The Look of The Croke Park
Newly redesigned, The Croke Park has an elegant and contemporary aesthetic. Guestrooms feature a neutral palette of soft beiges and greys with bold, luxe accents — like red chairs and velvet bedding. Rooms feature modern amenities like flatscreen TVs and marbled bathrooms with contemporary fixtures.
The Croke Park's public spaces are more vibrant, with a retro-chic aesthetic. The Sideline features artsy, patterned wallpaper and cozy fireplace seating where visitors can watch the game on TV. The elegant-yet-relaxed Hawthorn restaurant features moss-colored walls with velvet banquets in deep blue and terracotta.
Many public areas and guest rooms offer views of Croke Park Stadium. The sports heritage is further reflected in the hotel’s artwork — including archival photographs and tasteful memorabilia related to Gaelic games. Large windows and well-curated lighting contribute to a bright and airy feel throughout the property.
The Vibe at The Croke Park
Given its proximity to, and emphasis on, Croke Park Stadium, there’s a noticeable sports-related atmosphere, particularly on game days. The hotel’s bar, restaurant, and heated outdoor terrace are often lively and energetic, with live music and summer barbecues that are popular among both locals and visitors. However, high-quality furnishings and stylish décor maintain the sort of refined, upscale atmosphere you’d expect from a four-star property.
Who Will Love The Croke Park
The hotel’s proximity to Croke Park Stadium makes it an obvious choice for guests attending events there. It's also a short walk or metro ride from Dublin’s city center, which appeals to people who want to be in the center of the action. Families, in particular, love that they can catch a Broadway hit at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and explore Dublin Zoo within a 10-minute drive.
Lastly, the hotel’s 13 event spaces/meeting rooms — including the elegant new Blue Room for private dinners and a larger room that opens to the canal-side terrace — make it a popular choice for those traveling for work.
Who Might Not Love The Croke Park
The flip side to being so close to Croke Park Stadium is that, on event days, it can be noisy and congested in the area. This could be a drawback for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful ambiance. Additionally, the hotel’s size and theme might not appeal to couples or groups who prefer a quaint home away from home.
Best Amenity at The Croke Park
The central location, a short walk to downtown, make it easy to explore and experience Dublin. The rooms’ high-quality bedding, spacious layout, and well-appointed bathrooms are good for the price. The Sideline Bar — one of the largest bars and restaurants in the area with access to an outdoor patio — is an ideal gathering place for small or large groups before a game in Croke Park.
What’s Included at The Croke Park
Guests who book directly with the hotel can enjoy complimentary parking in a secure, underground car park for the duration of their stay. Access to a 24-hour gym and Wi-Fi are included for all guests.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About The Croke Park
The breakfast buffet, spa treatments, and laundry incur additional charges.
How to Get a Deal at The Croke Park
The hotel often runs promotions and packages, which are updated frequently on the website. The Family Zoo Package, for instance, includes accommodation in a Double Bedroom for two adults and two children, a family pass to Dublin Zoo, breakfast, and a three-course dinner in the chic Hawthorn restaurant.
The Sweet Season at The Croke Park
The best deals can be found from mid-January to March and from November to early December. These months mark the low tourist season in Dublin, when demand for rooms is lower and prices tend to be more affordable.
In the Neighborhood of The Croke Park
Obviously, Croke Park Stadium is the major attraction in the area and hosts a variety of events — including football matches and concerts by the likes of Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, and of course U2 — throughout the year.
In addition to The Croke Park’s own grounds, the hotel is near several greenspaces, including Griffith Park and the Botanic Gardens. The surrounding Phibsborough and Drumcondra neighborhoods are home to a variety of shops, cafés, and pubs.
Nearest Airport to The Croke Park
Dublin Airport is about a 25-minute drive away.
Nearest Public Transportation to The Croke Park
The hotel’s central location means it is well-connected to Dublin’s public transportation network. Several bus stops are within walking distance, along Jones’s Road or Drumcondra Road. The nearest train station is Drumcondra — a 10- to 15-minute walk from the hotel — which connects to stops throughout Dublin (via DART) and to other parts of Ireland (via commuter trail). Additionally, Dublin’s bike-share is nearby, making it easy for hotel guests to explore the city on two wheels via protected bike lanes.
Overall, The Croke Park is a contemporary, sophisticated property with a playful sports-themed touch. It is a convenient option for those visiting Dublin, especially if attending events at the nearby stadium.