Ranelagh might be best known for its cafes, bars and restaurants, but when it comes to this trendy Dublin suburb, there’s a lot more than meets the eye.

This gorgeous little neighbourhood is marked with a vibrant energy, a strong sense of community, and subtle Victorian charm. Pounding the pavements you’ll find a mixture of hipsters, young professionals, yummy mummies, and artsy types, all of whom seem to follow one unspoken rule: never leave home without a keep-cup in hand, a bicycle by your side or a dog at your feet.

Having already listed our favourite places to eat and drink in Ranelagh, we’ll now direct your attention to the other, lesser-known businesses in the locale. There’s a considerable range of top quality services here, everything from hairdressers, beauty therapists, garment alterations and a 24hour gym (although why someone would venture to the gym at 3am in the morning, we do not know).

So next time you find yourself in the area with a hour or two to spare, remember the list below and see for yourself why Ranelagh is so much more than the sum of it’s cafes and bars.

Parks

Dartmouth Square

A gorgeous park set amongst some picturesque Victorian red-brick houses, open yoga classes take place here most weekends, weather permitting.

Ranelagh Gardens

Based on the pleasure gardens of Lord Ranelagh beside the Thames in London, the Ranelagh Gardens is a park just opposite the LUAS line that very few people seem to know about, which only adds to its charm. Random fact: Ireland’s first hot air balloon was launched here.

Culture

Ranelagh Arts Centre

This unassuming space hosts regular exhibitions for locals and non-locals alike. Classes, fundraisers, neighbourhood festivals and film screenings also take place throughout the year.

The Company of Books

This is one of my favourite book shops in Dublin. I remember a man once asked if they had 50 Shades of Grey. The woman behind the counter said that no, they had chosen not to sell the raunchy book with the infamously bad storyline, as a matter of principle.

Fashion & Design

Helen Turkington

What a dream it would be to have your house decorated by Helen. Stroll around her shop and imagine where each stunning item could go in your home. Don’t miss Anne Coughlan, with her offering of stunning flowers and bouquets just inside the shop door.

Seagreen

Sarah Gill is the woman behind this small boutique which sets out to showcase new, hand-picked pieces in a calm, relaxed setting. There is genuine love behind every item on display here and the staff are friendly and helpful.

Health & Fitness

24hr Flyefit Gym

Now, don’t tell me you haven’t woken up in the middle of the night with the sudden urge to lift weights! Great value subscription deals, too.

Project Revive Pilates

Run by best pals Hayley Killen and Annie Kirwan, Project Revive provides Ranelagh locals with a fun way to strengthen their bodies through the power of pilates.

Beauty

Oslo Beauty Salon

Newly opened Oslo is where all the high-flyers are going to get their face and skin tended to. The highly professional staff provide a gorgeous experience that keep customers coming back for more.

Brown Sugar

Undoubtedly one of the best in the business, the Brown Sugar professionals never fail at making their customers look and feel fantastic.

Miscellaneous

Rosalins

Rosalins is a local favourite that doubles as a newsagents and gift shop. Run by husband and wife duo, Denis and Denise, Rosalins sells everything from sweets and magazines to gorgeous cards, books, stationery, and very cute baby clothes.

Xpert Dry Cleaning

More than just a dry cleaners, the Expert Cleaners’ secret weapon is Nadine who sits at the front of the shop at her sewing machine doing alterations – no job or awkward piece of clothing is beyond her ability.

Go For A Stroll

Amble around the stunning neighbourhood and dabble in a bit of house-perving; the homes of Ranelagh are full of a special classic charm of a bygone era.

Ranelagh’s Famous Faces…

• Former Taoiseach, Dr. Garrett Fitzgerald lived on Anna Villa.
• Former world snooker champion, Ken Doherty grew up on Ranelagh Avenue.
• Irish revolutionary, Padraig Pearse lived in Ranelagh until he moved his school to Rathfarnham
• Former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner, Mary Robinson lived just off Sandford Rd.