Trinity Trails: A fascinating guided journey through the cobbled paths of Ireland's oldest university

Everyone knows that Trinity College Dublin, the oldest university in Ireland, is steeped in history. But a guided journey through the cobbled paths of the campus with Trinity Trails reveals layers of lore that even locals or past pupils might not be aware of.

Our guide greets us in high spirits. Full of humour and knowledge, she answers every question and engages with the group with warmth and politeness. She even opens with a few phrases in Gaeilge, a subtle reminder of Trinity’s journey from an Anglo stronghold, from which Catholics were barred, to a modern, inclusive university.

It is a place where the old and new are interwoven. Take the statue of George Salmon: once a staunch opponent of women attending the college, he now stands beside female graduates in their gowns, posing for celebratory photos.

The Front Square is where you’ll begin your tour. Even the trees here have tales to tell: one grows slower than the other because its roots are caught in the ruins of an Augustinian priory, the only remaining hint of what was here before.

Across the campus, the architecture spans from Georgian, to gothic, to neoclassical, each structure carrying a weight of achievement and legacy. There’s the GMB, where Bram Stoker and Oscar Wilde once debated (though not at the same time); the more modern Samuel Beckett Theatre; and the atomic sculpture dedicated to Nobel laureate Ernest Walton.

The Museum Building stands out as the crown jewel. Its façade is adorned with filigree flowers, each one unique, showcasing incredible craftsmanship. Inside and on its walls meanwhile, the building features one of the highest concentrations of rare, green Connemara marble in the world.

Trinity College Dublin is not only about history, but about adaptation and progress. The library, recently renamed the Eavan Boland Library after the renowned poet and writer, is the first building in the college to bear the name of a woman.

Still, some things are worth preserving. Trinity Trails ends at at the Old Library, and visitors can continue into the Book of Kells Experience with a bundle ticket. It comprises priceless artefacts like Ireland’s oldest surviving harp and the world-famous Book of Kells.

The exhibition lives up to the reputation, weaving the tapestry of a manuscript that has survived Viking raids and centuries of history. Upstairs, the Long Room is just as breathtaking - appearing like something out of a fairytale with its giant rows of ancient bookcases and sculptures of historical figures.

There are some modern additions shining light on the past too. A new, red pavilion houses the digital experience, which adds another layer of immersion, using state-of-the-art video and graphic technology to bring the artefact and collections to life.

A walking tour of Trinity College Dublin opens a door into the history of Ireland, its capital city, and one of its most famous institutions. It’s brisk and fun, but thorough, clocking in at about 45 minutes, before you’re left to explore the Book of Kells Experience at your own pace. Just remember to wear comfy shoes for the cobbles and prepare for Dublin’s unpredictable weather with a rain jacket or umbrella!

• Tickets are €16 per person for Trinity Trails, or €33 for a combo ticket including the Book of Kells Experience. Book now at visittrinity.ie

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