Reasonably priced and only a 20 minute walk away from most of Dublin's attractions (with a small parking lot no less) Latchford Self-Catering Apartments, like the website says, is a hidden gem.
Dublin can get really expensive, and you have a rental car, parking can be challenge. Fortunately, my girlfriend and I found Latchford Self-Catering Apartments, located Southeast of Trinity College. The website advertises it as a "hidden gem" and based on location and price I tend to agree. Parking is in the back of the apartments in a really small parking lot with a really narrow entrance just wide enough for my little Nissan rental car (arrange parking in advance).
True to the "Self-Catering" in the name, it's a no frills location, with no continental breakfast or room service, a front desk only available during business hours, etc. The rooms offer more amenities than a typical hotel room, with a stove and fridge, table and chairs, a small TV, and a modest bathroom. The place is in an old building and showing signs of wear and tear, with old appliances and a crooked sliding shower door that doesn't quite close. You'll need to play with the confusing faucet for hot water, but I promise it's there. Beds are reasonably comfortable. The main selling point is location - 20 minutes to Trinity College, 30 minutes to Dublin Caste and Temple Bar district. A little bit of a walk, but you get what you pay for.
Overall, Latchford was exactly what I expected and what I wanted for a single night in Dublin. If you're looking for a good location at an affordable price, with extra amenities for longer stays, you'll be mostly satisfied. Just don't expect Hotel Hilton and you'll be fine. read more