Dublin's Art & Antique Quarter, Francis Street

26/09/2026

Dublin 8 - The Liberties and the First Tennis Court - Love this - Tennis and Thomas Street - The earliest mention of a tennis court in Ireland is 1609 'at Thomas Street'. The Irish Championships were first held in June 1879, two years after Wimbledon started. It was first staged at Pembroke Place, Dublin until 1880 (to Wilton Place) where it remained until 1902. In 1903 the tournament moved again this time to Fitzwilliam Square (picture). The championships began 2 June 1879 the tournament had the distinction of being the first event to feature men's and women's singles and doubles tournaments as well as a mixed doubles competition.

The Irish at Wimbledon - 1890 was the year Wimbledon fell to the Irish. Joshua Pim (lived in Fitzwilliam Square ,doctor) and Frank Stoker won the Doubles. Lena Rice scooped the Ladies’ Singles. And Willoby Hamilton from Monasterevin, Co Kildare, defeated Pim in the Men’s Singles final to become the first Irishman (and the first non-British player) to win the tournament.

24/09/2026

Badgers in The Liberties - Early morning scene in Dublin 8 - These pics were taken a few nights ago (Thanks for sending them on Mr. Robinson). The Badger family (our newest neighbours) were seeing feeding on discarded food. We had reports of badgers in the area but here is evidence that they are visiting The Liberties and maybe residents. They are very shy animals and rarely pose a threat to humans but they are very strong and if attacked by a dog, they will fiercely defend themselves. Badgers are a protected animal under Irish Law.

20/09/2026

16/09/2026

Tom Young a Francis Street Hero - Hair for a Hero ! - Tom Young of The Liberty Belle will be shaving his head to raise funds for The Hospice in Harolds Cross. This will take place at The Liberty Belle at 6.30pm on 28th of September and all are welcome. Well done Tom and we all wish you the very best with the next phase of treatment. The 'go fund me' page is very busy with Thousands already donated - This is link to donate https://www.gofundme.com/f/hair-for-a-hero-tom-youngs-head-shave/cl/s?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp30-treatment-5&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&lang=en_IE

29/08/2026

The Old Dublin Restaurant at 90/91 Francis Street - Circa 40 Years ago - Hopefully we will have a restaurant back in this spot soon. Lots of Pictures recently of many of shops on Francis Street currently so we decided to have a blast from the Past . This famous Restaurant on Francis Street was a famed eating spot for decades and many a great night took place with The Rich and not so Rich Legal Eagles. Still missed ! -

11/08/2026

Hi All - This may be on offer out there so please check out the details on the attached image. Garda Dalkey - 01 666 5000

06/08/2026

Brenda Fricker - 1945/2026 - superb Lady and Wonderful Actor- RIP

01/08/2026

These are Interesting Patrick Howard Art & Antiques - Patrick was renovating an old painting and found this copy of The Irish Independent from Aug 1950 to the rear of the frame. He passed it on and we took some pictures of reports and adverts.
- Calor Gas will most likely not repeat this advert today .
- Aer Lingus hit a milestone with 1000 people a day.
- English Students and Teachers were very impressed with Dublin and Ireland's , one said, 'it was something extraordinary to sense the obvious freedom in this country'
- The San Francisco Archbishop, John J Mitty, was visiting with others and he was spending time in Kilrane Wexford with the relatives.
- Walker's baby prams were very expensive at 15 Guineas but you could pay in instalments.

27/07/2026

Congrats to Mayo and Mark and Philip of Connaught Antiques can take a day off - What an extraordinary triumph! Mayo displayed superb skill, determination, and unity throughout the final. Every pass, every tackle, every moment reflected true determination from the heart. Mayo may have waited many years but teamwork and perseverance can conquer any challenge. The passion the Mayo Men brought to the field inspired everyone watching, and your victory will be remembered as a shining example of dedication and patience. Congratulations Mayo on this well‑deserved success — you’ve earned every cheer, every accolade, and every ounce of pride that comes with being champions. The spirit of victory truly belongs to you!

02/07/2026

These are rather Nice - Natalie Forrester - Space Out Sister is delighted to have two artworks on display for sale at 88 Francis Street.
COU 071 - Eccles Lane (2024)
Ulysses, Episode IV - Calypso
Acrylic on canvas • 46 X 60 cm
&
COU 099 - Lace Affair (2026)
Ulysses, Episode V - Lotus Eaters
Acrylic on canvas • 46 X 60 cm

If you would like any more information please just reach out:
Space Out Sister
Natalie Forrester Art