First opened in 1852, the Clarence was one of Dublin's finest hotels, and remained so for many years. Unfortunately though, the years took their toll on the Clarence, and it began to lose its clientele. However, this cloud had a silver lining. Just as the Clarence was losing its following, its neighborhood, Temple Bar, was enjoying an artistic revolution. Thus many artists and musicians began to frequent the Clarence and became quite attached. Two of these regulars happened to be Bono and The Edge of the rock band U2 who purchased the hotel in 1992 and restored it to its former glory.
Each of the fifty rooms and suites has been individually decorated. The combinations of earth tones and simple furniture give the rooms a simplistic elegance vaguely reminiscent of America's Shaker movement. Yet the simplicity of the oak furnishings and colors of the fabrics does nothing to detract from the luxury of other appointments such as Egyptian cotton linens, and glass-lined wrought-iron bedside lamps.
Downstairs you'll find the Tea Room and its spectacular mosaic and marble Octagon bar. Tall windows flood the room with light and allow you to view the hustle and bustle of Temple Bar while enjoying a quiet romantic meal. After dinner, explore Temple Bar. Who knows? You might just see the next U2 before they become famous.
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