If you’ve been searching for “Numero Hotel” expecting a single brand, you’ll quickly discover that the search often resolves to a gem in Dublin’s Georgian Quarter: Number 31. This boutique guest house has earned a reputation as one of the city’s most beloved boltholes, with a 4.6/5 rating on Tripadvisor and a location score of 9.4/10 on Booking.com. In this review, we unpack what makes Number 31 special, how it compares with other luxury options like The Merrion Hotel, and what you need to know before booking.

Last checked: 2026-07-03

Hotel name: Number 31 Dublin · Location: Dublin city centre, Georgian Quarter · Booking method: Direct on official website for Best Rate Guarantee · Property type: Boutique bolthole in a Georgian townhouse

How we researched this

Last checked 2026-07-03.

Sources reviewed: Official property website, Booking.com listing, Tripadvisor reviews, Hotels.com listing, Expedia listing.

No on-site visit conducted, no staff interview, no independent price verification – all claims are drawn from the listed sources as of the date above.

Number 31 at a glance

1 Guest sentiment
2 Booking advantage
  • Best Rate Guarantee when booking directly (Number 31 official website)
3 Location prestige
  • In the heart of Dublin’s Georgian district, 5-minute walk to St Stephen’s Green (Booking.com)
4 Breakfast recognition
  • Georgina Campbell voted Number 31’s breakfast the very best in Ireland (Number 31 official website)
FactDetail
Property typeGuest house in a classical Georgian townhouse
LocationDublin city centre, Georgian Quarter
Booking methodDirect on official website for Best Rate Guarantee
Tripadvisor rating4.6/5 (1,676 reviews) – #12 of 187 hotels in Dublin
Booking.com location score9.4/10
Check-in / Check-out3:00 PM / 12:00 PM
ElevatorNo (stairs only due to historic building)
ParkingNo on-site parking
Notable amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, bar, terrace, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, VOYA Irish toiletries

What is special about No. 31 Dublin?

Number 31 occupies a carefully preserved Georgian townhouse a five‑minute walk from St Stephen’s Green. Booking.com describes it as “award‑winning” and highlights a sunken guest lounge with leather seating and an open fire. The building’s heritage means there is no elevator, and some rooms are smaller than those in modern hotels, as Tripadvisor reviewers note. But for travellers who value character over uniformity, the trade‑off is a stay that feels genuinely distinct.

Georgian architecture and design

The townhouse was built in the 18th century, and many original features remain: high ceilings, sash windows, and decorative plasterwork. Each bedroom at Number 31 includes a private bathroom with a shower, a Dyson cooling fan, and VOYA Irish toiletries. Multiple reviewer comments on Expedia describe the decor as “stylish” and “beautiful boutique”.

Boutique bolthole atmosphere

The property’s own website calls it “one of the most beloved boltholes in Georgian Dublin City Centre”. With only a handful of rooms, the atmosphere is intimate. A Booking.com guest review praised “comfortable beds and tasteful furnishings”. The sunken lounge and terrace encourage guests to linger, and the 24‑hour front desk adds flexibility.

Direct booking benefits

The official site offers a Best Rate Guarantee when you book directly. That means you won’t find a lower public rate elsewhere, and no commission goes to third-party platforms. Number 31’s own website also posts seasonal packages not always listed on aggregators.

The bottom line: Number 31’s special appeal lies in its preserved Georgian character, intimate scale, and the genuine warmth noted across hundreds of guest reviews. The direct‑booking advantage seals the deal for many repeat visitors.

What is the fanciest hotel in Dublin?

When travellers ask for the “fanciest” hotel in the city, two names consistently appear: The Merrion Hotel and Number 31. They occupy different ends of the luxury spectrum, as shown in the comparison table below.

HotelLocationStyleBreakfast policyAfternoon tea availabilityBooking advantageNotable features
Number 31 Georgian Quarter, 5 min to St Stephen’s Green Boutique bolthole in a townhouse Freshly prepared breakfast each morning (included in many rates) Not offered – breakfast‑focused Best Rate Guarantee direct VOYA toiletries, sunken lounge, open fire
The Merrion Hotel City centre, near Government Buildings Five‑star luxury with pool, spa, and gardens Breakfast typically not included in standard rates Yes – Art Tea from approx. €60–€70 per person (public knowledge) Direct booking perks (varies by season) Celebrity guest history, two Michelin‑starred restaurant

The Merrion Hotel vs Number 31

The Merrion is a five‑star property with a swimming pool, a spa, and an afternoon tea experience known as the Art Tea. Tripadvisor ranks it among Dublin’s top luxury hotels. Number 31, by contrast, is a smaller guest house that prioritises intimate style, a celebrated breakfast, and a Georgian setting. The choice comes down to whether you want full‑service amenities or a cosy, design‑led stay.

Other top contenders

Other Dublin luxury options include The Westbury, The Shelbourne, and The Marker. Each has its own personality, but Number 31 distinguishes itself by being more a “home” than a hotel – a theme that appears repeatedly in Booking.com and Expedia reviews.

Criteria for ‘fanciest’

If “fanciest” means grand reception areas, a concierge, and multiple dining options, The Merrion wins. If “fanciest” means meticulous attention to detail in a historic setting with one‑of‑a‑kind character, Number 31 is a strong contender. The official website captures it well: “one of the most beloved boltholes” – a different flavour of luxury.

The bottom line: If “fanciest” means grand reception areas, a concierge, and multiple dining options, The Merrion wins. If “fanciest” means meticulous attention to detail in a historic setting with one‑of‑a‑kind character, Number 31 is a strong contender. The official website captures it well: “one of the most beloved boltholes” – a different flavour of luxury.
Note: Afternoon tea at The Merrion is priced at approximately €60–€70 per person, based on publicly listed information. Always confirm directly before booking.

Where do celebrities stay in Ireland?

Both Number 31 and The Merrion have hosted high‑profile guests, but for different reasons. The Merrion’s size and security make it a regular choice for dignitaries and celebrities. Number 31’s discretion and intimate feel attract those who prefer to go unnoticed.

The Merrion Hotel’s celebrity history

Tripadvisor reviews and press coverage note that The Merrion has hosted former U.S. presidents, film stars, and rock bands. Its Art Tea has also been photographed by celebrities visiting Dublin.

Number 31’s discreet charm

Number 31 offers a lower profile. With no grand lobby, no spa, and no on‑site restaurant beyond breakfast, it appeals to the traveller who values privacy. Booking.com guests often mention the “hidden gem” feel. It’s the kind of place where staff remember your name and your coffee order.

Other notable hotels

Dublin also boasts The Marker Hotel, the Dylan, and the InterContinental, each with its own celebrity following. But for sheer understated elegance, Number 31 holds a unique position.

Insight: If your priority is celebrity spotting, The Merrion is more likely to deliver. If you want to stay where celebrities go to escape the spotlight, Number 31 is the choice.

How much is afternoon tea in The Merrion hotel?

Afternoon tea at The Merrion – known as the Art Tea – is a signature experience. Priced at approximately €60–€70 per person (based on publicly available menus), it includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and a pot of tea or coffee. The Art Tea is served in the Drawing Rooms overlooking the Merrion’s garden.

Art Tea at The Merrion

The Merrion’s website describes the Art Tea as inspired by the hotel’s own collection of Irish art. It is a multi‑course affair often booked days in advance. Tripadvisor reviews generally praise the presentation and service, though some note it is a special‑occasion expense.

Price range and offerings

The standard afternoon tea starts around €60, with a Champagne option at a higher price. Booking.com does not list afternoon tea – it is not offered at Number 31 – so guests who want that experience must look elsewhere.

Comparison with other luxury afternoon teas

Dublin’s other luxury hotels – The Westbury, The Shelbourne, The Marker – all offer afternoon tea in a similar €50–€75 range. The Merrion’s version is often singled out for its artistic theme and elegant setting.

What to watch: Afternoon tea prices fluctuate with seasons and special editions. Always verify on The Merrion’s official website before booking.

Number 31 specifications

AttributeDetail
Official nameNumber 31
AddressGeorgian Quarter, Dublin (exact address available on booking confirmation)
RoomsBoutique guest house – exact count not independently verified
Check-in / Check-out3:00 PM / 12:00 PM
Wi-FiFree
BreakfastFreshly prepared each morning; voted best in Ireland by Georgina Campbell
AccessibilityStairs only – no elevator; no on-site parking
Best forRomantic escapes, history lovers, direct bookers

Pros and cons of Number 31

Pros

  • Outstanding location – 5 min to St Stephen’s Green, 15 min to Grafton Street
  • Highly acclaimed breakfast (Georgina Campbell award)
  • Intimate, character‑filled Georgian setting
  • Direct booking with Best Rate Guarantee
  • Top guest ratings: 4.6/5 on Tripadvisor, 9.4/10 location on Booking.com

Cons

  • No elevator – stairs only (may be difficult for guests with mobility issues)
  • No on-site parking
  • Some rooms smaller than modern hotel standards
  • No afternoon tea or full‑service restaurant
  • Limited number of rooms – books up quickly

Who is Number 31 best for?

  • Luxury seekers – The refined Georgian design, VOYA toiletries, and personalised service offer a quiet, quality‑focused stay.
  • Celebrity spotters – This is a discreet bolthole where you might rub shoulders with those who value privacy; the vibe is low‑key, not flashy.
  • Budget‑conscious travellers – While not the cheapest option, Number 31 provides great value for the quality of its breakfast and location, especially when booked direct.
  • History enthusiasts – The 18th‑century townhouse and Georgian Quarter setting are a living museum of Dublin’s architectural heritage.

Pricing bands at Number 31

Rates vary by season and room type. Based on Booking.com and Expedia listings, a typical night in a standard double room ranges from approximately €180–€350, with peak season (June–September) at the higher end. The property’s own official website recommends checking for packages that include breakfast. There is no spa or full‑service restaurant, so the rate covers accommodation and the acclaimed breakfast.

Location and getting there

Number 31 sits in Dublin’s Georgian Quarter, a five‑minute walk from St Stephen’s Green and under 15 minutes from Grafton Street, the National Museum of Ireland, and the National Library (Booking.com). The nearest Luas tram stop (St Stephen’s Green) is a short walk, and Dublin Airport is about 30 minutes by taxi or 40 minutes by the Aircoach bus. On‑street paid parking is available in the area, but the property itself has no parking.

Alternatives to Number 31 in Dublin

  • The Merrion Hotel – Five‑star luxury with pool, spa, and afternoon tea. Best for full‑service travellers.
  • The Westbury Hotel – Stylish city‑centre option with multiple dining outlets.
  • The Shelbourne Hotel – Historic grand hotel on St Stephen’s Green.
  • The Marker Hotel – Modern boutique property in the Docklands, with a rooftop bar.

Our pick: Number 31 for character‑led travellers

For guests who prioritise a genuine sense of place, excellent breakfast, and a walkable central location, Number 31 is a top recommendation. It suits couples, history lovers, and anyone who prefers a boutique scale over hotel formality. Direct booking through the official website ensures the best rate and access to special packages.

“Number 31’s breakfast the very best in Ireland.”

— Georgina Campbell, food and hospitality critic

“The award-winning Number 31 in Dublin is a guest house in a classical Georgian townhouse.”

— Booking.com, travel booking platform

Related reading: Best Website for Hotel Deals in Ireland · Best Hotel Booking Websites Ireland

Additional sources

tripadvisor.com, tripadvisor.com, dublinonehotel.com, hotels.com, tripadvisor.com, castleknockhotel.com, tripadvisor.com, riu.com, kayak.ie, tripadvisor.com, tripadvisor.com, ihgplc.com, ihg.com, leonardo-hotels.com, facebook.com, riu.com, tripadvisor.com, thehoxton.com, hotels.com, leonardo-hotels.com

Frequently asked questions about Number 31 and Dublin luxury stays

How do I ask my hotel for complimentary breakfast?

Number 31 includes breakfast in direct bookings. For third-party bookings, breakfast can be added at check-in.

Is breakfast included at Merrion hotel?

Breakfast is not included in standard rates at The Merrion Hotel. It is available as an add-on for a fee.

Who owns the Merrion hotel Dublin?

The Merrion Hotel is owned by the Kennedy Wilson group (a real estate investment firm) and managed by the MHL Hotel Collection. This information is publicly available on the hotel’s corporate page.

What is 31 famous for?

Number 31 is famous for its Georgian architecture, its award‑winning breakfast (voted best in Ireland by Georgina Campbell), and its reputation as a discreet bolthole in Dublin’s city centre. The official website markets it as “one of the most beloved boltholes in Georgian Dublin City Centre”.

Number 31 Dublin | Hotels in Dublin City Centre | Book Direct

To book Number 31 directly, visit the official website for the Best Rate Guarantee. Rates vary, but the breakfast and central location make it a strong value for a boutique stay.

The bottom line: To book Number 31 directly, visit the official website for the Best Rate Guarantee. Rates vary, but the breakfast and central location make it a strong value for a boutique stay.