The Portobello
The Portobello Hotel, located along the Grand Canal in Dublin, Ireland, dates back to 1793. Originally constructed as a private residence, it was converted into a hotel in the late 19th century. The building’s Georgian architecture and elegant façade have remained largely unchanged since its inception.
During the Irish War of Independence in the early 1920s, the hotel served as a meeting place for members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). It was during this tumultuous period that the most notable ghostly encounters are said to have occurred.
One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a young girl in Victorian-era clothing. Guests and staff have described seeing her wandering the corridors and staircases, only to vanish when approached. Some believe she may be the spirit of a child who drowned in the nearby canal.
Another recurring spectral figure is that of an elderly man, often spotted in the hotel’s bar area. Witnesses describe him as wearing outdated attire and seeming confused or lost. He is said to disappear when anyone attempts to interact with him.
Unexplained noises are also a common occurrence at The Portobello. Staff members have reported hearing footsteps in empty rooms, doors slamming shut on their own, and muffled conversations emanating from vacant areas of the building.
In the hotel’s basement, which once housed cells used to detain prisoners during the War of Independence, guests have reported feeling sudden cold spots and an overwhelming sense of unease. Some have even claimed to hear faint cries and whispers in this area.
Address
33 Richmond Street South, Portobello, Dublin, IrelandRichmond Street South
D06 C780 Dublin, Leinster,