Fodor's Expert Review The Morrison Hotel

Showcasing new Irish talent in everything from the textiles to the art on the walls and the sculptures in public spaces—there are even famous Irish song lyrics on the walls in some bedrooms, and in the lifts—this sleek, trendy spot, now a Doubletree by Hilton, remains top of the Northside lodging charts. The Morrison inspires reactions: some visitors find it OTT, while others draw comparisons with a London boutique hotel, though it's a fair bit bigger. Centrally located, it's halfway between the Ha'penny and Capel Street bridges, and no more than a 10-minute walk from Trinity College.

When the hotel puts a new song lyric on a bedroom wall or on one of the walls in its public spaces, the band come along and get their picture taken next to them - keep your fingers crossed to see some celebs.

room

The rooms in general don't do subtlety; there's a lot of white contrasted with splashes of bold purples and green in the curtains and pillows. But whether that's your decorative bag or not, they do have a sense of personality, as well as nice touches like an honesty mini bar and large smart TVs.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The hotel is pretty popular, so if you are arriving a long time before the 3pm check-in, staff may struggle to accommodate you - it's best to let them know your arrival time as early as you can.

bathroom

Bathrooms are, unsurprisingly, modern and bright, with large mirrors and white tiles. Standard rooms have showers over baths, and deluxe rooms have walk-in showers. The toiletries are from Crabtree & Evelyn.

lobby

The grey and purple lobby has a slightly 90s-vibe, as well as a pleasantly flowery scent. Staff are really friendly, and the welcome chocolate cookie is a nice touch.

gym

There's a small-ish fitness studio.

dining

Buffet breakfasts are good and plentiful, served in the hotel's double-height breakfast room, with baristas on hand to make good coffees. The light, modern Morrison Grill serves hearty international classics, from fish and chips to lobster bisque, a burger to a lamb cannon, to guests reclining on leather banquettes. The afternoon teas are modern and fun - from the gentleman's tea to the fancy pants option.

drinking

Quay 14 also dishes up an all-day menu, but is more about the cocktails, which are inventive and often changing. There's live music on Friday and Saturday nights and cocktails named after Irish songs, like Dirty Old Town.