There was a time when a continuous cacophony reigned over Dublin’s famous Docklands. Back then, the port area was dominated by massive maritime industries. But change has been in the air for a long time. The ships still come into Dublin in large numbers, and trucks roll off and on with staggering precision. But the wider Docklands area, which straddles both banks of the River Liffey, has been transformed into a vibrant business and tech hub.

The Docklands have also become a thriving cultural centre. North Wall Quay has long been home to the 3Arena (formerly the Point Depot), a state-of-the-art concert venue that has proudly stood Liffeyside for over 30 years. In that time, it has hosted an array of legendary performers, from Frank Sinatra to Nirvana, Elton John and U2.

Closer to the city, Custom House Quay is home to one of the top-rated visitor attractions in Dublin. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is an interactive showcase of how the Irish diaspora made such a big impact on the world, with adventure, adversity and triumph featured in hi-tech galleries.

An absolutely fascinating and engrossing experience, EPIC provides an incredible insight into Ireland’s cultural heritage and the remarkable influence its citizens have exerted around the world. With loads to see, hear, touch and read, the interactive EPIC exhibition offers an unforgettable look at the unique achievements of Ireland and its people.

It’s just one of the many gems in an area that continues to grow in popularity. Indeed, the docklands are filled with an exciting range of activities and attractions just waiting to be explored.

THE JEANIE JOHNSTON

The Jeanie Johnston is an authentic replica of the type of ship that carried Irish emigrants across the Atlantic to the New World. The original vessel made 16 journeys to America between 1847 and 1855, carrying over 2,500 people with no loss of life. Located on Custom House Quay, two minutes from EPIC, the stunning rigging of the tall-ship has become a landmark along Dublin’s quays. The 50-minute tour reveals what conditions were like during the journey, how long it took, and what awaited emigrants. (jeaniejohnston.ie)