FOR a small city, Dublin packs in a lot of places of interest. Your tireless researchers at icNorthWales haven't managed to get round them all yet, but here is a selection from those we've seen so far. Top of many people's lists of sights to see is Trinity College. Although there is plenty of interest on the campus, everyone goes to look at the Book of Kells, created by monks over 1,000 years ago. But you may be disappointed because, after the huge build-up, the visual impact can be anti-climactic, especially as the crowds make it very difficult to get a good look, unless you go as soon as the exhibition opens at 9.30am. My favourite part is the galleried Long Room of the Old Library with its towering shelves, ancient tomes and perilous ladders. The College Green and the architecture are worth seeing, too, and students act as guides for college tours. The unspoilt Georgian architecture that is Dublin's trademark can be seen particularly clearly in the areas of St Stephen's Green, Merrion Street and Merrion Square. If you want to do more than study the architecture from the outside, Newman House on St Stephen's Green is open to the public from June to August and 29 Fitzwilliam Street all year round.
 You can escape from the traffic and city bustle into the parks of St Stephen's Green (left) and Merrion Square, which are both well-maintained and surprisingly large. They're ideal for strolling around, resting on a bench or people-watching. The heart of Ireland's Government, including Leinster House and Government Buildings, is in the Kildare Street area where you will also find the National Museum, the National Art Gallery and the Natural History Museum. The gallery has a wide range of Irish and European art - far too much for one visit. From a Dublin point of view, the Yeats room is particularly interesting, with a good collection of work by Jack B Yeats, poet W B Yeats's brother. Don't miss the chance of a ride in the gallery's glass lift, if you've got the stomach for it. Admission to the gallery is free, but a donation of at least £2 is appreciated. | 
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