Spent a night here last summer,2012. Got a good deal only a day or two beforehand, as far as I can remember by booking direct.
Given a magnificent room with very comfy beds though this one lacked a decent view, but perfect to come back and change/sleep in after enjoying the City. Bathroom goodies by Asprey - no diamonds within though. Still, the name looks good in my bathroom too! Sorry, how naff! For a brief stay it is ideally placed - just off the beautiful Merrion Square and opposite the impressive Government buildings. Museums and Galleries close by and the main railway station is within walking distance - the other side of the Liffey.
Wonderful public rooms, great for people watching, sipping cocktails and taking tea. Room service impressive too. Uniformed doormen to fetch and carry...
The hotel is actually made up of two or three Georgian townhouses, much extended to the rear, one of which has a blue plaque proclaiming it as the birthplace of the Duke of Wellington - yes, that one.
Much acclaimed smart restaurant, but as I was paying for the meal we settled for the The Cellar Restaurant - clearly very popular with Dubliners and with good reason. Still quite pricey and worthy of dressing up.
Didn't have a chance to sample the spa..

The Merrion gets everything right. As expected: the rooms are extremely comfortable and well equipped, everything is well maintained, the bar has a wide range of good wines as well as interesting cocktails, the breakfast is scrummy and the spa and pool inviting. But the real joy is the warm atmosphere. Faultless and friendly service, the smell of the turf fires, the tasteful furniture and outstanding art collection all combine to make it nearly impossible to leave. Looking forward to our next visit.

A true 5 star experience. We arrived early and were upgraded to a junior suite! The service was impeccable; the room very well equipped and had everything we needed. There was always a member of staff available if we needed anything. Recommend the Cellar Bar for food and great service. Spa was perfect after a day’s shopping and site seeing. Looking forward to going back.

We treat ourselves to a stay in Dublin city every now and then and this was our first time staying in The Merrion.. From the valet parking to the reception to the comfortable quiet rooms( not to mention location/open fires...).I would highly recommend... All staff are so professional and courteous and as it was my husbands birthday(although he only mentioned it in passing)there was a little birthday treat in the room for him...its the little things that make a hotel stand apart from the rest(Not to mention Danny De Vito and Michael Flatley staying the same night!)and we will definately be back,hopefully for longer next time!