Your guide to Dublin's thrift shops & salvage yards

Whether you're an avid thrifter, a lover of vintage interiors, or you simply enjoy the thrill of uncovering hidden gems, Catherine Carton of Dainty Dress Diaries has you covered.

From bustling car boot sales to architectural salvage yards and antique shops, Catherine provides a comprehensive look at Ireland’s thrifting scene, perfect for those seeking unique home décor, upcycled furniture, and pre-loved treasures.

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Car boot sales in Dublin & surrounding areas

For budget-friendly bargains and unexpected finds, Catherine recommends visiting car boot sales in Balbriggan, Ballymun, Jamestown Indoor Market, Le Zeitgeist Flea Market, Fairyhouse (Meath), and Straffan (Kildare). These bustling markets are ideal for sourcing everything from furniture and homewares to vintage clothing, books, and collectables.

Whether you are searching for retro kitchenware, antique ornaments, or unique upcycling projects, car boot sales offer an ever-changing selection at unbeatable prices. They also provide a brilliant opportunity to meet fellow thrifting enthusiasts and uncover hidden treasures that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Many of these markets operate at weekends, and experienced bargain hunters know that arriving early is key to snapping up the best finds before they disappear.

Charity shop warehouses

For those in search of second-hand furniture and larger home pieces, the NCBI Ballyfermot Warehouse and SVP Navan Warehouse are packed with pre-loved furnishings at affordable prices. Unlike high-street charity shops, these warehouses stock a much broader range of items, from dining tables and wardrobes to vintage cabinets and bookshelves.

Catherine highlights these as must-visit locations for anyone furnishing a home on a budget or looking for a characterful piece that can be restored or upcycled.

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Architectural salvage yards

Whether you are restoring a period property or searching for a statement piece with history, Dublin’s architectural salvage yards are treasure troves of reclaimed materials.

Catherine explores Mac’s Warehouse, Landmark Architectural Salvage, and Kilkenny Architectural Salvage, each offering a wide array of beautifully aged pieces, including ornate fireplaces, reclaimed wooden doors, vintage tiles, cast iron radiators, and wrought iron gates.

These yards are perfect for anyone wanting to add unique character to their home while embracing sustainability by repurposing high-quality materials.

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Antique shops

Dublin 8’s Francis Street is a must-visit destination for antique lovers, lined with specialist shops offering fine art, period furniture, rare books, and delicate porcelain. Catherine takes a closer look at O’Sullivan Antiques, known for its exquisite collection of carefully curated historical pieces.

She also visits Straffan Antiques & Victorian Tea Rooms in Kildare, where visitors can browse beautiful antiques before indulging in a charming afternoon tea. Whether you are a seasoned collector, an interior enthusiast, or simply enjoy the nostalgia of bygone eras, these shops provide an enchanting shopping experience filled with craftsmanship and history.

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Top tip

For up-to-date information on car boot sales and their schedules, Catherine suggests checking Collect Ireland, which provides a regularly updated list of locations and times.

For more inspiration, visit Catherine’s website at www.daintydressdiaries.com.