Martello Lounge Dublin Airport Review
I have flown from DUB more than 300 times and reviewed all the lounges in Dublin except the Martello Lounge so I was very excited to finally try it out, even at the absurd hour of 5am on a cold January morning. The early start meant more coffee than champagne but it was an impressive lounge with hot food, proper menus, showers and a prayer room.
Dublin Airport
I live close by, but if you have an early start in Dublin Airport, maximize your rest by staying in the Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport which is on airport grounds. Check availability now
Martello is the New East Lounge
The used to be called the East Lounge because it serves the airlines flying east, but Dublin Airport are on a rebranding & lounge upgrading mission recently and renamed it the Martello Lounge.
Where Is The Martello Lounge?
The Martello Lounge is located 5 minutes after security from both T1 & T2. There's a corridor between the two terminals where the Liffey Lounge, the Aer Lingus Lounge and the Martello Lounge are all located. Sneaky trick in Dublin Airport is check the security line waiting times on their app for both terminal. There can often be a long wait in one terminal and short wait in the other. You can walk airside between them so pick the shorter security line.
Martello Lounge Opening Hours
The lounge is open from 4am until 9pm every day.
The Entrance
Two friendly ladies at the desk scanned my boarding pass and asked me if I had been here before. I usually say I haven't been here before, even if I have been, because they usually point out something that you had missed before.
Or they look at you in a kind way as if to say "oh look at excited old you, flying business class for the first time".
How I Got Access to the Martello Lounge in Dublin
It wasn't my first time flying business, but it was my first time flying business class on Qatar Airways to Doha so I was very excited this morning. And lounge access was included. As it is for business class passengers on Emirates, Etihad & Egyptair.
My flight only cost me €200 because I used my Chase Sapphire credit card points to pay for this flight that would normally cost thousands. I adore this card! Get yours at the link below.
Food
I was here at 5am, so it was breakfast time. Unlike the Aer Lingus lounge which only has cold food, the Martello Lounge had a good range of hot food in the buffet.
I went straight for the full Irish Breakfast, sausage, bacon, eggs, hash browns, black & white pudding. My poor early morning body didn't know what was hitting it, but if I'm paying for (or using points), I'm going to take advantage of it.
For the healthier passenger, there was granola, porridge and fruits.
I really loved the hardback menu that showed all the food throughout the day.
Top marks for the food
Drinks
One thing I love about this lounge is they have a barista serving proper coffee. Not sure why this isn't mandatory. Business class types don't use machines.
There was a good sized bar with plenty of alcohol but it was too early for that. On top of the free drinks, there are upsells to fancy cocktails. Sprinkling cocoa on my cappuccino was as close as I got to that.
Seating & Space
The lounge is not huge. It only serves four airlines at the moment but it had five different seating types.
- Dining tables across from the buffet
- Dining tables & loungers overlooking the airplanes
- Coffee shop type counter height for laptops
- More comfortable armchairs near the back
- Two work cubicles
Bathrooms & Showers
There are nicely styled bathrooms at the back. I had to ask where the shower was because it wasn't clear. I only wanted to see it for review purposes. I always have a shower in lounges after connecting, but not when I'm originating.
Prayer Room
There is a prayer room available for those who need it.
Views
It was bleak, dark & wet outside, but there were views over the apron. I love parking up with a coffee and watching the action. I'm an airplane geek, I could sit here all day.
Crowds and Atmosphere
It was busy but not overcrowded. I got seating no problem even when I got up and moved about multiple times for the purpose of the review.
Who Can Access Martello Lounge?
Here's how you can get in:
- Buy a pass online from €46 per person (in 2026)
- Pay at the door for €50
- First and Business Class passengers on Emirates, Etihad, Qatar, Egyptair.
- The Airport Club members
You can stay for a maximum of 2 hours.
Final Verdict: Should You Use the Martello Lounge in Dublin Airport?
Yes, a very nice lounge. Perfect for two hours before your flight to enjoy some hot food, barista coffee and a shower.
Score: 8/10
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