Bishop Street

Bishop Street

Jacob’s Biscuit Factory, once a landmark on Bishop Street, Dublin, was renowned for its production of popular biscuits. Established in the early 20th century, the factory occupied a prominent site with the Poddle River flowing underneath. The factory’s location was historically significant, near a street that evolved from “Butter Lane”/”Boater Lane” to “Bishop Street” in the 18th century. The factory was a notable part of Dublin’s industrial heritage until it was closed in the late 20th century. Today, the site is characterised by modern developments, with the factory’s legacy remembered by Dubliners and reflected in the city’s evolving landscape.

Association with Poddle

Although Bishop Street is located close to the Cross Poddle and the, there does not seem to be evidence , despite the interested article that the River Poddle ever flowed under the Jacob’s Biscuit Factory.

What the Newspapers Say

  • Bishop Street, situated between Jacob’s factory and tall flats, traces its origins back to 1610. Originally called “Butter Lane,” it became “Boater Lane” by 1756. The name changed to Bishop Street in 1774, likely due to its proximity to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and ownership by the Protestant Archbishop. Historical maps show a Watch House at its Kevin Street end near St. Patrick’s Well and the Poddle River.
  • The Poddle River, now mostly built over and forgotten by Dubliners, once flowed under Jacob’s Biscuit Factory. Two workers there would fish in the river during quiet times. Angling remains popular in Ireland, with £300,000 invested in projects under the 1994-2000 Tourism Angling Programme. Despite crowded waters, particularly in England, sea and coarse fishing continue to thrive, with humorous incidents, like an angler catching a skate with an attached “lady friend.”
Related newspaper articles
Card image cap
From Boater to Bishop
24 Feb 1969

Bishop Street is hemmed in between the bulk of Jacob’s factory on one side, and tall flats built about five years, on the other. Back in 1610, John Speed’s map…

Read more...
Card image cap
Anglers Take The Biscuit
5 Nov 1995

Anglers take the biscuit Mention the Poddle River to most Dubliners, and they’ll look at you blankly — because it has been built over. Years ago, while fishing on the…

Read more...