Urban Secrets

Alan Cumming journeys to Dublin, where he explores an 18th‑century pleasure house that once entertained the city’s elite. He then shares a pint with singer Sharon Corr before delving into Ireland’s oldest library, where he helps unlock a long‑standing mystery.

The show follows actor Alan Cumming as he journeys to Dublin for a short‑form travel documentary. In this episode, Cumming immerses himself in the capital’s cultural heritage, moving from historic sites to contemporary encounters, while engaging with local guides and sharing his reflections on how the city’s past informs its present. All of this unfolds as he uncovers hidden stories that lie beneath Dublin’s well‑known façade. During his visit, Cummings steps inside an 18th‑century pleasure house, a venue that once catered to the city's social elite. He then meets singer‑songwriter Sharon Corr, and the two share a pint together, the conversation flowing easily and giving a glimpse of the city’s vibrant music scene, offering a relaxed look at contemporary Dublin. The episode also takes Cumming to Ireland’s oldest library, where he becomes involved in solving a long‑standing mystery. By examining the ancient collections and consulting the building’s historic records, he gradually pieces together clues that have remained hidden for generations. He pores over ancient manuscripts, tracing the clues that have puzzled scholars for centuries, as the mystery slowly unravels. Through these encounters—exploring a historic pleasure house, enjoying a drink with Sharon Corr, and untangling a library enigma—Cumming provides viewers with a blend of light‑hearted interaction and investigative curiosity. The programme showcases Dublin’s layered past while highlighting the city’s enduring charm and the stories waiting to be uncovered. Viewers are left with a sense of curiosity about what other secrets Dublin might still hold.