The following are some of the most beautiful and historic parks to relax in during your visit to Dublin, and an even bigger advantage is that most of them are free!
Dublin Garden of Remembrance
Opened in 1966, the 50th anniversary of the Easter Rising, this luxurious garden is located in the heartland of Dublin city and was designed by Daithi Hanly. Its creation was inspired by, and dedicated to the courage of all men and women who fought for Irish freedom. Theres a large sculpture in the park which was designed by Oisin Kelly, and it represents the Children of Lir, a tale from Irelands mythological past. The Garden is intended as a place of quiet reflection, remembering our dead and introspectiveness.The Garden itself is located in Parnell Square, Dublin 1, and while it has no tea/coffeeshops on site, you are only a short walk from the many fine eateries and pubs that decorate the city centre! The Garden of Remembrance has free admission, and is open until 6pm up to the end of September, and 4pm until the end of March. Visitors are welcome to take photographs etc.
The Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park is located to the west of the city centre, and is considered one of the largest city parks in the world. Its actually larger than Central Park in New York and Hyde Park London. It covers an area of almost 2,000 acres of ground and within its confines youll find a public zoo, football pitches, monuments and public buildings. You will be amazed to learn that the park is home to a herd of fallow deer! The word Phoenix in the Irish language translates to “Clear Water”. The President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, has a residence in the Phoenix Park, along with the National Headquarters of the Garda Siochana, Irelands police force.
The parks most historic moment came in 1979, when Pope John Paul II hosted an open air mass, which was attended by over one million people. The Papal Cross Monument was erected for this wondrous occasion. Also located in the park is the Wellington Monument, and Dublin Zoo, which is the 2nd oldest zoo on the continent. Ashtown Castle and the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre are also located there. An area to the south west called the “Furry Glen” is much recommended to visit. Youll be amazed at the wonderful walks around the lake there, together with the beautiful bird life, foliage and wildlife. The Phoenix Park itself is free of charge but theres a charge to enter the Visitor Centre and zoo etc.
The National Botanic Gardens
The National Botanic Gardens are located on the banks of the River Tolka, and cover an area of 48 acres. They hold over 15,000 plant species, giving a huge scope for plant lovers to explore! The glasshouses there have been fully restored and are well worth a visit. The Turner Curvilinear Range and the Great Palm House have won critical acclaim for the marvellous conservation of their architecture. Indeed, conservation is a cental theme of the Gardens, and youll be amazed to learn that it is home to nearly 500 endangered plant species. The gardens are located in Glasnevin, a short distance from city centre and easily accessed by Dublin Bus if you take the 19,19A and 13 from OConnell Street. Admission is just 2.00 Euro.
St Stephens Green
After a busy days shopping and strolling along Grafton Street why not relax by visiting nearby St Stephens Green? This park covers an area of 22 acres, and has beautiful tree lined walks, extensive flowerbeds, shrubberies and gardens. The park has outdoor entertainment during the peak summer months.
Marlay Park
Marlay Park is situated in leafy Rathfarnham, and is 300 acres in size. Its located approximately 6 miles from Dublin city centre and is easily accessible by bus and by the Luas rail transport system. The parkland has plenty to see and do including gardens, ponds and walkways. Theres a craft courtyard situated there, with a multitude of arts, such as bookbinding, pottery, jewellery, and embroidery, with coffee shops, and also holds the fantastic miniature railway run by the Dublin Society of Engineers. This is well worth a visit! Also located within the confines of Marlay Park is a nine-hole par golf course together with recreational space including tennis courts, childrens playground and football pitches.
Youll probably be aware that since 1999, Marlay Park has been home to some fantastic live entertainment in the form of musical concerts. Home and international renowned artists such as Van Morrison, David Gray, Sting, REM and Snow Patrol have all performed here in recent years.
St Annes Park Rose Garden
St Annes Park Rose Garden covers a vast area of 266 landscaped acres at Clontarf. Its the former home of the Guinness family, who are irrevocably associated with the brewing industry in Ireland. The grounds have beautiful tree lined walks along with 10 acres of fabulous rose gardens, which have been created with mass care and cultivation, and focus the intrinsic beauty of the rose flower. Youll be astounded by the careful and talented creation of this wonderful tribute to the many types of rose flowers, including shrub roses, climbing and rambling roses, together with the Floribunda flower. Clontarf is a short bus ride from Dublin city centre, and entrance to the park is free of charge.
Future development of Dublin parks
You may have heard that a new public park with floating gardens, pavilions, playgrounds, cafes, cycle paths, sports pitches and boating activities is being planned for Dublin. This park is scheduled for the Dublin Docklands area, and will run from the Liffey, beside the National Conference Centre, for about 1.4km to North Strand Road. It will give a massive boost to the area and the creation of the park is due to begin in January 2009 and will be completed in 2010.
