Top 10 Kid Friendly Things To Do and Attractions in Ashbourne

"The Phoenix Park is not only the home to our President, zoo, Victorian flower gardens, Papal cross and a herd of wild deer it is also one of Europe's largest urban parks and has acres of beautiful parkland and leafy trails to enjoy a long, meandering walk. Phoenix Park also doubles as a venue and space for many different events such as organized family picnics, motor and cross-country races. While there are plenty of great paid activities nearby such as Dublin Zoo and Farmleigh House, there are acres of space to roam around in and discover beautiful woodland and curious deer."

"As the largest enclosed public park in any capital city in Europe, Phoenix Park is a great place to explore and spend the afternoon with family. With plenty of monuments, walled gardens, and wildlife, there is something for everyone at Phoenix Park. Address: Dublin 8, Ireland"

"You could easily spend an entire day exploring Europe’s largest inner-city park. You don’t need to pay for Dublin Zoo to see animals either – Phoenix Park is home to an enormous collection of deer, just wander off into the woodlands to find them."

"Trinity College and the Book of Kells – Arguably one of the most famous landmarks and places to visit in Ireland. Trinity college is the most prestigious university in Ireland The Book of Kells is housed in the stunning old library of the college. The Book of Kells is thought to be over 1200 years old and is Ireland’s national treasure."

"As part of your visit, you will also have access to the Book of Kells – the world’s most famous medieval manuscript. This is a 9th century decorated copy of the four gospels, and is generally regarded as Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure."

"A visit to the Book of Kells at the Old Library, in Trinity College Dublin, is a journey through some of Ireland’s most iconic cultural heritage."

"Christ Church Cathedral (founded c.1028) is the spiritual heart of the city, and one of the top visitor attractions in Dublin. Step inside and you can enjoy the cathedral’s beautiful interior and fascinating medieval crypt."

"With one of the most iconic designs in Dublin, St Patrick’s Cathedral is a hotspot for Christians and architecture enthusiasts. The beautiful spire stretches into the blue sky above Dublin as a beacon for travellers and tourists. The peaceful grounds offer a perfect setting for an afternoon stroll."

"Stop Two: St. Patrick Cathedral Within walking distance of Dublin Castle is Saint Patrick’s Cathedral which is on your 2 days in Dublin itinerary. It is a Church of Ireland Cathedral and the national cathedral of the Emerald Isle. There is a paid entry, which included a guided tour."

"Named for the patron saint of Ireland, construction started on the county’s largest Cathedral in 1220. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels was once dean and is buried there."

"One of my favourite locations for wedding photos in Dublin, Trinity College is only accessible for those who can call it alma mater. But if you or your partner went to Trinity, the opportunities are endless. From the iconic and unique Trinity College Library to the Museum Building, from the quiet Rose Garden to the classical columns."

"The stunning gothic-tinged architecture, and the lawns where many of the greatest minds have sat make for an inspired visit. Trinity College is always a great spot to wander through, and that’s even better when you have your loving partner along for the ride."

"One of Dublin’s biggest tourist attractions is Trinity College. Located in the middle of the city, it hosts the Book of Kells and attracts millions of visitors each year. Most widely photographed is Bell Tower in the Front Square, as it is Trinity’s landmark."

"Imaginosity, the Dublin Children’s Museum, is a unique child-centred creative space for children up to nine years of age and their families. The Museum celebrates children’s imaginations on the journey from curiosity to discovery. Imaginosity offers a wide variety of workshops and classes in arts and crafts, computers, music and theatre every day in the Art Studio, in the Children's Theatre Space and in the Cyber Room – and most are free with admission."

"Imaginosity is often referred to as Dublin’s children’s museum as it is a child-centred space where kids and parents can engage in creative play together. Imaginosity contains exhibits, which are educationally designed to inspire learning through play. Address: The Plaza Beacon South Quarter Sandyford Sandyford, Dublin 18, Ireland"

"Suitable for children up to 9 years of age this museum has been designed to stimulate children’s natural curiosity and ability to explore. Visit the website for directions, public transport options, opening hours and prices."

"Now you will also see the Campanile, one of Dublin's most photographed buildings. Resist the temptation (should you feel it) to queue for a look at the Book of Kells. Even on good days you will lose time, see only a small portion and may come away slightly disappointed. The Old Library and the Book of Kells are for those visitors with more time, seriously."

"In commemoration of the Irish men and women who valiantly fought and killed during the First World War, this park was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The centerpiece of the gardens, the Circular Rose Garden pond, can be found in the Sunken Garden of Remembrance, where you can take a relaxing stroll. If you take pride in Irish history, do take a walk at the Great Cross of Sacrifice, wreathed with flowers of commemoration."

"A walk around Dublin War Memorial Gardens is a must for anyone planning to visit the Phoenix Park. The gardens are dedicated to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who lost their lives during the first world war.The gardens are home to ‘rose gardens, herbaceous borders and extensive tree-planting’ and are a great place to go for a stroll, relax and reflect."

"These gardens are one of the most famous memorial gardens in Europe. They are dedicated to the memory of 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1914-1918 war. The names of all the soldiers are contained in the granite bookrooms in the Gardens."

"The second-largest of the many parks in Dublin, you’ll find St. Anne’s Park between the suburbs of Raheny and Clontarf on the northside of Dublin. And to throw a bit of local celebrity stardust on the site, it was originally part of an estate assembled by members of the Guinness family – namely the descendants of Sir Arthur Guinness himself!. There’s a ton of stuff going on at St. Anne’s and you could spend all day if you so wished."

"Nestled between the suburbs of Raheny and Clontarf is Saint Anne’s Park, owned and managed by the Dublin City Council. Beautiful attractions include a serene walk at the Chestnut park, and onwards you will find architectural follies—buildings that serve as great decors for the park. Including a Water Temple of Pompei found in the banks of the artificial duck pond, a Herculanean temple that overlooks Naniken River, and many more."

"At the northern end of Parnell Square is a small, peaceful park, dedicated to the men and women who have died in pursuit of Irish freedom. The Garden of Remembrance marks the spot where several leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were held overnight before being taken to Kilmainham Gaol, and was also where the Irish Volunteers movement was formed in 1913. The central water feature is in the form off a sunken crucifix with the mighty Children of Lir statue at one end."

"Drimnagh Castle is the only moated castle in Ireland and boasts over 700 years of history. It fell into disuse and disrepair in the 1960s only to be rediscovered thirty years later, and from then on the restoration of this hidden gem began. The castle has been open to the public since 1996 and has been offering guided tours since."

"Just 10 km outside the city center, Drimnagh Castle is unique because it’s the last castle in Dublin that is surrounded by a flooded moat. Tours are available for a small fee. Courses on the craft of dry-stone walling (stone walls without mortar) are also taught here."

"Did you know that Drimnagh Castle is the only castle in Ireland that still has a floating moat around it. It has been used as a Christian Brother's School and a GAA club and there's no prizes for guessing why it's a popular spot for weddings and other events."

"The General Post Office located in the center of O’Connell St., Dublin’s main street, is one of Ireland’s most famous of buildings. It currently is a working post office but is more recognized as the main stronghold of the rebels of the 1916 Irish “Rising,” on the country’s quest for independence, and also for its beautiful architecture. There is also an option of a paid admission attraction highlighting and explaining in great detail the 1916 Rising. I was unable to see this exhibition about the uprising, but I will make it a point to check it out the next time I’m in Dublin."

"Highlights on and around O'Connell Street include: The historic General Post Office where the 1916 rebellion started, the Hugh Lane Art Gallery, the popular shopping area Henry street and the vibrant market stretch Moore Street, with colourful street traders and ethnic shops. The main drag is very busy, but the best parts are on the side streets surrounding it!"

"The GPO or general Post Office of Dublin is an interesting sight to see. Being situated in the O’Connell Street, it is a wonderful example of Georgian architecture. The six huge pillars in the front of the building make it an imposing structure."

"This paradisal cocoon is tucked away behind The Last Book Shop on Camden Street. At the back, you’ll find a door that opens out to the cutest area with bamboo shoots, mosaic walls made from broken CDs, books, piano keys and tiles and colourful tables and chairs that is The Cake Café. On the menu, you'll find seasonal, fresh and intriguing flavours."

"Tucked in off Camden Street, they've some amazing salads, a lovely terrace, and (as the name would suggest) some delicious homemade cakes. They don't go crazy with the toppings or make them all showy, but they make up for that lack of flashiness by tasting insanely good."

"This is a great little hidden gem for anyone who loves cakes. From the bulging towers of various chocolate cakes to the more delicate and beautifully crafted fruit cakes: every cake here is a work of edible art. Try the chocolate and Irish stout cake."

"Another discovery on my most recent Dublin trip, the warm, gooey Japanese style cheesecakes at Traditional Asian Cakes had me going back to Dublin again a week later just to have another one!"

"Average Rating - 4.6Total Number of Ratings - 50+Location - Dublin City NorthAverage price - ££Review - Amazing cakes!. View Traditional Asian Cakes Menu"

"Along the southern part of the Dart trainline, Blackrock Park is a small but perfectly formed park boasting striking views of the Irish Sea. The star of the show is the pond with its Peace Fountain, created to mark the International Year of Peace in 1986. You may well spot swans and ducks in the area, too."

"Or locally known as The Basin, it is a historic heritage park that provides a haven for all visitors. Located at the heart of Dublin’s north inner city, you can enjoy your leisure walk to the Public Library on The North Circular Road through the green and floral areas of the park. Fountains, floral schemes and features, and diverse woodland animals are to be enjoyed by visitors."

"The Phoenix Park is not only the home to our President, zoo, Victorian flower gardens, Papal cross and a herd of wild deer it is also one of Europe's largest urban parks and has acres of beautiful parkland and leafy trails to enjoy a long, meandering walk. Phoenix Park also doubles as a venue and space for many different events such as organized family picnics, motor and cross-country races. While there are plenty of great paid activities nearby such as Dublin Zoo and Farmleigh House, there are acres of space to roam around in and discover beautiful woodland and curious deer."

"As the largest enclosed public park in any capital city in Europe, Phoenix Park is a great place to explore and spend the afternoon with family. With plenty of monuments, walled gardens, and wildlife, there is something for everyone at Phoenix Park. Address: Dublin 8, Ireland"

"You could easily spend an entire day exploring Europe’s largest inner-city park. You don’t need to pay for Dublin Zoo to see animals either – Phoenix Park is home to an enormous collection of deer, just wander off into the woodlands to find them."