Top Rated Parks to Visit 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."

"As you watch the assorted groups of friends, lovers and individuals splaying themselves across the nine elegantly landscaped hectares of Dublin's most popular green lung, St Stephen's Green, consider that those same hectares once formed a common for public whippings, burnings and hangings. These days, the harshest treatment you'll get is the warden chucking you off the grass for playing football or Frisbee."

"Instead carry on through Grafton Street, Dublin's posh shopping area, and up to Saint Stephen's Green. Either grab a bite on the way and enjoy it al fresco, or head straight on to The National Museum in Kildare Street."

"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."

"This market, located in the 247-acre park in Rathfarnham, is well worth browsing through when you're spending the day at Marlay Park. And there are some fantastic vendors at this market. Try the delicious food at Taste of Morocco, get some beautiful hand-made crafts from Handmade For U, find your next read at the Village Bookshop, or enjoy some rolled ice-cream in the sun."

"Set deep within South Dublin, sprawling Marlay Park encompasses wild woodland, indistinct paths, a manicured walled garden and even a golf course. There’s always plenty going on here, like the farmers’ market every weekend and, in summer, an extensive programme of outdoor concerts. Try to locate the ‘fairy tree’ – and good luck (this park stretches out over 300 acres)."

"Another awesome place to go for a walk in Dublin is Marley Park. It is the perfect place to go for some peace and quiet. The park stretches for 86 acres and is home to ponds, forestry and trails."

"Set within rugged woodland and untamed fields in a well-to-do part of south of Dublin, Killiney Hill Park is wilder than other parks in Dublin. For seasoned walkers, the incline provides a fine challenge. But if climbing to the top is easily accomplished, take in even better views of the Irish Sea, Dublin and Wicklow in the distance by scaling the stony steps of the Pyramid of Dublin."

"A little park with a wonderful view of Dalkey and Killiney villages. It’s a steep walk up the hill, but it’s well worth it. Once you’re up, it’s one of Dublin’s most tranquil spots to relax in."

"Named after the river that bisects the park, Tolka Valley Park is a northside oasis complete with walking trails, a playground and a lake frequented by swans, kingfishers, herons and ducks. There’s one bridge over the river, and that’s the best spot to catch your breath (and take in the views of the river on either side). Tolka Valley Park’s 346 acres begin in Blanchardstown and extend northwards into wilder meadows, wetlands and woodland."

"If you or your family are planning on a cycling and orienteering trip, look no further, because the green places of Corkagh Park will suit your need. Children will surely enjoy the Pet Farm—with animals ranging from eagles, parakeets, pygmy goats, geese, sheep, zebra finches, and horses can be found. Or, enjoy the magical fairy wood attraction!"

"Corkagh park sits in south Dublin, with the River Camac, and features Ireland’s only purpose built cycle track. Elsewhere, the park has lakes perfect for fishing, flowerbeds to wonder among, and is overflowing with places to sit to enjoy a great book. What more could you ask for?"

"Just south of Phoenix Park and drawing a largely local crowd, this smaller park is an equally pleasant alternative. Stroll past the hurling grounds for a riverside view of rowers in action on the Liffey, or continue to the memorial gardens, dedicated to the fallen Irish soldiers of the First World War. The elaborately-landscaped grounds are fittingly tranquil."

"Nestled away behind Dublin Castle and secluded amongst the city buildings lay these magnificently designed gardens. They are designed with Celtic Symbolism having snake paving work slitter around the circular gardens. In Viking and medieval times this area was under water and called Dubh Linn (Black Pool) because it was where the river Liffey and Poddle met, the Poddle now runs underground and the Liffey banks were receded to where it is presently."

"Located behind the famous Dublin Castle is the sprawling and serene view of the Dubh Linn Gardens. You can take a short stroll, chill, lay down on the grass, and enjoy the tranquility that this park offers. Or maybe, if it piques your interest, you can admire the mega-sized Celtic knot pattern found within the park, or ask what it means to the locals enjoying their stay in Dublin."

"experience, incorporating a visitor centre, interactive exhibition areas and walled botanical garden. The Avoca Cafe is super kid friendly with lots of space, great food and high chairs. The outdoor terrace is a beautiful vantage point to enjoy the gardens…just watch out for the Peacocks which like to show off to our visitors from time to time!"

"The beautiful grass and colourful flowerbeds are overlooked by the majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s a great day out for all, and even sits by the River Liffey."

"Situated in the Dublin Docklands, Il Valentino is an innovative bakery that feels distinctly different. With a commitment to making the healthiest, most authentic baked goods possible, they use only Italian extra virgin olive oil and preservative-free flours to make their spelt, country malt-grain, stoneground loaves and other breads. They also have ‘theme weekends’ for their customers, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients – October is ‘apple comforts’ month, while November is all about chocolate and chestnuts."

"Price: €2.50Look: 4/5Texture: 3.5/5Taste: 5/5Value: 3.5/5Total: 16/20. Verdict: This French franchise sells what looks like a high-end croissant, almost too perfect and regular. The crust is extremely flaky and crispy, so much so that it makes it slightly tough to break down, but the flavours are fantastic - it’s a real moreish number."

"Another contender in the best hot chocolates in Dublin goes to Laduree, who make an elegant hot chocolate in addition to their rainbow of exquisite Macarons."

"The ethos of Bite caf� is that of 'Uptown Food, Downtown Vibe' and it's basically recreating your average fish and chip shop into a more upmarket fish experience with some interesting reinventions along the way. Gone is the greasy batter in a brown bag, replaced with hake in a vodka and beer batter accompanied with mushy peas and pancetta fries. The usual pre-theatre menu has been replaced with a 'Pre-Gig Menu', seeking to resonate with the modern diner."

"Originally designed by Richard Castle, and built in 1745, Leinster House has been the seat of the Irish Parliament since 1922. Built in a Georgian style, the building has undergone regular renovations since Victorian times, with a notable extension built in the 1960s to house parliamentarian offices. The design, following the plan of a Palladian country house with a double height hall and picture gallery, influenced the White House in Washington DC, in particular with a projecting bow on the north side."

"Leinster House once served as the home of James Fitzgerald, the Duke of Leinster and Earl of Kildare. Leinster House in Dublin. Photo: Duby Tal for Tourism Ireland."

"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."

"I'm sure you've eaten in one of the Yamamori branches at some point in your life but let me tell you a secret. The Yamamori Izakaya Sake Bar on George's Street is by far the best of all. They specialise in unfussy Japanese food."

"Everything about Yammers screams 'Instagram me". Dragon murals, enormous buddha statues, Japanese lanterns and more mouth-watering Japas than you can shake a chopstick at."

"Either upstairs or down in the basement you will get some awesome sushi. Huge team of chefs make it upstairs along with great dumplings and other Asian treats."

"The simple yet elegantly beautiful interior of Aoki Sushi Noodle Bar is a perfect reflection of the food on offer. They offer a wide range of excellent nigiri, sushi, and sashimi at very reasonable prices, and accommodate BYOB for wine only for a corkage fee of €6. Location: Unit 4, 63 Richmond Street, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin"

"Situated in the Temple Bar neighbourhood of Dublin in the beating heart of the city, Banyi Japanese Dining serve up mouth-watering sushi rolls and sashimi at a price that won’t break the bank. They are also known for their excellent vegan menu. The location makes Banyi Japanese Dining the perfect spot for dinner for those who work in the centre of the city."

"The Temple Bar area isn’t exactly known for its first-rate dining options, but there are a few winners in among the tourist-trap bars. Banyi is one of the city’s best sushi spots – it’s unpretentious, casual and reasonably priced. The tempura prawn and avocado roll is a winner, and their sashimi is quiveringly fresh."

"If there's one restaurant we could eat at every single day of our lives, it's Banyi. The food is incredible and the staff is really lovely. It is hands down one of our favourite Japanese restaurants in Dublin."