Top Rated Parks to Visit in Dundrum

"You can spend more time at the prior attractions or alternatively consider sitting down to relax for an afternoon tea or a coffee nearby, visiting Dublin Zoo (fee*) within Phoenix Park, visiting the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland (fee*), or exploring one of the city’s many free museums (see Day 2 list). Traditional Irish Night Out"

"Phoenix Park is the largest enclosed park in any capital city in Europe, at a gargantuan 707 hectacres. It’s been open to the public since 1747, after originally opening in the 1660s as royal hunting grounds. Now, visitors can marvel at the fallow deer that roam the park, while walking through the gorgeous swathes of greenery."

"The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre displays temporary exhibitions and is very family friendly. Beside the Visitor Centre is the fully restored Ashtown Castle, a medieval tower house, and a maze which is perfect for the little ones to run around and explore."

"St Stephen’s Green is recognizable in every photo and beautiful in every season. There are cherry blossoms in spring, greenery and swans in summer and the most gorgeous colours in autumn. If you don’t mind having a few passers by in the background, it’s one of the easiest locations for wedding photos in Dublin."

"St Stephen’s Green is located about 10 minute walk (with children) from Maldron Hotel Pearse Street. Adults will be charmed by the stunning Victorian park in the city centre whilst kids will love the playground and duckpond. Look out for free outdoor lunchtime concerts in the summertime."

"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."

"In a prime location opposite Bull Island, an idiosyncratic beach in north Dublin, St Anne’s was the former home of the – yes, the – Guinness family in the 19th century. Spread over some 240 acres, it’s now crammed with fascinating public follies. You’ll find a classical Chinese garden (a gift from China when Dublin twinned with Beijing in 2011), a Herculanean Temple and clock tower, and a physic garden with a range of medicinal herbs."

"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."

"St Anne’s park is undoubtedly one of Dublin’s most historical parks. Located between Raheny and Clontarf this was once the opulent home of the family which had the biggest impact on Dublin city. The Guinness family built St Anne’s House here in 1837, a mansion in the Italianate-style."

"While it’s now largely famous for hosting the huge Longitude music festival every year since 2013, Marlay Park is actually a lovely spot to come for a ramble the other 362 days of the year!. The land was in the hands of various wealthy local luminaries from the mid-18th century onwards until Dublin County Council acquired the land in 1972 and developed it as a regional park. As well as a fine place for a stroll, there’s also a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, six soccer pitches, five GAA pitches, a cricket pitch, a dog park, two children’s playgrounds and a miniature railway."

"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)."

"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."

"Often described as a wonderful place to escape for a great day out, Killruddery is conveniently located on the outskirts of the capital where Dublin meets Wicklow.There’s so much to see and explore. Nature has never been more relaxing with leisurely walks in one of Ireland’s most renowned gardens, filled with beautiful planting and wooded areas, water features and distinctive outdoor rooms."

"Although the People’s Park in Dún Laoghaire is one of the smaller Dublin parks, it punches well above its weight!. An immaculately landscaped oasis of calm just moments from the harbour, the two-hectare park is well worth a visit, especially if you’re down here at the weekend when local vendors show off their colourful collections of arts, crafts and local produce. Opened in 1890 and designed in the formal Victorian style, check out the wrought iron railings, stone walls, large gates and bandstand typical of the time period."

"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!"

"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 National Gallery of Ireland houses the country’s most important classical art collection, but for more contemporary exhibits it is the Irish Museum of Modern Art that wins out. The collection of 3,000 modern Irish and international works is housed inside the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, which dates back to 1684. Most of the art inside the 17th-century building was produced after 1940, including pieces by Joseph Cornell and Roy Lichtenstein."

"There are a number of great free museums in Dublin which include the National Museum of Ireland, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin City Hall, and the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Also keep an eye out for discount cards, coupons, and special deals to save money on tickets, tours, and meals."

"Imma Museum of Modern Art is a family-friendly museum, which contains beautifully landscaped gardens and an excellent café with a play area and plenty of toys. Address: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, Ireland"

"This museum is one that should be on everyone’ s bucket list and better yet it is only footsteps away from us. Ideal for those history heads amongst your family or friend group, the museum delves into Ireland’s social, military, political and economic progress throughout the years. The museum is also free of charge as you get to witness and explore artefacts and exhibitions on display are examples of furniture, weaponry, folklore costumes that have been used over the years in Ireland."

"Once the military home of British colonial rule in Ireland, Collins Barracks has been renovated and reimagined to become the National Museum of Decorative Arts and History. The narrative of Ireland's economic, social, political and military progress is told through an extensive range of artefacts. From silver, ceramic and glassware to weaponry, furniture and costume, the Museum is packed full of treasures, each with its own unique story."

"National Museum of Decorative Arts & History – A museum that will appeal to both art and history lovers. It is filled with decorative arts, jewelry, furniture, costumes, weapons, Asian art, & history exhibits."

"Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane – also known as the Hugh Lane Gallery – was founded in 1908 by Sir Hugh Lane, a County Cork-born art dealer and collector who died on the Lusitania. At the time of its founding as Dublin’s Municipal Gallery of Modern Art, the Hugh Lane Gallery was the first public gallery of modern art in the world. Now operated by Dublin City Council, the Hugh Lane Gallery has received bequests from the estate of Francis Bacon and a donation of eight paintings from renowned modern Irish artist Sean Scully."

"The Hugh Lane Gallery is one of Dublin's other great, free attractions that features the collectors collection which he bequeathed to the State along with over 2000 works of contemporary and modern art. The main attraction is the painter Francis Bacon's studio which was relocated in its entirety from London and gives an incredible insight into the cluttered, haphazard nature of the artist's method. The building itself, located on North Parnell Square is beautiful and airy - the perfect place to peruse slowly."

"Hugh Lane Art Gallery – A contemporary and modern art museum housed in a 18th century former home that includes the Francis Bacon studio. Founded in 1908, it is believed to be the first public gallery of modern art in the world."

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"Mimicking American diners of the 1950s, Irish retro-restaurant chain Eddie Rocket’s does dessert better than any of its rivals. Their chocolate brownies and cookie sliders are widely celebrated, but their milkshakes and malts made with premium dairy ice cream could qualify as desserts in and of themselves – the imaginative menu blends heavenly flavours like Kinder Bueno, Oreo cookie and Reese’s® Peanut Butter Cup."

"Sure it's a burger joint, but I think Eddie does a decent burger – and the milkshakes are the best in the land. Kids are king in this place, with colouring books, kids' menu and a gift on leaving. The menu is more of a treat, but the music and speed of service sometimes makes this the best choice."

"This independently funded museum follows the history and culture of the Jewish community in Ireland through the ages. Located in the trendy suburb of Portobello and a short walk from the Grand Canal this is a great place to stop into while walking around the area. It's walls contain the remnants of an old synagogue and substantial memorabilia and testimonials from Jewish communities around Ireland."

"The Irish-Jewish Museum is located in a former Synagogue in the Dublin city suburb of Portobello on Walworth Road. It’s about a 20 minute walk from St Stephens Green. This area was once a densely populated Jewish enclave called “Little Jerusalem”."

"All accommodation facilities include, spacious ENSUITE bedrooms, selection of King and Twin bedding with 13.5 tog Duvet, Bright White Sheets, multi channel tv, trouser press, in-room safe, hairdryer, lounge seating, desk and chair and there is access to affordable WIFI.We know what you want from a city hotel.A GREAT LOCATION, A great room that works, nice people that look at you in the eye and say welcome, a smile and homely feeling that oozes passion for looking after you and most of all a fair price. That is what we will provide, along with some surprises!. Address: 146 Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge,Dublin 4."