Top Rated Parks to Visit in Greystones

"The largest urban park of any European capital, Phoenix Park stretches over a staggering seven square kilometres (2.7 square miles). Within that space is the acclaimed Dublin Zoo. Established in 1831, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world."

"At over 1,750 acres, The Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s biggest city parks... and we're lucky it's right on our doorstep!. More than 350 years old, it is home to Dublin Zoo, playing fields, and the Victorian People’s Flower Gardens."

"Re-opened by Lord Ardilaun (Arthur Guinness) in 1880 for the citizens of Dublin. These 9 hectares / 22-acre park has been maintained in the original Victorian layout with extensive perimeter tree and shrub planting, spectacular spring and summer Victorian bedding. The park is adorned with statutes of Irelands politically and literary heroes like Countess Markiewitz, Robert Emmet, James Joyce, WB Yeats and off course Arthur Guinness/Lord Ardilaun."

"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."

"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."

"Saint Anne’s Park is located on the Northside of Dublin and is one of the most beautiful parks in the county. The park is home to old ruins, Chinese Suzhou Gardens, Rose Gardens and some magical artwork. On the outskirts of the park lies Ireland’s very own tree of life."

"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."

"Ok, but this one’s pretty cool and it’s perched on top of a hill!. It also used to have a railway station (albeit one that closed over 150 years ago, but still). Located along the southern boundary of Dublin Bay, the main reason you’d head to Killiney Hill Park is for the gorgeous sweeping views from the viewpoint just south of the obelisk."

"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."

"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."

"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."

"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!"

"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?"

"Last but certainly not least is Coco Bó on O’Connell Street. Coco Bó use the finest quality ingredients from all around Ireland to make a delicious selection of whipped ice-cream. If you are feeling particularly adventurous you should try their specialty- delicious ice-cream sundae’s!"

"99 hot chocolates to get you through the colder mornings - more whipped cream you say?. A post shared by Coco Bó (@cocobodublin) on Oct 8, 2015 at 1:15am PDT"

"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."

"The dining room at smart, stylish Dax reflects a certain period charm, with flagged floors, open fires and a smattering of good modern art. Olivier Meisonnave offers modern French cuisine with an Irish twist: the inspiration and the extensive wine list are French, but the ingredients showcase the best of Irish artisan produce. Try a fish feast: the seared scallops, then the firm, juicy turbot, with a selection of fine French and Sheridan's Irish cheeses to finish."

"Graham Neville is Dublin’s best chef without a Michelin star. In 2017, he teamed up with French owner Olivier Meisonnave of Dax, a basement restaurant named after Meisonnave’s home village in southwest France. The partnership transformed what was a reliable business lunch spot for those with flush expense accounts into something a lot more creative."

"The room feels a little stuffy at The Greenhouse but the food of Finnish chef Mickael Viljanen is all wildness and adventure. Viljanen’s food is fueled by his Nordic roots, but he utilizes Irish ingredients, putting them into plates that sometimes feel like works of imagination. Things are not always as they seem, like celeriac roasted to make it look like aubergine, but they are always delicious."

"The Greenhouse is heralding a new wave of fine dining in Dublin having opened its doors just a year ago. under the management of massively successful chef/restaurateur Eamonn O'Reilly. The goal of this place is to offer you a 'memorable dining experience' and the lavish menus and settings help to create a lasting impression."

"Chef Mickael Viljanen might just be one of the most exciting chefs working in Ireland today thanks to his Scandi-influenced tasting menus, which have made this arguably Dublin's best restaurant. The lunchtime set... French in Merrion Square & Georgian Dublin"

"Located just outside of Dublin Castle, set back from the hustle and bustle of Dame Street, Chez Max is a traditional French caf� serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a charming little garden that will transport you to Paris on a sunny day. Expect typical French caf� fare: tartines, rich salads, moules frites and beef bourguignon amongst charcuterie and cheese platters. The early-bird menu is the star here - two courses for �19 for rich and filling food in lovely surroundings."

"A pleasant and informal bistro, Chez Max recreates the experience of a traditional Parisian café. There is a charming, intimate back garden with plants climbing the walls and shade cast by the building. All of the outdoor furniture is chic and comfortable, with white thatched chairs and small, round white marble tables."

"Chez Max has table and chairs tumbling onto the pedestrianized palace street. Typically French right down to its staff, try the croque monsieur or one of their drool-worthy sweet and savory crepes. They’re open from breakfast to dinner so there’s no bad time to stop for a coffee and a bite."

"The Science Gallery—where “science and art collide”—is a dynamic, ever-changing space that's continually devising interesting themes and installations. There’s no such thing as a permanent collection here; rather, the gallery gets an overhaul every few months. As for the exhibitions themselves: They've ranged from "FAKE" (exploring falsities, from biomimicry to forged documents) to "In Case of Emergency" (a look at how the world might end—and why humankind loves to think about it)."

"The Science Gallery is fast becoming one of the top ten free cultural attractions in Ireland. Unlike most galleries, they don't have a permanent collection. This means that there is always something new to see, but it also means that between exhibitions (which can be a gap of up to three weeks), only the shop and café remain open."

"A corner of Trinity College was transformed into a space that encourages science and art to collide. The ever-changing exhibition currently focuses on contagion and biomimicry. Its aim is to allow visitors to “facilitate social connections, always providing an element of surprise."

"In the cultural centre of Dublin’s Temple Bar area, The Ark provides a space for children aged 2-12 to explore theatre, music, literature, art, film, and more. Running several events and workshops throughout the year, The Ark is the perfect place to spark or nurture a love of the arts. Address: 11A Eustace St, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 A590, Ireland"

"Collaborating with Irish and International Artists the team at The Ark develop inspirational and playful programmes for children aged 3-14 years including theatre, dance, poetry, arts and crafts. The Ark is a 20 minute walk from the hotel, or hop on the 56a or 77a bus just down the road from the hotel and be there in 10 minutes."

"The Ark is a cultural hub located in the centre of Dublin in Temple Bar that has the aim of effectively teaching art to children. It’s a great activity to do on a wet day and will keep the kids happy and entertained for hours. Address: 11A Eustace St, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 A590, Ireland"