The lady in white
Dublin, Leinster
+353 1 849 2212
http://www.gardensireland.com/...
Review © 2007, Wcities
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The lady in white |
Ballbriggan Dublin, Leinster +353 1 849 2212 http://www.gardensireland.com/... |
This 18th-century castle and garden was built by the Dean of Clonfert in 1738 and boasts superb views of the Dublin coastline and countryside. Now furnished and restored in Victorian style, Ardgillan houses a permanent exhibition of 17th-century Down Survey maps of Ireland. The garden features a conservatory and rose garden, including sections for herbs, vegetables and Irish plants. Rumours abound that there's also a ghost on the premises! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff Mooney |
Inner-city oasis |
Blessington Street Phibsborough Dublin, Leinster +353 1 605 7700 (Dublin Tourism Centre) |
Stroll up beyond Parnell Square to the end of Blessington Street and you will find a little-known oasis of calm. Blessington Basin used to serve the water needs of this part of Dublin but it has recently been transformed into a small artificial lake (with the obligatory ducks and swans, of course), surrounded by pleasant landscaped seating areas. It's a surprisingly tranquil retreat in the often-hectic inner-city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sorcha Donohoe |
Natural urban wildlife |
Rathfarnham park Dublin +353 1 668 434 / +353 1490 0320 parks.parks@dublincity.ie |
Bushy Park (in the suburb of Rathfarnham) is a natural oasis worth visiting if you want to escape the city streets for a while. The river Dodder skirts the park and a delightful duck pond has been made with the diverted flow. The naturalised planting area attracts squirrels, foxes and birds. It's a good spot to kick a football around in and the large children's playground should keep all the family occupied for an afternoon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lauren laverne lover |
 Photo: Marcin Banaszek |
 Photo: Marcin Banaszek |
Thirty acres of family fun |
Phoenix Park Cunningham Road Dublin +353 1 677 1425 http://www.dublinzoo.ie/ info@dublinzoo.ie |
More than 235 species of wild animals and exotic birds inhabit Dublin Zoo, a vast expanse within Phoenix Park. Created in 1830 and recently restored and extended, this zoo is the third-oldest in the world, with London and Paris as "big siblings". The thirty acres provide lots of treats for the family, including a pet's corner and new attractions such as City Farm, Monkey Island and Fringes of the Arctic. The train ride around the zoo is also fun and a welcome rest for weary legs! Refreshments are available in the restaurant and coffee shop, while a variety of cuddly toys can be found in the gift shop. Admission: adults EUR12.50: students EUR10: children 3-16 years EUR8: family passes from EUR35. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Doug Butcher |
 Photo: Naoise O'Donnell |
 Photo: Daniel Shanahan |
 Photo: Stephen Smith |
 Photo: Cian O'Sullivan |
 Photo: Paul Jeremiah Hayes |
 Photo: Rachel Toomey |
 Photo: Suhaib Fahmy  |
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A garden for all seasons |
Enniskerry Road Dublin +353 1 295 6000 |
This secluded garden is the perfect place for a picnic if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden features a cathedral-like aisle of giant Wellington trees and a large collection of shrubs, roses and herbaceous plants: all in a tranquil woodland setting. Many of the trees on the estate date back 200 years and the work of William Darley (who collected plants from all over the world) has been continued by the garden's present owners, the Walker family. A modest admission fee is charged to help with the garden's upkeep. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Philip Reilly |
 Photo: Philip Reilly |
On the banks of the lovely Lee |
Mardyke Cork +353 21 427 0679 |
Fitzgerald's Park is situated on the picturesque bank of the river Lee and spans eighteen acres. The park has swings and slides for children to play on and is a popular Bank Holiday and sunny Sunday location for young families. It is not only the young, however, who enjoy the park! The landscaped gardens, rich with trees and shrubs, as well as sculptures by Cork's own Seamus Murphy, make it the perfect place for an evening stroll. Also on site is the Cork Public Museum where you can peruse Michael Collin's love letters to Kitty O'Shea among other titbits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcel XII |
 Photo: Jessica R. Dixon |
 Photo: David McSpadden |
One of Europe's most modern wildlife parks |
Carrigtwohill Co. Cork +353 21 481 2678 http://www.fotawildlife.ie/ info@fotawildlife.ie |
This wonderful park is home to more than 90 species of animals from five different continents. Visitors have a rare opportunity to witness conservation in action; already the park has achieved international success in breeding cheetahs. Enjoy a leisurely stroll past curious kangaroos and frolicking monkeys. There's a playground for kids, and a coffee shop for relaxing. Admission: adults EUR7, children EUR4.2, toddlers free. The entrance fee goes toward conservation programs. Parking fee EUR2. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nsr199 |
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 Photo: John Barrett |
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Death in pursuit of freedom |
Parnell Square East Dublin, Leinster +353 1 647 2498 (Head Office) / +353 1 874 3074 |
Opened by President Eamon de Valera in 1966 for the fiftieth anniversary of the Easter Rising, this rather austere park serves as a fitting tribute to its martyred leaders. Daithi Hanly designed the lawns, which encircle a mosaic-tiled pool. The mosaic depicts swords, shields and arms, all broken to represent peace. At one end of the park stands a bronze statue of the Children of Lir, sculpted by Oisin Kelly. The children are an important part of Irish folklore - according to legend, they were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother for 900 years. They became human again after this time but, frail and weak, died soon afterwards. To this day, killing a swan in Ireland is illegal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Moritz Cosmann |
 Photo: Rob Goforth |
 Photo: henningthomsen |
 Photo: Elizabeth Staudt |
 Photo: David McSpadden |
 Photo: Roberto |
 Photo: mica71 |
 Photo: bevalisch |
 Photo: Julia Farhat |
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Centre of Celtic Ireland |
20 miles from Dublin Kilmessan Village, Leinster |
The Hill of Tara is a site of great mythical importance and is said to have been the spiritual and political centre of Celtic Ireland until the 11th century. The spread of Christianity diminished the importance of Tara as a religious centre, although Daniel O'Connell (the "Liberator") chose this location as the site for a famous political rally in 1843 which was attended by over a million people! There is not much to look at today, but the grassy slopes leave you to imagine what it used to be. Tara is located north-west of Dublin, about 15-20 miles from the city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: demetria |
 Photo: Linda Manaugh |
 Photo: Erika |
 Photo: Helen Sonner |
Well-hidden Gothic gardens |
Clonmell Street between Harcourt Street and Earlsfort Terrace Dublin + 353 1 475 7816 http://www.visitdublin.com/see... |
Developed as part of the Iveagh Estate in the 18th century, these gardens are still one of Dublin's best kept secrets, so well-tucked away that they remain quiet and tranquil even in the height of summer. The grounds were laid out at a time when all things Gothic were the height of fashion, so prepare to be slightly spooked by the park's dark, ivy-clad corners, eerie statues and winsome grotto. The gardens are currently under restoration and a Victorian rosarium has been recently rebuilt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MarkBennett86 |
 Photo: H.rududu |
 Photo: daniela |
 Photo: Elizabeth Blaschak |
 Photo: Michelle Medico |
 Photo: Adrian Yates |
 Photo: Cosmas Connolly |
 Photo: Simon |
Splendid formal gardens |
45 km south of Dublin Kildare, Leinster +353 45 52 1617 http://www.irish-national-stud... japanesegardens@eircom.net |
The brilliantly-designed Japanese Gardens lie close to the Irish National Stud in the countryside west of the city. Located in Kildare Town and only twenty miles from Dublin, they are certainly worth the detour or a stop on your way to destinations further afield. The gardens were created in 1906-10 by a Japanese landscape gardener. The path through them is arranged thematically and leads one on a symbolic journey from birth' to death. Features include a Zen rock garden and a variety of exotic plants, trees and sacred bamboos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Derren Lee Poole |
 Photo: Andrew Zhu An Loh |
 Photo: Derren Lee Poole |
Stunning gardens with mountain backdrop |
Kenmare Place Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 1633 |
Recently willed to the town, these lovely gardens are a peaceful oasis in the centre of Killarney. Pleasant paths skirt along expanses of manicured lawns, shaped trees, and flowerbeds. Cherry Lane, spectacular in spring when the trees lining the road are in full bloom, leads to Knockreer Estate and Ross Castle. The gardens' centrepiece is Killarney House. Once an immense stable, it was converted into a stylish home in the early 1900s. The house is currently undergoing extensive restoration and is closed to the public. The interesting exterior provides a charming foil for the surrounding gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bruce Niedt |
Georgian city-centre square |
Upper Gardiner Street Dublin, Leinster |
Although surrounded by magnificent Georgian townhouses, Mountjoy Square does not live up to its potential. In the 18th century, the square was the most elegant address in Dublin, but the migration of the gentry south of the river turned this district into a slum in a matter of decades. One hundred years ago, this part of town was one of the poorest areas in Europe, but recent refurbishments have given the area a new sheen. The square is traditionally landscaped with the ubiquitous trees, grass and roses but an adjacent tennis court seems somehow out of place in such elegant surroundings. The district deserves a visit, however: its Georgian terraces remain undiminished in elegance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Kritikos |
 Photo: Mark Breivik |
15th-century abbey with ancient graveyard |
Muckross Estate Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 1633 |
Built in 1448, this Franciscan friary is one of the best preserved in Ireland. The ruins are partly Norman, partly Gothic, with impressive cloisters surrounding a massive yew tree; this yew is said to be as old as the abbey itself. When the abbey was attacked in 1589, the friars hid sacred vessels and church valuables on one of the 30 lake islands. Although tortured, the friars would not reveal their secret and the riches were never found. The abbey is surrounded by a graveyard, which holds the remains of ancient O'Sullivan, MacGillycuddy, and O'Donoghue chieftains, as well as the last King of Desmond. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: W.Test/A.Angel |
 Photo: Michelle Hansford |
 Photo: Cameron and Kristy Meizer |
 Photo: Beth Moon |
 Photo: penguinef |
 Photo: Gregory Mc Straw |
 Photo: Buck Lewis |
 Photo: Sanna Myllykangas |
 Photo: John O'Callaghan |
Ireland's horticultural repository |
Finglas Road Glasnevin Dublin +353 1 837 7596 |
A short bus ride from the city centre, the splendid Botanic Gardens are always worth an afternoon's exploration. Entrance is free and guided tours are available most of the year. The gardens are divided into different areas of interest, featuring long herbaceous beds, a rose garden, alpine houses, a vegetable garden, an arboretum, a yew-walk along the river Tolka and a wonderful area exhibiting the various natural habitats of Ireland. The great glasshouses full of exotica were constructed in the mid 19th century and designed by Richard Turner, who was also responsible for the glasshouses at Kew Gardens. After all the fresh air, you'll probably need to visit the coffee shop to rest and recuperate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: yomara |
 Photo: Mauro Lourenço |
 Photo: © Daniel O'Gorman |
 Photo: Erik vanLennep-TEPUI |
 Photo: *Cathrin* |
Important prehistoric site |
Boyne Valley County Meath |
Newgrange is a passage tomb in the Boyne valley, 20 miles north-west of Dublin. It was constructed 5000 years ago and pre-dates both the Pyramids and Stonehenge. For centuries, Newgrange was the heart of an advanced Bronze Age civilization inhabiting the valley of the Boyne. The tomb was constructed in alignment with the night sky and the heavens: on the morning of the winter solstice, the first rays of the sun flood the inner chamber of the tomb for several minutes. Because of the site's enormous importance, access is limited. Demand for places on the tour is high, so plan your visit in advance. The nearby interpretative centre, however, is a perfectly adequate substitute for a visit to Newgrange itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nichole Andler |
 Photo: Andrew Urie |
 Photo: druesenbaerchen |
 Photo: redarrow |
 Photo: Ramón L. García |
 Photo: Edmund D. Gillett |
 Photo: Dominic Epsom |
 Photo: lisio gautama |
 Photo: Katie Walsh |
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 Photo: Jess Weaver |
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 Photo: (c) Alistair Dove |
Europe's largest city park |
Park Gate Street Dublin +353 1 6057700 (Tourist info) http://www.visitdublin.com/see... |
Measuring just under 1,800 acres, Phoenix Park is the largest city park in Europe. The great green expanse in the west of the city is a mixture of wilderness and formal landscape gardens. It offers a variety of recreational activities such as Gaelic football, polo and cricket. A towering Papal Cross marks the visit of Pope John Paul II, back in 1979. Also enclosed within the park's boundaries are a Visitors' Centre, Ashtown Castle, Dublin Zoo, Aras an Uachtarain (the official residence of the President of Ireland) and the Residence of the United States' Ambassador. Phoenix Park also has a bird sanctuary and a herd of fallow deer as well as boasting an impressive diversity of plantlife. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: simichan |
 Photo: Martina |
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 Photo: Brian Fitzmaurice |
 Photo: Geraint Evans |
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 Photo: Dave Farrell |
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Pretty oasis in city centre |
Grafton Street Dublin +353 (0)1 475 7816 /+353 (0)1 605 7700 (Tourist info) http://www.visitdublin.com/vis... caoimhe.allman@opw.ie |
Dublin's most famous park is steeped in history. It started life as common ground, not far from a lepers' hospital, and was eventually enclosed in 1664. The site of public hangings throughout the 18th century, it was not until Lord Ardilaun's patronage in 1880 that the park took on the landscaped form that we see now. Memorials are dotted around the flower beds, trees and willow-fringed duck pond. James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats are just some of the famous names commemorated, while the Three Fates smugly measure the thread of humanity's destiny from their fountain at Leeson Street Gate. Free concerts are held on summer days in the bandstand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pete Brady |
 Photo: Terry Dawson |
 Photo: marcy0414 |
 Photo: Andy |
 Photo: Ken Ackley |
 Photo: Marc VC |
 Photo: Thomas Rossman |
 Photo: Geoffrey PIESEN |
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Rose Gardens and More |
41 All Saints Road Dublin, Leinster http://www.stannespark.org/ brianc@ireland.com |
Not far from the city centre, St Anne's Park has many attractions. Originally part of a large estate, the big house itself was burned down, leaving the surrounding grounds to exist in their own right. The park is famous for its rose garden - a rose festival is held here in the summer. Well worth seeing is the mile-long avenue of huge stately oaks which formerly led up to the grand house and which now terminates, quite poignantly, at an empty space. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ciarán Cooney |
 Photo: Philip |
 Photo: yizabel |
 Photo: Javier García |
 Photo: Christian Paller |
 Photo: jjmaguire27 |
 Photo: b318isp |
 Photo: Gary Byrne |
 Photo: kath.a |
 Photo: Richard Costello |
Living history Irish farm set in the 1930s |
Muckross Traditional Farms The National Park Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 1440 http://www.muckross-house.ie |
Set on several acres in the hills overlooking Muckross House is a model working farm recreating Irish life in the 1930s and 40s. Actors are busy about their chores and you may find yourself enlisted to knead bread or milk a cow. Traditional farming methods are employed throughout the complex. Depending on the time of year, you can witness traditional thrashing, ploughing, or making hay. All of the usual farm animals can be found, seemingly oblivious to the visitors. Children are often invited to offer the livestock tidbits and join in farming activities. Admission adults EUR5.75; children EUR2.35. Separate admission for Muckross House; joint tickets are available for EUR8.65 for adults, 3.90 for children (prices are subject to change, check their website for updated information). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: The Ginger Bread Man |
Developing suburban park |
Walkinstown Dublin +353 1 605 7700 |
At the edge of the city in Tallaght, Tymon Park is a public open space in progress. Not long ago this area was agricultural and some of the original field hedgerows remain. Under pressure from the rapidly growing residential development all around, the authorities are trying to keep this space undeveloped and there is certainly a touch of the prairie about it. Interesting water features, streams and lakes can all be seen. It's a good place for blowing the cobwebs away with a long windswept walk. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Lee |
Reflect by the river |
Islandbridge Dublin +353 1 661 3111 |
Designed by Edwin Lutyens (one of the most signficant architects of the twentieth century), these simple but dignified gardens commemorate the 49,000 Irish soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War. The central garden consists of a lawn enclosed by a high limestone wall with granite piers. At either end are two book rooms (also done out in granite) which hold the names of all the dead soldiers. Visitors can view the shrine upon application to the administration. A pair of sunken rose gardens flanks this central lawn and the park slopes down to a tranquil stretch of the river Liffey. This stretch of the river is used by rowers from the local universities and is a calm and pretty spot on a bright day. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hilary Cadogan |
 Photo: Caitriona Darcy |
 Photo: JasonCorbett |
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