Farmleigh House Dublin
Discover Irish State guest house
Hidden in Farmleigh Park and accessible from Phoenix Park – Farmleigh House was a huge discovery for me. A little bit of history: the house was built in the late 18th century and for over 150 years was owned by the Guinness family, which was one of the richest families in Ireland. Some remarkable architectural elements and famous pieces of art are to be found inside, along with suites made for kings and queens visiting Ireland after the House became property of the Irish Government. I won't tell you more about it as you have to see it with your own eyes. Free guided tours available every day (currently outside only, and you need to book ahead), although I recommend checking the website in case anything changes. If tours are fully booked, you can come and wander around by yourselves anyway.
I made a mistake when I took a bus 38 going from town, which brought me to the northern side of Farmleigh Park. After wandering around for nearly 45 minutes (I thought I could get in at one of the gates along the road) I rang the reception and understood that I have to go all the way back to Phoenix Park as you can only enter the territory from there. Well, now you know and won't repeat my mistake!
There are two beautiful gardens near the Farmleigh House – The Walled Garden – with roses even in winter - and the Dutch-Style Sunken Garden that is a little hidden behind the trees.
About this spot
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Dublin
Beanhive Coffee
Art in a cup
"Beanhive Coffee" in Dublin creates art in the coffee! Forget the latte art you knew - these guys take it to another level. Great breakfast, too.
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Artisan Brew Academy
BYOB - BREW your own beer
"Artisan Brew Academy" in Dublin, close to the Guinness factory, is an actual academy that teaches people how to make beer at home!
by
Ginger
Greenidge
Freebird Records
Hidden in plain sight
"Freebird Records" isn't just a secret music shop! It's also a book store with all kinds of second-hand books at a good price & cool vintage stuff...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Hot Donut
Artisanal array of flavours
"The Hot Donut" sets itself apart because here donuts are homemade and freshly baked daily with natural and fruit-inspired flavors.
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Marlay Park
For a relaxing picnic day
"Marlay Park", located in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin, is a place I like to go to when I feel like taking a long walk in a natural environment...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Govinda's
Empathy on a plate
"Govinda's" is a perfect example of altruistic cuisine made reality. It's a restaurant run by Hare Krishnas who make hearty vegan & vegetarian food!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Needful Things
For the nostalgic-hearted
"Needful Things" in Dublin is an antique, collectibles and second-hand book store that's full of soul! Film buffs will especially love it...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Peace Tree
An eternal cypress
"The Peace Tree", also known by the locals as The Tree Of Life, is an impressive sculpture located in Raheny in Dublin that represents local animals...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The National Botanical Gardens
Oasis in the city
"The National Botanical Gardens" in Dublin is one of my favorite places. I love the greenhouses, especially the Victoria Waterlily House...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Famine Memorial
A powerful reminder
"The Famine Memorial" in Dublin commemorates the victims of the Great Irish Famine of the 19th century without & with astonishing honesty...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Griffith Avenue
The neverending tree-hall
"Griffith Avenue" in Dublin is the longest purely residential tree-lined avenue in Europe. I love having long walks here - especially in autumn!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Heading to Dublin?
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 112 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Dublin
Get to know our other Spotters from Dublin
As featured on:
