Plenty of people have heard about Phoenix Park in Dublin. It's considered to be one of the largest walled parks in Europe. Nonetheless, due to its size, not many of us have made it to the Visitor Centre, which hides some facts and secrets unknown to casual walkers.
I made it, though! Make sure that if you walk through the park from its main gate in the East, you allow yourself at least 30 minutes to get to the Visitor Centre as it is hiding behind the trees and paths at the far West of the park.
The Museum is free and has a lovely-looking cafe in the building opposite it. I did not get a chance to try any of their yummy-looking cakes, as it was crowded. It makes me believe that snacks there should be really good, so I have to come back!
Right next door there is medieval tower house - Ashtown Castle, and the Walled Gardens (they are being restored) close by might also be worth checking out.
In the Visitor Centre I learned a lot about the history of the park and Ireland itself. Did you know that right there they found some of the rarest Viking's attributes ever? Or that the park is over 350 years old and is still functioning according to its original purpose of being a deer park? Or that there are many more hidden gems to dig for? I was amazed. Come here and see for yourself.
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Dublin Flea Market" takes place the last Sunday of each month. Here you'll find stands with creative types, antique sellers or even average joes...
by
"Griolladh" in Dublin is a new lunch spot, and as a grilled cheese sandwich enthusiast, I can attest that their quality and flavor here are second to noe!
by
"The Dog House & Blue’s Tea Rooms" in Dublin is one of the most special restaurants I've ever come across. You can even tell from the title they love dogs.
by
The "Iveagh Gardens" in Dublin have lots of details that make them so cool. For instance, they have a beautiful waterfall at the entrance!
by
"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
"Artisan Brew Academy" in Dublin, close to the Guinness factory, is an actual academy that teaches people how to make beer at home!
by
"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
"The Hot Donut" sets itself apart because here donuts are homemade and freshly baked daily with natural and fruit-inspired flavors.
by
"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
"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
"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
"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
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 112 Insider Tips