Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital, covering 707 hectares inside an 11-kilometre wall on the north-western side of the city. It began in 1662, when the Duke of Ormond started turning the land into a royal hunting park, and fallow deer have lived here ever since. Today it is managed by the Office of Public Works and is free to enter at any time.

The deer are the main draw for many visitors. A herd of around 400 to 450 fallow deer, descended from the animals introduced in the 1660s, roams the open grassland. They are wild, and the park asks visitors not to feed or approach them, so keep a respectful distance and bring a zoom lens if you want photographs.

The park is also home to several landmarks. Áras an Uachtaráin, built in 1754 as the Viceregal Lodge, is now the official residence of the President of Ireland. The Wellington Monument, a 62-metre obelisk designed by Robert Smirke, is the largest obelisk in Europe. The 35-metre Papal Cross marks the spot where Pope John Paul II celebrated mass in 1979, as did Pope Francis in 2018. Dublin Zoo, opened in 1831 and one of the oldest zoos in the world, sits inside the park, and Farmleigh, the state guest house, adjoins it to the north-west. The visitor centre stands beside Ashtown Castle, a restored fifteenth-century tower house, with displays on the park's history and a playground next door.

The park is open 24 hours a day, every day, through the main gates at Parkgate Street and Castleknock, while side gates open around 07:00 and close around 22:45. Walking or cycling is the best way to explore, since distances are large: allow at least half a day if you want to see the deer, the monument and the visitor centre. The Phoenix Park Café and Tea Rooms are useful for a break.

The Parkgate Street entrance is a short walk from Heuston Station and the Luas Red Line. Even a short walk from this gate gives you a feel for the park. Combine it with Kilmainham Gaol, across the river to the south.