Phoenix Park
Leinster
Phoenix Park, located just 2 to 4 kilometres west of Dublin's city centre, is one of the largest enclosed urban parks in Europe, covering 707 hectares (1,750 acres). Established originally in the 1660s as a royal hunting park by the Duke of Ormond, it was opened to the public in 1745. The park is renowned for its extensive grasslands, tree-lined avenues, and a herd of wild fallow deer that have lived there since the 17th century. It hosts several significant landmarks including Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland, and Dublin Zoo, one of the world's oldest zoos established in 1831. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities such as walking, running, polo, cricket, and hurling, alongside scenic spots like Glen Pond in the Furry Glen. Managed with care, the park balances natural biodiversity with cultural heritage, making it a vital green lung for Dublin and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It is also notable for historical events such as the Phoenix Park Murders in 1882. The park remains open 24/7 year-round and prohibits camping, barbecues, and drone usage to preserve its environment and visitor experience.
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Tip: Visitors should consider exploring Phoenix Park during spring and summer for pleasant weather and vibrant natural scenery. It is advisable to check the official website for any event schedules or gate closures. Tickets for Dublin Zoo, located within the park, can be purchased online in advance to avoid queues. Note that barbecues, camping, and drone flights are prohibited within the park. The recent introduction of a shuttle bus service (Route 99) improves accessibility between the park's visitor centre and nearby transport hubs. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing water is recommended due to the park's vast size.
Interesting facts
- •Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed urban parks in Europe, spanning 707 hectares.
- •It has been home to a herd of wild fallow deer since the 17th century, which still roam the park today.
- •Dublin Zoo, located within the park, is the fourth oldest zoo in the world, opening in 1831.
- •The park was the site of the Phoenix Park Murders in 1882, a major political assassination event.
- •Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland, is situated within the park and was formerly the Viceregal Lodge.
- •The park’s perimeter wall stretches approximately 11 kilometres (6.8 miles).
- •During World War II, turf was stored in large mounds along the main road of the park as fuel supply for Dublin.
History
Phoenix Park originated from lands owned by Kilmainham Priory in the Middle Ages and was later granted to Sir Edward Fisher in 1611, who built the 'House of the Phoenix'.
The estate returned to the Crown in 1618 and was transformed into a 2,000-acre hunting park by the Duke of Ormond in 1662, enclosed by a substantial wall.
The park’s original extent was reduced in 1680 with the construction of the Royal Hospital at Kilmainham.
It opened to the public in 1745.
The 19th century saw significant landscaping improvements led by Decimus Burton, which shaped much of the current park layout.
In 1882, the park was the site of the politically significant Phoenix Park Murders.
Throughout the 20th century, it served various roles including turf storage during World War II.
In recent years, infrastructure improvements like shuttle bus services have enhanced visitor access.
Place Guide
Áras an Uachtaráin1754
The official residence of the President of Ireland, built in 1754 as the Viceregal Lodge. It served as the residence of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland until 1922.
Dublin Zoo1831
One of Dublin's main attractions, housing over 700 animals and tropical birds. Established in 1830 and opened in 1831, it is the fourth oldest zoo worldwide.
Victorian Flower Gardens
Beautifully maintained gardens within the park showcasing Victorian-era landscaping and floral arrangements.
Glen Pond in the Furry Glen
A scenic pond area surrounded by natural beauty, popular for peaceful walks and nature observation.
Contact
Phone: (01) 820 5800
