Merrion Square: A Georgian Gem in Dublin
Discover Dublin's Georgian elegance in Merrion Square: a historic park surrounded by stunning architecture and cultural landmarks.
Merrion Square, located on the south side of Dublin city center, is a testament to Georgian Dublin's architectural elegance and historical significance. Laid out in 1762, the square is bordered on three sides by stunning redbrick Georgian houses, known for their colorful doors, ornate door knockers and fanlights. Plaques on many of these buildings commemorate the famous residents who once lived there, including Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats, and Daniel O'Connell. The fourth side of Merrion Square is bounded by Leinster House, home to the Irish Parliament, as well as the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum. The central garden, once a private space for residents, is now a public park managed by Dublin City Council. Here, visitors can relax amidst flower beds, sculptures, and a collection of old Dublin lamp posts. A prominent feature is the statue of Oscar Wilde, created by Danny Osborne, which has become a popular spot for photographs. The park also contains the Rutland Fountain, dating back to 1792, and a sculpture called the 'Jester's Chair' in memory of comedian Dermot Morgan. During the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s, soup kitchens were set up in Merrion Square Park to help feed the citizens. Although the Roman Catholic Church purchased the land in 1930 with plans to build a cathedral, these plans never materialized, and the park was opened to the public in 1974. Today, Merrion Square remains a vibrant and historically rich location, offering a blend of architectural beauty, cultural attractions, and tranquil green space in the heart of Dublin.
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday to see local artists displaying and selling their work along the railings of Merrion Square.
- Look for the plaques on the Georgian houses to learn about the famous historical figures who once lived there.
- Take a stroll through Merrion Square Park to admire the sculptures, including the Oscar Wilde statue and the Rutland Fountain.
A brief summary to Merrion Square W
- Dublin, IE
Getting There
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Walking
Merrion Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many Dublin landmarks. From Trinity College, walk south along Nassau Street, then turn left onto Merrion Street Lower. Continue straight; you'll find Merrion Square on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Several Dublin Bus routes serve Merrion Square. Routes 4, 7, 7A, 15A, 15B, 15D, 26, 44, and others stop near the square. Depending on your starting point, a single-fare Leap Card tap costs approximately €2.00. Several bus stops are located around the perimeter of the square, including Merrion Square West, North, and South.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available throughout Dublin. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Grafton Street) to Merrion Square typically costs between €6-€8, excluding booking fees or surcharges. Note that fares may be higher during peak hours or special events.
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Driving
If driving, approach Merrion Square via Merrion Street or Upper Mount Street. Limited metered parking is available on the streets surrounding the square. Parking costs approximately €2.90 - €3.50 per hour, with time limits in effect. Alternatively, the National Museum of Ireland has a car park on Merrion Square West, accessible Mon-Sat (7:30am-6pm) and Sun (1pm-5:30pm). Ensure to check for any parking restrictions or special event closures.
Attractions Nearby to Merrion Square W
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National Gallery of Ireland
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Oscar Wilde House
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National Museum of Ireland - Natural History
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Leinster House
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Merrion Square Park
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Department of the Taoiseach
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The Joker's Chair
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McGrattans Pub
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National Library of Ireland
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National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street
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Park Dublin Свиня
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Doheny & Nesbitt
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O'Donoghues Bar
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The Little Museum of Dublin
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Secret Sculpture Garden
Landmarks nearby to Merrion Square W
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Rutland Fountain
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Merrion Sq West
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90 Merrion Square W
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Oscar Wilde Statue
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The Oscar Wilde Monument
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Bernardo O'Higgins
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Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland
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Ecological Museum at Trinity College
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Kildare St
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4 Merrion Square S
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Irish Architectural Archive
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Wolfe Tone Sculpture
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Museum Building (Geology, Geography and Civil Engineering)
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TCD Arts Building
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School of Histories and Humanities, Arts Building, Trinity College Dublin