Ashtown Castle
Ashtown Castle: A Glimpse into Ireland's Rich History
Phoenix Park: Dublin's Green Lung
Discover Dublin's expansive green oasis: history, wildlife, gardens, and recreation in one of Europe's largest urban parks.
Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed urban parks in Europe, offers a vast green space in the heart of Dublin. Originally a royal hunting park in the 1660s, it opened to the public in 1747 and is now home to a variety of attractions and activities.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-5 pm
Friday
9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday
9:30 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Dublin city center, the Phoenix Park is accessible via Dublin Bus. Several bus routes, including the 26, 37 and 39A, stop near the park entrances. The new Route 99, operated by Dublin Bus, runs every 30 minutes from 8:30am to 6:30pm, seven days a week, between Parkgate Street and the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, stopping at popular attractions. A short journey fare is approximately €1.30. Alternatively, take the Luas (tram) to Heuston Station and walk to the park's Parkgate Street entrance. A tram ticket costs approximately €1-€2.
Walking
From Dublin city center, Phoenix Park is approximately a 4 km walk. From O'Connell Street, head west along the River Liffey, then north along Parkgate Street to the main entrance. The walk takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Note that the park is very large, so walking to attractions within the park can take additional time.
Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Dublin. A taxi from Dublin city center to the Phoenix Park typically costs between €12-€16 and takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that costs may vary depending on the provider and time of day.
Driving
If driving from the M50, it's suggested to use the on-street parking along the North Road. Enter the Phoenix Park through Ashtown Gate and take an immediate left turn onto North Road. Parking is available on a first-come-first-served basis. There are numerous car parks located throughout the park, including at the Papal Cross and the Visitor Centre. Car parks typically close one hour before dark, except for the Upper Glen Road and Knockmaroon Gate car parks, which are open 24 hours. Parking is free.
Local tips
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Visit the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre to learn about the park's history and wildlife and to get information on free tours.
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Keep an eye out for the wild fallow deer that roam freely throughout the park, but remember not to feed or approach them.
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Explore the Victorian People's Flower Gardens for a display of horticulture, ornamental lakes and picnic areas.
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Consider renting a bike at the Parkgate Street entrance to explore the park's many paths and trails.
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Check the park's event schedule for festivals, markets, and musical performances.
Discover more about Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
Spanning 1,750 acres (707 hectares), Phoenix Park provides a refreshing escape from the bustling city. Its origins trace back to the 12th century, but it was officially established as a royal deer park in 1662 by James Butler, the Duke of Ormond. In 1747, Lord Chesterfield opened it to the public, establishing it as Ireland's oldest public park.
The park boasts a diverse landscape of gardens, wilderness areas, walking paths, and nature trails. A large herd of wild fallow deer, descendants of the original herd, still roam freely. Prominent features include Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland; Dublin Zoo, one of Ireland's largest zoos; the Victorian People's Flower Gardens; and the Wellington Monument, a towering obelisk.
Visitors can explore Ashtown Castle, a medieval tower house adjoined to the Visitor Centre, which hosts exhibitions on the park's history and wildlife. The park also offers various recreational activities, including cycling, sports, and events. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and expansive green spaces, Phoenix Park remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
The park has been the site of many historical events, including an International Grand Prix motor race and a visit from Pope John Paul II in 1979. Today, the park hosts events such as food and craft markets, festivals and musical performances.
A brief summary to Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
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