Merrion Square W, County Dublin Travel Guide

Discover Dublin's Georgian elegance in Merrion Square: a historic park surrounded by stunning architecture and cultural landmarks.

Merrion Square is one of Dublin's grandest Georgian squares, offering a tranquil escape in the city center. Surrounded by historic redbrick townhouses, it features a public park with sculptures, flower beds, and a statue of Oscar Wilde, making it a must-see for history and literature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Merrion Square W

Dublin, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Merrion Square W.

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.

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Explore Merrion Square W on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Merrion Square W, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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.
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.

Discover more about Merrion Square W

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.