The Phoenix Park

The Phoenix Park is located to the north-west of Dublin city centre. It covers an area of 712 hectares, making it the largest enclosed urban park in Europe. The name ‘ Phoenix ’ is a corruption of the original Irish name Fionn Uisce, or ‘clear water’.

Aras an Uachtarain
Courtesy of Dept. of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

The Phoenix Park was originally created as a Royal Hunting Park by Lord Ormonde in the 17^th century. The boundary wall was constructed in order to contain the wild pheasants and deer. It was first opened to the public by Lord Chesterfield in 1745.

The People’s Flower Gardens consist of an area of 9 hectares that was originally laid out in 1864. These gardens are an excellent example of Victorian horticulture, and include a large ornamental lake, picnic area, a playground and colourful bedding areas.

For more information, see the Phoenix Park website.