12 Must-Visit Parks in Dublin

From the wild deer of Phoenix Park to the tropical treasures of Glasnevin’s Botanic Gardens, this guide covers 11 must-visit parks that showcase Dublin’s natural charm. So lace up your walking shoes, pack a coffee (or a picnic!), and discover the city’s green heart—one leafy haven at a time.

National Botanic Gardens

Location: Glasnevin, Dublin 9

A living library of plants since 1795, these gardens house over 15,000 species, including rare orchids and historic glasshouses. Don’t miss the restored Palm House and the peaceful Tolka River walkway.

St Anne's Park

Location: Raheny, Dublin 5

Once the estate of the Guinness family, this 240-acre park features rose gardens, woodland trails, and the iconic Red Stables arts venue. Its Saturday farmers’ market is a local favourite.

The Gardens at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham

Location: Kilmainham, Dublin 8

Adjacent to IMMA (Ireland’s modern art museum), these 17th-century formal gardens blend symmetry with wildflower meadows—all shadowed by the historic hospital building.

Irish National War Memorial Gardens

Location: Islandbridge, Dublin 8

A solemn tribute to WWI soldiers, this riverside park’s sunken gardens and granite bookrooms list 49,400 Irish casualties. A hidden gem for reflection.

Iveagh Gardens

Location: Dublin 2 (near St. Stephen’s Green)

Dublin’s "Secret Garden" boasts a rustic grotto, tranquil fountains, and a 1865-designed archery lawn. Once part of the Earl of Clonmel’s private estate.

Phoenix Park

Location: Dublin 8 & 20

At 1,750 acres, Europe’s largest urban park is home to wild deer, Áras an Uachtaráin (the President’s residence), and the Dublin Zoo. Founded in 1662 as a royal deer park.

Farmleigh House & Estate

Location: Dublin 15 (north of Phoenix Park)

A touch of elegant tranquility in the city. Farmleigh offers beautiful walks through its walled garden, around a serene lake, and past charming resident donkeys. A perfect, peaceful escape.

Herbert Park

Location: Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

This elegant 32-acre park comes alive every spring when its cherry blossom trees burst into pink blooms, drawing crowds of admirers. Families love the duck pond and playgrounds, while foodies flock to the popular weekend market featuring local artisan treats. Developed in 1907 for the International Exhibition, the park retains its Victorian charm with tree-lined walks and tennis courts, making it a perfect city escape.

Marlay Park

Location: Rathfarnham, Dublin 16

A Georgian estate-turned-park with woodland walks, a craft market, and a weekly 5K parkrun. The walled garden and coffee kiosk are perfect for a pitstop.

Killiney Hill Park

Location: Killiney, South Dublin

Climb to the obelisk for panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. A favourite spot for sunrise hikes and sunset picnics, Killiney Hill feels worlds away from the city – though it’s just a short DART ride from Dublin’s centre.

Merrion Square Park

Location: Dublin 2

Famous for its Georgian architecture and Oscar Wilde statue, this square’s central garden (open to the public since 1974) is a lunchtime haven for office workers.

St Stephen's Green

Location: Dublin 2

Dublin’s most famous park (22 acres) has a duck-filled lake, a Yeats memorial garden, and bandstand concerts. Rebuilt after the 1916 Rising, when it became a battleground.

From botanical wonders to seaside summits, Dublin’s parks offer endless ways to reconnect with nature – so pick a path, pack your sense of adventure, and let the city’s green spaces surprise you.