Phoenix Park

Overview

At 707 hectares, Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed urban parks in Europe — more than twice the size of New York's Central Park. It has been a public park since 1747 and is home to a free-roaming herd of fallow deer.

Highlights

• Fallow Deer Herd: Approximately 400 deer roam freely, descended from a herd introduced in the 1660s.
• Áras an Uachtaráin: The official residence of the President of Ireland — free Saturday tours available.
• Wellington Monument: At 62 metres, the tallest obelisk in Europe, completed in 1861.

History

Originally a royal deer park created by the Duke of Ormonde in 1662, the park was opened to the public in 1747 by Lord Chesterfield. Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here before 1.25 million people in 1979.

Visitor Tips

• Rent a bike at the park gates — it's too large to explore fully on foot.
• Dublin Zoo is located within the park (separate admission).
• Duration: 2–3 hours.