Dublin – Historical Places of Interest

If you or your family are planning a holiday to Dublin this summer, why not visit many of the historical sites this wonderful city has to offer? The good news is the three that I have chosen to highlight are FREE to visit.

Aras an Uachtarain – House of the President of Ireland

This modest brick house was originally built for the Phoenix Park Chief Ranger in 1751. Later, the building became an “occasional residence” for the Lord’s lieutenants. However, today it is a large mansion and home to the President of Ireland, Dr Michael D. Higgins. Not many people know that you can actually visit the residence on a Saturday! Tickets are free but are limited to about 100 guests and are allocated on a first come first served basis from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre located nearby.

Farmleigh House & Estate

Farmleigh House and Estate is an estate of 78 acres situated to the north-west of Dublin’s Phoenix Park. During the past few years Farmleigh has played host to a number of state visits, including Queen Elizabeth II, the Honorary, Dame Silvia Cartwright, their Majesty’s King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway. The extensive grounds have breathtaking gardens and fabulous lakeside walks. The Estate also boasts a working farm with a herd of Kerry Black cows.

Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Europe with over 700 hectares to explore. The park is only a short distance away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin City Centre, so if you feel like some quiet time it is ideal for both passive and active pursuits, such as walking or running. Dublin Zoo is also contained within the grounds of the park and if you look closely you might even catch a glimpse of the large herd of fallow deer that stroll around the park.

Dublin is truly a historical and cultural city and you will be amazed at how much there is to see and do during your holidays. Why not experience a trip to Dublin with a stay in an Irish family home?