Iveagh Gardens is one of the least known areas in Dublin. It is 300 years old, and locals have strived to maintain the integrity and attributes of this historical site. On your next visit to Dublin in, be sure to visit this attraction.
Location
Iveagh Gardens is located in Dublin city centre between Upper Hatch Street and Clonmel Street in Dublin, Ireland. It is directly behind the National Concert Hall and Harcourt Street, located just a stone’s throw away from Dublins famous St. Stephen’s Green.
General Features
Iveagh Gardens has many special features such as artificial caves, exquisite fountains, and woodlands. It also includes a rosarium and archery fields and has come to host many prestigious events over the centuries. Use this quiet escape to read a book, walk your dog, or take in the tranquil ambience of a place rich in Dublin’s heritage.
The gardens are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, from the cold winter months of January and February to the summer months. There are many activities to do, such as archery, site seeing, and meandering through the tranquil woodlands. Here are some of the best things to see in Iveagh Gardens.
History
Iveagh Gardens is rich in Irish history. It began as an earl’s garden and was later converted into a public park. Most of the original features are still in place as much of the original design has been restored. In 1865, a lot of the gardens we know and love were redesigned by Ninian Niven. It went on to host the Dublin Exhibition Palace in all its splendour. The Park was later donated and became one of Dublin’s historic parks.
First Known as Clonmell Lawn
In the 18th century, the land that is now Iveagh Gardens was leased to John Hatch, the developer of Hatch and Harcourt streets, who then sold it to Copper-Faced-Jack, the first Earl of Clonmell to serve as his private gardens. This earned it the title “Clonmell Lawns.”
Coburg Gardens
After the passing of the first Earl, the gardens became known as Coburg Gardens and were later opened to the public.
Once donated to Ireland as a national park, the area attained the title “Iveagh Gardens.”
What to Look Out for When Visiting Iveagh Gardens
Iveagh Gardens is no ordinary park. It has several attractions, both natural and mand made.
Floral Attractions
Iveagh Gardens boasts some of the most beautiful roses in their quiet rosarium. In October, several species of flowers are in bloom. Examples of these include carnations, roses, lilies, sunflowers, and dahlias. Some of the rose species found in this garden date back to the 1800s, following conservation and restoration attempts.
Maze
Labyrinths or mazes, such as the one found in this garden, are intended to force the body and mind into a state of peace. Solving a problem such as one presented by a labyrinth uses cognitive skills like memory, reasoning, and spatial learning. This beneficial structure has been incorporated into the design of Iveagh Gardens. It is home to a beautiful yew maze that adds an extra touch of elegance to the area while helping to relax the body and mind. This maze was made as a miniature replica of Hampton Court Maze in London.
Water Features
The sound of falling or flowing water has been proven to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. People who work in the city are more prone to mental health issues than those who do not. Spending time in nature can help reduce the harmful effects of stress and anxiety. What better to do this than to spend time at Iveagh Gardens?
Waterfall or Cascades
Unlike many other garden attractions, Iveagh Gardens is home to a waterfall that creates soothing sounds to bring joy to the heart and stillness to the soul. The waterfall includes a collection of rocks that were carefully collected from each of Ireland’s 32 counties. Today, the cascade makes use of recycled water, but once made use of water from the Grand Canal.
Other Water Structures Both Past and Present
The Gardens used to be home to a pond and a boating tower. The tower now forms part of the boundary wall of Iveagh House. The Gardens have several exquisite fountain centrepieces that can be found throughout the lawns and woodlands.
Lawns and Woodlands
No garden would be complete without exceptional, well-maintained greenery, and Iveagh Gardens is no different. It has a host of stunning lawns which form distinctive geometric shapes that visitors have come to appreciate. Unlike St. Stephen’s Green, it is much quieter and has been a place where people can go to escape the hustle and bustle of life for decades.
Archery is an underappreciated sport in the modern world today. It provides many health benefits, such as stress relief, hand-eye coordination, encouraging mental focus, and improved heart health. At Iveagh Gardens, you can reap the benefits of this age-old sport. A sizeable sunken lawn near the Earlsfort Terrace entrance is home to an archery field, which is the only field in Ireland built for this purpose.
Events
The Gardens have hosted a wide range of events over the years. It continues to be a venue of choice for events both large and small. Watch many concerts, shows, and other such events during the day or at night. Check the website for an event schedule or to book an event yourself.
Iveagh House
Iveagh House forms part of the eastern border of the gardens. It is home to the Department of Foreign Affairs, established in 1939.
Operational Times
Operational times vary according to season. Be sure to check their site before embarking on a visit.
Final Thoughts
Iveagh Gardens is a beautiful national park in the city centre of Dublin. Hidden behind tall buildings, it is almost a secret getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers an oasis of tranquillity. It is the perfect place to enjoy nature, practice a little archery, and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while escaping the stresses of life. The many features of this hidden gem make it a worthwhile place to visit.