Welcome
Through our Phoenix Park Programme 2019, the Office of Public Works wants to provide a broad range of exhibitions/ talks/ walks/ events that are interesting, scientific, educational, fun and above all else family orientated to our visitors. The Visitor Centre complex has become a major attraction with almost 1.7 million visitors in 2018 with the centre itself attracting over 201,000 visitors last year. The centre is located on the grounds of Ashtown Demesne and consists of an interpretive centre, exhibition space, walled garden, playground and an award-winning restaurant. The Victorian Walled Garden now attracts over half a million visitors per year. The garden is managed and maintained using organic principles and it is hoped that it will inspire and educate both young and old on the horticultural skill involved in growing fruit, vegetables and flowers in a sustainable manner. Why not visit during the year and meet the fantastic gardeners who look after the garden?
The Office of Public Works were honoured during 2018 when the Phoenix Park was one of only two parks in the world to receive a prestigious Gold Award in the Inaugural International Large Urban Parks Awards organised by World Urban Parks. This award showcases Dublin as a green city with the Park providing many environmental, health, social and recreational benefits to the people that use it and the surrounding communities. We hope that our Programme for 2019 continues to highlight the many benefits that the Phoenix Park offers to our visitors.
I hope you enjoy the programme and maybe see you at some of the events that we have organised.
Kind regards,
Paul McDonnell Park Superintendent
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre and Ashtown Castle
For further information please contact:
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
Ph: 01-6770095
Web: www.phoenixpark.ie
Email: phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw.ie
or contact the Park Superintendent at
Email: superintendent.park@opw.ie
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre and Ashtown Castle
A lively and entertaining exhibition on the history and wildlife of the Phoenix Park is on display in the Visitor Centre. Here, the visitor can enjoy an historical interpretation of the park from 3,500 B.C. to the present day. There are two audio-visual presentations available; one tells the story of the park through the ages while the other interprets the history of Áras an Uachtaráin.
@phoenixparkopw
thephoenixpark
FREE ADMISSION
Open daily 9.30am – 6.00pm
Last admission 45 minutes before closing time.
Groups visiting the centre must be booked by telephone.
Free guided tours of Ashtown Castle are available; enquire at reception.
Victorian Tea Rooms
These world famous Victorian Tea Rooms, situated along picturesque Chesterfield Avenue, serve a wide variety of organic teas, coffees and delicious food.
Open daily: April to October: 9.30am – 5.30pm; November to March: 9.30am – 4.30pm. Open 7 days. Phone. 01-671 9376.
Heritage Services Phoenix Park. www.phoenixpark.ie
Phoenix Café - Award Winning Restaurant
Located within the courtyard of the Visitor Centre, serving delicious freshly made meals, coffee and snacks.
Open daily 09.30am – 5.00pm (Summer) and 09.30am – 4.00pm (Winter) Phone: 086-3849075
Vision
Using Organic Principles
Vision of the Phoenix Park Conservation Management Plan
‘‘
To protect and conserve the historic character of the Phoenix Park and its archaeological, architectural and natural heritage whilst facilitating visitor access, education and interpretation, facilitating the sustainable use of the park's resources for recreation and other appropriate activities, engaging research, and maintaining its sense of peace and tranquillity.
Given the international significance of the Phoenix Park, the goal is to realise this vision at a standard comparable to the best in the world.
The produce is appropriate to the Victorian period and the fruit and vegetable crops grown are used for educational and demonstrational purposes. The cultivation in the garden is based on the organic principals, the principal of care, ecology, fairness and health.
The Phoenix Park management plan encourages the awareness of biodiversity and ecosystems –different organisms or living things living together and depending on and helping each other. They also use the Hierarchy of Control, which covers prevention, identification, biological and cultural control.
Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden
Ashtown Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden is located beside our Visitor Centre in the heart of the Phoenix Park. It is the perfect place to sit and relax, have a quiet stroll or even grow your interest in horticulture. It is a two and a half acre oasis of herbaceous borders, trained fruit and vegetables all cared for by dedicated and enthusiastic gardeners.
Come meet with these experts on the first Wednesday of every month inside our garden at 11am (excluding April, May and June) where you will be brought on a “walk and talk.” Listen as they convey all their knowledge on what is growing and flourishing in our garden and they will lend an ear to all your gardening queries. Weather permitting.
Walled Gardens open from 10.00am – 4.00pm daily
Clubs within the Phoenix Park
Over 2,300 sporting events take place in the Phoenix Park every year, organised by accredited sporting organisations to train and play matches such as soccer, Gaelic football, hurling and camogie. There are also many athletic events and activities including orienteering, cycling races along with astronomy and model airplane flying. The oldest cricket club in Ireland, Phoenix Cricket Club founded in 1830, has its home in the Park as well as the oldest Polo Club in Europe, the All Ireland Polo Club which was founded in 1873.
Bike Hire
Bike hire is available at Phoenix Park Bikes, located at the Parkgate Street entrance to the park. Single bikes can be hired from €6 per hour. Tandem, electric and children’s bikes are also available. Guided park tours, cycle safety courses and first aid courses can be arranged.
Phone: 087 3799946 or email info@phoenixparkbikes.com
Tree Walk at Ashtown Castle Arboretum for National Tree Week 2019
Wednesday 6th March
11.00 am to 12.00 noon
You are invited to join us on an informative Tree Walk around Ashtown Castle Arboretum, beside the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. The walk will be led by the OPW Tree Officer, Cormac Downey and will take in just some of the magnificent trees that are to be found at Ashtown Demesne.
This will give you an appreciation of the arboretum as well as encourage you to explore further the magnificent trees that are not only in this tree collection but also throughout the Phoenix Park.
Outdoor clothing and footwear are recommended.
Meet at Phoenix Park Visitor Centre at 11.00am sharp.
Booking Essential Ph: 01-6770095
Web: www.phoenixpark.ie
Email:
phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw.ie
@phoenixparkopw
thephoenixpark
@BikesInThePark
phoenixparkbikes
All-Ireland Pollinator Plan
2015 – 2020 – Lecture Series
This plan is a call to action. Everyone can help by becoming a Citizen Scientist
The plan was developed by scientists and bee experts from an All-Ireland steering group and co-ordinated by the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
This plan informs people on what they can do to help our pollinators in Ireland to survive and thrive.
Pollinators are in decline and this requires our immediate attention. Everyone is needed to help stop the number of bees declining and to tell everyone about how important bees are.
By protecting our pollinators, we protect our food supply of fruit and vegetables so we can have a healthy balanced diet.
A Citizen Scientist is someone who voluntarily gives their time to scientific research in collaboration with professional scientists. Therefore, you do not need a background in science.
THE PLAN HAS 5 OBJECTIVES:
1: Making Ireland pollinator friendly
2: Raising awareness of pollinators and how to protect them
3: Managing pollinators – supporting bee-keepers and growers
4: Expanding our knowledge on pollinators and pollination service
5: Collecting evidence to track change and measure success
www.biodiversityireland.ie/projects/irish-pollinator-initiative/all-irelandpollinator-plan/
Every month from April to August there will be a presentation given on our wild pollinators in the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, followed by a Bumblebee walk (weather permitting). The species seen and recorded on the walk will be sent into the National Biodiversity Data Centre. By taking part in the pollinator plan you can help our pollinators and our environment. Dates:
Bombus lapidaries / Bombóg / Red-tailed bumblebee
Guided Tours and Walks
Áras an Uachtaráin
At the Residence of the President of Ireland, our past and present heads of state, on behalf of the nation, have welcomed world leaders and foreign dignitaries to Irish shores. In this historic house, we have also honoured many of our own heroes whose achievements have made us proud on the international stage, and regularly welcome visitors from all over the island of Ireland and overseas.
Áras an Uachtaráin
Opening Hours
Áras an Uachtaráin is open all year round, Saturdays only.
Location
Tours begin at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
Transport
Buses serving the area are numbers 37, 38, 39a, and 70. The closest stop, at Ashtown Roundabout, is a 15-minute walk away. Check the Dublin Bus website for up-to-date schedules.
Guided Tours
Guided tours on Saturdays only at the following times:
Summer times (Mid-July to Mid-October): 10.15am, 11.30am, 12.45pm, 2.00pm and 3.15pm.
Winter times (Mid-October to Mid-July): 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre opens at 9.30am. Tours take about an hour, and feature the main reception rooms in winter, and the house and garden in summer. Tour tickets are free, limited, and issued on a first come, first served basis. Occasionally, due to State business it is not possible to accommodate public tours. No groups or advanced bookings.
WEB: www.phoenixpark.ie
EMAIL: phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw.ie
PHONE: 01 6770095
Arbour Hill Cemetery
The military cemetery is the burial place of 14 of the executed leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. Among those buried, there are Patrick Pearse, James Connolly and Major John MacBride. The leaders were executed in Kilmainham Gaol and their bodies were transported to Arbour Hill for burial.
The graves are located under a low mound on a terrace of Wicklow granite in what was once the old prison yard. A limestone wall on which the names are inscribed in Irish and English surrounds the gravesite. On the left of the wall opposite the gravesite is a plaque with the names of others who were killed in 1916. This cemetery is in the care of the Office of Public Works.
Weather permitting and subject to change.
Arbour Hill Cemetery
Opening Hours
Arbour Hill is open all year round. Monday – Friday: 8am – 4pm Saturday: 11am – 4pm
Sunday: 9.30am – 4pm
Location
Arbour Hill Cemetery can be accessed from Arbour Hill, a street that runs parallel to Wolfe Tone Quay.
Transport
Buses serving the area are numbers 37, 38, and 39. Check the Dublin Bus website for up-to-date schedules. The Luas tram red line also passes the area; get out at the stop for ‘Museum’.
Guided Tours
Arbour Hill tours will commence Friday 5 April at 11.00am and will continue every Friday until the end of October. Tours are weather permitting and subject to change.
WEB: www.opwdublincommemorative.ie
EMAIL: phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw.ie
PHONE: 01 6770095
@opwarbourhill
Arbour Hill Cemetery
Grangegorman Military Cemetery
Grangegorman Military Cemetery situated on Blackhorse Avenue outside the Phoenix Park is the largest Military Cemetery in Ireland. It was first opened in 1876 and contains over eleven hundred burials.
Buried in the cemetery is a Victoria Cross winner, the first British Officer casualty of the 1916 Rising and some of the casualties of the sinking of the R.M.S. Leinster on 10 October 1918, including Thomas Woodgate, aged fourteen, one of the youngest military casualties of the First World War. There are several members of the ANZAC forces also buried in the cemetery.
The graveyard is maintained by the Office of Public Works and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Weather permitting and subject to change.
Thomas “Tommy” Woodgate
Although the vast majority of passengers on the R.M.S. Leinster were adults, a significant number of children were on board, most of whom were accompanied by adults. One passenger, who is buried in Grangegorman and who was mistakenly listed as an adult, was Tommy Woodgate. He was a private, second class with the 23rd Training Squadron of the Royal Air Force returning from leave on his way back to England. Tommy was fourteen years old.
A native of Callan, Co. Kilkenny, he was inspired by his elder brother, Martin, who fought in and survived the war, to join the Royal Flying Corps, somehow managing to fool the recruitment officers. Tommy is the youngest member of the RAF to have died in the war, and it is believed, was one of the youngest combatants to be killed by enemy fire in the First World War.
Grangegorman Military Cemetery
Opening Hours
Grangegorman Military Cemetery is open all year round, seven days a week, from 10am to 4pm.
Location
The cemetery is located near the east side of Phoenix Park, near Dublin 7, on Blackhorse Avenue.
Transport
The bus that serves the area is number 37. Check the Dublin Bus website for up to date schedules.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of Grangegorman Military Cemetery are available on Thursdays at 11.00am from March to November. Meet inside the cemetery gates of Grangegorman or phone 01-6770095 with enquiries. Ceremony of Remembrance of the end of the First World War on Thursday, 7th of November at 10.45am, tour to follow. Tours are weather permitting and subject to change.
WEB: www.opwdublincommemorative.ie
EMAIL: phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw.ie
PHONE: 01 6770095 @opwireland
Grangegorman Military Cemetery
Pictured left: Tom Woodgate’s father visits his grave.
The Magazine Fort
The Fort was built in 1734 –1736 to the design of John Corneille, to store gunpowder and ammunition for British Government Forces. One third of the British Army was stationed in Ireland and was regularly rotated around the Empire. The Fort was raided on two occasions –Easter Monday 1916 and 23 December 1939.
The Fort is strategically sited on St. Thomas Hill, off the Military Road, close to the Islandbridge Gate.
Free guided tours of the Magazine Fort are available on Sundays from April to September. Tickets are limited and are issued from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre on a first come, first served basis on the day of the tour. Tours depart the Visitor Centre at 10.00am, 12.00 noon and 2.30pm. In September, tours depart at 10.00am and 12.00 noon only. No group bookings are available. Tours are weather permitting and subject to change.
Irish National War Memorial Gardens
The Irish War Memorial Gardens at Islandbridge are dedicated to the memory of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died between 1914-1918 in the First World War. The gardens, which reflect a style of simple dignity, were completed by 1939 and occupy an area of approximately eight hectares on the southern banks of the river Liffey.
Sir Edwin Lutyens, a distinguished architect and landscape designer, designed the War Memorial Gardens. His work at Islandbridge has generally been acknowledged as being an outstanding design capturing the mood of remembrance and reflection.
Copyright: Derek Byrne
Queen Elizabeth II and President Mary McAleese laying wreaths in 2011. OPW.
On 10th September 1988, fifty years after they were initially laid out, the gardens were formally dedicated and opened to the public.
The book rooms at Islandbridge are located at the entrance to the rose garden. There are two pairs of book rooms built from granite, representing the four provinces of Ireland. These rooms contain the Books of Remembrance, which were illustrated by the artist Harry Clarke and are inscribed with the names of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the First World War.
In this decade of centenaries (2013-2023) the War Memorial Gardens has become an important focus to remember and reflect,
through a spirit of reconciliation on the Irish men and women who lost their lives in the First World War.
Weather permitting and subject to change.
Irish National War Memorial Gardens
Opening Hours
The Irish National War Memorial Gardens are open all year round, except Christmas Day. Monday – Friday: 8am – dusk. Saturday – Sunday: 9.30am – dusk. Please contact us for exact closing hours on any given day.
Location
There are entrances to the gardens from both Con Colbert Road, and from the Phoenix Park end of the South Circular Road.
Transport
Buses serving the area are numbers 51, 68 and 69 from Aston Quay. Check the Dublin Bus website for up to date schedules. Car parking is available from the South Circular Road entrance.
Guided Tours
The National War Memorial Gardens tour will commence on Wednesday 3rd of April 2019 at 2.30pm and will continue every Wednesday until the end of October. Meet at the gate of the car park. Tours are weather permitting and subject to change.
WEB: www.opwdublincommemorative.ie
EMAIL: phoenixparkvisitorcentre@opw ie PHONE: 01 6770095 @opwireland
Irish National War Memorial Gardens
Phoenix Park Honey Show
Phoenix Park Honey Show
SUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER2019
The Phoenix Park Honey Show, in conjunction with The Federation of Irish Beekeepers' Association (FIBKA), will take place at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre on Sunday 15th September 2019. There will be a large assortment of honey and bee-related products on display. While the honey judging is taking place, there will be a variety of interesting lectures and guided tours for visitors.
Beekeeping for Beginners
This is a free event for all the family to enjoy. See the website www.phoenixpark.ie nearer the date for further information.
This introductory course will cover the basics of beekeeping in a syllabus delivered over five Saturdays. Topics will include the life cycle of the colony, hive inspections, management of hive and hive records, types of hive, and hive tools and techniques. Course participants will learn how to prevent, control and collect swarms. Finally, the course will cover products of the hive, harvesting and extraction. This course will also involve practical demonstrations at live hives in the Phoenix Park.
@phoenixparkopw
thephoenixpark
Beekeeping for Beginners Course will run on Saturdays 23rd and 30th of March; 6th, 13th and 27th of April; and 4th of May 2019. 10am – 2pm, Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
For further enquiries, please contact: Liam McGarry 087-2643492 or Mcgarryliam@gmail.com
Children’s Art Cart 2019
Free Workshops on Sundays
The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre 11.00am-12.30pm. Strictly ages 6-11 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. (Workshops are subject to change)
APRIL Theme
7th Dale Treadwell
14th Music with Tanya
21st Felt Making with Gabi
MAY Theme
5th Visit the walled garden
12th Nutritious Niamh
JUNE Theme
16th Butterflies of the Park
JULY Theme
7th Nutritious Niamh
14th Dale Treadwell
AUGUST Theme
18th Music with Tanya
25th Medieval Life
SEPTEMBER Theme
1st Felt Making with Gabi 22nd Nutritious Niamh
OCTOBER Theme
6th Visit Pumpkins in the Walled Garden 13th Farmer Ann
NOVEMBER Theme
10th Felt Making with Gabi 24th Music with Tanya
Art & Cultural Exhibitions at the Phoenix Park Gallery 2019
JANUARY Architectural Images of Park Buildings
An exhibition covering the architectural achievements of Decimus Burton, Francis Johnston and Jacob Owen and how they are integrated into the historic landscape of the Phoenix Park, one of the largest designed landscapes in any European city.
FEBRUARY Seasons in the Park
This exhibition brought to you by the Irish Patchwork Society covers the colours, shapes and built heritage of the Phoenix Park.
MARCH A Visitor Experience Strategic Review for the Phoenix Park
The Office of Public Works (OPW), under a strategic partnership agreement with Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht received funding to develop a Visitor Experience Strategic Review for the Phoenix Park.
APRIL A Visitor Experience Strategic Review for the Phoenix Park
The Office of Public Works (OPW), under a strategic partnership agreement with Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht received funding to develop a Visitor Experience Strategic Review for the Phoenix Park.
MARCH/MAY
Artist Exhibition
Artist Will Nathans will exhibit a new collection of his work.
MAY
Artist Exhibition
Artist Will Nathans, a classically trained painter working in Ireland and abroad and artist Norman Teeling will exhibit a collection of their work on the Phoenix Park and the War Memorial Gardens at Islandbridge.
JUNE Botanical Water Colours
Yanni Peters & Holly Summerville will have a Botanical Art Exhibition as part of the Bloom Festival.
JULY Irish Astronomical Society
The Irish Astronomical Society exhibition will explore aspects of the night sky while commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the first moon landing.
AUGUST
Duke of Wellington
An exhibition on The Duke of Wellington, his influence on Irish history and the construction of the Wellington Testimonial.
SEPTEMBER Deer in the City
An exhibition on the herd of fallow deer stocked in the Phoenix Park in 1663. Find out about the management and conservation of the herd in the city.
OCTOBER Grangegorman Military Cemetery Graves
An exhibition on some of those buried in the Cemetery: from the victims of the RMS Leinster sinking, such as Thomas Woodgate who was one of the youngest Irish servicemen to die in WWI, to other British Military Personnel who died in active service or after settling in Ireland.
NOVEMBER St. John Ambulance in Ireland during WW1
DECEMBER
St. John Ambulance was founded following a public meeting at the Royal Dublin Society in 1880.
A largely volunteer force that provides training in first aid and emergency medicine. This exhibition will focus on the untold story of the St John Ambulance Brigade during the World War I.
Wednesday Walks
April to October 11.00am – 12.30pm 2019
Please meet at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre unless otherwise noted. Weather permitting and subject to change.
April
10th Spring Flowers
A walking tour to discover the many different spring flowers in the environs of Ashtown Demesne.
24th People’s Garden
A walking tour with OPW gardeners. Meet at the Parkgate Street entrance to the People’s Gardens. (Wheelchair accessible)
July
3rd Celtic Tree Trail
The Celts believed each tree had its own personality and meaning. Learn about the importance of trees and their various uses throughout history.
24th Monuments of the Phoenix Park
A walk featuring a number of monuments in the Phoenix Park, Phoenix Monument, Papal Cross, and the Wellington Testimonial.
May
1st The Gate Lodges of the Phoenix Park
A walk to the gates lodges of the Phoenix Park capturing the architecture and history of some of these unique lodges some of which were designed by Decimus Burton, Francis Johnson and Jacob Owen.
22nd Biodiversity Walk
On International Biodiversity Day please join us for a walking tour to discover the many different aspects of nature in the environs of Ashtown Demesne.
June
19th Wildlife in the Park
A walk featuring all aspects of wildlife in the Phoenix Park. From the location of a badger set to the trees of Ashtown Demesne.
August
21st People's Garden
A walking tour with OPW gardeners. Meet at the Parkgate Street entrance to the People's Garden. (Wheelchair accessible).
September
11th Celtic Tree Trail
The Celts believed each tree had its own personality and meaning. Learn about the importance of trees and their various uses throughout history.
25th Prehistory of the Phoenix Park
A walk covering the ancient history of the land that is now the Phoenix Park, including a Neolithic burial cist.
October
9th Walled Garden
Enjoy a walk through the Victorian Walled Garden here at the Visitor Centre and learn about its history and current utility.
November
7th Remembrance Walk
Ceremony and tour of Grangegorman Military Cemetery. Meet at the Cemetery on Blackhorse Avenue.
Doctors Orders -
A Park Prescription
Knitters Club
Knitting Club meets at the Visitor Centre every Wednesday at 11am to 1pm. New members always welcome.
Seachtain na Gaeilge
The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre would like to encourage our visitors to engage with the Irish language during “Seachtain na Gaeilge” 1st – 17th March 2019.
ctors are issuing 'Park Prescriptions' to urage their patients to exercise outdoors. nefits of being out and active in green spaces nclude; reduction of tension and stress, lower blood pressure, improved immune system responses, and milder ADHD symptoms in children. Regular exercise in a park also reduces obesity, chronic disease and mental health issues. As your fitness increases you can tackle progressively longer distances or aim to complete routes in shorter periods of time. Visit e Phoenix Park Visitor Centre and collect a route to help you improve your health as you enjoy tiful surrounds of the Phoenix Park.
Weekend Lectures & Walks 2019
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
Free Admission. For bookings, please call 01-6770095. Subject to change.
January
Sunday 20th 3.00pm
The First Dáil
Learn about the formation of the First Dáil and the start of the War of Independence in their Centennial year.
March
Sunday 31st 3.00pm
Notable & Veteran Trees in and around the Phoenix Park
Begin National Tree Week with a talk from one of our Tree Officers about our many fascinating trees here in the Phoenix Park.
April
Sunday 7th 3.00pm
Zoological Talk by a Guest Zoologist
Learn all about the history of Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix Park. This interactive talk will take visitors on the story of Dublin Zoo from when it first opened its doors on 1 September 1831, to its evolution into a modern conservation organisation. Visitors will get an opportunity to learn more about our animals by engaging with some of our rare biofacts and behind the scenes video footage.
Monday 22nd Two Shows at 1.30pm & 3.00pm
Moon & Sixpence Puppet Theatre
Bringing fairy tales to life!
Sunday 28th 2.00pm
Music in the Courtyard
Enjoy live music here at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
Sunday 28th 2.30pm Pollination Plan
A lecture on pollinators and a walk recording the many different species of bumblebee found within the park.
May
Sunday 5th at 2.00pm
Music in the Courtyard
Enjoy live music here at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
Sunday 26th 2.30pm
Lodges of the Park
A walk and talk covering some of the wonderful Lodges within the Park.
June
Sunday 23rd 3.00pm
Planning of Events in the Phoenix Park
A lecture by Paul McDonnell, Park Superintendent.
Sunday 30th 2.30pm
Pollination Plan
A lecture on pollinators and a walk recording the many different species of bumblebee found within the park.
July
Sunday 7th 2.00pm
Music in the Courtyard
Enjoy live music here at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
Sunday 14th 2.30pm
Butterflies of the Park
A lecture and a walk looking at the many different species of butterflies found within the Phoenix Park.
Sunday 28th 2.30pm
Victorian Walled Garden
A walking tour of the Victorian Walled Garden including its history.
Sunday 18th 2.30pm
Trees at Ashtown Demesne
A talk covering the history and identification of various trees found at Ashtown.
August
Sunday 18th 2.30pm
Dragonflies of the Park
A lecture and walk looking at the many different species of dragonflies and damselflies found within the Phoenix Park.
Sunday 25th 2.30pm
Pollination Plan
A lecture on pollinators and a walk recording the many different species of bumblebee found within the park.
Heritage Week
17th to the 25th August
September
Sunday 1st 3.00pm
Defences of Dublin, a Thousand Years of Fortification
Since it was first established in the tenth century, Dublin has been fortified against various threats. In response, the government built an impressive array of towers, batteries and forts, many of which still remain. The final threat to the city came from the bombers of the German Air Force in World War 2. This lecture will discuss how each of these threats was met and what remains of the various fortifications.
Sunday 8th 3.00pm
An Illustrated History of the Phoenix Park: Landscape and Management
A lecture by Margaret Gormley, Chief Park Superintendent.
October
Sunday 27th 3.00pm
Pumpkin Carving
Join in this free family event suitable for all ages. Dale Treadwell will give a fun talk of Ghosts, Ghouls, and Witches followed by pumpkin carving! Make sure to B.Y.O. Pumpkin and dress to impress and there will be prizes for the best costume.
Monday 28th Two Shows at 1.30pm & 3.00pm
Moon & Sixpence Puppet Theatre
Bringing fairy tales to life!
November
Sunday 10th 3.00pm
St. John Ambulance in Ireland during WW1
St. John Ambulance was founded following a public meeting at the RDS in 1880. This exhibition will focus on the untold story of the St. John Ambulance Brigade during the first World War.
December
Sunday 15th Two Shows at 1.30pm & 3.00pm
Moon & Sixpence Puppet Theatre
Bringing fairy tales to life!
S o m e s p e c i e s i n t h e p a r k –e s p e c i a l l y g r o u n d n e s t i n g b i r d s a n d d e e r –a r e s e n s i t i v e t o d i s t u rb a n c e b y d o g ,s p l e a s e p a y a t t e n t i o n t o a n d o b s e r v e t h e s i g n s t o p r o t e c t o u r w i l d l i f e . A t c e rt a i n t i m e s o f t h e y e a ,r d e e r c a n b e c o m e p a r t i c ul a r l y i n t o l e r a n t t o i n t r u s i o n , d u r i n g r u t t i n g ( S e p t e m b e rO c t o b e r ) o r f a w n i n g ( M a yJ u l y ) f o r e x a m p l e . F o r y o u r o w n s a f e t y a n d t h a t o f y o u r p e t , p l e a s e o b s e r v e s i g n a g e . T h a n k y o u f o r h e l p i n g u s p r o t e c t o u r w i l d l i f e a n d e n s u r i n g t h e P h o e n i x P a r k i s a s a f e a n d p l e a s a n t e n v i r o n m e n t f o r a l l o u r v i s i t o r s .
D o g s a c c o m p a n i e d b y r e s p o n s i b l e o w n e r s a r e w e l c o m e i n t h e P h o e n i x P a r k . P l e a s e c o n s i d e r t h a t o t h e r p a r k u s e r s m a y n o t b e a s f o n d o f d o g s a n d m a y f i n d d o g s i n t i m i d a t i n g . Y o u r d o g s h o u l d b e k e p t i n s i g h t a n d u n d e r c o n t r o l a t a l l t i m e s . H o w e v e ,r t h e y a r e n o t p e r m i t t e d i n A s h t o w n W a l l e d G a r d e n o r t h e P l a y g r o u n d s a n d m u s t b e k e p t o n a l e a d a t a l l t i m e s i n c e r t a i n a r e a s . D o g w a s t e s h o u l d b e p l a c e d i n a t i g h t l y s e a l e d b a g a n d t a k e n h o m e o r d e p o s i t e d i n t h e n o r m a l b i n s p r o v i d e d . T h e f u l l C o d e o f C o n d u c t f o r D o g O w n e r s i s a v a i l a b l e t o d o w n l o a d f o r f r e e f r o m w w w . p h o e n i x p a r k . i e
C o d e o f C o n d u c t f o r D o g O w n e r s
Primary School Modules
The modules can be arranged at a time to suit school requirements, Monday to Wednesday, between 10am – 12noon.
Module 1. Trees - what would we do without them?
Introduction: Identify exotic and native tree species in the arboretum beside the Visitor Centre. Break for 15mins.
Then a 20-minute video on the history of the park, after which the group can look around the visitor centre, which is self guiding over two floors.
Module 2. Discover the animals that live in the park
Introduction and PowerPoint presentation on deer, squirrels, badgers and much more. Break for 15mins.
Then a 20-minute video on the history of the park, after which the group can look around the visitor centre, which is self guiding over two floors.
Module 3. Step back in time with our Heritage module
Introduction: Video and self guiding tour of the visitor centre. Break for 15 mins.
Become a king or queen for the day with a visit to Ashtown Castle and find out about what life was like in medieval times.
Module 4. Biodiversity
Learn about the different habitats that exist in the Phoenix Park and the diversity of species that can be found here. There are trees, wild flowers, mammals, birds, bees, butterflies and dragonflies all living in the Phoenix Park.
Module 5. Pollinators
Learn about the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan 2015-2020 and what everyone can do to help our pollinators survive and thrive in Ireland. By protecting our pollinators, we protect our food supply of fruit and vegetables.
The Visitor Centre is located just off the Phoenix Monument beside Áras an Uachtaráin on the main road of the park.
Aglais urticae / Ruán Beag / Small Tortoiseshell
Welcome to the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre 2019 Christmas Programme. There is plenty here for all the family to enjoy. For further information visit
WWW.phoenixpark.ie or contact 01-6770095 ALL EVENTS ARE FREE ALL EVENTS ARE FREE
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 11.00AM – 1.00PM CHOIR
SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 2PM – 4.00PM CHOIR 12.00PM - 4.00PM WOOD TURNERS IN ASHTOWN CASTLE
SATURDAY 14TH DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 11.00AM – 1.00PM CHOIR
SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 11.00AM – 1.00PM CHOIR 1.30PM & 3.00PM MOON AND SIXPENCE PUPPET THEATRE 12.00PM – 4.00PM WOOD TURNERS IN ASHTOWN CASTLE
SATURDAY 21ST DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 11.00AM – 1.00PM CHOIR
SUNDAY 22ND DECEMBER
9.30AM – 5.00PM LIVE CRIB – COURTYARD 11.00AM – 1.00PM CHOIR 12.00PM – 4.00PM WOOD TURNERS IN ASHTOWN CASTLE
Come Fly with Me
Bird & Biodiversity Events in the
Phoenix Park 2019
Dama dama / Fia buí / Fallow Deer Corvus monedula / Cág / Jackdaw
MAY Bat Walk
Monday 6th May at 9.30pm
Join us for a guided walk to seek out one of our most mysterious Irish mammals, the Bat. Experts will be on hand with bat detectors, to help find bats in the parklands and woods of the Phoenix Park. This free event is suitable for families.
All welcome. No torches. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre Car Park. Booking essential, as places are limited, through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
JUNE Gardening for Birds and Wildlife
Sunday 16th June at 2.00pm
An illustrated talk followed by a guided walk to view the beautiful walled gardens of Ashton Demesne in the Phoenix Park, the talk and walk will be full of tips and advice from BirdWatch Ireland on how to make your garden more wildlife friendly.
All welcome. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. Booking necessary through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
JULY Badgers, Bats and Nocturnal Birds
Wednesday 10th July at 9.00pm
A night walk to experience the wildlife of the Phoenix Park that comes to life after dark. We will search for tracks and signs of Badgers, look for various species of Bats and listen for nocturnal birds such as the Long-eared Owl.
All welcome. No torches. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre Car Park. Booking necessary through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
AUGUST Bat Walk
Wednesday 7th August at 9.00pm and Wednesday 21st August at 9.00pm
Join us for a guided bat walk to seek out one of our most mysterious Irish mammals, the Bat. Experts will be on hand with bat detectors, to help find bats in the parklands and woods of the Phoenix Park. This free event is suitable for families.
All welcome. No torches. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre car park. Booking essential, as places are limited, through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
NOVEMBER Winter Bird Walk
Saturday 16th November at 11.00am
A guided bird walk to look for winter bird species in the Phoenix Park. Our target species on the day will include winter migrant species such as Fieldfare, Redwing, resident woodland species such as Jay and Treecreeper and a range of waterbirds on the ponds and lakes. We also provide useful tips and advice on feeding birds in gardens.
All welcome. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. Booking necessary through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
DECEMBER Santa’s Little Helpers
Sunday 8th December at 11.00am
A fun family event to learn more about winter birds with a range of activities for children; making fat balls and bird Christmas cake.
Children’s Event. Meeting at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. Booking necessary through the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre: Ph: 01-6770095.
Troglodytes troglodytes / Dreolín / Wren
A guided bird walk to look for winter bird species and visit a wide range of waterbirds on the ponds and lakes
Dark sky event with the Irish Astronomical Society
The Irish Astronomical Society will host an exciting free, family friendly, outdoor event. As Mars will be close to the moon and Saturn will be on view, this will be a wonderful viewing opportunity as there is no light pollution within the Phoenix Park.
The event will take place on a clear night in October; meet at the Papal Cross from 7.45pm. Please call the Visitor Centre at 01-677095 in the autumn for the exact date.
Anas platyrhynchos / Mallard / Mallard
Orienteering in the Phoenix Park
Orienteering is a competitive international sport that combines running with navigation. It is a timed race in which individual participants use a specially created, highly detailed map to select routes and navigate through diverse terrain and visit control points in sequence. There are twenty-one Irish Orienteering clubs with approximately 1,100 members ranging in age from nine to ninety. The Phoenix Park has a permanent orienteering course which comprises of three courses. It is located in the vicinity of Ashtown Demense and you can collect the course map from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, or download for free from www.phoenixpark.ie. The answer sheet for this course is permanently displayed at the Visitor Centre.
Please come suitably prepared for the weather and ground conditions. It is recommended that sturdy boots are worn on rough ground.
Log onto Website to print map.
Fallow Deer in the Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park is 1752 acres in size and is home to a herd of circa 450 Fallow Deer (Dama dama) which roam freely in the park and have done so for over 350 years.
We would ask people to be mindful that the deer are wild animals. The deer may seem tame and friendly, please remember that the deer are wild animals and not to approach them or try to touch them.
Deer naturally only eat plant vegetation such as grass (90% of the time), leaves and seeds such as acorns. We always try to explain this to all our visitors to the park. Sometimes people try to feed the Deer human food, but if Deer eat human food this will lead to health issues and make them ill.
The Herd
The male is called the Buck, the female the Doe, and the young are called Fawns. There are four different types of colours in the park. These are Black, Brown, Common and Menil and the colour varieties are best seen in summer.
Black: In summer glossy black, black rump, spots very faint. In winter, dull black.
Brown: In summer rich chestnut brown, brown rump, spots very faint. In winter, dull black.
Common: In summer rich brown, white spots, black tail stripe, white rump. In winter dark grey, spots not evident.
Menil: In summer ginger-brown, white spots, brown tail stripe, white rump. In winter grey-brown, spots very faint.
Antler Shedding (April/May)
In April, the bucks start shedding their antlers, known as casting. This is when the old antlers fall off. Sometimes Bucks are seen with just one antler, as they often do not lose both at the same time. The new antlers start growing in May, and growth is complete by August, ready then for the rut in autumn. The antlers are covered with a soft vascular skin called velvet, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the growing antler. In August, the blood supply to the antler is cut off and the velvet dries. The Buck then removes the velvet by rubbing its antlers against trees.
Fawning Season (June/July)
The fawns are born in June and July each year and they are rarely seen for the first few weeks. The Doe hides them to keep them safe. Do not worry if you find a fawn alone; it is not lost or abandoned. They rely on their mother’s milk, so she will hide them in long grass while she goes grazing. Please do not get too close or try to touch the fawn as your scent may cause the mother to reject the fawn. If an animal threatens a fawn, the mother stamps her forefeet, snorts and might try to drive the threatening animal or person away. The fawns are colour tagged shortly after birth. A different colour tags is used each year so that it is possible to tell the age of each deer.
Rutting Season (October/November)
Autumn is mating season, known as rutting, and lasts about five or six weeks. The rut peaks in October and during this time, Bucks can
be seen sizing each other up, known as parallel walking. If neither Buck backs down then they will clash antlers until one is exhausted, gives up, and is chased off. The victor Buck can then mate with the nearby females. Bucks can be heard at this time making loud grunts to attract Does and warn off other Bucks. The best time to see rutting is early morning when it is quiet in the park. We ask that visitors allow the Deer a bit of privacy for this ritual and not get too close.
Cull (December/January/February)
The Deer are a valuable component of the biodiversity of the Phoenix Park. However, this must be balanced with an equal recognition of the potential for deer to impact adversely on a range of other biodiversity values. Sustainable deer management must rely on sound, practical and applied scientific research. An over-abundant deer population can result in an increasing incidence of road traffic accidents and increase the potential role of deer in spreading specific diseases. Deer management is the integrated management of deer populations in balance with the carrying capacity and land use objectives.
In Ireland, Deer do not have any natural predators since the last wolves disappeared in the 17th century. Therefore, artificial suppression of the deer population is necessary and this is best accomplished by culls, which take place every year. This keeps the heard healthy and maintains the deer numbers to around 450 animals to prevent the herd from getting too large and from over grazing the park. Each cull is undertaken in consultation with the School of Biology and Environmental Science at University College Dublin and a veterinary expert in deer welfare following a detailed protocol.
Top tips for helping to look after the Deer:
The Deer are wild animals even though they look tame. Please do not get too close to the Deer, touch or try to feed them.
Human food is not good for Deer. Even though Deer will eat it, human food can make them very ill. They get all their nutrition from grass and leaves. They do not need help eating and can manage just fine by themselves. Keep a look out for signs. Sometimes paths can be closed off during fawning season or during culls.
Fallow deer in the Phoenix Park Dama dama / Fianna buí / Fallow Deer
Phoenix Park Fallow Deer
Please never feed the Wild Deer or come within 50 metres of the animals.
Copyright: Alan Timms
Walking
Meeting Spots:
■ Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
■ Farmleigh House
■ Grangegorman Military Cemetery
■ Peoples Gardens
■ Victorian Walled Garden
A Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
B Áras an Uachtaráin
C Papal Cross
D The Peoples Gardens
E Wellington Testimonial
F Dublin Zoo
G Magazine Fort
H St Marys Hospital
I Cara Cheshire Home
J Furry Glen
K US Ambassador’s Residence
L Ordnance Survey Ireland
M Farmleigh House Entrance
N Ratra House
O War Memorial Garden
P Parking Q Bike Hire
R Victorian Walled Garden
S Grangegorman Military Cemetery