Saint Stephen Green: A green setting in the heart of the Irish capital

St Stephen's Green may not be the biggest park in Dublin - the biggest being Phoenix - but it still has nothing to envy its distant cousin. Indeed, the figures speak for themselves. With a surface area of 9 hectares, hundreds of plants and dozens of animal species living side by side in this typically Georgian park, Dubliners and tourists alike love to stroll around and have a good time.

The park's location couldn't be more central. Right in the heart of the Irish capital, the park lies at the crossroads of the city's busiest roads. But there's no need to panic, as the tranquillity of the site has been preserved thanks to improvements made in 2004.

Logically, the four streets bordering the park are identified by the names of the cardinal points: St Stephen's Green North, St Stephen's Green South, St Stephen's Green East and St Stephen's Green West: St Stephen's Green North, St Stephen's Green South, St Stephen's Green East and St Stephen's Green West.

Dubliners will tell you that St Stephen's Green gives you a taste of the Irish landscape. Greenery is omnipresent, more so than the flowerbeds that are more common in our French gardens. Here, nature develops at its own pace and in complete freedom, giving the park a very pleasant country atmosphere.

The lake, which is divided into two distinct sections, is a firm favourite with walkers. This natural area, set back from the hustle and bustle, promises a truly rejuvenating break. In summer and winter alike, nature is magnificent to observe. Budding photographers will love capturing the moment on glossy paper.

There are plenty of areas in the park to suit everyone. As well as the lake, the more adventurous can visit the waterfall and Pulham Quarry, both of which are must-sees in the park. There are also entertainment areas in the park, such as the west end, where many concerts are held in summer, and numerous play areas for children to enjoy.

Another major advantage of the site is that people with disabilities can enjoy the park with ease. A large part of the park has been adapted to make it easier to get around. Finally, an area has been designed to enable the visually impaired to enjoy the plants and learn more about them, thanks to Braille text.

🚌Y to go: Get off at St. Stephen's Green bus stop, routes 39X, 40A, 40C, 41X, 51X, 58X, 66X and 67X.

🕛Hours: open every day from Monday to Saturday: from 07:30 until dusk.

🗓️Sundays and public holidays: from 9.30am until dusk.

💰Fees: free.