Marlay Park
The very start of the Wicklow Way, Marlay Park is a beautiful public park located in the southern suburbs of Dublin. It covers over 250 acres of expansive grassland, mature woodlands, and formal gardens, making it one of the largest and most popular parks in the city. The park is a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the wide range of outdoor activities on offer. There are miles of walking and cycling trails, as well as numerous sports facilities, including tennis courts, soccer and GAA pitches, as well as a nine-hole, par-three, golf course. There are also several children’s playgrounds, making it a great place for families with young kids.
Attractions:
Marlay House was built about 1794 and today the 300-acre historic demesne provides a wonderful park space for the public. Located in Rathfarnham, Dublin, 9km from Dublin city centre, the park caters for various sporting activities, markets and events. Located about 9km from Dublin City centre, Marlay Demesne or Park is found in Rathfarnham, at the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, but easily accessible by bus 16. Marlay is an extensive 300-acre historic demesne with many important features, including a restored Georgian House built in 1794, courtyards and regency walled gardens. Tours of the house are available . The Demesne is also home to lawns, fine old trees and a number of large ponds fed by the Little Dargle River as it runs through the park. It is known for mature woodland walks and extensive recreational spaces. It is also popular start or end point of a Wicklow Way hike.
Guided tours are available
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The rear of Marlay House looks out over the demesne (which includes)
Laurelmere (a victorian cottage), Lake and Boathouse with viewing platform. Marlay Park contains many of the landscape features associated with 18th and early 19th century Parks, incl. substantial boundary wall, gate lodges, ornate iron entrance gates and pillars, walled garden, bridges, ponds and waterfalls.
On entering through the head gardener’s house and tea rooms, the central position is taken by a Regency-style ornamental garden, featuring an extensive display of colourful period plants, ranging from herbaceous borders to shrub beds. The orangery (which is occasionally used for exhibitions), arbour and water fountain combine with the other features to create a distinctive atmosphere. Open all year round.
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Accommodation
Glencree Guesthouse offers free parking and free Wi-Fi, it serves hearty breakfasts cooked to order. Guests can swim in the property’s off-site pool.
Bright and warmly furnished, rooms at Glencree are individually designed and feature en suite bath or shower rooms with free toiletries and a hairdryer. A flat-screen TV is featured in every room, along with tea and coffee-making facilities. Some rooms enjoy scenic woodland views.
The shores of tranquil Lake Windermere are only a 10-minute walk away, while the village centres Bowness and Windermere are both 15 minutes away on foot. The area is surrounded by stunning fells to explore, and Dove Cottage, the home of William Wordsworth, is 15 minutes’ drive away.
Breakfasts are all made from high quality local produce, with a selection of traditional full English breakfasts or vegetarian and continental options.
Telephone: 01539 445 822
email: info@glencreelakes.co.uk
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