The Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in any capital city in Europe.
It was originally formed as a royal hunting Park in the 1660s and opened to the public in 1747. A large herd of wild fallow deer still remain to this day. The Park is also home to the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, Áras an Uachtaráin, Zoological Gardens, Victorian Flower Gardens, a Biodiversity Information Centre, Phoenix Park Café and Tea Rooms. The Phoenix Park is only a mile and a half from O’Connell Street. Both passive and active recreational pursuits may be pursued such as walking, running, polo, cricket, hurling and many more. The Glen Pond is set in very scenic surrounds in the Furry Glen. There are many walks and cycle trails available to the public. Please note that BBQs and camping are not permitted in the Phoenix Park.
The Phoenix Park is open 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, all year round. The main gates of the Park at Parkgate Street and Castleknock Gate are open 24 hours. The side gates to the Park are open from approximately 7am until approximately 10.45pm. Please refer to Current Road and Gate Closures for any changes to these opening times.
Phoenix Park Event Programme 2024
To view the programme please click on the link below:
Events Programme 2024 (PDF)
Licences and Permits
We wish to advise that any organised activity or event taking place at the Phoenix Park must first have received permission from Park Management. Applicants are generally required to also sign an indemnity form and submit a copy of public liability insurance. If you wish to apply for a licence to hold an event / activity or a permit for photography and filming, please click here.
A timetable of Upcoming Events in 2024 is available to download here Events List 2024 (PDF).
Please check this timetable for remaining free dates before submitting your permit application. You may also use the form on this page to apply for a licence or permit for Grangegorman Military Cemetery or Arbour Hill Cemetery.
Current Road and Gate Closures
Details of any current and future scheduled road and gate closures in the Phoenix Park can be found here.
Important Notice re Car Break-Ins
Members of the public are advised not to leave any valuables in their cars at any time, including in the boot of their car.
The OPW liaises directly with An Garda Síochána with regards to this matter.