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Exploring Dublin

The best picnic spots in Dublin

by kaylagannon
08 July 2021 · 3 min read
Picnic in Merrion Square

Dublin city is full of wonderful places to have a picnic on a sunny day. Sunny days are rare to come by in Ireland so, when the weather is nice, grab your picnic basket, comfy blanket and enjoy the sunny weather. You can enjoy a picnic on parks and beaches, beautiful Dublin has it all! At the Alex we love a good picnic, so we picked out the best spots to put your blanket down and relax for the whole afternoon.

Merrion Square

Merrion Square is a five-minute walk from the Alex and it is our personal favourite picnic spot. The park is located in the heart of Georgian Dublin and is surrounded by historic Georgian houses. The scenery in Merrion Square is stunning – you are surrounded by colourful florals, tall leafy trees, rich emerald lawns and various species of birds, in water and in the air too. On Thursdays, there is an international food market during lunch hours, they have all different kinds of food and the grass is always full of people enjoying their lunch. Merrion Square Park is the perfect location to enjoy a picnic with your loved ones.

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Ever stumbled upon Oscar Wilde chilling in Merrion Square? This is the heart of Georgian Dublin, where Wilde was born ? Thanks to @themillennialnomad . . . #LoveDublin #VisitDublin #Dublino #GeorgianDublin #OscarWilde #Wilde #MerrionSquare #TalkingStatues #Statues

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Iveagh Gardens

Take a short scenic walk South and you’ll find yourself at the beautiful Iveagh Gardens.   You have the option of sitting on the grass or sitting on a bench while enjoying your picnic and listening to the background noise of the waterfall, you will find yourself instantly more relaxed and laid-back. This green oasis in the middle of Dublin City Centre is the perfect spot to escape the busy streets, indulge in a picnic on your lunch break and split up the day.

 

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St. Stephens Green

St. Stephens Green is a short-distance walk from our front door here at the Alex Hotel. This stunning Victorian public park offers an oasis of green calm in the hustle and bustle of the city. We highly suggest visiting this spot, it is perfect for an afternoon picnic with the family. The park includes a playground for the kids, benches to sit and take in the stunning scenery, various birds and plants that call the St. Stephens Green their home. St. Stephens Green shopping centre is across the road from the park if you’re in the mood for some shopping after your scrumptious picnic.

 

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Killiney Hill

Killiney Hill Park is located 30 minutes by car from Dublin and is also reachable by the DART at Pearse Station, a 2-minute walk from our front door. It is a popular destination for walkers and hikers thanks to the spectacular views over the surrounding areas: Dublin to the Northwest, the sea and the mountains of Wales to the east and southeast, and Bray Head and the Wicklow Mountains to the South. This is the perfect spot to admire Ireland’s beauty while tucking into your fresh and delicious picnic.

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Early morning on Killiney Hill…. if there's a more beautiful place in Dublin I haven't seen it yet ?. . . . . #morning #sunday #killiney #killineyhill #killineybeach #dalkey #dublinigers #igersdublin #discoverdublin #lovedublin #lovindublin #dublin #ireland #insta_ireland #loves_ireland #icu_ireland #ireland_gram #discoverireland #outdoors #nature #sugarloaf #sea #seaside #getoutside #summer #sunshine #blueskies

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The National Botanic Gardens

For the ones who can’t sit on a blanket and need to be on the go, head to the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin. The Gardens are a stunning green space filled with trees, flowers, fountains, bridges, hedges and glasshouses. Best of it all, admission is free and you’ll get some great insta-worthy photos for the feed! If you have some free time, we recommend taking a guided tour by one of the experienced guides to fill you in on the history and international significance of the National Botanic Gardens.

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•Glass Building•

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We at the Alex have added a new offer for all of you picnic and outdoor lovers out there. Our seasonal Picnic in The Park Offer is now available and includes an overnight stay, a picnic basket full of Irish goodies and breakfast the following morning – sounds good right? Have a look at the offer and book with peace of mind with free cancellation 24 hour prior to check in. As we all know the Irish weather can be against us. So, if the weather isn’t on your side and you’re looking for a dry spot to enjoy some food, make sure to pay a visit to our restaurant, the Carriage Restaurant. To have a look at our menu, visit our website here.

 

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