Marlay Park – Rathfarnham, Dublin

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*this article on Marlay Park was originally published on September 13th, 2012 but has since been updated with more inspiring photographs and a new link … enjoy!

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When most of my friends think of Marlay Park, they think summer music concerts, sunburn and hangovers and to be honest I’ve had my fair share of those and loved every minute of them, well apart from the hangovers that is, and I’m sure I’ll be rocking it at a gig here in the not too distant future again.

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However I don’t just think of Marlay Park as a concert venue, I think of it as one of the best walks around and the No.1 playground for my dog Charlie.

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Marlay Park, Dublin – Most Dogs No.1 playground

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It’s a fabulous place to bring your mutt or pedigree. The winding pathways of the Wicklow Way that hug the open green fields are wide and shaded by trees. A nice break as you relax with a drink and a quick blast of solitaire while your furry friend gets some much-needed exercise!

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Streams found hidden beneath the foliage are a great source of adventure and come in handy when thirst strikes, for my dog of course, although in some parts the water runs as clear as … well water.

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Old branches can be found for the odd game of catch and when the playing fields aren’t in use, there is nothing better than a race to the other side.

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To top it off there’s an enclosed Dog Park, where you and your loyal pal can meet and greet other owners and their pals too, safe in the knowledge that they won’t run off at the soonest sight of a squirrel.

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Marlay Park has many other gems within its grounds.

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There’s the café, serving freshly roasted coffee in the courtyard.

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The enclosed wooden playground for kiddies with its ropes, slides and jungle gym. The tennis courts, BMX playground and aforementioned playing fields are all in great condition. There’s even a miniature railway!

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Saturday’s and Sunday’s play host to markets that present shoppers with local, artisan and ethnic produce … sure what more could you ask for?

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Well how about a fairy tree? … Marlay Park has that too! Hidden along the pathways you’ll be delighted to come across a special tree with tiny windows, a door and turrets on top. A special tree where messages and gifts to the fairies can be pinned and those that are I’m sure are greatly appreciated.

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For more info visit the County Council Website here

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PIN IT:

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