Things to Do in Ireland

On a grassy paddock just outside of the village of Kenmare sit 15 stone boulders "” 13 standing upright and another two prostrate. These large stones arranged in an egg shape comprise one of the largest stone circles in Southwest Ireland, dating back to the Bronze Age. In the middle of the stone circle sits a dolmen with a capstone, often used to mark the burial place of a significant figure in the Munster region. Experts believe the capstone to weigh nearly seven tons, which would have required 30-odd men to drag into position.

The stone circle in Kenmare is one of over 180 in Ireland and of 20 in County Kerry. It's the only one in the region to exhibit an egg shape.

At 1,752 acres (709 hectares), Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe. This is the home of the Dublin Zoo, as well as the Victorian People's Flower Garden, Áras an Uachtaráin (the official residence of the president of Ireland), and a herd of about 300 deer, which roam freely around the woodland areas and grassy lawns.

 

Though it began as a royal deer park for King Charles II during the 17th century, Phoenix Park is now a public park and one of Dublin's most beloved recreational spaces. It attracts a steady stream of dog walkers, joggers, strollers, and picnickers.

 

Many out-of-town visitors come to the park to visit Dublin Zoo or to tour Áras an Uachtaráin, where the president of Ireland lives. Some travelers arrive at Phoenix Park via hop-on hop-off tour buses, and explore the park on foot or by bike. Bicycles are available for rent near the park's main entrance.

 

Phoenix Park is 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) from Dublin city center. Ride the Red Line Luas tram to the Museum or Heuston stops. Dublin bus routes 25 and 26 go to Parkgate Street near the main park entrance.

 

Summer is the busiest season, but thanks to its huge size, the park never feels crowded. Go in autumn to see the park's many deciduous trees display their fall foliage. Fall is also deer rutting season, when bucks vie for the attention of does. Visit during daylight hours when most of the park's attractions are open.

Adjoining the visitor center is Ashtown Castle, a restored medieval tower house. Áras an Uachtaráin, the grand residence of the president of Ireland, can be explored on a guided tour (Saturday only). Near the Parkgate Street entrance sits Dublin Zoo. The Victorian People's Flower Garden is situated between the Parkgate Street entrance and the North Circular Road Gate entrance.

Built in 1722, St. Anne's Church is known for its large golden fish weathervane, which stands atop its bell tower and can be seen from much of the city. Visitors can climb the tower and try to play a tune on the church's eight bells, which were immortalized in the 19th-century poem, "The Bells of Shandon."

 

St. Anne's Church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cork. Visitors are free to wander around the church when services are not in progress but must pay a small fee to climb the tower and ring the bells. The tower is sometimes called the "four-faced liar" because the clock faces displayed on its four sides never seem to be in sync, and often display different times.

 

Guided walking tour groups often visit St. Anne's as well as other Cork sights. Visitors can also hire a private guide, or purchase an audio tour that offers the opportunity to explore Cork independently.

 

 

St. Anne's Church is situated in the Shandon district of Cork, north of the River Lee. Walking from St. Patrick's Quay or Grand Parade will take about 10 minutes. Alternatively, Bus Éireann route 203 runs between Grand Parade and the church.

 

The church is open year-round. Opening hours and tower access can be affected by religious services. The church receives most visitors during the summer months. On busy days, such as Cork Heritage Open Day in August, you can expect to wait in line to ring the bells. To avoid crowds, visit in the morning.

 

Visitors to St. Anne's are able to ring the bells of Shandon, which were originally cast in 1750 but have since been recast several times. Instruction booklets show visitors how to play simple tunes, such as "Frère Jacques," by pulling the bells in the right sequence. Earplugs are provided to protect visitors from the loud ringing sound.