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Title: Discover the Rich History of Phoenix Park Visitor Centre - Ashtown Castle and Surrounding Demesne in Phoenix Park

Excerpt: Ashtown Castle and its surrounding demesne in Phoenix Park offer a range of attractions to explore, making it a fantastic destination for a memorable day out.

Ashtown Castle, located in the heart of Phoenix Park in Dublin, is a restored tower house that likely dates back to the seventeenth century. Once hidden within the walls of a Georgian mansion, the castle was rediscovered in the late 1980s and has since been fully restored and is now open to visitors.

Surrounding Ashtown Castle is the beautiful Ashtown Demesne, which features a range of attractions to explore. The walled kitchen garden is a highlight, having been beautifully restored to its original Victorian layout. The demesne also offers woodland walks, picnic areas, and a universal-access playground, making it a fantastic destination for a day out with the family.

Dublin Phoenix Park Deers - Image Courtesy Chaosheng Zhang Twitter:@ZhangChaosheng

Dublin Phoenix Park Deers - Image Courtesy Chaosheng Zhang Twitter:@ZhangChaosheng

The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, located adjacent to Ashtown Castle, features an entertaining exhibition on the park's history, dating back to 3500 BC and up to the present day. Visitors can learn about the rich history of the park and the surrounding area, making for a fascinating and educational experience.

After exploring the castle and its surroundings, visitors can enjoy a charming restaurant in the visitor-centre grounds, offering a variety of tasty dishes.

If you're looking for more things to do in the area, Phoenix Park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including cycling, walking, and picnicking. You can also visit nearby attractions like the Dublin Zoo or the Farmleigh Estate, a historic house and gardens that once belonged to the Guinness family.

Ashtown Castle is a fascinating example of a tower house, a fortified structure that was common in Ireland during the medieval period. Visitors can explore the castle's various rooms, including the great hall, the kitchen, and the bedrooms, and learn about the castle's history and restoration process through guided tours.

The Ashtown Demesne is also home to a range of wildlife, including birds, foxes, and squirrels. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the woodland walks, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature along the way.

If you're looking for more things to do in the area, the nearby Dublin Zoo is a popular attraction for families, while the Farmleigh Estate offers a glimpse into the lives of the Guinness family and their historic home and gardens.

Overall, a visit to Ashtown Castle and the surrounding demesne is a must for anyone traveling to Dublin. With its rich history, beautiful surroundings, and range of attractions, it's a unique and memorable destination in the heart of Phoenix Park.