Dublin Days Out

Dublin Days Out

I have wanted to go cycling in Phoenix Park for ages so when I finally got a day off I headed out to give it a go. You rent bikes at the little lodge by the front gate and at €5 for the day what more could you ask for. Phoenix Park is a beautiful 1752 Acre area located in Dublin City, established in 1662 as a Royal Deer Park for Charles II. The park is literally huge, and cycling is by far the best way to see it! I was a bit nervous at first as the last time I was on a bike was about ten years ago, but it was one of the best days out I have had in Dublin ever. The highlight was when we stumbled upon the herd of deer casually grazing or that first sight of the beautiful Farmleigh House. Another great thing to do in Phoenix Park is Dublin Zoo which is a great day out. If you are looking for a cheap day out head to the Park, rent a bike, bring a picnic and you are set for a day of adventures!

As it was a special occasion I stayed the night in Dublin which involved an amazing meal at the Whitefriar Grill. We had the Gambas Pil-Pil on Crushed Tomato Toast and the Prosciutto, Cantaloupe melon, rocket, mint and white balsamic glaze to start. We both opted for the 8oz Rump Steak with Homefries, tobacco onions and pepper sauce for our main and I had the Fudge Brownie for dessert and he had the Eton Mess! Great service, amazing food with great combinations and really well priced!

The next day we popped into Bison Bar for some delicious BBQ food. Huge portions, really great setting and very reasonable menu. I got the Split Chicken which was beautiful but the portion was too big for me! He got the Ribs and Pulled pork which looked great as well.

We stumbled on a film being shot in Temple Bar which was exciting then headed to Brother Hubbard for some desserts. Loved the place! Great concept, friendly staff, lovely food and great non-smoking garden area! (Get the Brownie...so good we got another to take home!)

Another day off involved attending the March for Marriage in Dublin where I spotted the adorable equal-rights supporting dog and went grafitti hunting in Temple Bar :D

Phoenix Park info: http://www.phoenixpark.ie/

Bison Bar: http://www.bisonbar.ie/ 11 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2

Whitefriar Grill: http://whitefriargrill.ie/index.html 16, Aungier Street, Dublin 2

Brother Hubbard: http://brotherhubbard.ie/ 153, Capel Street, Dublin 1