Dartry

SOUTH HILL IN DARTRY

August 26, 2024 by infomatique

DUBLIN 6 IN AUGUST 2024

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Dartry, Dublin 6, lies a charming enclave known as South Hill. While exploring this tranquil neighbourhood, I was captivated by its unique character and intriguing history.

South Hill isn’t your typical Dublin streetscape with grand Victorian or Edwardian houses. Instead, it’s a thoughtfully planned estate, primarily comprised of semi-detached homes built in the 1950s. The architecture, though not as historic, has a certain mid-century charm, and the mature trees lining the streets create a peaceful, almost suburban atmosphere.

One striking feature of South Hill is its single vehicular entrance. This design choice not only limits through-traffic, preserving the tranquility, but also fosters a strong sense of community. It’s easy to imagine neighbours chatting at their gates or children playing safely in the street.

As I wandered through South Hill, I noticed a distinct lack of “For Sale” signs. It turns out that houses here rarely come on the market, often passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the area’s appeal – the quiet streets, the green spaces, the proximity to excellent schools and the Luas Green Line.

While I couldn’t uncover the exact details of South Hill’s origins during my visit, I learned that at least one house, Drumcar, dates back to 1943. It seems that the bulk of the development took place in the 1950s, a time of significant suburban expansion in Dublin.

South Hill offers a fascinating glimpse into a specific period of Dublin’s architectural and social history. It’s a reminder that hidden gems can be found even in the most well-established neighborhoods. If you’re ever in Dartry, take a detour to South Hill – you might be surprised by what you discover.

DARTRY ROAD AND MILLTOWN ROAD

August 25, 2024 by infomatique

BETWEEN RATHMINES AND MILLTOWN

Dartry: A Tapestry of History, Nature, Technology, and Enterprise in Dublin

Nestled between Rathmines and Milltown, Dartry is a charming Dublin suburb where the threads of history, nature, technological advancement, and industrial heritage interweave to create a unique tapestry.

Key Landmarks and Features:

The Dublin Laundry Company

It is hard to believe that in the 1970s, there were more than six hundred battery electric vehicles on the streets of Dublin, with smaller numbers in other cities and towns throughout the country. And one of the users of such transport was Dublin Laundry Company. While often associated with Dartry, the Dublin Laundry Company was technically situated on Milltown Road. However, the proximity and historical context link it closely to the Dartry area and its industrial heritage. The company’s pioneering use of electric vehicles showcases an interesting intersection of industry and early sustainable practices.

Natural Beauty & Green Spaces:

Dartry Road, Temple Road, Orwell Park, and Palmerston Park: Picturesque thoroughfares and verdant spaces offering leisurely strolls and recreation.
The River Dodder: Meandering through the area, providing scenic beauty and a habitat for diverse wildlife.
The “Dartry Park Waterfall” (or weir): A small but charming cascade feature within the Grace O’Donnell Memorial Park section of Dartry Park.
Transport Links:

140 Bus Terminus: Situated beside Palmerston Park for convenient access.
Remnants of Tram Routes: Former termini of the 12 and 14 tramways evoke Dublin’s transport history.
Milltown Luas Stop: Provides modern-day connectivity via the Luas Green Line.
Educational & Cultural Institutions:

Trinity Hall: A vibrant student residence of Trinity College Dublin on Dartry Road.
Trinity College Botanic Garden: A tranquil oasis showcasing a diverse collection of plants, established in Dartry since 1967.
Historical Landmarks & Stories:

The Dropping Well Pub: Beside the River Dodder, this pub stands on the site of a former famine-era morgue, later becoming a popular haunt for “bona fide” travellers.

Dartry House: A two-story mansion once owned by William Martin Murphy, a central figure in the 1913 Dublin Lockout.

The Shanagarry Chimney: A repurposed industrial chimney, once part of the Dublin Laundry Company, now serving as a communications mast and a reminder of the area’s industrial past.

Dartry Mills: Located further upstream along the River Dodder, these former cloth and dye works left their mark on the area’s landscape and history. Remnants of the millrace and water wheel can still be seen.
1928 Killing of Timothy Coughlin: A somber event that took place on Dartry Road, highlighting a chapter of Ireland’s turbulent past.
Literary Connection: 3 Sunbury Gardens was once home to the renowned Irish author Máirtín Ó Cadhain.

Technological Innovation & Enterprise:

Web Summit Headquarters: The company organising the globally recognised Web Summit technology conference is based in Dartry, reflecting the area’s link to innovation and Dublin’s thriving tech scene.
Event Management Hub: Dartry’s strategic location and blend of old-world charm and modernity attract businesses in the event management sector.
Conclusion:

Dartry is more than just a suburb; it’s a microcosm of Dublin’s multifaceted identity. From its serene green spaces and historical landmarks to its connection to technological innovation and enterprise, Dartry encapsulates the essence of a city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.

TEMPLE ROAD IN DARTRY DUBLIN 6

August 24, 2024 by infomatique

23 AUGUST 2024

Temple Road, situated in the affluent Dublin suburb of Dartry, stands as one of the most prestigious and exclusive addresses in Ireland. Lined with imposing period homes, primarily built between the mid-19th century and the Edwardian era, it exudes an air of quiet grandeur and historical significance.

History & Context:

The road’s name pays homage to Lord Palmerston (Henry John Temple), a two-time British Prime Minister, on whose lands the Dartry area was developed during the mid to late 19th century.
Its historical residents include notable figures such as William Martin Murphy, the Jacob biscuit dynasty, and, for a time, the renowned author Bram Stoker.

Temple Road’s exclusivity is underscored by the scarcity of properties coming onto the market. In the past five years, only three houses have been sold on this coveted stretch, highlighting its desirability and high property values.

Character & Ambience:

Temple Road is characterised by its grand, period architecture, predominantly Victorian and Edwardian, showcasing the affluence and refined taste of its historical residents.
The road’s atmosphere is one of understated elegance and tranquillity, reflecting the privacy and discretion valued by its inhabitants.
While not a commercial hub, its proximity to the Milltown Luas stop provides convenient access to the city centre and other amenities.
The road connects South Richmond Avenue to Dartry Road, contributing to the overall connectivity of the area.