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100 YEAR OLD BATHSThe Sandymount Baths, originally known as the Merrion Promenade, Pier, and Baths, opened in July 1883.
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2008 VISITSandymount is a picturesque seaside village in south Dublin, known for its charming mix of Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian architecture. 22 MARCH 2024Saint Patrick’s College comprises both the National Seminary and the Pontifical University. However, these two entities, while sharing the same campus, are…
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A BABY AUSTINThe prominent "Austin" badge on the front grille, along with the overall shape and design of the vehicle, including the distinctive headlights and wire wheels,… A BABY AUSTINThe prominent "Austin" badge on the front grille, along with the overall shape and design of the vehicle, including the distinctive headlights and wire wheels,… ART ON CENTAUR STREETCentaur Street, nestled in the heart of Carlow town, is a thoroughfare that piques curiosity with its unusual name and distinctive layout. The street is divided… AWAITING THE MARINERThe towering 20-foot sculpture, "Awaiting the Mariner," has become a familiar sight on Sandymount Strand in Dublin.
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BLACKROCK MARKET CROSSBlackrock Market Cross, also known simply as the Blackrock Cross. It is located at the junction of Main Street and Temple Road, not far from the DART station. BLACKROCK VILLAGEBlackrock began as a small fishing village. Its name derives from the distinctive black limestone rock formations found in the area, particularly around… BOOTERSTOWN STATIONBooterstown Train Station is located on the scenic coastal stretch of Dublin, in the Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown region. This station, established in 1835, holds a… BOTANIC GARDENSThe National Botanic Gardens in Dublin boasts a remarkable collection of glasshouses, each with its unique purpose and architectural style. BUS STOP 2068Stillorgan Road is a major thoroughfare connecting Dublin city centre to the southern suburbs. It's characterised by a mix of residential housing, businesses,… BY ALEXANDRA WEJCHERT"Freedom" is an abstract sculpture crafted from stainless steel. Its towering height and reflective surface make it a striking presence on the university… BY IMOGEN STUARTronze statue of pope John Paul II embracing two kneeling children, based on a photograph taken during the Pope's visit in 1980. BY JOHN BEATTYBeatty's style could be described as realistic impressionism. He captures the architectural details of the baths while also conveying the atmosphere and the… BY MICHELLE BYRNEThe plaque describes this stone sculpture map of Carlow town and the River Barrow as a sculpture created by artist Michelle Byrne. It was unveiled on November… BY NASSER AZAMA reliable source has confirmed that 'Sepian Blue' was initially exhibited at Sculpture in Context, Ireland's premier showcase of public sculpture, hosted… BYRNES CROSS AREAByrne's Cross in Newbridge is primarily known as a residential area located near St. Mark's Secondary School. While there isn't much historical information…
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CARGO BIKESWhen I visited Stillorgan Village I was surprised to see dedicated cargo bike parking spaces which highlights an exciting trend in Ireland's urban planning and… CARLOW 30 AUGUSTCarlow Town, nestled on the banks of the River Barrow in the southeast of Ireland, is a captivating blend of history and contemporary charm CARLOW TOWN PARKCarlow Town Park is a modern park, completed in June 2003, situated in the heart of Carlow Town, County Carlow, Ireland. Commissioned by Carlow Urban District… CARLOW TRAIN STATIONThe station first opened its doors in 1846, as part of the Great Southern and Western Railway's expansion, ushering in an era of improved connectivity for the… CHROMA LANCELocated within the town of Newbridge, County Kildare, the 'Chroma Lance' stands as a striking addition to the Newbridge Heritage & Arts Trail. This vibrant art… CHURCH ON MERRION ROADIn the 1920s, the Catholic population in the Merrion area grew, prompting the Archbishop of Dublin to decide that a new church and parish were needed COAST WALK BY EILIS NOLANIn this piece, a dog is enjoying one of the many beautiful walks we have along the east coast of Ireland. I've based it on my dog, Scout, who is always excited… COLLEGE PARK ROADCollege Park Road, situated in Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland, is likely named after the esteemed Newbridge College due to its close proximity. It connects… CONLETHS CHURCH CHRISTMAS 2012A family member lived in Newbridge but in 2012 she decided to sell it but she invited me to spend Christmas in Newbridge before the keys were handed over to the…
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DAATA RESTAURANTDaata in Blackrock is a branch of the popular Daata Indian & Pakistani restaurant chain in Ireland. It's known for its delicious food, beautiful ambiance, and… DARTRY ROADNestled between Rathmines and Milltown, Dartry is a charming Dublin suburb where the threads of history, nature, technological advancement, and industrial… DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCEStation Road is also the address of the prominent Department of Defence complex, which serves as the headquarters for the Irish Defence Forces. This adds… DERELICT SEA BATHSMy first encounter with this derelict structure was back in February 2008. At that time, the street art was far more captivating. It seems that in recent years,… DERELICT TOILETThe provision and accessibility of public toilets in Dublin has undergone a significant transformation over the years. While once a common feature across the… DODDER RHINOIn the heart of Dublin, nestled by the River Dodder, stands an enigmatic bronze rhinoceros. Its imposing presence startles passersby as they cross Classon’s… DODDER RHINOIn the heart of Dublin, nestled by the River Dodder, stands an enigmatic bronze rhinoceros. Its imposing presence startles passersby as they cross Classon’s… DODDER WALKDogs are indeed welcome on the Dodder Walk/Trail, but it's important to keep them on a leash at all times. This helps to ensure the safety of both your dog and…
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ENTRANCE TO CEMETERYMaynooth University, unusually for a university, has its own cemetery known as St. Patrick's Cemetery. The cemetery has a number of features characteristic of… EXPLORING BLACKROCK PARKBlackrock Park, a beloved public park in Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, stretches along the coast from Booterstown Train Station to Blackrock Train Station. Its…
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FADE O'CLOCKFade O'Clock is a barbershop located on Capel Street in Dublin, Ireland. They offer a variety of services including haircuts, fades, beard trims, and shaves. FAMINE MEMORIALA dedicated Famine Memorial, sculpted by John McKenna and unveiled in 1997, stands prominently at the pub's entrance, serving as a solemn tribute to those who… FATHER JACKFather Jack Hackett is one of the most iconic and memorable characters from the beloved Irish sitcom Father Ted. He serves as a stark contrast to the show's… FEATURING IRISH BIRDSIreland, being an island, has a unique bird population that differs from its closest neighbour, Great Britain. There are over 450 species on the Irish list, but… FIRE STATIONCarlow Town Fire Station, strategically located in the heart of County Carlow, serves as the central hub for fire and rescue operations in the region. The… FLOWERSI always look forward to visiting the Botanic Gardens every year in September as they host the Sculpture In Context exhibition but not this year as it was… FRANK CORISH MEMORIALThe memorial sculpture honouring Patrick Corish in the college gardens of St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, is a unique and evocative tribute to his legacy as a… FRIARY ON DUBLIN STREETMy understanding is that the Government is planning to use this building for social housing. FRIENDS FOR LIFEI suspect that they may have been builders or a construction crew. I checked but cannot find any reference to a construction project in the immediate area in…
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GHOST STORYIt may surprise many visitors to discover that St. Patrick's Pontifical University, often referred to as Maynooth College, has its own graveyard. The cemetery… GLASSHOUSESThe National Botanic Gardens in Dublin boasts a remarkable collection of glasshouses, each with its unique purpose and architectural style. GRACE O'DONNELL PARKWithin the Grace O'Donnell Memorial Park section of Dartry Park, 1 Milltown Road, Rathmines, Dublin, Ireland
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HARCOURT SQUAREThis large-scale development project is transforming the area around Harcourt Street. It encompasses the construction of two interconnected buildings that will… HARCOURT TRAM STOPThe Harcourt Luas stop is a key transport hub located on Harcourt Street in Dublin city centre. It is situated on the Green Line, providing easy access to…
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IMELDA MAY TRIBUTEHer powerful vocals, reminiscent of iconic singers like Billie Holiday, coupled with her energetic stage presence, quickly set her apart. IN THE PROCESS OF CLOSINGAfter more than 50 years of serving the music community in Dublin, Goodwins Musical Instruments on Capel Street is preparing to close its doors. The decision… IVEAGH GARDENSLocated in the heart of Dublin, the Iveagh Gardens stands as a testament to Victorian landscape design, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle. Yet, despite…
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LEANING MANThe “Leaning Man” sculpture at Shamrock Plaza in Carlow town is a notable piece of public art. This sculpture, located in the heart of Shamrock Square, adds a… LEINSTER STREET IN MAYNOOTHLeinster Street, also known as Canal Place, is a significant 18th-century street in Maynooth. It runs south from Main Street towards Maynooth Harbour and the… LIBERTY TREE SCULPTUREAs part of the commemorations, Carlow's local authorities commissioned a sculpture entitled "The Liberty Tree". The piece was created by Dublin-born,… LIFFEY ARMS PUBThe Liffey Arms is a pub located on Main Street, Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and traditional Irish… LIFFEY LINEAR PARKThe section of the Liffey Linear Park at Newbridge offers a delightful escape into nature, right on the doorstep of the town.
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MARTELLO TOWERhe juxtaposition of the historic Martello Towers with modern amenities, such as public toilets and shops, highlights the ongoing challenge of preserving… MARTELLO TOWERFurther north, in the coastal suburb of Sandymount, stands another Martello tower, often overshadowed by its more illustrious counterpart in Sandycove. This… MAYNOOTH CASTLEBuilt in the early 13th century, the castle quickly became a stronghold for the FitzGerald dynasty, the Earls of Kildare, one of the most powerful families in… MAYNOOTH RAILWAY STATIONThe proximity of the train station to the Royal Canal offers passengers picturesque views and opportunities for leisurely walks or cycling along the towpath.… MC GOWANS PUBThe name change occurred in 2017 when the property was sold. The new owners, the McGowan family, decided to rebrand the pub with their own name. According to… MERMAIDS SONGgnieszka Mruszczyk is originally from Poland but has called Ireland home for many years. She is passionate about painting, reading, and history. She also finds… MILLENNIUM BRIDGEThe Millennium Bridge in Carlow, opened in 2002, is a striking pedestrian bridge that gracefully spans the River Barrow, connecting the historic town centre… MILLTOWN ROADMilltown, a suburb and townland nestled on Dublin's south side, boasts a rich history intertwined with the River Dodder. MURAL BY HOLLY PEREIRAThere seems to be limited street art easily visible in Newbridge compared to other towns. However, there's evidence suggesting a recent surge in street art… MURALS BY KIRSTY MAHERMaher, a Carlow native known for her captivating public art, has a knack for creating murals that resonate with the community MY VISIT TO NEWBRIDGELocated in County Kildare, Ireland, Newbridge enjoys a strategic location along the banks of the River Liffey. Its roots trace back to the 12th century when it…
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NEAR THE OLD KIOSKThe area near the old derelict structure in Blackrock Public Park, including the historic Kiosk, is undergoing redevelopment. NEWBRIDGE TRAIN STATIONNewbridge Train Station, situated in County Kildare, Ireland, was opened in 1846 as part of the Great Southern and Western Railway's main line between Dublin… NEWBRIDGE WATER TOWERLast year a Social Democrats councillor suggested that a mural could be painted on Newbridge’s disused water tower so I decided to visit and photograph it but… NEW STREET ARTThese interesting posters are located on a derelict building off Capel Street.
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OLD ARMY HUTThere appears to be no connection between Geraldine Hall, now a Scout Hall, and the green metal hut that once housed various community groups. They are two… OLD GARRISON CHURCHLocated on the main street in Newbridge, the Old Garrison Church stands as a testament to the town's military and spiritual heritage. Built in 1859, this Gothic… ORCHARD ROAD SOUTHOrchard Road South in Dublin 6 may be a quiet, unassuming street, but its proximity to the LUAS Milltown Tram Stop and its connection to Palmerston Park make it… ORIGINAL ESTATE WALLThis unnoticed wall stands as a remnant of the original boundary that once enclosed the estate acquired by the Royal Dublin Society in 1795, the very land upon…
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PAINTED BOXI published photographs of this example of Paint-A-Box streetart on Bolton Street earlier in the month but at the time I was unaware that the artist was Pawel… PALMERSTON PARKhe coexistence of Palmerston Park in Dartry adds another layer to the ongoing confusion surrounding the naming of Palmerstown, a suburb in west Dublin… PARSON STREETMeadowbrook Stream, known locally as Taghadoe or more intriguingly, Joan Slade, winds its way along Parson Street in Maynooth, weaving a narrative rich in… PHOTOGRAPHED 2008The Sandymount Baths, originally known as the Merrion Promenade, Pier, and Baths, opened in July 1883. POCKET PARKSA series of micro gardens and pocket parks, each thoughtfully designed and brimming with life, creates a green tapestry throughout the urban landscape at… POND AREAThe pond area and the Dodder River: These two water bodies play a crucial role in shaping the landscape and ecological diversity of the Botanic Gardens in… POND AREA BLACKROCK PARKBlackrock Park's pond, with its distinctive "Roman Temple" pumping station and natural amphitheatre, has indeed played host to a vibrant history of public… PROBLEM TRIANGLEThe Ryder's Row Triangle, a small, triangular-shaped area bounded by Ryder's Row, Capel Street, and Parnell Street, has long been a focal point for urban decay…
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SAINT CONLETH'S STATUEIn August 2024 when I photographed this sculpture and garden the statue portrayed the saint with a child perched upon his shoulders, holding aloft a St… SAINT CONLETHS CHURCHSt. Conleth's Catholic Church stands as a testament to the deep-rooted faith and rich history of Newbridge, County Kildare. This majestic church, dedicated to… SANDYMOUNT AREASandymount is a picturesque seaside village in south Dublin, known for its charming mix of Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian architecture. SANDYMOUNT STRANDI had intended to walk along Merrion Strand to Sandymount but abandoned the idea after five minutes due to the unpleasant smell and the difficulty of walking in… SANDYMOUNT STRANDandymount Strand, a vast expanse of sandy shoreline stretching along Dublin Bay, is a cherished landmark in South Dublin and a vital part of the Dublin Bay… SCUPTURE OF A SWANThere is a sculpture of a Swan – Cosantóir (protector) at the entrance to the Liffey Linear Park in Newbridge. SKY RIVERS GROUPAs part of the Fáilte Ireland Destination Towns initiative aimed at revitalising Carlow town's tourism appeal, a Public Art Project was undertaken. Artist Remco… SOUTH HILL DARTRYSouth Hill isn't your typical Dublin streetscape with grand Victorian or Edwardian houses. Instead, it's a thoughtfully planned estate, primarily comprised of… SOUTH UNIVERSITY CAMPUSThe South Campus of Maynooth University, steeped in history and natural beauty, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling town centre. SPIRIT OF THE DOCKLANDSDublin, a city steeped in history and brimming with charm, offers visitors a wealth of experiences. Among these, a cruise along the River Liffey on the "Spirit… SPOON MANI suspect that this mural is by a street artist who operates under the name Oriel and it is possible that it is a tribute to Declan Walsh STATION ROAD AUGUST 2024Station Road in Newbridge, County Kildare, is a multifaceted area that holds historical, sporting, residential, and national significance. STATUE OF OLD WOMANUnfortunately, the information about a statue of an old woman on Dublin Road in tribute to Frank O'Meara is incorrect. There is no known record or evidence of… ST CONTLETHS GARDENWithin the serene grounds of St Conleth's Church in Newbridge, a tranquil garden and a poignant statue honour Saint Conleth. The statue portrays the saint with… ST CONTLETHS GARDEN 2024Within the serene grounds of St Conleth's Church in Newbridge, a tranquil garden and a poignant statue honour Saint Conleth. The statue portrays the saint with… STILLORGAN ORCHARDFor over a century, the Stillorgan Orchard stood as a beloved landmark in the heart of Stillorgan Village. Its iconic thatched roof and warm, inviting… STILLORGAN VILLAGEStillorgan Village is a vibrant and bustling suburb located in South Dublin, Ireland. Situated just 8 kilometres south of Dublin city centre, it offers a… ST MARYS CATHOLIC CHURCHThe church's design, typical of the period, features an ornate and elaborate facade contrasting with the simpler treatment of the remaining walls. This… ST MARYS CHURCHSt. Mary's Church of Ireland, situated on Parson Street in Maynooth, stands as a testament to the town's rich history and religious heritage. ST PHILIPS CHURCHThe architect was Sir Thomas Drew, renowned for designing other notable buildings like St. Anne's Cathedral in Belfast and Rathmines Town Hall. STRAND ROADIt seems the residents of Sandymount have been dealing with a series of major infrastructure projects in quick succession:
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TED BAKER TO CLOSETed Baker recently announced the unfortunate closure of all its stores and operations in both the UK and Ireland. This marks a significant shift for the brand,… TEMPLEBARThe light reflecting off the cobblestones made everything look bright and colourful, especially the street art by Shane Sutton on the builders' hoarding THE BACK LOUNGEThe Back Lounge, situated on Exchange Street Upper, is recognised for its display of interesting street art, though specific pieces can change due to the… THE BLACK SHEEPThe Black Sheep, a craft beer haven on Capel Street, has breathed new life into a once-neglected corner of Dublin. THE BOOK READERThis has survived on North King Street since 2020 but Pawel has also more recently painted a utility cabinet at the DublinBikes docking station on Bolton… THE BUNKERThe Bunker was a unique establishment that, sadly, closed its doors around three years ago. Its most striking feature was its vintage-inspired signage,… THE CORNERSTONEThe Stillorgan Bowling Alley, once a beloved leisure hub for families and friends in South Dublin, has sadly rolled its last ball. Established in 1961, it was a… THE DROPPING WELLAt the front of the pub, Boxer Maher’s public bar offers old-fashioned drinking surroundings with wood and bric-a-brac recreating the style of a Victorian… THE HALFPENNY BRIDGEThe Ha'penny Bridge, an iconic landmark of Dublin, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. THE HILLThe Hill in Stillorgan is a prominent location in Dublin, known for its mix of residential, commercial, and leisure establishments. THE RIVER LIFFEYNewbridge and the River Liffey share a deep-rooted connection that has shaped the town's history, identity, and development. THE ROBINA common sight in gardens and woodlands, it is smaller and more delicate than its American counterpart, the American Robin. The Irish Robin has a bright orange… THE ROCK GARDENI have seen the garden referred to as the "junior garden" and the "junior house gardens" and I do know which is correct. THE TURTLESToday I visited the Botanic Gardens and saw two turtles one was small while to other was much larger. I first noticed turtles here more than ten years but as I… TRAIN FAILED TO ARRIVESince the beginning of the year I made a number of attempts to travel to Maynooth by train and failed due to a variety of problems which I will not discuss in… TRAM STOP AT RANELAGHThe Ranelagh LUAS tram stop in Dublin is uniquely situated on a bridge that spans Ranelagh Road. This elevated position offers passengers scenic views of the… TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONEThe first Chinese restaurants in Dublin started appearing in the late 1950s and early 1960s, introducing a new and exotic cuisine to the Irish palate.
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UNVEILED BY RONNIE WOODSWood, an admirer of Orpen's work, expressed his delight at bringing the sculpture to the town, marking the successful culmination of years of planning and… UNVEILED BY RONNIE WOODSWood, an admirer of Orpen's work, expressed his delight at bringing the sculpture to the town, marking the successful culmination of years of planning and…
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VEGETABLE GARDENThe Fruit and Vegetable Garden at the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin showcases organic growing techniques, composting, and honey production.
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WHAT IS A CHRUCHLooks like someone needs to go back to Sunday school for a spelling lesson! Perhaps the sign writer was distracted by the heavenly views at St. Mary's Church in… WOLFE TONE STREETWolfe Tone Street, once known as Stafford Street, is steeped in historical significance due to its association with Theobald Wolfe Tone, a prominent figure in… WREN AND GOLDCRESTLet's delve into the fascinating world of two tiny birds that call Ireland home: the Wren and the Goldcrest.
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