ATTRACTIVE STONE BRIDGES

PHOTOGRAPHED ON NEW YEAR DAY 2013

I normally spend New Years Day, my birthday, with family in Brussels or Trim but this year everyone was ill so I spent the day alone photographing Bushy Park and nearby locations.

Bushy Park, located in Terenure, Dublin, features several charming stone bridges that add to the park's scenic beauty and historical appeal. While there isn't extensive information readily available on the specific history of each bridge, they are believed to date back to the park's establishment in the early 20th century.

These bridges serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing pedestrians to cross over the park's waterways while enhancing the overall landscape design. They are constructed from local stone, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings and creating a picturesque atmosphere.

The main water sources for the rivers and streams in Bushy Park are:

The River Dodder: This significant river flows through the park, providing a natural habitat for various wildlife and contributing to the park's lush greenery. The Dodder originates in the Dublin Mountains and meanders through several areas before reaching the Irish Sea.

Natural Springs: Bushy Park benefits from several natural springs that contribute to the flow of the smaller streams within the park. These springs are fed by groundwater and play a vital role in maintaining the park's ecological balance.

Surface Runoff: Rainfall and surface runoff also contribute to the water levels in the park's waterways, particularly during wetter periods. The park's diverse topography, including slopes and valleys, helps to channel this water into the existing streams and the River Dodder.

The combination of these water sources creates a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem within Bushy Park, supporting a variety of plant and animal life. The stone bridges, as integral elements of the park's landscape, not only facilitate movement throughout the park but also offer vantage points for appreciating the beauty of the waterways and their natural surroundings.