Bushy Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Bushy Park?
What makes it 79% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy pond-side picnics, shaded woodland walks and rentable tennis courts; scenery is calm and entry free, but limited lighting means romantic strolls must finish before dark.
Positives:
- Free entry: All park paths and basic facilities are free to use.
- Varied terrain: Paved paths, open lawns and woodland trails suit different moods.
- Photo opportunities: Footbridges, pond edges and hilltops offer great couple selfies.
Challenges:
- Muddy after rain: Woodland trails and grass areas can become slippery—bring sturdy shoes.
- Limited seating: Benches fill up quickly on sunny weekends—consider bringing a foldable seat.
- Tennis booking required: Courts often fill in advance—reserve online at least 24 hours ahead.
What is Bushy Park?
- A 26-hectare municipal park in Dublin’s Terenure suburb, straddling the banks of the River Dodder
- Mixed landscape of mature woodland, open lawns, formal gardens and water features including a woodland pond and duck pond
- Hosts organized sports facilities such as football pitches, tennis and padel courts, a pavilion and one of Ireland’s first public concrete bowl skate parks
What is so special about Bushy Park for couple trip?
- Hold hands on scenic riverside paths along the River Dodder
- Picnic beside swans at the duck pond with your own snacks
- Recharge with hot drinks and cakes at the park kiosk
- Challenge each other to tennis or padel on nearby courts
- Catch city-at-dusk views from the hill east of the woodland pond
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Fits a riverside walk, picnic and light activities without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Bushy Park
Picnic by the Duck Pond:
Spread a blanket beside the pond and watch swans and waterfowl glide.
Tip: Bring your own snacks and a waterproof blanket for damp grass.
Riverside walk:
Follow the paved path along the River Dodder for varied river views.
Tip: Cross the footbridge near the tennis club for a quiet photo spot.
Coffee break at the kiosk:
Grab hot drinks and sandwiches at the small park kiosk near the playground.
Tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid the lunch queue; cash and card accepted.
Tennis or padel match:
Book courts at Bushypark Tennis & Padel Club on Rathdown Avenue.
Tip: Reserve online a day in advance and bring your own rackets to save hire fees.
Sunset stroll on the hill:
Climb the hill east of the woodland pond for city-at-dusk views.
Tip: Start your ascent 30 minutes before sunset and bring a light jacket.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bushy Park
- Early arrival: Come before 10 AM on weekends to secure a picnic spot and avoid crowds.
- East entrance for sunset: Use the entrance near the woodland pond to reach the hilltop quickly.
- Pack binoculars: Bring small binoculars to spot kingfishers and sparrowhawks by the pond.
Reviews of Bushy Park
Meyre&Martin
Everyone finds a safe, open space here, full of discovery. The paths are tranquil, lined with trees that seem to whisper wisdom with every breeze. It's impossible not to feel the lightness in the air and the patience that only nature can teach. An invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and recharge. If you're looking for a refuge to reconnect with yourself and the world around you, this park i...
Melanie Brown
Lovely park to wander around. Go on a Saturday and you can enjoy the food market!
Evelyn Angulo
I was disappointed by the state of the water ponds in Bushy Park. Many of them were covered in a thick green layer, which made them look neglected and possibly contaminated. It took away from the natural beauty of the park, and I felt it wasn’t very well maintained. The park itself is spacious and has lovely areas to walk, but the condition of the ponds really needs urgent attention.
Maria
Has tennis courts has a playground has skateboard park has an ice cream van inside has a huge lake lots of wildlife if you like photography. I think there was also basketball court im not sure and there was huge football pitches. Theres also a bandstand and they do markets on weekends
Larry Sho
Great park for walks and mini trails...great scenery and a host of great places to visit and walk. Also nice for picnics and small getother at the parks as there's loads of ample spaces and recreational and playground for small kids to keep them entertained. There are also tennis and paddle courts in the park for a small fee.
When is the best time to visit Bushy Park (Dublin, Ireland)?
Spring brings ducklings and blooming wildflowers; summer offers shaded picnic spots; autumn turns the woodlands golden—wear sturdy shoes; in winter paths can be slippery, so layer up and check forecasts.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Coffee or snack at kiosk | EUR 3 |
| Tennis or padel court (1 h) | EUR 18 |
| Racket hire | EUR 5 |
| Court lights (1 h) | EUR 4 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Bushy Park
Address: Bushy Park, Terenure, Dublin, Ireland
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About Bushy Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 1 490 032010 BEST nearby Activities
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