Named after the Ballyfermot Castle that was built here in the 14th century, this Dublin suburb lies just to the west of the city centre. Ballyfermot was once home to the Irish writer Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, with his Georgian home still standing today next to St. Laurence's parish.
Things to do in Ballyfermot
Ballyfermot Road is the main commercial hub in the suburb, lined with boutique shops, international restaurants and traditional Irish pubs. Le Fanu Park sprawls just to the south, and its expansive lawns are a popular spot to picnic and relax during the warm summer months.
California Hills Park lies in the north of Ballyfermot, having been named by movie-loving kids who once played “Cowboys and Indians” here. It includes “The Gaels” recreational area that features a children’s playground and golf facilities, as well as walking trails to explore.
Also in the suburb’s north along the banks of the Liffey River is the Irish National War Memorial Gardens where visitors can pay their respects to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Great War. It is considered one of the finest memorials built by Sir Edwin Lutyens and features a sunken Garden of Remembrance planted with roses.
Take a step back in time on a walk along the Grand Canal that was built from the mid-18th century to connect Dublin with the River Shannon. It’s dotted with locks and historic lock keeper’s cottages as it meanders into the outskirts of Dublin and the rural surrounds.
Getting around Ballyfermot
Ballyfermot is connected to Dublin’s city centre by regular bus services, as well as trains from the Cherry Orchard/Park West Station. A light rail system also runs along the edge of the canal in the south of the suburb.