In a Nutshell:
A quiet area in the middle of the metropolis, created around a disused water reservoir - worth seeking out if you are in the vicinity.
Where do I Find the Blessington Street Basin?
This small park is hidden away between Royal Canal Bank and Berkeley Street near the Mater Hospital.
How do I get to Blessington Street Basin?
The easiest way would be via Blessington Street, no real surprise here. Blessington Street branches off Berkeley Street, used by several bus lines.
When is Blessington Street Basin Open?
Generally during daylight hours - expect the park to be open by 9 a.m. and check the noticeboard near the entrance for current closing times.
A Short History of the Park:
Originally this was a purely utilitarian amenity, built in 1810 - replenished with water from the Royal Canal it was part of the Dublin water supply. In later years it was used exclusively to store water for the Jameson's Distillery, starting in 1868. Then Jameson's moved out of Dublin during the 1970s and the Blessington Street Basin fell into disuse and disrepair. In recent years the council decided to dredge the basin (finding a veritable goldmine of shopping trolleys) and redevelop the area as a small park for the local population, opening it officially in 1994.
What to Expect at the Blessington Street Basin?
Not much - except sudden and unexpected peace and quiet just a few minutes' walk away from Dublin's busiest streets. Pleasant walks around the old basin are the main attraction.
Is this Park Secure?
Generally yes - but local drug problems and a nearby methadone therapy center may lead to the odd, very rare and most of the time uneventful encounter with a disoriented person.
Food and Drink at the Blessington Street Basin:
None - but several shops in nearby Berkeley Street can supply an instant "packed lunch".
