In a Nutshell:
Ireland's least favorite monument, seldom used for its original purpose ... but a good place for a stroll.
Where Will I Find the War Memorial Gardens?
The park is located at Islandbridge, just south of the Phoenix Park and adjacent to the Liffey. Or immediately north of Con Colbert Road (N4).
How do I get to the War Memorial Gardens?
Several bus lines pass through either Con Colbert Road or Chapelizod Road, the LUAS and rail station Heuston is around 15 minutes (uninspiring) walk away. You will have to tramp along the N4 and use the stairs into the ark. By car you will take the South Circular Road.
When is the War Memorial Gardens Open?
At all times.
A Short History of the Park:
This has to be the strangest history of them all - planned by Sir Edwin Lutyens immediately after the First World War to remember the 49,000 Irish war dead. But the process of construction was overtaken by political events and the successive governments of the Free State and the Republic did not show any enthusiasm at all for the monument. In many circles the War Memorial Gardens were seen as a glorification of the British Army. Which it isn't - it just remembers the effort of Irishmen in the war. The monument and park were thus only finished many decades after the First World War.
What can I Expect at the War Memorial Gardens?
Most of the area is given over to landscaped lawns, with some buildings housing rowing clubs near the Liffey. The War Memorial Gardens themselves are nearly hidden away, despite its not inconsiderable size. Two crescents with tower-like buildings incorparated form the outer boundary of the monument. Central are an altar-like stone cube and a massive stone cross. The tone is sombre, the style almost classical - there are no heroic statues and almost no ornaments.
Is the Park Secure?
Generally yes, though I would not recommend a visit after dark.
Food and Drink in War Memorial Gardens:
You can eat and drink to your heart's delight - provided you packed a picnic! There are no shops and cafes in the immediate vicinity.
