Just off the N11 dual carriageway, this 45 hectare park is a fine example of the less formal 18th Century English Landscape style. The buildings are being renovated and converted for museum and educational purposes. The House itself was built by Robert Nugent, Lord Clare, and an 18th century staircase dominates the interior that is complimented with decorative plasterwork and a vaulted gallery. Its Adventure Playground is one of the best in Dublin with sections specifically designed for different age groups such as under 5, 6-12 yrs and a teen zone. What child could resist the fruiting maze, willow tunnels, sand pit with two diggers and water feature? All this and there are also monkey bars and other exercise tools to help tire young people out. Definitely the place to bring a picnic and enjoy.

While refurbishments are ongoing, tours (by appointment) take you inside the house itself, Japanese gardens and stables that have been repurposed into tea rooms.

The 45 bus from the city centre will drop visitors nearby.