Donnybrook – History, Park and Trails

Donnybrook can be explored through a variety of themes: early burial history, rugby, and trails through Herbert Park and along the River Dodder. If you are planning a stay, you might consider whether the area’s historical connections, sport or outdoor activity best suit your interests.

A graveyard connected to the area’s history

Donnybrook Graveyard, also known as Reilig Dhomhnach Broc, is one of Dublin’s oldest burial grounds. Its origins date back to around 800 AD. The graveyard initially developed around a Celtic church founded by Saint Broc. Donnybrook’s name derives from him, meaning “church of Broc.” The graveyard and the place name therefore refer to the same early religious tradition. For travellers interested in the history of a place, this connection offers a tangible starting point: a name, a burial ground and the early church are all part of the same story here.

Rugby and different interests in the park

Energia Park, formerly known as Donnybrook Stadium, offers a different connection: it is the home ground of the Leinster Rugby women’s team. If you follow rugby, you can take this connection into account when choosing the focus of your holiday. It sits alongside the area’s historical connections and adds a sporting dimension to the picture of Donnybrook.

Herbert Park is nearby. Its facilities include football pitches, tennis, boules and croquet courts, as well as a duck pond and a playground. The different courts cater to different sporting interests, while the pond and playground offer other attractions. When planning your day, you can consider which of these areas of the park might interest your travel group, rather than reducing the park to a single activity.

Getting around on foot or by bike

The Donnybrook Walking Trail runs through Herbert Park and across the River Dodder. It also passes numerous places of historical interest. The route connects natural and historical features, so you do not have to focus on just one: if you want to explore on foot, it provides a specific starting point. The historical sites along the trail also give the route a cultural dimension.

A particular section of the Dodder Greenway is designated for cycling: it runs from Eglinton Terrace, beside the entrance to Herbert Park, to Donnybrook Road, beside Anglesey Bridge. The section offers protected, continuous and safe cycling facilities for people of all ages and abilities. Its two endpoints provide clear reference points for this part of the Greenway. If you are planning a cycling trip, you can include this section as a point of reference; it is distinct from the Donnybrook Walking Trail, which is a walking route through the park and across the River Dodder.

Choosing the right focus for your stay

More destinations: Carmanhall, Tallaght, Dublin, Oldtown, Loughlinstown, Rathgar, Rathmines and Foxrock.

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