Santry: Park History and Athletics

At Santry Demesne, expansive parkland meets traces of the former house. Morton Stadium is the centre of athletics in Dublin, adding another sporting dimension to the picture. In Santry, you’ll encounter green space, historic remains and athletics as distinct aspects of a stay.

Parkland Along the Santry River

Santry Demesne includes a 72-acre park and a 15-acre linear park along the banks of the Santry River. The areas differ not only in size but also in form: alongside the larger parkland is a long, narrow riverside park. This contrast helps you see the two types of parkland as distinct points of reference for a stay surrounded by greenery. If you’re looking for a spacious park, head to the larger area; if you’re interested in the connection between a park and a riverbank, you’ll find it in the linear section. Both perspectives describe the Demesne without reducing it to a single type of landscape.

Historic Remains in the Park

Visitors can see the foundations of the former house, the front steps, a tree-lined avenue and the walled garden on the park grounds. The foundations and steps point to the former building; the avenue and garden are other, distinct features of the grounds. You can explore these differences together with children: Which traces belong to the former house, and which relate to the tree-lined avenue or the garden? This makes the park’s past tangible through specific features.

Paths, Playground and Practical Information

The extensive network of paths at Santry Demesne is intended for walkers, joggers and dog walkers. This offers a choice of ways to get around: a walk, a run and a dog walk are different ways to use the paths. A children’s playground adds a dedicated activity to the park’s amenities. Families therefore have two specific ways to enjoy the Demesne: getting active on the paths and spending time at the playground. Free parking is available to the right of the main entrances. Check before your visit whether this information is still current.

Athletics and the History of the Morton Games

Morton Stadium, also known as the National Athletics Stadium, is the centre of athletics in Dublin and the home of Clonliffe Harriers. The Morton Games add a different historical dimension: they began in 2008 as a one-off event marking the 50th anniversary of Elliot’s world mile record. These are two distinct aspects: the role of a stadium in Dublin sport and the specific occasion behind an event. Those interested in sports history can therefore discover both an institutional connection and a clearly dated episode.

Choose a Holiday Rental to Suit Your Plans

When looking for a holiday rental in Santry, you can use these highlights as a guide. If the Demesne, with its paths and historic remains, is your main focus, that calls for different priorities than an interest in Dublin’s athletics.

Discover more destinations: Portmarnock, Tyrrelstown, Donabate, Na Sceirí, Cloghran, Blanchardstown, Howth, Malahide.

See the main travel overview: County Fingal.