Things To Do in Blanchardstown

Blanchardstown is a bustling and vibrant city located in the north-western suburbs of Dublin, Ireland. It is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling nightlife. Blanchardstown has come a long way since its founding in the 14th century, and today it is a thriving metropolis that offers something for everyone.

History of Blanchardstown

The history of Blanchardstown goes back to the 14th century, when it was founded as a settlement by an Anglo-Norman family, the Blanchards. The town grew steadily over the centuries and by the late 19th century, it was an important hub for trade and industry, with a large number of mills, breweries, and other businesses. In the 20th century, the town underwent a transformation from an industrial center to a thriving residential area, with many new retail and recreational opportunities opening up. Today, Blanchardstown is a vibrant city with a population of over 22,000 people.

Famous Sights in Blanchardstown

Blanchardstown has many popular sights that are popular with both locals and visitors alike. One of the most famous sights in Blanchardstown is the Castleknock Castle, which was built in the 15th century and is now a national monument. The castle is surrounded by beautiful parkland and is open to visitors. Another popular sight is the National Aquatic Centre, which is a world-class swimming facility that offers a variety of aquatic activities. The centre also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including swimming competitions and other sporting events.

Other popular sights in Blanchardstown include The Plaza Shopping Centre, which is a large shopping mall with over 80 stores and restaurants; The Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, which is one of the largest shopping centres in Ireland; and the Phoenix Park, which is one of Dublin’s largest parks and home to several outdoor attractions such as a zoo and lake. The park also features a variety of walking trails, making it ideal for exploring on foot.

Popular Activities in Blanchardstown

Blanchardstown is home to a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of things to do in Blanchardstown, from exploring its many attractions to taking part in some of its more unique experiences. Here are some of the most popular activities in Blanchardstown:

Visit Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland’s most popular attractions and is located just outside Blanchardstown. The zoo is home to over 600 animals from around the world and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including educational talks and interactive experiences. The zoo also has several animals that can be interacted with, such as tigers and meerkats.

Go Shopping

Blanchardstown is home to many shopping centres and boutiques, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for shopping. The town centre has several high street stores such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Zara, while The Plaza Shopping Centre has over 80 stores including fashion boutiques, electronics stores and much more. For those looking for something a bit more unique, there are plenty of independent shops in the area selling handmade crafts, vintage items and antiques.

Visit Castleknock Castle

The Castleknock Castle is one of the most well-known sights in Blanchardstown and is open to visitors throughout the year. The castle dates back to the 15th century and is surrounded by beautiful parkland, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Visitors can also explore the castle’s interior, including its many rooms and staircases.

Take Part in Local Events

Blanchardstown plays host to several events throughout the year that are great for visitors looking for something to do. These events include music festivals, food markets and cultural celebrations such as St Patrick’s Day. Many of these events take place in the town centre, making them easy to access for visitors.

Popular Tours in Blanchardstown

For those looking to explore Blanchardstown in more detail, there are many tours available that provide an insight into the town’s history and culture. Here are two of the most popular tours in Blanchardstown:

Blanchardstown Historic Walking Tour

This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through Blanchardstown’s past, exploring its history through its streets and buildings. The tour visits some of the town’s most historic sites such as Castleknock Castle, St Brigid’s Church and the Old Town Hall. The tour also stops at some of the town’s more modern attractions such as The Plaza Shopping Centre and Phoenix Park. At the end of the tour, visitors can enjoy a traditional Irish meal at a local pub. To book this tour, click here.

Blanchardstown Food Tour

This tour takes visitors on an exploration of Blanchardstown’s culinary scene, with stops at some of the best restaurants and bars in town. The tour visits local eateries such as Green Bean Cafe and Mulligan’s Bar & Restaurant, where visitors can sample some of the best food Blanchardstown has to offer. The tour also stops at some of the town’s more unique eateries such as an artisan cheese shop and an Irish craft beer bar. To book this tour, click here.

Conclusion

Blanchardstown is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do for locals and visitors alike. From exploring its famous sights to taking part in its culinary scene and local events, there are plenty of things to do in Blanchardstown that make it an exciting destination for tourists visiting for the first time or those seeking a fun day out with friends and family.