St. Audoen's Park in Dublin: A Green Space Steeped in History

Introduction

Tucked away just inside Dublin’s medieval city walls lies St. Audoen’s Park, one of the capital’s most atmospheric green spaces. Unlike many other parks in Dublin, this one blends quiet greenery with deep layers of history. Walking through the park feels like stepping back in time, as it contains remnants of the city’s oldest surviving parish church, ancient stone walls, and monuments dedicated to Dublin’s heritage.

Named after St. Audoen’s Church—founded in the 12th century and still standing nearby—the park is not just a place for relaxation, but also a gateway into Dublin’s medieval past. Families, tourists, and locals alike enjoy the peaceful lawns, stone archways, and historical plaques that tell the stories of those who once lived and worked here.

For anyone exploring Dublin’s Old Town, St. Audoen’s Park is a must-see stop. It’s less crowded than the larger city parks but offers an equally rich experience—combining natural beauty, architecture, and a sense of timelessness that makes it unforgettable.

What is St. Audoen's Park famous for?

St. Audoen’s Park is famous for its medieval remains, including sections of Dublin’s original city walls and St. Audoen’s Church, the oldest surviving parish church in the city. It is also known for being a quiet green oasis in the heart of historic Dublin.

Why should you visit St. Audoen's Park?

You should visit St. Audoen’s Park because:

It offers a unique mix of history and relaxation.

You can see original medieval structures right in the city center.

It’s an ideal stop on a walking tour of Dublin’s historic quarter.

The park provides a peaceful break from the busy streets nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit St. Audoen's Park?

Opening hours: Typically open daily during daylight hours. Hours may vary by season.

Best time to visit: Morning or early evening for a quieter atmosphere. Summer months are ideal for enjoying the greenery.

How much does it cost to visit St. Audoen's Park?

Visiting St. Audoen’s Park is completely free. This makes it a great budget-friendly stop while exploring Dublin’s historic core.

What can you see or do at St. Audoen's Park?

Explore the remains of St. Audoen’s Church, built in the late 1100s.

Walk along the medieval city walls, some of the oldest surviving fortifications in Dublin.

Relax in the landscaped gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Read the informational plaques that tell the stories of Dublin’s medieval past.

Use the park as a starting point for exploring Dublin’s Viking and medieval quarter.

What is the history behind St. Audoen's Park?

The park takes its name from St. Audoen’s Church, dedicated to the 7th-century French saint, Audoen of Rouen. The church was built in 1190 and remains Dublin’s oldest parish church still in use. Over time, the surrounding area fell into decline, but the 20th century saw a revival, with efforts to preserve the historical ruins and create a public park.

The park also contains parts of Dublin’s 13th-century city walls, once a vital defense for the medieval settlement. Today, these ruins stand as a reminder of Dublin’s resilience through centuries of change.

Where is St. Audoen's Park located and how do you get there?

📍 Location: High Street, Dublin 8, Ireland.

🚶 On foot: A short walk from Christ Church Cathedral and the Dublinia museum.
🚌 By bus: Served by multiple Dublin Bus routes that stop along High Street and Cornmarket.
🚋 By Luas (tram): Closest stop is Four Courts on the Red Line, about 10 minutes away.
🚗 By car: Limited parking nearby—public transport or walking is recommended.

Insider Tips for Visiting St. Audoen's Park

📸 Bring a camera—stone walls, arches, and medieval ruins make for atmospheric shots.

🕰️ Combine your visit with a tour of St. Audoen’s Church next door.

🌿 Visit in spring or summer when the gardens are at their most vibrant.

Nearby Attractions to St. Audoen's Park

Christ Church Cathedral – A medieval masterpiece just minutes away.

Dublinia – An interactive museum exploring Dublin’s Viking and medieval history.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Ireland’s largest cathedral, a short walk away.

Dublin Castle – Historic seat of power, about 10 minutes on foot.

Temple Bar – Dublin’s lively cultural quarter, filled with pubs, shops, and street performers.

Discover St. Audoen's Park with Questo

St. Audoen’s Park in Dublin is more than a park—it’s a window into the medieval soul of the city. With its ancient walls, historic church, and quiet green space, it invites visitors to pause and reflect on centuries of Dublin’s story.

With Questo, you can turn your walk through Dublin into an interactive adventure. Solve clues, uncover hidden history, and experience the city in a fun, immersive way.

👉 Download the Questo app and let St. Audoen’s Park be one of the highlights of your Dublin quest.