Office of Public Works

Iveagh Gardens is a historic public garden in Dublin city centre, close to St Stephen’s Green Park, and is popularly known as Dublin’s “Secret Garden. ” Designed by Ninian Niven in 1865, the gardens trace their history back more than three centuries, from their beginnings as an earl’s lawn to their role alongside the Dublin Exhibition Palace. Many original features remain or have been restored and conserved, including the yew maze, rosarium and fountains; the cascade is a notable summer attraction.

Managed by Ireland’s Office of Public Works, the gardens offer visitors a place to explore landscaped green spaces and learn about their history. The official website provides practical visit information, including opening hours, location and transport, alongside modern and historical image galleries. It also offers educational resources and an online application process for event, photography and filming permits.

The gardens hold a Green Flag award for 2025–2026, an international benchmark for parks and green spaces. Dog owners should consult the published code of conduct; drone use is not permitted