Chapelizod is a small riverside village, close to the city, and on the doorstep of The Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo. It is well known for its community spirit and has a reputation as Dublin’s best kept secret. It is close to Palmerstown, Kilmainham and Castleknock.
It is a historic Dublin village that is located on both the north and south sides of the river Liffey. Located approx. 7km from the city centre, Chapelizod Village is mostly based on the north of the city. The main street has been completely refurbished and today has a number of pubs, restaurants, a corner shop, pharmacy, and dry cleaners.
Set in the wooded valley of the Liffey, it is an ideal spot for day trips looking to escape the city for a quiet lunch or drink, or those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, within reach of the city centre. Chapelizod is reasonably well-connected with the M50 next to the village. There are eight bus routes which run through the village, which connect the area with west Dublin and the city centre.
History and culture
Chapelizod is the oldest village in Dublin. The village dates as far back as Anglo-Norman times, with an influx of Huguenot settlers in the 17th century.
Education
Local mixed primary schools in the area include St. Laurence’s National School and St, Patrick’s National School. Secondary schools in the area include Castleknock Community College and fee-paying secondary school Mount Sackville for girls, at the top of Knockmaroon Hill.
Dine and drink
Popular neighbourhood spots include Café de Bróc, BaaBaa by BlackSheep Foods, The Twirly Gate, and The Bridge Bar and Eatery.
The Mullingar House is the main pub in the area, a cosy spot serving a great carvery and a varied food menu.
The well-known The Villager is located on the main street, is a pub of two halves, with a traditional ground floor pub and a new bar upstairs. It has a small outdoor area which is a wonderful spot in summer.
Park Lane Deli serves specialty coffee from Silver Skin Coffee Roasters, as well as toasties, and superfood bowls. The deli uses local produce and has an eco-friendly ethos.
Wright’s Anglers Rest in the nearby Strawberry Beds offers good quality food with traditional live music every night.
The Bridge Bar and Eatery is a newly added addition to the village.
Shopping
In Chapelizod village, there is a Spar, and a pharmacy. There is a Tesco in Kilmainham and a Lidl in nearby Castleknock. Liffey Valley shopping centre and its abundance of shops is also close by.
Local amenities
Local outdoor amenities are plentiful and include The Phoenix Park, which is the largest open park in Ireland. There is also a lovely scenic path, down the Liffey to the Irish National War Memorial Gardens.
There are rowing and angling activities on the Liffey, and there are many GAA clubs in the area, including St. Patrick’s GAA club, based in nearby Palmerstown, which also serves Chapelizod. There are also a number of local soccer clubs including Palmerstown FC.
Farmleigh House in The Phoenix Park is a wonderful 78 acre estate with extensive gardens. The frequent food market held here is a must see and a wonderful experience showcasing homegrown produce from all over Ireland.