14 Reasons Why Castleknock Is Dublin’s Greatest Place To Live

James Fenton

Whether you grew up in Castleknock or are a complete blow-in, you’ll know that it’s the greatest place to live in Dublin.

Don’t agree? Come at me, bro.

From the nature-filled surroundings to the proximity to some of Dublin’s greatest landmarks, the charm of Castleknock knows no boundaries.

Here are 14 reasons why we love the place.

1. It’s mad close to the airport

On a good day, you can get to or from Dublin Airport in around 15 minutes. Just what you need after getting off a long flight. Even better if you need more time to pack your suitcase before heading away.

2. It’s literally at the gates of the Phoenix Park

Fancy getting up close to the famous deer or having a cup of tea with Michael D? One of the main gates of ‘The Phoeno’ opens right onto Castleknock Village.

3. You can get to the Blanchardstown Centre in no time at all

With a Penneys, a Marks and Spencer and a cinema, what more do you need? Blanchardstown is within walking distance or a brief car journey away.

4. This charming pub is in the vicinity

The Strawberry Hall is great for sitting out on a summer’s day but its famous Christmas decorations are what you really need to check out.

The place transforms into something resembling Santa’s workshop while people have been known to stop in just to take a few snaps. Words can’t do this place justice.

5. And this charming boozer isn’t far

As the longest pub in Ireland, the Hole In The Wall has plenty of room to hold large crowds coming in from the park or other surrounding areas.

6. The Royal Canal Walk is great for clearing the cobwebs

We’ve written about the charms of this route before.

7. And it’s well worth stopping into the 12th Lock along the way

They even serve ice-cream cones.

8. You can’t beat Saturday nights at The Carpenter

With a resident DJ spinning tunes out the back until late there really is no need to venture into town.

The young crowd has been known to burst into a rousing rendition of ‘Whole Again’ by Atomic Kitten at around midnight.

If you do fancy venturing further…

9. McGowans of Phibsboro is a short taxi ride away

Don’t trust any Northsider who tells you they’ve never been to McGowans.

Countless long-term couples have fallen for each other while talking shite in the packed beer garden or strutting their stuff on the dancefloor.

The place to after matches or gigs at Croke Park. Speaking of which…

10. Croke Park is 20 minutes away by train

Whether you’re following the Dubs, another county, or seeing your favourite band, Irish Rail will get you from Castleknock to GAA HQ in no time.

11. There is ample green space

Laurel Lodge and Carpenterstown provide plenty of space to kick a ball, walk the dog or just chill out in the sun.

12. Sitting outside Castello Bruno is great for people-watching

Grab a coffee and sit out the front on a sunny Saturday morning. Bliss.

13. The pint of plain at Debrúns is among the best in the city

And the pool table out the back is a great way to get chatting to people over some friendly competition. Try the steak on the stone while you’re there. You won’t regret it.

14. Finally, it’s full of fecking legends

Dublin GAA stars Bernard Brogan and Paddy Andrews both hail from Castleknock as do Andy Orr of pop group Six, model Glenda Gilson and tennis sensation James McGee.

Not to mention rugby star Devin Toner and Father Ted writer Arthur Mathews who both attended the all-boys Castleknock College.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar even lives in a penthouse in the area while Castleknock is where Colin Farrell grew up to become one of Hollywood’s most famous lotharios.

If it’s good enough for ‘The Farreller’ it’s good enough for us. Plus, the general population of The Knock are a sound bunch of lads.