So, you’re living in cloud Dublin 9; now it’s time to get to grips with the area and start living like a Santry local! As one of Dublin’s best-connected suburbs, you’re perfectly placed between the city centre and the airport, so you can truly live your high-flying lifestyle at the drop of a hat.
From park picnics for the wholesome vibes to shopping, delicious eats and more, here’s how to do Santry like a TRUE local.
- Park life in Santry Demesne
If idyllic nature is just what you’re looking for, then the serene Santry Demesne should be your first port of call.
Found on the grounds of a palatial old house and gardens built in 1703, this is a nature lover’s perfect escape. Think lush greenery, ancient trees, and peaceful lakes that’d put Wicklow to shame! Grab a blanket, a book and as many snacks as you can carry and whittle away lazy hours indulging in some people watching, or, seeing as you’re now a well-connected local, you can classify it as neighbourhood watch, right?!
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- Grab some bargains in the Omni Shopping Centre
All natured out from Santry Demesne? Head over to the iconic (we said what we said) Omni Shopping Centre.
Whether you’re window shopping for some new bling in Cara & Co. Jewellers, grabbing the basics in Penneys, freshening your fade at the barbers, stocking up the fake tan supply in Llyods, or looking for lunch with a kick (Camille, we’re looking at you), Omni is your one-stop ‘get all the bits done’ shopping experience.
- Catch some flavour
Hungry from all of your galavanting? It’s time for a food stop.
First up, it’s the Gourmet Food Parlour in Northwood Plaza. Spread over two epic floors and with outdoor seating for those feeling sun-optimistic; this is pub-grub done right. Think hearty, homecooked tastes with big flavours (hello, chicken wings or an Irish Beef burger) and all washed down with a creamy pint or a freshly shaken cocktail.
If you’re craving something a little more Southern European, why not head to Little Venice, a local institution for good reason! A 25-year-old family business, this is homemade food with soul and passion. Try the Spaghetti Contadina; thank us later! Oh, and if you need something a little closer to home? Try the fresh flavours and healthy bowl offerings at Bun And Bowl on Swords Road!
Credit: Instagram/gourmetfoodparlour
Need to walk off your Santry feast? Just up the road from Little Venice, you’ll find Morton Stadium or, as it’s otherwise known, the National Athletics Stadium. This is the centre of athletics in Dublin City and the home track of Clonliffe Harriers.
Oh, and did we mention? It’s been the home ground for several Irish association football clubs, including Shamrock Rovers and Dublin City too, the perfect place to walk, observe and take part in some team spirit!
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If all of the activity above has left you feeling in need of some R&R, head back over to the Omni shopping centre and into the IMC Cinema.
Since you’ve been v.busy bustling about Santry, you have our explicit blessing to indulge in an extra-large salty popcorn, lashings of chocolate and the cheesiest blockbuster possible; your secret is safe with us!
- Finally, raise a toast to your new neighbourhood
If friendly service, creamy pints, a beer garden and weekend entertainment sound up your street, then head over to the Kilmardinny Inn for a pint or two to toast to a new chapter.
From events to DJs, live bands, sports showings, bingo and even sing-alongs, the Kilmardinny Inn is the perfect place to round up your housemates and new neighbours for an evening of bonding. Cheers to that!
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Now that you’re acquainted with your local ‘hood, where to first? The world and Santry is your oyster, so happy exploring!