Rathgar

Rathgar is a suburb of Dublin, located in South Dublin, near Ranelagh and Dartry. It is situated close to the Grand Canal and is home to many notable residents, including Samuel Beckett, who attended Portora Royal School and later studied at Trinity College, Dublin. The area is also near University College Dublin and Dublin Institute of Technology. Many of its residents work in nearby Dublin City or commute to other parts of the city, such as Sandyford or Leopardstown.

Geography

Rathgar is bounded by Rathmines to the north, Dartry to the east, and Terenure to the west. The suburb is situated near the River Dodder and is close to several parks, including Bushy Park and Dodder Park. The area is also near the Dublin Mountains and Glencullen, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking in Wicklow Mountains National Park or visiting Powerscourt Estate. Many residents also visit nearby Dun Laoghaire and Killiney for their scenic views of the Irish Sea and access to Dalkey Island.

History

The history of Rathgar dates back to the Middle Ages, when the area was part of the Lordship of Ireland granted to Theobald Walter by King Henry II of England. The suburb was later owned by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, who sold it to the Catholic Church in the 19th century. During this time, the area was home to many notable figures, including Charles Stewart Parnell, who lived in Avenue House and was a key figure in the Land League and the Irish National League. The suburb was also a popular destination for W.B. Yeats and other members of the Irish Literary Revival, who often visited Coole Park and Lady Gregory.

Demographics

As of the 2016 census, the population of Rathgar was 15,595 people, with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. The area is home to many people who work in nearby Dublin City, including those employed by Google, Facebook, and Microsoft at the Barrow Street and Grand Canal Dock campuses. Many residents also commute to other parts of the city, such as Sandyford or Leopardstown, which are home to companies like Microsoft and Dell. The suburb is also popular with students attending University College Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, and Dublin Institute of Technology.

Economy

The economy of Rathgar is driven by its proximity to Dublin City and the presence of many major employers, including Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. The suburb is also home to many small businesses, including shops, restaurants, and cafes, which cater to the local population and visitors from nearby Ranelagh and Dartry. Many residents also work in the nearby Dublin Docklands area, which is home to companies like Accenture and PricewaterhouseCoopers. The suburb is also close to the M50 motorway and Dublin Airport, making it an attractive location for businesses and commuters.

Culture

Rathgar has a vibrant cultural scene, with many residents involved in the arts, music, and literature. The suburb is home to the Rathgar Road library, which hosts many author readings and book clubs, and is close to the National Concert Hall and the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. Many residents also attend events at the Abbey Theatre and the Gate Theatre, which are both located in nearby Dublin City. The suburb is also popular with foodies, who enjoy visiting the nearby Temple Bar area and trying out restaurants like Chapter One and The Winding Stair.

Transport

Rathgar is well-connected to the rest of Dublin City by public transport, with several bus routes passing through the suburb, including the Dublin Bus routes 14, 15, and 65. The suburb is also close to the Luas green line, which connects to St. Stephen's Green and Sandyford. Many residents also cycle or walk to work, using the Grand Canal towpath or the River Dodder cycle route. The suburb is also close to the M50 motorway and Dublin Airport, making it an attractive location for commuters and businesses. Category:Suburbs of Dublin