Happy TravellerWelcome to Finglas, a charming northwestern suburb of Dublin, Ireland. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Finglas boasts a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a friendly local community. Located close to Junction 5 of the M50 motorway and the N2 road, Finglas is easily accessible and offers a convenient base for exploring Dublin and its surrounding areas. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Finglas a hidden gem worth visiting.
History:
Finglas has a fascinating history, dating back to its origins as the site of an Early Christian abbey. The area is named after the Finglas River, which runs through it, and is derived from the Irish words meaning ‘clear streamlet’. In the 16th century, the Finglas or Finglass family was prominent in politics and the legal profession. During the 1950s, Finglas was developed with extensive housing estates to rehouse many north inner-city Dublin residents, and many of these estates were named after prominent Irish republicans from early 20th-century Irish history.
Geography:
The center of Finglas lies on a rise overlooking the valley of the River Tolka, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Tolka runs through western and southern Finglas, and forms part of the boundary between Finglas and Glasnevin. The Finglas River, for which the area is named, flows from the north and forms the centerpiece of the village.
Amenities:
In the village center, visitors will find a range of shops, pubs, and restaurants, as well as banking facilities. The Clearwater Shopping Centre and Charlestown Shopping Centre, both located outside the village core, offer a wider variety of shopping options. Finglas is also home to one of Dublin’s four Road Safety Authority Driving Testing Centers, which is located in Jamestown Business Park.
Education:
Finglas boasts a range of primary, national, and secondary schools, as well as Coláiste Íde College of Further Education, which offers third-level courses.
Sports:
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy in Finglas, with a range of options to suit all tastes. The Rugby Union club Unidare RFC and GAA club Erins Isle are based in the area, as are several soccer clubs, including Tolka Rovers F.C., Valley Park United, WFTA Football Club, Willows FC and Finglas Celtic FC, Rivermount Football Club, and Beneavin F.C.
Transport:
Finglas is served by a number of bus routes operated by Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland, making it easy to explore the surrounding area. The main route serving the area is the number 40, which runs between Charlestown Shopping Centre and Liffey Valley via Dublin city center. Finglas is also served by the 88N Nitelink service and two Bus Éireann routes.
Representation and Governance:
Finglas is part of the Dublin North-West constituency for elections to Dáil Éireann and is in the jurisdiction of Dublin City Council.
In conclusion, Finglas is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly local community, it offers a unique perspective on the Dublin area and a convenient base from which to explore the region. Come and discover all that Finglas has to offer!
