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The LocationHistory of the Area


A Typical Ballsbridge Residence		 Ballsbridge is a fashionable, affluent suburb in southern Dublin. Its postal address, Dublin 4 (or D4 as it's usually referred to as) is highly coveted and indeed is often used humorously to refer generally to an upmarket way of life! So called after the bridge built over the River Dodder in 1791, the locale could be compared to Kensington in London, or Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.

While many Dublin suburbs were constructed post 1920, Ballsbridge, alongside Dalkey, Howth and Donnybrook is a notable exception. Traditionally, it has been the choice of residence for diplomats, government ministers, business people and others. Many of the wonderful buildings here were built in the mid 1800s and these are protected under strict preservation laws.

Architecture enthusiasts will delight in St. Bartholomew's Church, a fine example of the Gothic revival, as well as Elgin Road (named after James Bruce, 8th Earl of Elgin 1811-63. The latter boasts a row of stunning brick terraces, which were referred to as 'the Red Roads' by Elizabeth Bowen in her autobiography. Merrion Road itself was named about the second Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion.

One of Ballsbridge's uniquely defining characteristics is the expanse of green trees and parklands. The nearby Herbert Park is ideal place to take a leisurely stroll, play some tennis or simply unwind. Sydney Herbert, father of the Earl of Pembroke, donated the park to the citizens of Dublin in 1903 and it is renowned for its pond and ducks. Of course, Ballsbridge is also home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city and should you wish to venture into the heart of Europe's favourite small city, you are only ten minutes away.