The suburb of Rathfarnham nestles at the foot of the Dublin mountains. Situated on the southside of the city it derives its names from Rath i.e. fort of Farnham, an Celtic Chieftain. Its colourful history stretches back to pre 600 B.C. and the Celtic era.

Rathfarnham boasts many beautiful and historic buildings and the many churches form a major part of its heritage. The Church of Ireland, Whitechurch, was consecrated in 1827, while the Church of the Annunciation was consecrated in 1878. The first school was opened in 1802 in Nutgrove Avenue. The very beautiful Loreto Abbey was erected in 1725. St. Enda's school in St. Enda's park is dedicated to its founder Patrick Pearse, one of the signatories of the Proclamation of 1916.

Many of the traditional crafts have continued and a visit to the hand Cafts Centre in Marlay Park is a pleasure. There are also many successful industries in the area, both national and international.

There are several large parks in the neighbourhood and all sporting and leisure activities are catered for. Every summer Rathfarnham dons a Cosmopolitan mantle as thousands of students from all over Europe spend their holidays in our homes.

Rathfarnham Castle

The date of the foundation of the Castle is uncertain, but recent research would suggest 1583 as the most likely date. It was built by Adam Loftus, a Yorkshireman. The Castle has a colourful and interesting history with 18th century interiors by Sir William Chambers and James ‘Athenian’ Stuart and was declared a National Monument in the mid-1980s. The Castle is presented to visitors as a castle undergoing active conservation. The visitor can see, at first hand, tantalizing glimpses of layers of the Castle’s earlier existence uncovered during research. (Conservation works are ongoing at the site).

Pearse Museum
Former school run by Patrick Pearse, now a museum in beautiful grounds. Attractions include exhibitions, a nature study room with attractive displays on Irish flora and fauna and an audio-visual show titled "This Man Kept a School". Access for visitors with disabilities to ground floor and Nature Study Centre.

St. Enda's Park
One of Dublin city’s most charming and atmospheric parks, with its riverside walks, waterfall and walled garden.