Overview
Saggart is a heritage village in South Dublin, located at the northern entrance to the Slade of Saggart valley. Just a short Luas ride from Dublin city, it balances rapid modern development with a deeply rooted past. The area is defined by its quiet river valleys, ancient field monuments, and the sprawling Citywest business and leisure complex that has grown around it. With a population that has doubled since 2011, Saggart functions as both a commuter hub and a quiet retreat for those looking to step away from the city centre without travelling far.
History & Heritage
The village’s name derives from the Irish Teach Sacra, meaning “house of Sacra”. In the 7th century, a monk named Mosacra established a settlement here that evolved into a thriving monastic community. After his death, it became a nunnery housing over 80 women until Viking raids in the 9th century scattered the community. The stone foundations of this early monastery can still be seen today on the grounds of the Coolmine Equestrian Centre, roughly 1.5 km from the modern village.
By 1207, the Normans recorded the settlement as Tasagart and designated it a prebend of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin. The old parish church fell into ruin in the mid-17th century, and the current Catholic church, dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was built between 1847 and 1849. It remains a prominent landmark in the village.
Saggart’s landscape is dotted with prehistoric markers. The most famous are the “Adam and Eve” standing stones in nearby Boherboy, a pair of upright megaliths that have stood since the Neolithic period. The Raheen Standing Stone sits in a field along the Blessington Road, while a 10th-century Celtic pilgrim’s stone rests in the local graveyard. Transport history also leaves its mark: the Dublin and Blessington Steam Tramway ran through Saggart from 1888 to 1932, long before the modern Luas Red Line arrived.
What to See & Do
Ancient & Historic Sites
- Adam and Eve Standing Stones – Located in Boherboy, these free-to-visit megaliths are a quick stop for history enthusiasts and photographers.
- Raheen Standing Stone – Another solitary Neolithic monolith found along the Blessington Road near Crooksling.
- Coolmine Monastic Ruins – The remains of St Mosacra’s 7th-century foundation are visible among the riding arenas at Coolmine Equestrian Centre. The centre also hosts CEAD-Fest each summer, a major event for equestrian sport and Irish culture.
- Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – A well-preserved 19th-century stone church with stained glass, still active for Sunday worship and local events.
Nature & Walking
- Slade of Saggart & River Camac – The village sits at the head of this narrow east-west valley. The River Camac winds through the landscape before eventually joining the River Liffey near Heuston Station. The area supports local wildlife, including the great spotted woodpecker.
- Slade Valley Walking Trail – A scenic route linking the valley to the Saggart Reservoir has been developed to encourage hiking and birdwatching. The trail passes through mixed woodland and open fields, offering quiet escapes just outside the city.
Modern Amenities & Events
- Citywest Hotel & Golf Resort – A four-star venue set in woodland, featuring two championship golf courses, a 4,000-seat convention centre, and the Lemongrass Restaurant. It is a regular host for the Irish Masters snooker tournament, award ceremonies, and political conventions.
- Citywest Shopping Centre – Anchored by Dunnes Stores, this centre provides everyday retail, cafés, and a pharmacy, serving the wider south Dublin commuter belt.
- Jacob’s Bar – Established in 1901 by the Jacob family, this traditional public house remains a local favourite for live music and weekend pints.
- St Mary’s GAA – Founded in 1906, the local club fields teams in Gaelic football and hurling, contributing to the village’s community spirit.
Getting There & Practical Information
Saggart is one of the two western termini for the Luas Red Line, alongside Tallaght. The stop provides a direct 45-minute ride into Dublin city centre without transfers. For those travelling by road, the N7 (Naas Road) runs close to the village, offering straightforward access to the city and the south-west of Ireland. Several bus routes also serve the area, including Dublin Bus services 65, 69, 69X, and the late-night 69N, as well as the GoAhead Ireland W6 route.
Parking is readily available at the Citywest Hotel and Shopping Centre, with free spaces for hotel guests and pay-and-display bays for shoppers. Visitors to the monastic ruins can use the small car park at the Coolmine Equestrian Centre. If you are visiting during the Irish Masters or CEAD-Fest, book accommodation well in advance, as local hotels fill quickly during tournament weeks. For a quiet morning walk, head to the Slade Valley trail early in the day to avoid the weekend crowds and catch the local birdlife before the city commuters arrive.