Here are a selection of playgrounds in Dublin North City  and their pro's and con's

Fairview Playground, Dublin 3.

Can you park? Pay and display on the main road in front of the park

Toilets nearby? No public toilets but there are cafes across the road in an emergency!

Parent benches? Yes

Toddler swings? Yes

Opening hours: 9.00am - 8.00pm (earlier closing 5.00 p.m. in wintertime)

What we like: There are 2 small playgrounds so kids will never have to queue!!

What we don’t like: The Park is beside the busy Malahide Road, caution is required.  

Maypark, Donnycarney, Dublin 5

Can you park? Small carpark to the left of the park or in front of the clinic, parking is free.

Toilets nearby? No

Parent benches? Yes

Toddler swings? Yes

Opening hours: None are specified so the usual public park opening hours would apply, 9.00am - 8.00pm (earlier closing 5.00 p.m. in wintertime)

What we like: Good layout with separate area for toddlers.

What we don’t like Parking is limited; need toilets and more parent benches.

Can you park? Yes plenty in front of the park for free!

Toilets nearby? Yes café nearby

Parent benches? Yes

Toddler swings? Yes

Opening hours: 9.00am - 8.00pm (earlier closing 5.00 p.m. in wintertime)

What we like: Great equipment overall, picnic tables outside the playground are ideal for a picnic on a summer’s day, perfect day out for all the family. There is a café nearby called Tir na Nog part of the Red Stables which also has a food market on a Saturday. The Rose Garden is 5 minutes away from the playground, not to be missed!

What we don’t like: Recently revamped so everything is great!

Father Collins Park, Donaghmede, Dublin 13

Can you park? Yes plenty of free parking!

Toilets nearby? Yes according to the park map at the entrance but I couldn't see them! Possibly not open yet!

Parent benches? Yes loads of them!

Toddler swings? No swings at all, very disappointing for my 3 year old but loads of toddler equipment.

Opening hours: 10am til dusk.

What we like: 2 playgrounds so plenty for all. Also has a skating/bike area, chess area, sports pitch etc. Also loads of picnic tables so you can have a really nice time out with the kids!

What we don’t like: Again not having swings, a must for 3 year olds!Also as the park is a water reserve,expect to find a lake in the middle and other open water areas so please be careful with young children!