IÉ 8100 Class DART train passing under Lansdowne Road Rugby Football Stadium over level crossing entering Lansdowne Road station

Lansdowne Road Railway Station

Lansdowne Road Railway Station Dublin: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Lansdowne Road Railway Station

Located in the heart of Dublin’s Ballsbridge district, Lansdowne Road Railway Station is a historic transit hub with deep ties to Ireland’s sporting and cultural landscape. Since its opening in 1870 as part of the Dublin and Kingstown Railway expansion, the station has played a pivotal role in the development of Dublin’s southern suburbs and has become synonymous with the neighboring Lansdowne Road Stadium—now the Aviva Stadium. Today, it stands as a key gateway for commuters, sports fans, and visitors attending national and international events.

This guide provides a detailed overview of Lansdowne Road Railway Station, including its history, integration with Dublin’s transport network, practical visitor information, accessibility features, and nearby attractions. Whether you are visiting for a rugby match, exploring Dublin’s heritage, or navigating the city’s public transport, this article equips you with all the essential information to make your journey seamless.

For the latest schedules and ticketing details, refer to the Irish Rail website and for insights into the stadium’s history, visit the Aviva Stadium official site.

History and Early Development
Integration with the DART Network
Connection to Aviva Stadium
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Transport Links and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Social and Cultural Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals
Conclusion
References

History and Early Development

Opened in July 1870, Lansdowne Road Railway Station was established by the Dublin Wicklow & Wexford Railway, extending the city’s first railway line and connecting the southern suburbs with the city center. Its location near the newly built Lansdowne Road sports grounds (later the Aviva Stadium) was strategic, enabling efficient access for sports fans and the local community (Mapcarta).

With the 1891 opening of the City of Dublin Junction Railway line, the station linked directly to the north side of the city, further integrating it into Dublin’s expanding rail network. The proximity to the Royal Dublin Society showgrounds also meant the station played a role in transporting livestock and supporting agricultural events (Our Irish Heritage).

Integration with the DART Network

In 1984, the introduction of the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) system transformed Lansdowne Road Station. Electrification, platform extensions, and enhanced accessibility made the station a modern hub for daily commuters and event attendees. Today, it is served by all DART trains, South Eastern Commuter, and intercity services, connecting destinations such as Bray, Greystones, Howth, Malahide, Gorey, Drogheda, Dundalk, and Maynooth (Dublin Public Transport, Irish Rail).

Connection to Aviva Stadium

The station’s identity is closely linked to the adjacent stadium, a central venue in Irish sporting history. The original Lansdowne Road Stadium, opened in 1872, hosted historic rugby and soccer matches before being redeveloped into the state-of-the-art Aviva Stadium in 2010. The new stadium boasts a capacity of over 51,000 for sports and up to 65,000 for concerts, making the station indispensable on event days due to its direct access (Aviva Stadium, Patrick Donald Photography).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Opening Hours

Daily operation: Typically from 5:30 AM to midnight. Hours may extend on event days.
For exact times: Always check the Irish Rail website.

Ticketing

Purchase options: At station vending machines, online, via the Irish Rail mobile app, or with a Leap Visitor Card for unlimited Dublin public transport (Transport for Ireland).
Event days: Advance booking is strongly recommended to avoid queues and ensure a seat on specific trains. Event-night tickets are train-specific and late-night departures may be dated for the following day.
Free Travel Pass holders: Present your pass at barriers or to staff for access.

Accessibility

Step-free access: Lifts and ramps connect both platforms.
Tactile paving and clear signage for visually impaired passengers.
Assistance services: Available upon request; book wheelchair spaces in advance.
“Please Offer Me a Seat” badge scheme: Badges available at the station for travelers with invisible disabilities.
No bike parking on event days for security reasons.

Station Facilities

Ticket machines: Accept cash and card payments.
Waiting areas: Covered shelters with seating and electronic displays.
Toilets: No public toilets on site; nearest facilities at Aviva Stadium (during events) or local establishments.
Luggage: No storage available; bring only essentials.
Retail: No on-site shops; nearby cafes and convenience stores in Ballsbridge.

Transport Links and Travel Tips

DART and Mainline Rail: Direct services to Dublin city centre and coastal suburbs; intercity connections at Pearse, Connolly, and Tara Street stations.
Bus routes: 4, 7, 7a, 27X, 18, S2, and others serve stops on Northumberland Road and Pembroke Road (RDS).
LUAS tram: No direct stop; nearest are Ranelagh, Charlemont, and St Stephen’s Green—all within 30–40 minutes’ walk.
Cycling: No bike parking at the station, but DublinBikes docking stations are available citywide.
No car parking: Arrive by public transport or taxi.

Event Day Tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Check live train updates via the Irish Rail website or app.
Expect increased security, crowd control, and bag searches (small bags only).
Aviva Stadium operates cashlessly.

Nearby Attractions

Aviva Stadium: Guided tours available on non-event days (Aviva Stadium official website).
Royal Dublin Society (RDS): Major events and exhibitions.
Ballsbridge & Sandymount: Picturesque neighborhoods with dining, pubs, and parks.
National Print Museum, Grand Canal Dock: Cultural and scenic sites within walking distance.

Lansdowne Road Station has long served as more than a transit point. It’s a gathering place for generations of Dubliners and visitors attending rugby internationals, soccer matches, and concerts. Its enduring presence reflects Dublin’s growth as a modern, cosmopolitan city and its role in fostering community spirit. The station’s association with iconic sporting moments and figures such as Brian O’Driscoll and Johnny Sexton further enhances its place in Irish cultural memory (Patrick Donald Photography, Our Irish Heritage, NSS Sports).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the station’s opening hours?
A: Generally from 5:30 AM to midnight; check Irish Rail for exact times and event-day updates.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase at station vending machines, online, via the Irish Rail app, or with a Leap Visitor Card.

Q: Is Lansdowne Road Station accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, lifts, ramps, and assistance services. Book wheelchair spaces in advance.

Q: Are there toilets or luggage storage?
A: No public toilets or storage; use facilities at the Aviva Stadium (during events) or nearby cafes.

Q: How do event days affect train services?
A: Expect increased frequency, late-night trains, and enhanced security. Arrive early and book tickets in advance.

Visuals

Lansdowne Road Railway Station exterior (alt text: “Lansdowne Road Railway Station entrance - Dublin historical site”)
Aviva Stadium adjacent to the station (alt text: “Aviva Stadium Dublin - iconic sports venue near Lansdowne Road station”)
Map of the station and surrounding area (alt text: “Map of Lansdowne Road Railway Station and surrounding Dublin area”)

Conclusion

Lansdowne Road Railway Station is a cornerstone of Dublin’s transport and sporting heritage. Its seamless integration with the DART network, modern facilities, and proximity to the Aviva Stadium make it an essential gateway for both locals and visitors. By planning ahead—checking schedules, booking tickets in advance, and considering accessibility needs—you can fully enjoy all that this historic station and its vibrant surroundings have to offer.

For real-time updates, travel tips, and ticket purchases, visit the Irish Rail Lansdowne Road Station page and download the Audiala app for exclusive audio tours and live travel information.