Wondering what’s happening in your area this month? We’re looking at everything from local running clubs to passage tombs from 3,000 BC in this month’s At a Glance with Glenveagh as we take a whistle-stop tour of what’s happening in near Hollystown and the surrounding areas.

Join a Local D15 Running Club

The new year means new beginnings and if you’ve been planning on following some fitness goals this year then you’re in the right place. Whether in Hollystown, Tyrellstown or Blanchardstown, you can link up with the D15 Running Club, which is currently embarking on a new Couch to 5km programme for the start of the new year. The running group meets regularly and all are welcome to join, with details posted on the group’s Facebook page.

Enjoy Culture at Draíocht Theatre

Living in Hollystown means that you’re in the vicinity of one of Ireland’s finest local theatres; Draíocht. The theatre’s programme is always full of comedy, music and drama and there are many creative resources available through the theatre, especially for young people. Young people between the ages of 14 and 25 are eligible for a Culture Pass which gives discounted prices on theatre events. The theatre’s galleries are currently showing exhibitions that showcase art through weaving and stitching and a new exhibition is set to begin in February.

Explore Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is less than a 20-minute drive from Hollystown so you’re not too far from the largest enclosed public park in any capital city in Europe. Dublin is home to this 17th century park, which houses Áras an Uachtarán, Dublin Zoo, Farmleigh House and many other sites including the Wellington Monument. If you feel like reminding yourself that you live somewhere special, you could do worse than a stroll, a cycle or a kick about on the grounds of the Phoenix Park. One of the park’s hidden gems is the Magazine Fort, where Phoenix Lodge was built by Sir Edward Fisher in 1611. You’re also likely to encounter some deer as you wander about one of Europe’s most wonderful parks.

Discover Ancient Monuments

From Hollystown, you’re only a 25-minute drive from the Hill of Tara in Meath, a heritage site that is free of charge to visit. The site includes a passage tomb that is 5,000 years old, and it is only a further 10 minute drive on to Newgrange. If you want a breath of fresh air, to take in some beautiful scenery, and learn more about Irish history, the short drive to Meath might just be what’s called for.