*Update* The development of Pairc Ui Caoimh next door has completely trashed the pond. The island in the middle was flooded, completely submerging nesting grounds for ducklings (I hate to think how many have died as a result). Sheltering trees have also died as a result of the contamination. Really disgraceful treatment of our wildlife. The GAA needs to take some responsible action for this.
Great place to bring the kids
Great scenary.
It's usually a lovely spot - calm, loads of wildlife, an oasis. However for the past week it is subject to flooding which some say is linked to the building works in Páirc Ui Chaoimh and the constant pumping of water from that site into the pond. Hopefully a resolution will be found.
Relax
A nice place to stop at if you're walking down the old railway line or on the marina. A tiny island is in the pond, useful for the birds as a safe haven, a sanctuary at the edge of the city. There are various birds though primarily ducks, but also swans from time to time. The water can be filthy, needs to be cleaned somehow. A popular place for people to feed birds or to sit on the public benches or the grass and just relax.
It's located right next door to a large sports stadium. You can walk through surrounding small park which surrounds the pond and access the city by foot or bicycle via Monaghan Road or Centre Park Road (Monaghan Road being the nicer walk into the city), each route taking a similar amount of time to walk into the city.
Fed some ducks. Deadly. I only gave 4 stars because there was no swans.