It's no secret that there's a shortage of good property rentals on the market in Dublin city centre, so it might be time to look outside the box.
It's definitely worth expanding your horizons and considering relocating to a commuter town, particularly if you have a family or you're craving a more peaceful existence.
That is Lucan.
Lucan has so much to offer that I'm quite happy living away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Here are 11 reasons to consider relocating to Lucan.
1. Slick new rentals in St. Edmunds
Forget cramped bedsits that will cost you an arm and a leg in the city centre, these new rentals are spacious, slick and right in the centre of it all.
The homes are located a stone's throw from the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre and moments away from the M50, positioning them right in the centre of a thriving hub of both young professionals and families.
Getting into the city centre is hassle-free, with buses departing every five minutes as well as connections to Heuston Station, Luas red line and local and national train services.
Rush hour will see your journey last roughly 30 - 35 mins from Fonthill to Pearse Street on Irish rail, so you'd hardly even have scrolled through your Facebook feed before arriving in town.
The three and four-bedroom houses are designed to maximise space for families, and have been fitted out to impeccable standards with vibrant colours and modern furnishings.
Wooden flooring, high-speed internet connection points, built-in wardrobes, and a fitted kitchen make these properties well worth a view.
2. The steak on a stone at Carrolls
Carrolls is a relatively new gastro-pub to Lucan village, but it's quickly become a firm favourite among the locals. It's become famous for its steak on a stone, that's served with delish chips and salad.
If you head there for dinner and drinks, you won't be disappointed.
3. Bask in the nature of it all
Lucan is home to St. Catherine's Park, which you can access through a relaxing stroll through the Demesne.
One of my favourite things to do.
4. Fort Lucan Outdoor Adventure Land
People travel from far and wide to experience Dublin's largest adventure playground... so imagine having it on your doorstep?
Set within a huge wooden Viking fort, the adventure playground offers 40 foot slides, sky-high walkways, ariel runways, mazes, and army-style assault courses.
There's also Crazy Golf, Go-Karting and giant trampolines, meaning hours and hours of fun.
Meanwhile, parents can chill in the café (I recommend the toasties).
5. You're a stone's throw from Liffey Valley
Liffey Valley, with its recent Penneys addition, now has basically everything you need.
No need to head into the city centre anymore!
6. Pirate's Cove at Liffey Valley
While you're perusing in Penneys, the kids can be kept busy in this indoor playground that boasts a giant drop slide, palm island bounce zone, and an exclusively animated toddler zone.
They'll never complain about going shopping again.
7. Tea and coffee galore
If cute coffee shops and tea rooms are your thing, then Lucan is the place for you.
There's coffee shops galore where you can relax with a cuppa and a scone. My favourite? The River Cafe, previously known as The Robin's Nest.
8. Thursday nights at Kennys
Get your general knowledge cap on for the weekly pub quiz at Kenneys, and if you lose, you can drown your sorrows in a nice frosty cold one to celebrate the impending arrival of the weekend.
I see no downside.
9. Feeding the ducks
I don't care how old you are, anyone in Lucan will tell you that you can't resist feeding the ducks. C'est impossible.
10. Take a trip down the Liffey
Take your pick from kayaking or canoeing, and get in touch with your adventurous side as you go sailing down the river.
11. Close to the city centre
Imagine a calm little village that moves at a gloriously slow pace, full of pubs and gardens, and still only a short commute away from the city centre (approximately 30 minutes driving or 45 minutes by bus), so you don't need to sacrifice the excitement of the city for the tranquility of the suburbs.
Convinced? Let us know in the comments.
