This may just be Ireland’s most famous sports terrace, but have you ever wondered the history behind Hill 16? Read on to learn more.
Hill 16 is a viewing terrace overlooking Ireland’s largest sports stadium, Croke Park.
Although it is officially named Dineen Hill 16, most locals simply call it The Hill, or Hill 16.
Curious to learn how this simple sports terrace has become Ireland’s most famous spot to watch a match in the flesh? Here’s all you need to know about Hill 16.
Overview – why is it called Hill 16?
Located on the northside of Dublin city is Croke Park, Ireland‘s preeminent sports stadium, welcoming up to 82,300 people per event.
As the leading stadium for the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) in Ireland, it is only fair to say that this venue has seen a lot of action since it first broke ground in 1880.
On its inception, Hill 16 was named Hill 60. This name was in reference to the Battle of Hill 60 between the Irish and British army in 1915.
Later, it was decided that it would be more diplomatic to shift the emphasis to the Easter Rising of 1916, hence the name Hill 16.
Hill 16 is a rough around the edges experience and remains the only standing room left in Croke Park. Only in 1936, the mud, turf, and exposed ground were replaced by concrete. And later, in 1988, new works on Hill 16 expanded its capacity to 10,000.
When to visit – check for a Dublin match
Any experience on Hill 16 will be one to remember. Seeing as Dublin supporters have taken ‘the hill’ under their wing, calling it their ‘home’ for match day, we suggest you visit when the boy’s in blue (aka Dublin) is playing to experience the real thrill of Hill 16.
Where to park – nearby parking
As advised by Croke Park itself, the Clonliffe College car park is located just 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away and the best to use on game day.
During matches, there is a flat rate of €10, which saves you the hassle of trying to forecast street parking.
More so, we highly advise using purpose-built car parking facilities and avoiding snagging a spot on the street.
This is because Croke Park is based in a highly residential area with narrow streets, and congestion is already a significant problem for locals and visitors on match day.
Things to know – useful information
There are many majestic stories about Dubliners, post-1916, carrying carts of rubble to Croke Park to build Hill 16. However, we must admit that according to the Dublin historian Dr Paul Rouse, this is a myth.
While the majority of events that take place alongside Hill 16 are sports-related, Croke Park has also been the staging grounds for the 2003 Special Olympics.
Music concerts of some of the worlds biggest stars have taken place here, including U2, Celine Dion, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and Elton John.
What to bring – come prepared
Hill 16 is an exposed terrace, so remember to bring a rain jacket and some comfy walking shoes, as you’ll be on your feet all day for sure!
Remember not to overpack though, large bags and oversized backpacks will not be allowed into Croke Park. Also, note that there are no baggage storage facilities on-site, so make sure you’re comfy in your kit.
What’s nearby – what to see in the area
Dublin city is within walking distance to Croke Park and Hill 16, so there are tonnes to do in the vicinity.
However, remember that a visit to Croke Park is a full-on-experience. Suppose you’re travelling to Dublin just for Hill 16. In that case, you may want to stay for an additional day to allow for sightseeing.
Where to eat – delicious food
There are two cafes on-site, which serve food and bars dotted throughout the venue, offering beverages, from beer to cups of tea.
If you’re after some pints and a spot of pub grub post-match, there are endless options to choose from, such as Kennedy’s Pub & Restaurant and Mc Grath’s Pub nearby.
Where to stay – cosy accommodation
Given the proximity to Dublin city, there are tonnes of places to stay when visiting Hill 16. We suggest the quintessential Croke Park Hotel as other revellers are bound to be staying there, increasing its overall ambience.
If you’d prefer to roll from the pub straight into bed, Kennedy’s Pub also offers some cosy upstairs accommodation.
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