Explore Dublin by Foot

The best way to explore Dublin is on foot! Take a look at some self guided walking tour podcasts from Visit Dublin to see some of the best trails and points of interest in the city. 

 

For something a little bit different, why not explore the plethora of wonderful areas which surround Dublin City such as Malahide, Howth, Dalkey and Bray. The easiest way to do this is by taking the DART transport system. 

 

The closest DART station to Brooks is Tara Street station, which is only a 12 minute walk away. Please see directions on our Location page.

 

 

 

Dublin County

There is lots to see and do outside of the city in the county of Dublin. Our favourite suggestions are below:

Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk

Greystones is a lovely coastal town located in Co. Wicklow and if you have a few hours to spare we can recommend the Bray to Greystones Cliff walk. Although a very manageable walk, trainers / walking shoes are recommended. Take the Dart from Tara Street station to Bray and walk down to the promenade taking a right towards Bray Head. The Cliff walk will be sign posted. Strolling along the path with lovely ocean views and meeting fellow walkers, it’s an enjoyable walk which takes just over an hour and well worth the trip. Once you arrive in to Greystones Harbour you have the choice of a bar snack in the Beach House or a very nice coffee in Spendlove’s cafe next door. Take a walk along the Coast to the South Beach admiring the nice houses along the way or have a swim if you dare (locals swim here all year round!)  When the promenade ends you will see an arch on your right which brings you in to the town which again is to the right.  Stroll up the main street past the dart station and you will find ‘The Three Q’s’ cafe/ restaurant, highly recommended for food and further up the street  ‘The Happy Pear’, a vegetarian cafe is proving to be very popular with the locals.  Take the Dart from the main street in Greystones back in to Tara Street station. The Dart costs approx €9 from Tara Street to Greystones return.

Killiney Beach and Dalkey

Take the dart from Tara Street station to Killiney which is a stunning coastal area where you will be greeted by magnificent views of Killiney Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. 

 

The village and community vibe is prominent, and life ticks over at a much more relaxed pace than in the chaos of the capital. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the magnificent beach.

 

 

Killiney Hill Park

From Killiney dart station turn right and walk uphill to the second intersection and go left at the gates. Standing high up in Killiney Hill Park, take in the views south along the coastline, and north to the city and Dublin Bay. Watch as trains tunnel their way through the landscape to the Wicklow Mountains or ferrying travellers back into Dublin’s centre. In the far distance to the south, sunshine yellow gorse decorates the countryside. 

 

Killiney Hill Park takes just over an hour to walk around, and is the area that joins Killiney and Dalkey hills. The high vantage point offers a chance to understand the Dublin area from above; to take in a bird’s eye view of life going by on the coastline. An obelisk marks the park’s highest point, from which – on a clear day – you can see for miles.

 

Continue from Killiney on foot in to Dalkey village which is approximately a 20 minute walk.

 

 

Dalkey

Dalkey is a small quaint town with a 15th century castle and a long history of influencing writers like James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw, Dalkey has been a hive of activity for many years. 

 

 

dalkey castle and heritage centre

More recently, it’s been Bono’s stomping ground – one of a few celebrities who have homes nearby.There is a real creative feel there: health food stores, juice bars, independent bookshops, and artisan bakeries. Stop by Finnegans pub for lunch, this establishment is no stranger to elite visitors as well as loyal locals and was visited by US First Lady Michelle Obama during a trip to Ireland.

 

Dalkey is also a popular spot to visit if you’re eager to get out on the water: boat trips to Dalkey Island are regular, and a few companies rent out kayaks down at Coliemore Harbour. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin.

 

Return by Dart to the City Centre with tickets costing on average €8 return.

 

 

Tip for the Dart: To really make the most of your journey and take in the stunning vistas along the way when travelling northbound sit on the right and travelling southbound sit on the left

 

 

 

Howth

Howth is a stunning harbour village and outer suburb of Dublin situated at the head of Dublin Bay. Originally just a small fishing village, Howth is now a bustling suburb of Dublin with stunning and wild hillside ways. Darts to howth run regularly from Tara Street station approximately every 20-30 minutes.

 

 

When you arrive in Howth, make your way to Howth Castle which is steeped in history. On the grounds are the ruins of the 16th century Corr castle and an ancient tomb chamber known as Aideen’s grave. Legend has it that Aideen died of a broken heart after her husband was killed at the Balttle of Garva near Tara in 184 AD. The castle gardens are also worth visiting and boast many beautiful and impressive flowers.

 

Take a stroll to Howth Head and enjoy a picnic with incredible views looking out onto Dublin Bay. The vistas from here are spectacular on a clear day as you will enjoy looking out on the ocean as far as the eye can see.  There are many craft and gift stores in Howth that you will be sure to find the perfect momento of your trip to Ireland. Why not round off your day by the sea at ‘Beshoffs Fish & Chips’. This is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

 

 

 

Dun Laoghaire

Do as the locals do with some sailing in Dun Laoghaire. Dun Laoghaire is home to the Peoples Park, which is the perfect spot to enjoy an ice cream from the locals favourite shop, Teddy's. Dun Laoghaire is also on the DART train line.                    

 

Dun Laoghaire Pier is the perfect place to take a stroll, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy stunning views of Dublin Bay. 

 

 

 

Massy's Estate

Massy's Estate is one of the most popular walking trails outside of the city, it is located only a 30 minute bus or car journey from the city.  It offers great views of flora, wildlife, tree species and heritage features belonging to the estate.

 

See directions on our Location page.

 

 

 

Surrounding Counties

Or for those wishing to venture further afield, we highly recommend day trips to Glendalough in Co. Wicklow or the megalithic tomb in Newgrange, Co. Meath. 

 

 

 

Belfast

Just a two hour train journey away, Belfast is well worth a visit if for no other reason than to visit the Titanic museum. 

 

 

 

Galway

And of course, a trip to Galway is always a highlight of anyone’s tour of Ireland.  Visit the Connemara Coast Hotel’s website for special offers on accommodation in Galway.