Dublin Outdoor Activities

There are some wonderful outdoor spaces within a short drive of Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley. A good park can keep the kids happy all day, and help tire them out, we’ve picked some of our favourites to help you plan your next visit and if you feel like a picnic we can organise a fantastic selection of sandwiches, fruit and a few treats!

Massey’s Estate

Approx. 15 min drive from hotel

Massey’s Estate is one of the most popular recreational areas in Dublin. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Massey’s Estate is filled with fresh air, spectacular views of greenery, flora, wildlife, trees and walking trails that lead to hidden gems.

There are many tracks to explore and all are child friendly and suitable for all fitness levels. Get your kids to watch out for deer, badgers, squirrels, and foxes which all live in the estate grounds and enjoy your prepared picnic at the designated picnic benches.

Before you go: Visitors should use the Hellfire Car Park. Please note the car park’s opening hours and check the notice of closing time before leaving for Massey’s. We strongly advise bringing waterproof clothing and boots.

Malahide Castle

25 mins drive from hotel

Malahide Castle and Gardens is truly a wonderful place to visit for some family fun. This place is full of fun family activities boasting an extensive playground, fairy trails, a butterfly house and visitor centre to explore.

The fairy trail is open from 9.30am until 4.30 pm from April to October and 3.00pm in the winter months. This enchanting woodland experience is highly recommended and will bring the magic of fairies alive for your children.

You can see over 20 types of butterflies in their natural habitat in the butterfly house along with some spectacular plants, trees, and flowers. Each visit promises a colour sensation. The house is open all year round from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

If your family is interested in history the 800-year-old Malahide castle is open daily for tours where you can see ancient artifacts, paintings, furniture and gain an insight into what life was like many years ago.

If your family is interested in history the 800-year-old Malahide castle is open daily for tours where you can see ancient artifacts, paintings, furniture and gain an insight into what life was like many years ago.

Phoenix Park

13 min drive from hotel

Thinking about a day trip in Dublin? The Phoenix Park is open 365 days a year, is free to all visitors and the perfect location for outdoor activities and family attractions. You can walk, cycle, rollerblade or scoot along the smooth paths or play football on the wide-open spaces such as the triangle, the Papal cross or the Polo Grounds.

There are two playgrounds in the Phoenix Park – one at the Parkgate Street entrance in the People’s Gardens and one in the Ashtown Castle Visitor Centre. There are also cafes and toilet facilities beside these playgrounds.

Tip: You can rent bikes in the Phoenix Park for a reasonable price. Take a map and complete your own bike tour of the park and watch out for the deer, rabbits, squirrels, and other wildlife.

Castletown House

13 min drive from hotel

For the nature lovers amongst you Castletown House is a must. If you dream of long walks with only the sound of the gravel beneath your feet and the sweet hum of birds this is an essential visit for you.

Castletown House is a fantastic place for the entire family. The eighteenth-century manor house provides the perfect backdrop for family picnics, long walks, casual strolls by the river and, best of all, entry to the parklands is free.

For those wanting to step back in time the grand manor is the perfect place to do so. You can take self-guided tours of the ground floor of the manor with the help of a guide booklet. The onsite café is also located in the manor house and offers you a glimpse of what life was like 300 years ago.

Kayaking on the Royal Canal

15 min drive from hotel

Kayaking.ie offers family kayak rental and guided tours along the calm waters of the Royal Canal beginning at Leixlip Confey a short distance from the hotel. Experience the lush views and learn about the local history on water.

The tours are suitable for complete beginners and you’ll be provided with wet suits, life jackets, and all the equipment you need to paddle along safely. Their double kayaks can carry two adults and a small child under 6 years old.

You can kayak seven days a week and book a tour through kayaking.ie’s online system.

Kylemore Karting

13 min drive from hotel

Though technically located indoors, Kylemore Karting exists within a spacious industrial estate unit. There are three circuits to enjoy with different race types available for all ages. Families are welcomed and there are junior carts available for children from 4ft 6”.

Karters will be fully briefed before taking off and all safety gear such as helmets and race suits is provided. Your family can compete in time trial sessions that last from 15 to 30 minutes on a chosen track. Grab the time report at the end to see who the winner is!

Family Hotel in Dublin 

Family holidays are what we do best at Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley. Your family can enjoy our swimming pool, family restaurant, and free Wi-Fi while staying in one of our luxurious, modern family suites. Discover our range of special offers on family stay packages and get ready for a most memorable family holiday.