7 Day-Trips from Dublin

Discover day trips from Dublin now; park up and explore these 7 gorgeous locations at your leisure… all within a 1 hour drive of Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, located on the southside of Dublin. While you might be forgiven for thinking Dublin is all cobblestone streets, elegant Georgian doors and charming buildings it’s also home to some of the most beautiful green spaces in Europe. Perfectly situated on Dublin Bay between the mountains and the sea, there’s plenty to explore on a Dublin Day Trip. You won’t believe what you’ll find within a short drive of the city center…

Dun Laoghaire

Typically, 18- 30 min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

If you’re looking for a seaside escape for your Dublin Day trip, number one on your list needs to be Dun Laoghaire. Of course, no trip here is complete without a stroll on the iconic pier and a sample of the best ice cream in Ireland from the famous ‘Teddy’s’. You can even go for a dip in Ireland’s most famous outdoor swimming pool, the Forty Foot, where Dubliners have been bracing the Irish Sea for over 250 years! If you’re not quite ready to take the plunge don’t worry – you can still take in everything Dublin’s beautiful coast has to offer with a Dublin Bay Cruise from Dun Laoghaire to destination number two on our list…

Howth

Source: Instagram @srfttnslu

Typically, 35 – 45min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

Next on our Dublin Day Trip list is Howth. Steeped in history, the picturesque fishing village of Howth is perched on its own peninsula, just north of Dublin City. While it’s only a short drive from the city centre it’s a different pace of life. An angler’s dream which not-surprisingly makes it a foodie haven, as you walk along the seafront, you’ll pass lots of delicious eateries.

For some of the best traditional fish and chips you’ll ever try, be sure to visit Beschoff Bro’s, if you’re looking for somewhere laid back and quirky The Dog House Blues Tearoom is hard to beat on style, or something a bit more upmarket check out Octopussy and their delicious seafood tapas menu. After all that eating you’re going to want to walk it off and there’s no better place to do it than immersing yourself in history at the grounds of Howth Castle. Up for something a bit more adventurous? Check out the Howth Cliff Walk, a meandering trail that brings you right up beside the Irish seas with stunning views of Dublin Bay.

Phoenix Park

Source: Instagram @hollysoulter

Typically, 15 – 25min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

At 1,752 acres, Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces within any European capital city and over twice the size of New York’s Central Park. You don’t want to miss this amazing park on your next Dublin Day Trip! The very best way to take in this lush green haven is on two wheels. Dublin Bikes offer an easily accessible and affordable bike rental system across the City – you can pick up a bike at Station #39, Wilton Terrace just a 5 minute walk from our front door. Or you can use the BleeperBike app to unlock bikes and drop them off at various locations around the city. Don’t forget to pack a picnic for your day out in the park but be warned, don’t feed the residents – the park is home to over 600 wild deer. If you want to get even closer to nature still Dublin Zoo is also located in the park.

Top Tip: New regulations require you to book your visit to Dublin Zoo in advance, be sure to book online early to avoid disappointment.

Kildare Village, Outlet Mall

Source: Instagram @Kildarevillage

Typically, 45 – 60min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

For a day trip from Dublin try Kildare Village! This boutique shopping village, part of The Bicester Village Shopping Collection, located on beautifully landscaped grounds is the epitome of luxury shopping. With 100 of the world’s top brands, artisan cafés, restaurants and food trucks, you simply won’t be able to resist temptation.

Malahide Castle and Gardens

Typically, 28 – 45min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

Uncover 800 years of history on your next Dublin day trip at this breath-taking Medieval Castle. Malahide Castle has belonged to the Talbot Family for generations and it has been expertly preserved. Book a guided tour of the castle and transport yourself back in time as you learn about the important role this building played in Irish history. Wander the picturesque walled gardens, amble along the fairy trail keeping your eyes peeled for magic or discover the only butterfly house in the Republic of Ireland. It’s also the perfect place to try Avoca, one of the oldest and most beloved brands. Avoca is known for its beloved cafés, bakeries, and home to great Irish Design.

Top Tip: You are required to book your visit to certain parts of the Castle and grounds in advance, be sure to book online early to avoid disappointment.

The Matt Damon Neighbourhood Tour

Source: Instagram @mummycooks

Typically, 22 – 40min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

Source: Instagram @mummycooks

Yes, that’s right, Dublin is home to the Stars… or at least it has been home to one particular A-Lister – Matt Damon! He had temporarily taken up residence in the seaside town of Dalkey. And it’s not hard to see why – this charming town is home to white sandy beaches, cool cafés, charming book shops, boutiques and cosy pubs – what more could you want on a Dublin Day trip? One not to miss is Biddy’s Cottage, a traditional cottage, tea room, and gallery. If you want to experience some of the best views of Dublin take a road trip up the picturesque Vico Road then get out and explore the nearby Killiney Hill where you can also go rock climbing. If you’re feeling extra adventurous head down to Coliemore Harbour and enjoy some kayaking, fishing, or island ferries.

Top Tip: On your travels keep an eye out for other famous locals; Bono, The Edge, Enya and Van Morrison all live nearby.

Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Typically, 50 – 60min drive from Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

They don’t call it the garden of Ireland for no reason, it’s hard to believe that just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin City you’ll escape to the waters and the wild but that’s what awaits you on a day trip from Dublin to the historic Glendalough. Once an ancient monastic site founded by St Kevin in the 6th Century it now welcomes visitors near and far to explore its breath-taking scenery. The ideal destination for a day trip from Dublin with plenty to explore by car or on foot. Some top sites include the beautiful view of Lough Tay, also known as the Guinness Lake. For the more experienced hiker, you can climb Tonelagee, a favourite among couples due to the romantic heart-shaped Lough Ouler at the top. A road trip in this part of the world with show you some of the most beautiful scenery in the world as well as charming, traditional country towns and villages. Get your cultural fix at Sculpture in the Woodland in Devil’s Glen Wood.

Source: Ireland’s Content Pool, Fáilte Ireland/ Tourism Ireland

 

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