Dublin

Dublin Bay

On the north shore is Bull Island, which was formed during the construction of the docklands and now supports one of the most important nature conservation sites in Ireland. Northwards are the two pretty coastal towns of Malahide and Howth, both of which have an easy, seaside feel. On the south, meanwhile, lies the pretty town of Dalkey and the surrounding area of Killiney, which has its own bay that has been likened to the Bay of Naples. A climb to the top of Killiney Hill will give a great view of the surrounding area. Dun Laoghaire, also on the south has two Victorian piers that draw Dubliners in their droves.

Malahide Castle

Set on 250 acres of parkland, Malahide Castle was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles.

Newbridge House & Traditional Farm, Donabate

This delightful 18th-century manor is set on 350 acres of parkland, 12 miles north of Dublin city centre, and boasts one of the finest Georgian interiors in Ireland.

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Dún Laoghaire Pier walks

Dún Laoghaire’s 19th century piers really come into their own on a sunny day when people from all over Dublin descend on them for a walk. Enclosing a harbour filled with bobbing sailing boats and frisky seals, the East and West Pier are ideal for blowing off the cobwebs while enjoying top views of Dublin Bay, Dalkey Island and the Dublin Mountains.

Golf

Dublin has an abundance of top quality golf clubs, both near to the city centre, and a little further afield. All have excellent facilities and top quality courses, and while some are set amidst imposing castles, others enjoy beautiful windswept coastal locations. Try Castleknock, Druids Glen Golf Club, Luttrellstown Castle Golf Club, Malahide Golf Club, and Portmarnock Golf Club

Horse riding

Surrounded by mountains and coastlines, County Dublin is a delightful spot for horse trekking. Try the highly recommended Paddocks, Sandyford, (+353 1 2954278) which is BHS approved and overlooks the city and bay.

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Lambert Puppet Theatre, Monkstown

This cheery puppet theatre hosts international puppeteers as well as staging its own productions.   

The Bram Stoker Dracula Experience

The Dublin-born author of Dracula lived very near to this new hi-tech centre, which is devoted to his life and work.

The Dublin Horse Show

The magnificent Dublin Horse Show is Ireland’s largest equestrian event featuring riders from across the globe.  

Casino Marino, Marino, Dublin 3

One of the best 18th century neoclassical buildings in Europe, Casino Marino looks diminutive from the outside, but actually contains 16 beautifully decorated rooms.

Dun Laoghaire Festival of World Cultures

A three-day festival celebrating modern Ireland, which now boasts one in ten people born overseas! Enjoy music, dance and street theatre for all the family.

Joyce Museum, Joyce Tower, Sandycove

The James Joyce Tower was once home to the famous author and it’s the famous setting for the first chapter of Ulysees. Now the tower has been restored and looks like it did when the author lived there. It’s full of Joycean memorabilia and there’s a great view of Dublin Bay from the platform.

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Finnstown Country House Hotel, Lucan

Set on 45 acres of grounds, this elegant country house hotel exudes fabulous old-world charm and has a cosy atmosphere with roaring fires and warm hospitality.

Johnnie Fox’s Pub, Glencullen

Nestled into the Dublin Mountains, Johnnie Fox’s is a delightful ramshackle pub with plenty of nooks and crannies and a history that stretches back to 1798. It’s particularly pleasant at quieter times, like on a mid-week afternoon in winter when you can settle yourself in front of a blazing fire and soothe yourself with a pint and a bowl of steamed mussels.  

King Sitric, Howth

Considered one of the finest fish restaurants in Dublin, King Sitric has a lovely contemporary dining room that takes full advantage of the fine views around Howth.

Alternative Miss Ireland

A fabulous, over the top visual and aural explosion held annually on St Patrick’s Day weekend.

Dragon Bar (64 South Great George’s Street)

The newest flashiest bar to hit Dublin’s gay scene. 

Dublin Pride

Parade and outdoor concerts and events in June.

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Dublin Suburbs

Try the inner Dublin suburb of Ranelagh for chic clothes stores, maternity wear, and delis; Donnybrook is good for upmarket boutique Havana as well as delis, galleries; further south Blackrock has a cluster of good clothes shops, a designer underwear boutique and a weekend market; Dun Laoghaire is a bustling town with a rake of clothes shops, two shopping centres, and a good weekend farmer’s market in the People’s Park; the nearby Glasthule is now a buzzy shopping destination with famed deli Caviston’s, two designer shoe stores, a pretty costume jewellery store and several good women’s clothes boutiques.

Dundrum Shopping Centre, Dundrum

With a Harvey Nicks, House of Fraser and a glut of national and international chain stores, Dundrum is slowly taking the focus off Dublin City as a top shopping destination. It’s certainly a Gargantuan space with a dizzying array of shops.