Arcadia Ireland
Day Trips From Dublin
Date
June 12, 2018
The majority of our summer students are here and seem to be settling in nicely to their new surroundings. We have been so lucky with the weather, and although it’s looking a little greyer these last few days, I’m convinced the sun is going to reappear soon. We’ve heard mumblings of weekends away and trips to Europe, but I thought it would be a good idea to list out 5 trips that you can easily do in a day from Dublin. So, if the sun decides to grace us with its presence again, you’ll be armed with a list of things to do and see.
Glendalough
Arguably one of the most stunning places in Ireland, Glendalough sits right on our doorstep. Based in Dublin’s neighbouring county, Wicklow, Glendalough has beautiful walks and scenery, is steeped in ancient history and (most importantly!) is really easy to get to from the city centre. There are so many things available to you if you venture into the Wicklow mountains. For a brilliant all round trip, try this DoDublin Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens Tour. It brings you to the 6th century monastic city of Glendalough, and then on to Powerscourt Gardens. Co. Wicklow is known as the garden county, so as I’m sure you can imagine, these are pretty special. If a bus tour isn’t really your thing, have a look at the Wicklow Walks website. It lists lots of walks in and around Glendalough (and some in Dublin.) There are numerous bus routes to get you to some of the starting points and the walks (which cater for all levels) are some of the nicest in Ireland.
Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk
Another walk, more stunning scenery. This day out is one of the most popular trips to take from Dublin partly because it’s so easy to get to, but matched with the fact that it’s a lovely, easy walk that champions beautiful views of the Irish coast it’s a tough one to beat. Head to Connolly, Tara or Pearse Street Dart Stations and use your Leap Card to take the dart out to Bray. The dart trip itself is lovely so make sure you get a window seat. Get off at Bray and you then do the 6.5km cliff walk. It usually takes about two hours. Our top tip, when you get to Greystones, head to The Happy Pear restaurant (it’s a little out of the way but believe me, just follow people or ask ANYONE- they’ll all know it!) for your lunch. This vegetarian restaurant is run by twin brothers and it has become synonymous with the walk. Fill your bellies with their delicious food and then catch the dart back to the city centre from the Greystones station.
Tayto Park
Like a bit of adventure? Tayto Park is calling your name. Based in Co. Meath, Tayto Park is a theme park and zoo that is loved by people of all ages. Take the 103 or 105 Bus Eireann bus routes (both from city centre) out to the park and enjoy a day of fun and wildlife. Tayto Park is named after Tayto crisps (if you’re reading this and haven’t tried Tayto crisps, stop immediately and go to the shop and buy some!) which are Ireland’s biggest and most loved crisp brand. It hosts a crazy mix of animals, water slides, and even Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster. It is the type of place that will guarantee a good laugh with your friends. I’d advise bringing a change of clothes though- those water slides really don’t hold back!
Kilkenny
It may be a little further away and slightly trickier to get to, but the town of Kilkenny is worth the journey for a gorgeous day trip. There are lots of ways to get to the medieval town, and once you’ve figured out what route you’re taking (check this out), you’ll realise that 2 hours on a bus is worth it for what you’ll find. First off, there is the beautiful Kilkenny Castle. The castle was built in 1195 by Norman occupiers and still stands in all its glory. Throughout the town there are churches and monasteries which date back to the 13th century. Add to this loads of cafes, craft shops and hidden gems and you have a beautiful town that has hours of exploring built in. Another tip is that Kilkenny is known for its energetic night life so, if you want to make your day trip a weekend trip, this would definitely be the place to do it.
The Irish National Stud and Gardens
As I’m sure you’re aware, the equine industry is huge in Ireland and we are known for having some of the best thoroughbred racehorses in the world. I always think it’s a good idea when you’re in a country to see things it is known for and going to see The National Stud is just that. First off, there are the gardens. These are stunning landscaped gardens that are fabulous to stroll around and literally smell the roses (and let’s not lie- they’re Instagram heaven!) Once you’ve seen as many flowers as you can handle, there is the stud itself. The National Stud has housed some of Ireland’s most expensive and most famous horses including names like Beef Or Salmon, Hardy Eustace, Hurricane Fly, Kicking King, and Rite Of Passage (who are all there right now!) for over a hundred years. Based in Co. Kildare, the stud is in the epicentre of the racing industry and it prides itself on its immaculate upkeep and on the history of racing it provides. There are a number of ways to get to the stud (and it changes depending on which day of the week it is) so check out the directions on their website to see what best suits you.
So that’s it. Those are 5 easy to get to, worth your while day trips to take from Dublin. Prices to each place vary (for both travel and entry) so make sure you have your Leap Cards topped up, some cash, and you’ve planned out what you need to spend. Remember that your lunch and a coffee in those places are likely to be overpriced so a sandwich in a backpack might be your best bet. Enjoy the exploring!