One of Europe’s largest enclosed city parks, Phoenix Park is a true oasis in the city. Families can stroll along quiet tree-lined avenues, explore meadows where fallow deer roam freely, or cycle the extensive network of paths. Open year-round, this is the perfect place for a morning walk or a full day of outdoor fun. Highlights include:
- Playgrounds at the People’s Gardens and beside the Phoenix Café
- The Wellington Monument and the Magazine Fort for exploring
- Bike hire available at the park gates
- Picnic-friendly lawns, coffee stops, and easy buggy access throughout
Stretching over 5 km, Dollymount Strand on Bull Island is a wild, windswept beach that’s part of a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve. It’s a haven for:
- Beach games, shell collecting, and paddling on warm days
- Birdwatching—spot herons, curlews, and Brent geese in winter
- Dog walks or even kite-surfing for the adventurous
There’s a wooden causeway and a longer bridge for access, and the Interpretive Centre near the North Bull Wall offers insights into the island’s unique ecology. A fantastic spot for nature-loving families.
For families with older children or confident walkers, the Howth Cliff Walk is a breathtaking coastal loop that takes in cliffs, wildflowers, and views across Dublin Bay to Lambay Island and Ireland’s Eye. Choose from shorter loops (3–6 km) or the full trail (up to 12 km).
- Accessible via DART to Howth Station
- Explore the quaint harbour, enjoy fresh seafood, or take a ferry to Ireland’s Eye for a full day of sea air and adventure
Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers—weather can change quickly on the cliffs!
This peaceful riverside path winds from Bushy Park into Rathfarnham and beyond, offering a gentle escape through urban nature.
- Ideal for buggies, bikes and scooters
- Spot ducks, herons, and otters, especially near the weirs
- Cross little bridges, climb trees, and play in the excellent Bushy Park playground
A lovely option for after-school walks or weekend strolls with coffee stops nearby.
Tucked within the grounds of Malahide Castle, this 1.8 km loop delights little ones with its charming fairy doors, woodland creatures, and clues hidden along the path.
- Designed for younger kids, with a storybook map available at the entrance
- Explore the Botanic Gardens, Butterfly House, and enjoy treats at Avoca café
- Combine with a tour of the castle or a play at the large outdoor playground
Magical and manageable for even the tiniest of legs.
This long, straight walk stretches 4 km out to the iconic red Poolbeg Lighthouse, cutting through Dublin Bay on a stone pier is one of our absolute favourites.
- It’s exposed and windy, bundle up on colder days and great to blowing off the cobwebs.
- A real sense of adventure and scale, with ships passing close by
- Older kids will love reaching the lighthouse and seeing the city skyline behind them.
- On a sunny day, stop off half day at the Half Moon swimming club for a dip in the sea or quick paddle. Our kids love this!
- There’s usually a little coffee van for drinks and treats.
A favourite for adventurous families, this steep forest trail leads to the mysterious ruins of the Hellfire Club, a former hunting lodge with spooky stories and spectacular views.
- The 1.5 km trail is a fun challenge for older kids
- At the top, enjoy panoramic views over Dublin and beyond
- Bring a torch and sense of mystery—it’s a great spot for storytelling
Free parking at the base, but it can get busy on weekends.
Right next to the Hellfire Club, Massy’s Wood is a gentle forest loop rich in history and nature. It’s ideal for younger walkers, buggy-friendly in parts, and full of hidden gems like:
- Old stone bridges and ruins of a former estate
- Towering trees, mossy trails, and trickling streams
- Plenty of space for nature play and peaceful family time
A brilliant, less-challenging alternative if you’re already in the area for the Hellfire Club.
For more, check out these super downloadable walking maps: Sport Ireland Trails, AllTrails, Coillte Walks
GOOGLE ADDS HERE