10 Family Friendly Walks in Dublin

If you are based in the capital and just looking for some fresh air there are lots of walks in Dublin that could fit the bill.

The North Side

1. Howth Cliff Walk

This Dublin fishing village is a wonderful place to unwind. There’s nothing like some sea air to blow the cobwebs away. The cliff path loop starts at the Dart station in Howth. Follow the green arrows. As this walk is 3km of hilly terrain, it’s one is for the older children but they are guaranteed to love it. Especially if they spot a grey seal diving for fish just off the shore!

2. Ardgillan Castle

This is the place to bring the little ones for a walk. The castle has acres of parklands, a rose and walled garden to explore on foot. The nautical themed playground overlooking the Irish Sea is bound to go down a treat too!

3. The North Bull Island

If your children love nature at school then this is the place to bring them for a weekend walk in Dublin. This nature reserve is home to a wild range of plants, birds and animals. If you keep your eyes peeled you could spot harbour or grey seals, hares, hedgehogs, rabbits and beautiful birds or butterflies. If you have them, bring binoculars for this walk in Dublin!

4. Loughshinny

A gorgeous stretch of coast between Skerries and Rush, Loughshinny is a hidden gem for anyone looking for a Dublin walk. There’s plenty to see on the routes around the village, including an 18th century murder site, copper mines and a smugglers cave!

The South Side

5. South Wall Walk 

This walk is just outside the city, it offers fabulous views of the Poolbeg Chimneys and runs the whole way along the harbour wall to the Poolbeg lighthouse. As the terrain is a little rough this walk is better for families without buggies.

6. Killiney Hill 

When you get here it is easy to see why so many of Ireland’s rich and famous call Killiney home, the views out over Dublin bay are spectacular. This Dublin walk downhill to Dalky village is beautiful. Don’t forget to leave time to explore the historic village itself.

7. Carrickgollogan

If you fancy a woodland walk in Dublin this is for you, Carrickgollogan in the Dublin Mountains is a Coilte forest with marked walking trails, viewing points and historic buildings. The forest is a mix of pine, fir and birch trees amongst others and there is a disused lead mine to be discovered and a viewing rock with fabulous views of South Dublin and North Wicklow.

8. Marley Park

This stronghold of south County Dublin Parks could not be left off a list of places to walk. There’s so much to see and do here, there will be something to suit your family no matter what their age. There’s a playground, model railway, woodland trails and sports facilities. So whether you want to bring a ball for a kick about, explore the fairy tree or check out some chamber music in Marley house before or after your Dublin walk this park is for you!

Dublin West

9. St Catherine’s Park

A hidden gem on the Dublin/Kildare boarder this ancient woodland containing ash and beech gives your family a chance to walk along a glacial ridge running along the river Liffey. A few years ago a herd of highland cattle were introduced to improve the biodiversity of the area. Keep an eye out for them in the surrounding fields as you stroll through the park. At weekends you will often spot canoers taking on the rapids for fun or in preparation for the Liffey decent.

10. Waterstown Park

Looking for a walk in Dublin on the west side of the city? Waterstown Park is a little known park nestled between Palmerston and the Strawberry beds. It has lots of hills for little ones to run/roll down and beautiful views of the Liffey for the adults!

Wherever you plan to visit make sure that your car is covered with a comprehensive insurance policy. AIG car insurance comes with a host of benefits as standard including breakdown assistance and driving of other cars. Get an online car insurance quote in just minutes.