Marlay Park Tours and Activities

Marlay Park
Photo by Michael Breen
Photo by Michael Breen


Situated just a few miles to the south of Dublin city centre, Marlay Park is a vast 300 acre public park filled with serene woodlands, water features and some excellent walking trails. There are also some dedicated recreational spaces in the form of a 9-hole golf course, tennis courts, football and cricket pitches, and even a miniature railway.

For anyone wanting to escape the city for a spot of relaxation and recreation, this is the place to come. With craft shops and a café, there’s something here for the whole family to enjoy.

The park was developed in the 1970s after Dublin County Council acquired the land. With great bus services from the city serving the park, it’s become a popular attraction for both residents and tourists throughout the year. In the summer months, it also transforms into a top festival venue, with a capacity of over 30,000, hosting the likes of Sting, Van Morrison and R.E.M. in recent years.

The park centres around Marlay House, built by Thomas Taylor and known locally as The Grange. The house is a fine example of Georgian architecture and a great focal point for the surrounding park space. Next to the house is an ornamental Regency kitchen garden, with daily tours available during the summer months.

Marlay Park is also the starting point for the 132-kilometre Wicklow Way walking trail, which winds its way from here towards the Dublin Hills and Wicklow Mountains.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Adventure & outdoor

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Classes & workshops

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Popular places to visit


Top Marlay Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Clayton Hotel Leopardstown

Clayton Hotel Leopardstown

4 out of 5
Central Park, Leopards Town, Dublin, Dublin
Clayton Hotel Leopardstown
No 9 Rathgar

No 9 Rathgar

3.5 out of 5
9 Zion Road, Rathgar, Dublin
No 9 Rathgar
Premier Suites Dublin Sandyford

Premier Suites Dublin Sandyford

4 out of 5
The Forum, Ballymoss Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin, Dublin
Premier Suites Dublin Sandyford
Charming 6-bed Escape- Balconies & Panoramic Views

Charming 6-bed Escape- Balconies & Panoramic Views

3.5 out of 5
Kilgobbin
Charming 6-bed Escape- Balconies & Panoramic Views
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

4 out of 5
Stillorgan Road, Dublin, Dublin
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
St. Aiden's Guesthouse

St. Aiden's Guesthouse

3.5 out of 5
32 Brighton Road, Rathgar, Dublin
St. Aiden's Guesthouse
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

Clayton Hotel Burlington Road

4 out of 5
Burlington Road, Upper Leeson Street, Dublin 4, Dublin, Dublin
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road
Abbey Court

Abbey Court

2.5 out of 5
7 Glendown court, Off Templeville, Dublin, County South Dublin
Abbey Court
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin

4 out of 5
26 - 33 Arran Street East, Dublin
Ruby Molly Hotel Dublin
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Marlay Park

Marlay Park offers a variety of activities including sports, football, and art events. You can access the park easily, and it hosts regular events perfect for family outings. The park features scenic walking routes and hiking activities that cater to all ages. Enjoy a delightful day exploring the natural beauty and vibrant community spirit of Marlay Park in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown.

Shopping

Marlay Park offers a delightful shopping experience nearby. Dundrum Town Centre, just 1.6km away, buzzes with business and entertainment. Village Green Shopping Centre and Blackrock Shopping Centre, both 6.4km away, provide a mix of city and family vibes. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring further afield.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of live sports at Aviva Stadium, only 8.0km from Marlay Park, where the atmosphere is electric. Alternatively, enjoy an evening of music at Vicar Street, also 8.0km away, and immerse yourself in the vibrant entertainment scene. For more sports action, visit RDS Main Arena, 6.4km away.

Adventure

The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, located 19.3km from Marlay Park, offers stunning coastal views and a thrilling hiking experience. For family fun, Funtasia Waterpark, 48.3km away, provides exciting water rides and entertainment. Explore the Greenan Farm Museum and Maze, 40.2km distant, for a delightful family adventure.

Nightlife

For a lively night near Marlay Park, catch a show at the Royal Dublin Society or Gaiety Theatre, both offering a blend of culture and romance. For family fun, head to Panda Play Cafe for arcade adventures that promise excitement and entertainment for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Marlay Park

Marlay Park in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown is a delightful blend of urban park experiences, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the park's top attractions like Marlay House, enjoy family-friendly activities, and soak in the local culture. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll or a deeper dive into the area's history, Marlay Park offers something for everyone looking to experience the charm of Ireland.

  • St. Stephen's Green: Experience the serenity of this beautifully landscaped urban park, perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. With its lush gardens and tranquil ponds, it offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city, just 8.0km from Marlay Park.
  • Dublin Castle: Immerse yourself in history at this iconic castle, where culture and romance intertwine. Explore its stunning architecture and rich heritage, and don't miss the chance to wander through its gardens, located 8.0km from Marlay Park.
  • Grafton Street: Dive into the vibrant life of Dublin on this bustling street, famous for its shopping and street performances. Stroll along and soak up the lively atmosphere, just 8.0km from Marlay Park.

Best time to go to Marlay Park

The best time to visit Marlay Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Marlay Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Marlay Park falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
July59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
August58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly High
October52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Marlay Park

To save money on your trip to Marlay Park, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance usually yields the best rates, particularly for Tuesday stays, which are cheaper than Saturdays. Use Expedia's tools to filter by budget and explore last-minute deals for added savings. To maximise your budget, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia package deals. Don't overlook free activities in the park, such as walking trails and events, which can enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Marlay Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Marlay Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Marlay Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Marlay Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Marlay Park hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.