Top 7 Scenic Walk's in Dublin
Ireland is a country known for its astonishing beauty. There are many scenic walks in Dublin, taking you through Georgian Squares and city centre greens or on a revitalising seaside hike. We’ve researched the top scenic inland and mountainous walks for you and your family to enjoy, just outside Dublin city. You can also check out our blog Top coastal walks in Dublin if you want to take in the incredible coastal views.
1. The Hellfire Club
Montpelier Hill, better known as The Hellfire Club, is a lovely walk, including a variety of short forest trails and provides breath-taking views of Dublin City. The walk begins moderately steep, taking you to the top where a large hunting lodge stands. Some very strange things are said to have happened at The Hellfire Club, so if you believe in the paranormal, this walk is one you won’t want to miss.
- There are two routes to tackle and they vary in length, lasting between 1-1.5 hours and varied difficulties with unbeatable views out over Dublin City.
2. Fernhill House and Gardens
Fernhill House and Gardens is a beautiful public park in Dublin and it’s hiding some exceptional walking trails, a playground and beautiful gardens. All of these amazing amenities are based on a large estate that dates back to the 1720’s, Fernhill house showcases beautifully kept gardens, a stream, mature rhododendrons and ancient oak trees. If you are looking for a short, family-friendly walk, you can’t go wrong with this magical spot.
- Similar to the other scenic walks mentioned above, Fernhill Park can become extremely overcrowded so you are best to arrive as early as possible!
3. The Phoenix Park
The Phoenix Park, originally formed as a royal hunting park in 1660s and was opened to the public in 1747. The park is home to a large herd of fallow deer, a Zoological Gardens, Áras an Uachtaráin, and a Victorian flower garden, Polo, cricket, hurling, and many more fun activities can be found at Phoenix Park, not only this but many walks and trails can also be found on the grounds of the park available to the public.
- The Phoenix Park Circular is approximately a 5km loop trail, featuring a beautiful lake, and is suitable for all skill levels.
- Dublin Zoo is just a 1-minute drive from Phoenix Park, a perfect day out with friends and family.
4. Malahide Castle
Seaside village Malahide is situated on the Northside of Dublin and has an impressive list of coastal and inland walking routes, whether you are looking for an easy, steady stroll or a more energetic walk, there is most definitely something for you in Malahide. Malahide Demesne Regional Park contains various wooded and grass areas, with paths crisscrossing the entire area. The perimeter walk is approximately a 4.5km walk, with beautiful scenery and the opportunity of spotting some woodland creatures, such as, rabbits, birds, squirrels and occasionally foxes. The park is home to the glorious Malahide Castle, where visitors can purchase tickets to gain access to Malahide Castle and Gardens (including the Butterfly House and Fairy Trail), or else you can enter for free and roam around the grounds taking in this 268-acre park.
- The park also boasts a large children’s playground, mature 9-hole par 3 golf course, 18-hole pitch & putt course, sports pitches, tennis courts, cricket pitch and exercise trail.
5. Ticknock – Fairy Castle Loop
Ticknock offers a selection of mountain and forest walks near Dublin, just a stone’s throw away from the city centre. Visitors have the option to embark on this trail with a tarmac road leading all the way to the top or opting for the adventurous route through the trees. The Fairy Castle Loop takes you up to the top of Fairy Castle, down to Three Rock and back to where you began via Ticknock Woods.
- Ticknock – Fairy Castle Loop is moderate walk, approximately 5.5km, and should take you around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
6. Carrickgollogan
Carrickgollogan is a stone’s throw away from Ticknock, this is a short walk near Dublin and should take between 30 to 40 minutes to complete it, with two trails to try here. The Lead Mines Way is a loop which takes in the historic Lead Mines Chimney, or The Mountain Access Route takes you to the viewing rock where you will find unmissable scenery of Dublin and beyond.
- The car park is open seasonally so check the website before your visit.
7. Glendalough
Glendalough offers a variety of scenic mountain and lakeside walks in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just over an hour from Dublin city. Visitors can choose from well-marked trails that wind through forest paths, along the Upper and Lower Lakes, or venture onto more challenging routes with elevated views across the valley. The popular Spinc Loop takes you along a boardwalk through the hills, offering stunning panoramic views before looping back through woodland and lakeshore paths. While some shorter trails around the Lower Lake are suitable for families and more casual walkers, the full Spinc Loop is better suited to those with a moderate level of fitness.
- The Glendalough Spinc Loop is a moderate walk, approximately 9km, and should take you around 2.5 to 4 hours depending on your pace.
FAQs for Walks in Dublin
For a mountainous walk in Dublin or the nearby Wicklow Mountains, it’s important to come prepared. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential, as trails can be uneven or muddy. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, as weather conditions can change quickly in higher areas. It’s also a good idea to carry water, snacks, a fully charged phone and a map or GPS route if you’re heading off well-marked paths.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great idea when exploring the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains. Many walking routes are in remote or rural areas where cafés and shops aren’t nearby. Packing a picnic allows you to make the most of scenic spots along the way, whether it’s a lakeside view in Glendalough or a quiet hillside stop. Just remember to take all litter home and follow Leave No Trace principles.
There are plenty of family-friendly walks near Dublin that are suitable for all ages. Glendalough offers a range of easy, well-marked trails with beautiful scenery and facilities nearby. Ticknock Forest and Marlay Park are also great options, with shorter routes, open spaces and parking available. For something a little more adventurous but still manageable, the Hellfire Club walk provides rewarding views without being too challenging.
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