Marlay Park

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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Things to do near Marlay Park

Marlay Park in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown offers a variety of activities such as sports, football, and art. Visitors can explore walking trails, enjoy festivals throughout Ireland, and visit local art galleries. Additionally, the park hosts gigs and concerts, making it a vibrant destination for entertainment and leisure.

Shopping

Marlay Park offers convenient shopping options nearby. Dundrum Town Centre, just 1.6km away, features vibrant entertainment and family-friendly shops. Village Green Shopping Centre and Frascati Shopping Centre, both 6.4km from the park, provide a mix of city vibes and diverse retail choices.

Recreation

The RDS Main Arena, located 6.4km from Marlay Park, offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Vicar Street, 8.0km away, provides a vibrant setting for music lovers, while Grange Golf Club, only 1.3km from Marlay Park, invites you to enjoy a relaxing game amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

At Marlay Park, thrill-seekers can enjoy Clara Lara Fun Park, a zipline ropes course located 8.0km away, offering outdoor adventure vibes. For a water escapade, Funtasia Waterpark, 48.3km away, promises family fun. Meanwhile, Beyond the Trees Avondale, 28.0km away, delivers exciting adventure experiences.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Marlay Park offers a delightful mix of entertainment. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Gaiety Theatre or the Royal Dublin Society, both showcasing captivating performances. For a family-friendly adventure, head to Panda Play Cafe for an exciting arcade experience.

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

Find the best attractions near Marlay Park

Visitors to Marlay Park in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown will find a delightful mix of attractions, including the historic Marlay House and the scenic urban park itself. Ideal for culture enthusiasts and families alike, the park offers a range of activities that showcase its iconic beauty. Don't miss the chance to explore the top attractions within Marlay Park, making it a perfect destination for a memorable city experience in Dublin.

  • St. Stephen's Green: This urban park offers a serene escape in the heart of Dublin, featuring beautiful gardens, tranquil lakes, and historic monuments. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the vibrant city vibes.
  • University College Dublin: Renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history, this university is a cultural gem. Visitors can explore its impressive campus, engage with various exhibitions, and soak in the academic atmosphere that reflects Ireland's educational heritage.
  • Merrion Square: This picturesque square is surrounded by colourful Georgian houses and lush gardens, showcasing Dublin's cultural heritage. It’s a perfect place to relax, enjoy art installations, and experience the lively city vibes while appreciating the local history.

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 visit to Marlay Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel one month in advance or seeking last-minute deals on Expedia can lead to significant savings. Tuesdays generally offer the best rates, while Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Utilise Expedia’s search filters to find eco-friendly options or budget-friendly accommodations. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities, ensuring free cancellations and no booking fees where possible.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Marlay Park is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your preferred location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Marlay Park hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.