Malahide is the perfect place to stay to catch a glimpse of the Irish seaside while also being so close to the bustling Irish city of Dublin.

The seaside village is quiet and peaceful but also has plenty of things to do and landmarks to explore. 

Its castle, boasting 800 years of history, is a must-visit. Set on 260 acres of land, the castle played a key role in Irish history.

Its grounds are also home to incredible gardens and a butterfly house. If you’re travelling with children, there is also a ‘fairy trail’ throughout the wooded West Lawn which features sculptures and fairy houses.

One visitor said: “The castle and guided tour were both very interesting. We heard about the history of the castle and the rooms which are each furnished in different time periods. The butterfly garden and gardens were beautiful and fun to explore. The food on site was also incredible.”

Another activity to do while you’re there is to enjoy the local coastline and take a stroll on the beach. Malahide beach is just a two-minute walk away from the main village and can be reached easily by foot. One visitor on Tripadvisor said: “This is a really beautiful beach with breath taking views of the coast line!”

A popular walking route in the area is Malahide to Portmarnock. This route is a five-kilometre flat path, so it’s suitable for most people. On the way, you’ll see the estuary to Donabate, Lambay Island and Howth Head. There’s also lots of wildlife that you can spot while taking this walk so remember to keep an eye out! 

Just 20 minutes away from Malahide, you can also visit Howth. This is a great place to see the cliffs of Ireland from and from Howth harbour you can also take a boat trip.

This is a popular place to head for great views and to see the famous bird and sea colonies. If you do decide to take the boat trip, you’ll see Ireland’s Eye, a nature reserve and sanctuary for wildlife, including puffins – a rare bird you won’t very often have the opportunity to see up close!

Back in Malahide, Gilbert and Wright is worth stopping at for a drink. This bar is a unique spot with a quirky feel. Its ‘70s retro style will make you feel like you have been taken back in time. The bar plays iconic ‘70s music and is decorated with a vibrant design, patterned wallpaper and cosy lighting.