The Best Outdoor Activities in Dublin

From world-class attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, the famous cobblestones of Temple bar, the historic Trinity College and College Green, there is no shortage of culture, history and things to do in Dublin. But sometimes it’s nice to escape that city hustle and bustle, right? Additionally, to be discovered if you fancy something a little different, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities in Dublin all within and outside the city,

We have put together a list of some of our favourite places to visit in Dublin, all within a short distance from the city centre. As well as our top three picks of things to do in Dublin for the adrenaline thrill-seekers.

Iveagh Gardens & St. Stephen’s Green

10-minute walk from Clayton Hotel Charlemont

These two beautiful parks are just a short stroll away from Clayton Hotel Charlemont. The ideal location for a day out in Dublin. The Iveagh Gardens is a hidden treasure and was lovingly restored by Benjamin Guinness (grandson of Arthur) in 1860, while St. Stephen’s Green was opened to the public in 1880. Stephen’s Green is the perfect place to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle before hitting the shops on nearby Grafton Street.

Phoenix Park

Typically, 20 mins drive from Clayton Hotel Charlemont

With one that one impressive Dublin tourists attraction inside there really is so much to explore and see in Dublin’s Phoenix Park including the magazine fort and Prehistoric Burial Chamber; the Papal Cross, Wellington Testimonial or the graceful Phoenix Monument. Áras an Uachtaráin, our president’s official residence, Farmleigh House for visiting dignitaries and the US Ambassadors Residence are all within the park not to mention Dublin Zoo; one of the world’s oldest and most popular zoo’s.

The park itself is a massive 707 acres making it the largest enclosed public park in any Capital City in Europe. For a relaxing outdoor activity in Dublin, we recommend renting a bike to explore the park in its entirety. Dublin Bikes offer an easily accessible and affordable bike rental system across the City – you can pick up a bike at Station #16, Charlemont Place just a 2-minute walk from our front door.

Dalkey

Typically, 20 mins drive from Clayton Hotel Charlemont

 

Dalkey is a seaside town south of Dublin city. The town is filled with culture, adventure and a variety of places to eat and drink. Rich in history, the town has a 10th-century church and two Norman castles right on the main street and is known to be the home of many famous celebrities such as Bono, the Edge & Van Morrisson.  Even Matt Damon took up brief residence in the beautiful little town. With activities such as rowing, kayaking and fishing on offer from scenic Coliemore Harbour, Dalkey is a hidden gem and a perfect place to visit in Dublin, an escape from the city for a little adventure.

Dun Laoghaire

Typically, 30 mins drive from Clayton Hotel Charlemont

Cool down and experience one of the most popular outdoor activities in Dublin by taking a dip in Ireland’s most famous outdoor swimming pool The Forty Foot. Try your hand at some sailing, visit the Sunday food market or enjoy a stroll along the mile-long East Pier Walk, the elegant port town of Dún Laoghaire has so much on offer!

Glendalough

Typically, 1-hour drive from Clayton Hotel Charlemont

A bit further afield but well worth the journey is the historic Glendalough. The ideal destination for a day trip from Dublin, a road trip in this part of Ireland will show you some of the most beautiful scenery in the world as well as charming, traditional country towns and villages. Some top sites include the beautiful view of Lough Tay, also known as the Guinness Lake and the Round Tower which built 1000 years ago by the monks of St. Kevin’s monastery.

Wakeboarding at Grand Canal Dock

One of the best things to do in Dublin for the adventure seekers is Wakedock, Irelands first cable wakeboard park located at Grand Canal Dock just a short stroll from Dublin City centre. Welcoming beginners and riders of all ages and experience levels, you can take some lessons individually or enjoy a group session with family or friends.  Grand Canal Dock is easily accessible by car, walking or on public transport and is less than 3km from Clayton Hotel Charlemont.

Wakedock is closed until further notice. Follow their Instagram for updates.

City Kayaking

Take in the cities top tourist attractions in Dublin at your own pace whilst aboard one of City Kayaking’s double seater sit-on-top kayaks giving you a fantastic chance to take in uninterrupted views of the city above as you pass by its landmarks such as the Ha’Penny Bridge and the Customs House. City Kayaking’s launching base is just beside Jeanie Johnston’s Tall Ship, between the Samuel Beckett bridge and the Sean O’Casey Bridge just 3.5km from the hotel.

Harbour Splash

A unique thing to do in Dublin is The Harbour Splash which is an inflatable aqua park located on the water at the Old Pier in Dún Laoghaire Harbour. Designed as an obstacle course over water, it includes trampolines, climbing frames, slides, monkey bars and more guaranteeing lots of fun for all ages! The park opens from May till September at Dún Laoghaire Harbour, which is just a 30-minute drive from Clayton Hotel Charlemont.