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.

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
St. Aiden's Guesthouse
St. Aiden's Guesthouse
3.5 out of 5
32 Brighton Road, Rathgar, Dublin
St. Aiden's Guesthouse
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
4 out of 5
Stillorgan Road, Dublin, Dublin
Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
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
Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel
Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel
5 out of 5
Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Dublin, Dublin
Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
4 out of 5
11 Bow Ln E, Dublin
Marlin Hotel Stephens Green
Maldron Hotel Merrion Road
Maldron Hotel Merrion Road
4 out of 5
Bellevue Ave, Merrion Rd, Dublin
Maldron Hotel Merrion Road
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.

Marlay Park, located in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Ireland, offers a diverse range of attractions and landscapes. This expansive park is perfect for sports enthusiasts, with facilities for football and running. The park also boasts beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful and natural setting for visitors. Art lovers will appreciate the art exhibits and installations scattered throughout the park. Additionally, Marlay Park is known for its friendly locals and excellent dining options, making it an ideal destination for tourists. For accommodation, there are hotels available in nearby Sandyford and Dublin. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Marlay Park has something for everyone.

If you're looking for an exciting and affordable holiday in Marlay Park, County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Ireland, you're in luck! This vibrant neighborhood offers a range of activities and attractions that won't break the bank. From sports and football matches to friendly local bars and delicious dining options, there's something for everyone. Explore the stunning gardens and immerse yourself in nature, or discover the local art scene. If you're feeling active, go for a run or visit the nearby university. With its friendly people and diverse range of activities, Marlay Park is the perfect destination for a cheap themed holiday.

  • Dublin: Dublin is a vibrant city located just 8.0km away from Marlay Park. It offers a unique experience with its rich history, lively atmosphere, and diverse range of activities. Explore the city's museums, such as the National Museum of Ireland, or take a tour of the famous Guinness Storehouse. Enjoy live music in traditional Irish pubs or catch a football match at one of the city's stadiums. Dublin also boasts stunning historical monuments, like Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral. With its blend of entertainment, art, and culture, Dublin is definitely worth visiting for a cheap holiday.
  • Wicklow: Located 35.8km from Marlay Park, Wicklow offers a serene and budget-friendly experience. Known as the "Garden of Ireland," it features breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests. Enjoy a relaxing hike in the Wicklow Mountains National Park or explore the charming villages of Glendalough and Avoca. Wicklow is also home to several golf courses, making it a perfect destination for sports enthusiasts. Indulge in a cup of coffee at one of the cozy cafes or browse the unique shops in the area. Wicklow's family-friendly and romantic atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for a cheap holiday.
  • Bray: Situated 13.2km from Marlay Park, Bray is a coastal city with a welcoming atmosphere. It offers a range of experiences, from dining in seaside restaurants to relaxing on the beach. Bray is known for its family-friendly attractions, such as the Sealife Aquarium and the Bray Head Cliff Walk. Enjoy a romantic stroll along the promenade or visit the beautiful gardens at Powerscourt Estate. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Bray Head Nature Reserve, while business travelers can make use of the city's conference facilities. With its friendly people and vibrant bar scene, Bray is a must-visit destination for a cheap holiday.

If you're looking for a cheap and themed holiday visit to Marlay Park in County Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Ireland, you're in for a treat. The local atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with plenty of sports activities like football and running to enjoy. The park's beautiful gardens and nature trails offer a peaceful escape, while the nearby university adds an artistic and intellectual touch. There are also great dining options and a lively bar scene to explore. When it comes to accommodation, you can find hotels in Sandyford or Dublin, both conveniently located near Marlay Park. So get ready for an unforgettable experience in this lovely park!

  • Trinity College: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Trinity College, a majestic university filled with stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush green campus, visit the fascinating museums, and enjoy a pint at the lively college bar. Join a guided tour to discover the hidden gems and learn about the famous alumni who once walked these hallowed halls.
  • Guinness Storehouse: Step into the world of Ireland's most iconic beer at the Guinness Storehouse. Marvel at the brewing process, from the ingredients to the craftsmanship, while enjoying panoramic views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar. Engage your senses as you explore the interactive exhibits, learn how to pour the perfect pint, and savor the rich flavors of Guinness. Don't forget to visit the beautiful gardens and admire the stunning architecture of this historical brewery.
  • St. Stephen's Green: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in the tranquil oasis of St. Stephen's Green. This picturesque urban park offers a serene setting with lush gardens, shimmering lakes, and charming bridges. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, have a picnic on the grassy lawns, or simply relax and people-watch. Admire the historical monuments and statues scattered throughout the park, and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by street performers and musicians.

Looking to avoid the rainy, cloudy, or uncomfortably hot or cold months? Our table below will help you find the perfect time for your holiday in Dublin and your visit to Marlay Park. Here you will find a year-round average temperature of 10.0°C, reaching a peak of 15.1°C in July, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 5.5°C in January, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 71.7mm, with November experiencing the heaviest showers, while April is the driest month.

Monthcalendar iconTemperature (Celcius)temperature iconRainfallrain iconCloud coveragecloud icon
January5.5Light RainMostly Cloudy
February5.9Light RainMostly Cloudy
March6.6Light RainMostly Cloudy
April8.2Light RainMostly Cloudy
May10.8Light RainMostly Cloudy
June13.5Light RainMostly Cloudy
July15.1Light RainMostly Cloudy
August14.8Light RainMostly Cloudy
September13.3Light RainMostly Cloudy
October11.3Light RainMostly Cloudy
November8.2Light RainMostly Cloudy
December6.4Light RainMostly Cloudy
  • Sports Facilities: Marlay Park offers a range of sports facilities, including football fields and running tracks, perfect for sports enthusiasts.
  • Beautiful Gardens: The park is home to stunning gardens, providing a peaceful and natural setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Art Exhibits: Art lovers will appreciate the scattered art exhibits and installations throughout the park, adding an artistic touch to the surroundings.
  • Friendly Locals: Marlay Park is known for its friendly locals, who contribute to the welcoming and warm atmosphere of the park.
  • Excellent Dining Options: The park offers a variety of excellent dining options, allowing visitors to indulge in delicious food after a day of exploring.
  • Combine your flights, hotels, and car rentals on the Expedia website to save money on your trip to Marlay Park.
  • Take advantage of Expedia's rewards program to collect points and save even more on your package deal.
  • Use the helpful search filters on Expedia to find the perfect accommodation within your price range.
  • Consider traveling during the low season in Marlay Park (September-November) for the most budget-friendly options.
  • Use the price limits search filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Discover the best holiday experience for you by using the travel experience filter on Expedia, whether it's a family, romantic, or adventurous getaway.