Explore Dublin’s Outdoors:
3 Scenic Hikes by Bus or Train from Dublin City Centre!
If you’re looking for scenic hikes near Dublin, you’re in luck! These three scenic trails are just a short train or bus ride from Dublin, offering breathtaking coastal views, rich history, and rewarding climbs. Whether you want to see seals, stand beneath a historic stone cross, or discover a hidden beach, these hikes have something for everyone.
Glen Beach Cliff Walk – A Coastal Gem in Wicklow
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 3.7 km
- Time Estimated: 1.5 hours
- Total Height Climbed: 110m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail Markings: Green arrow on a white background (Loop Trail)
- Starting Point: Glen Turn Beach Car Park
- Nearest Town: Wicklow Town
What to Expect:
This loop trail begins at Glen Beach, just outside Wicklow Town, and follows a breathtaking stretch of coastline south to Lime-Kiln Bay before looping back along the Lighthouse Road. You’ll enjoy rugged sea cliffs, stunning ocean views, and some wonderful wildlife.
You should pass Seal Pupping Beach, where grey seals breed from September to December. Keep your distance and avoid disturbing them, especially during pupping season as approaching them can lead their mothers to abandon them and they will eventually starve.
Seals at Glen Beach Cliff Walk, Wicklow (Lime Kiln bay)
The trail is moderately challenging, with some climbs and uneven rocky terrain. Certain sections require single-file walking along exposed cliff edges, so good balance and sturdy footwear are essential.
Getting There:
Take a train or bus to Wicklow Town, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Glen Turn Beach Car Park, the starting point of the hike.
Bray Head Loop – Hike to the Stone Cross
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 5.5 km
- Time Estimated: 1.5 hours
- Total Height Climbed: 120m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Bray Promenade or Vevay Road
- Finish Point: Same as start (looped walk)
What to Expect:
Starting from the Bray Promenade, the trail ascends to Bray Head, where you’ll find the famous stone cross, placed in 1950 during the Holy Year. From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Bray, Dublin Bay, and nearby mountains like the Sugar Loaf.
The climb isn’t too difficult, but expect some steep sections and a short rocky scramble near the top. If conditions are wet, the trail can be muddy, so dress appropriately.
After reaching the summit, you can either descend the way you came or continue inland towards Lower Windgates at Ballynamuddagh Road. Walkers can complete the loop by following the public footpath alongside the R761 for 1.5 km, bringing them back towards Bray and the roundabout on the Vevay Road.
Download the Bray Head Loop Map:
https://wicklowuplands.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bray-Head-Loop-Map.pdf
Getting There:
Take the DART train to Bray Station, then walk along the promenade to the start of the trail.
Howth Cliff Walk – Coastal Views and a Hidden Beach
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 6 km – 12 km (depending on route)
- Time Estimated: 1.5 – 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Point: Howth DART Station
- Finish Point: Same as start (looped walk)
What to Expect:
The Howth Cliff Walk is one of the most scenic coastal trails near Dublin. With multiple route options, you can choose a shorter, easier loop or a longer, more challenging one like the Bog of Frogs Loop (12 km). The trails offer breathtaking views over the Irish Sea, with sheer cliffs, hidden coves, and occasional sightings of seabirds and seals.
A highlight of this hike is a tiny hidden beach, tucked away along the cliffs. It’s a great spot to pause and take in the beauty of the coastline before continuing your walk. Be prepared for steep inclines and some narrow paths, and always stay back from the cliff edges.
Trail Options:
- Black Linn Loop: 8km
- Bog of Frogs Loop: 12km
- Cliff Path Loop: 6km
- Tramline Loop: 7km
- Summit Walk: 2km
A Google Map of the Howth Head walks
Getting There:
Take the DART train to Howth Station and follow the trail signs from there. If you prefer a shorter walk, start at Howth Summit (accessible by bus) for an easier option.
Final Tips for These Hikes:
- Wear appropriate hiking shoes and clothing, especially in wet weather.
- Keep dogs on a lead to protect wildlife and other hikers.
- Carry water and snacks, especially for longer hikes.
- Stay safe by following marked paths and avoiding cliff edges.
- Leave no trace—take your rubbish with you and respect nature.
These three hikes offer the perfect mix of stunning scenery, historical sites, and coastal adventure—all within easy reach of Dublin by public transport.
Written by Caoimhe O’Keeffe