Brought to you by Red Bull Flugtag.
If you’re staying in Dublin, and the sun happens peep out, you’d better consider getting yourself to Dún Laoghaire.
For many Dubliners at least, Dún Laoghaire has forever been a go to spot, from their own experiences of paddling in the water as a tot, to strolling about finding independence as a teen, to heading for a night out on the (seaside) town. It’s the spot that keeps the generations returning.
First off, it’s right on the Dart line (that means super easy access whether you’re in Bray or over on the north side of the city) and if you arrive this way, expect stunning views of Dublin Bay. Bus routes like the 7, 7a, 46a, 59, 75 and 111 will take you here too.
So what can your family find there today that makes for a perfect day out? A day with lots of smiles, laughs, good food, and entertained kids is a must. And we’re pretty sure, Dún Laoghaire can deliver. Here are just some of the reasons we love Dún Laoghaire for the perfect family day out:
1. It’s a Water Baby’s Paradise
With Dun Laoghaire being right on the seafront, it offers loads of activities for the kids, like paddle boarding, kayaking and sailing. At Aboveboard you can rent a paddle board (plus all the wetsuit gear you’ll need). But remember to book in advance as it can be very busy on good days.
The Irish National Sailing and Powerboat School offers kayak rentals so this too is a great option. They also have Saturday sailing courses for kids, plus Easter and Summer camps. The perfect day out for them could most definitely include a safe sail around the harbour along with plenty of fun with new friends. The INSS also caters for kids birthday parties in case you’re looking for some ideas in future.
2. The People’s Park
This ideal little spot between Glasthule and the seafront has plenty to offer. Open to the public since 1890, the Victorian era park includes a children’s playground, water features, a restaurant, a café and tea rooms. Now that the brighter evenings are here, the park remains open that bit later (April, May 8am to 7:30pm, June – September 8am to 8pm). If it’s the market you’re after head to the park on Sundays, 11am to 4pm. Here you’ll find local vendors selling arts, crafts, delicious nibbles and fresh organically grown vegetables. It’s a little spot of heaven, one that will get kids super interested in good food too.
3. The Lambert Puppet Theatre
When it’s a rainy day, or even if the kids are exhausted after all their outdoor activities, the Lambert Puppet Theatre is just down the road on Clifton Lane, in Monkstown. Ok, we’re slightly cheating here as technically it’s not in Dún Laoghaire, however, the family operated business holds puppet performances each weekend, and the kids will ADORE the show. Expect oodles of laughing, giggles and sheer entertainment! And no doubt, it will be a welcome blast from the past if mum or dad ever saw a show here too.
4. People Spotting by the Pier
Sometimes it’s just lovely to sit back and people spot. We don’t mean we enjoy judging people as they walk by, but we can’t help but notice the happy and positive vibes emanating from so many people with their dogs (there’s nothing happier than a waggy tail), friends, kids, partners, while they simply have the best time. There’s something a little bit like magic in the air.
And don’t forget to walk the pier. It’s the perfect spot for a chat, and to eye up some beautiful boats. One can dream mama, one can dream.
Also, here on Sunday May 20 is Red Bull’s Flugtag competition! Oodles of people have applied to participate in the event by designing and building their very own flying machine. In front of 100,000 people, they will aim to have theirs fly successfully off the makeshift 9-metre-high ‘runway’ (pier) above the water. The competitor that sees their flugtag flying machine go furthest will ultimately win!
Although our little ones won’t be flying off the pier on their own makeshift contraption, they’ll no doubt be in awe of the huge audience, plus the outstanding concepts and designs of these awesome flying machines. It might even spark a brand new interest for the kids. (Hurrah!)
5. It’s Steeped in History
Dún Laoghaire’s harbour (now over 200 years old) helped Georgetown (as it was then called) become such a popular seaside town back then and now. Notice the bandstands/gazebos on Dun Laoghaire pier and pencil in the next music concert playing here next. There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset on an evening during summer, having had a bite to eat and getting a glimpse of the past along with a great band to give you a blast from the past.
6. Seaside Scuba Dive
Yes, you might not believe it at first but indeed, you can go for a scuba dive right on your doorstep. There’s no need for tropical waters when you can see some amazing coral life in the Dublin Bay. Head to the Dún Laoghaire Marina and keep your eyes peeled for Dalkey Scuba Divers. And if you think Ireland’s darker waters have little to offer, check out their gallery.
7. Food Lovers Dream
You can’t have much fun on an empty stomach, so thankfully there are plenty of restaurant options that are perfect for the kids, for couples, and even a very fancy occasion. Options include Milanos (very kid friendly), The Forty Foot, Fallon & Byrne (at the People’s Park), Hardy’s Bar & Bistro, The Hen House and lots of cafes dotted about the place. For celebrations, consider the reasonably priced yet lavish Hartley’s restaurant.
8. Boutique Shopping
You might find yourself moseying nearer to Glasthule if you’re looking to find some gorgeous, yet original pieces you won’t see anywhere else. The area is filled with stunning boutiques and if you’re looking for a special something for a significant occasion, you should definitely consider going for a ponder about, dropping into a number of boutiques.
9. In Need of a Movie Night?
If you and your partner, or you and the kids could do with some proper chill out time, head to Dún Laoghaire IMC to view latest blockbuster film. Take a peek at their Kids Club and Teens Club options to see what movies are best suited to certain age categories.
Brought to you by Red Bull Flugtag.
