Marlay Park’s Heritage: A Self-Guided Tour of Dublin’s Playground

Dublin , Ireland

Marlay Park’s Heritage: A Self-Guided Tour of Dublin’s Playground

Active

(3 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Dublin’s beautiful Marlay Park is more than just a beloved green space. It’s where history, nature, and art meet. On this walking tour, you’ll discover the fascinating evolution of this aristocratic estate – from medieval farmland to public park – which spans over 500 years of Irish history.

The tour begins at the Wicklow Way starting point, where you’ll hear some of the fascinating stories hidden within this 120-hectare urban oasis at the Dublin Mountains’ foothills. You’ll walk the historic grounds once owned by Barnaby Fitzpatrick, hearing the intriguing tale of how he went from Irish king to English baron in the 1500s when this land was first confiscated from Cistercian monks.

You’ll wander through ancient woodlands and past curious art installations, and see beautifully restored walled gardens. Here, you’ll meet the colourful residents of the aviary, including peacocks that wander freely throughout the gardens, before ending the tour at the impressive Georgian Marlay House.

Available options

Marlay Park’s Heritage: A Self-Guided Tour of Dublin’s Playground

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

You’ll explore Marlay Park, a sprawling public park known for its woodland trails, craft courtyard, and weekend farmers’ market. Please note that any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

You’ll pass through the Marlay Craft Courtyard, home to a variety of artisan workshops and studios housed in restored 18th-century stables. Please note that any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

You’ll pass by Marlay House, a stately Georgian mansion dating back to the 18th century, nestled within the park’s historic grounds. Please note that entry to the house is not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Marlay Park, Grange Road Car Park. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Dublin

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and charm. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, literary heritage, and lively pub scene, Dublin offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, modern amenities, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Top Attractions

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript from the 9th century.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (Book of Kells exhibition)

Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story interactive experience dedicated to the history and brewing process of Ireland's most famous beer.

Cultural 2-3 hours €25-€30

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has been a symbol of British rule in Ireland for centuries and is now a major government complex and tourist attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours €10-€12

St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of Dublin's most impressive churches, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious 1 hour €7.50

Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush greenery and wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Coddle

A comforting dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a rich broth.

Main Course Contains meat

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Bread Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains Kayaking on the River Liffey Rock climbing at Dublin Rock Climbing Centre Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through St. Stephen's Green Enjoying a pint in a cozy pub Visiting museums and galleries Attending a traditional music session

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Irish, English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dublin is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.

Getting there

By air

Dublin Airport • 10 km (6 miles) north of the city center

By train

Heuston Station, Connolly Station

By bus

Busáras Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Dublin Bus offers a comprehensive network covering the entire city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Temple Bar Dublin 2 (City Center) Dublin 4 (Ballsbridge and Sandymount) Dublin 7 (Smithfield and Stoneybatter) Dublin 8 (The Liberties)

Day trips

Howth

13 km (8 miles) from Dublin • Half day to full day

A charming coastal village known for its scenic cliffs, fishing harbor, and fresh seafood.

Malahide Castle and Gardens

14 km (9 miles) from Dublin • Half day

A historic castle and beautiful gardens offering a glimpse into Ireland's medieval past.

Glendalough

50 km (31 miles) from Dublin • Full day

A scenic monastic site and glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, known for its ancient ruins and hiking trails.

Festivals

St. Patrick's Festival • March 17 Dublin Theatre Festival • September-October Temple Bar Traditional Music Festival • March

Pro tips

Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a complimentary pint and stunning views of the city
Explore the historic Trinity College and the Book of Kells, but book tickets in advance to avoid long queues
Take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful urban park in the heart of the city
Experience traditional Irish music in a cozy pub, such as The Brazen Head or The Cobblestone
Try Irish stew, a hearty and comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and onions