Dublin Day Trips: Malahide

We’re back with another classic summer day trip from Dublin!

This week, we’re heading to Malahide, a treasure trove of history and coastal beauty just 20 minutes from the city centre. While it’s best known for its impressive 800-year-old castle, there’s much more to discover beyond the medieval turrets (although they’re pretty cool, too).

Think long coastal walks along crystal-clear water, quaint village streets, and al-fresco seafood on a breezy summer afternoon. It’s the perfect escape from the city.

Tip: Every summer, Malahide Castle hosts a series of outdoor concerts, from Charli XCX to Duran Duran. It’s festival vibes in a fairytale setting.

How to Get to Malahide

Journey Time: approx. 30 minutes

Getting to Malahide is quick and easy. Just take the DART (Dublin’s handy commuter train) from Connolly Station, a 20-minute walk from the Twin English Centre to Malahide Station.

Explore 800 Years of History at Malahide Castle

No trip to Malahide is complete without exploring its iconic castle. Surrounded by 260 acres of manicured gardens, wooded parkland, and even Ireland’s only butterfly house, the grounds alone are worth a visit.

The Castle has been owned by the Talbot family for an extraordinary 800 years. Book a guided tour to wander through its grand rooms and halls, where centuries of stories have settled like dust. Afterwards, follow the gardens’ Fairy Trail and discover an enchanted woodland filled with surprises around every corner.

Enjoy a Seaside Stroll

It’s time to roll up your trousers. From the castle, make your way to the coast for the Portmarnock Trail, a 4km walking route with parkland on one side and the sea on the other. Don’t forget to fuel up with a cone of fish & chips before you go.

Swimming is prohibited here, but the shoreline is ideal for paddling and collecting seashells. Along the elevated trail, look out for fossils embedded in the rocks, which formed up to 359 million years ago when Ireland was covered by the sea.

Wander Malahide Village’s Cobbled Streets

End your day in the heart of the village with traditional shopfronts and little cobblestone streets. If you need a cooldown, stop by Pappagallino’s Ice Cream Parlour for homemade gelato with sea views. Later, enjoy fresh seafood and Irish classics around Old Street, or grab a table outside The Greedy Goose for tapas and cocktails designed to be sipped in the sun.

Ready for Your Next Summer Escape?

At Twin, we believe learning doesn’t stop at the end of class – cultural immersion is part of the experience. Malahide is the perfect blend of history and seaside charm – and it’s just a short train ride away from our Dublin English Centre. Explore Irish history, try local seafood, and practise your English in real life scenarios. Discover more here.