Ruth Haines
Dublin Airport is just 10km north of Dublin city centre, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings. The airport itself offers a variety of options for travellers, from traditional Irish food and drinks to a 24-hour food court and a plant-based café. There are also supermarkets, shops, and a gym nearby. For those interested in history and nature, Swords Castle, the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, and Portmarnock Beach are all easily accessible from the airport. Dublin, known for its literary tradition and unique culture, offers museums, parks, pubs, and art venues to explore. So, whether you're looking to relax in the airport or venture out, there's something for everyone near Dublin Airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from Dublin City Centre | 7 km (4.3 miles) north of the city |
| Transport to City Centre | City/airport express bus, taxi |
| Attractions | Swords Castle, National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Portmarnock Beach, Ha'Penny Bridge, Temple Bar, Dublin Zoo, Cliffs of Moher, Giant's Causeway, Howth Castle, IKEA |
| Airport Amenities | Free WiFi, DAA Airport Lounge, Chapel, Prayer Room, Supermarkets, Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, Shops, Gym, Pool, Jacuzzi, Steam Room |
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What You'll Learn
- Visit Swords Castle, a 13th-century castle with enchanting gardens
- Explore the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, home to over 17,000 plant species
- Check out the local craft shops and pubs in the town of Swords
- Visit Portmarnock Beach, one of the best beaches in Dublin
- Take a bus or taxi to Dublin city centre and visit the Ha'Penny Bridge
Visit Swords Castle, a 13th-century castle with enchanting gardens
If you're looking for a quick escape from the airport into a place of historic charm, Swords Castle is just a 10-minute drive away. This 13th-century castle, with its enchanting gardens, is a perfect oasis for those seeking a journey back in time.
Swords Castle, located in Swords, Dublin, was originally built for the Archbishops of Dublin in the early 13th century near the Ward River. The castle, with its Anglo-Norman style, is a testament to the rich history of the region. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone periods of disrepair and has been used for various purposes, including as a rendezvous point during the 1641 Rebellion. Today, the site is protected as a national monument and has been partially restored, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
As you step inside Swords Castle, you'll find yourself in a large pentagonal walled area of nearly 6,000 square metres (1.5 acres). The castle complex includes a tower, likely the Constable's residence, and an impressive gateway. Within the walls, the archbishop's apartments, knight's quarters, and a banqueting hall once stood. The adjoining chapel, built in the late 13th century, served as the archbishop's private oratory. While some buildings have vanished over time, the remaining structures and ruins provide a fascinating insight into medieval life.
The castle grounds, which were once an orchard, have been transformed into enchanting gardens. Stone walls surround the castle, creating a serene atmosphere. The peaceful surroundings invite visitors to imagine the castle in its former glory, with knights and archbishops going about their daily lives. The restoration of the castle is an ongoing process, ensuring that this historic site is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
A visit to Swords Castle offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Ireland's medieval history. With its charming architecture, lush gardens, and intriguing past, it is a must-see destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region, even on a tight layover schedule.
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Explore the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, home to over 17,000 plant species
If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Dublin Airport, why not explore the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, located in Glasnevin, just 3 kilometres from the heart of the city? This lush, verdant landscape spans 19.5 hectares and is home to an incredible 17,000 plant species from a diverse range of habitats worldwide.
As you step into the gardens, you'll be enveloped in a living library of flora, with each themed garden designed to represent different geographical and climatic zones. Wander through the vibrant Mediterranean collections or admire the exotic orchid houses, all while breathing in the intoxicating scents of rare and beautiful plants. The jewel in the crown of these gardens is the exquisitely restored historic glasshouses, including Richard Turner's Curvilinear Range and the Great Palm House. The Palm House, originally built in 1862, showcases plants from tropical areas and boasts a stunning wrought iron, cast iron, and timber construction.
The National Botanic Gardens also have a rich history beyond their plant collections. The gardens were established in 1795 when the house and estate of poet Thomas Tickell in Glasnevin were sold to the Irish Parliament and given to the Royal Dublin Society for the creation of Ireland's first botanic gardens. The original purpose of the gardens was to advance knowledge of plants for agricultural, medicinal, and dyeing purposes. This legacy of education continues today, with the Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture located within the gardens, offering full- and part-time courses in amenity horticulture.
In addition to their aesthetic and educational value, the gardens serve as a centre for horticultural research. They are closely associated with their counterpart in Kilmacurragh, County Wicklow, providing a contrast in climate and soil type, which allows for a diverse range of plant species to be cultivated and conserved. The gardens are also home to over 300 endangered plant species, including some that are already extinct in the wild. So, whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the airport, a visit to the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland is sure to be a memorable experience.
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Check out the local craft shops and pubs in the town of Swords
If you're looking for things to do near Dublin Airport, the town of Swords is a great option. Just a 10-minute drive from the airport, Swords has plenty of local craft shops and pubs to explore.
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Swords, popping into the local craft shops to browse for unique souvenirs and gifts. The Pavilions Shopping Centre is the place to go if you're looking for a wide range of stores, as it boasts the largest selection of shops in North County Dublin. You'll also find smaller boutiques and shops along the main street and Bridge Street.
When you need a break from shopping, make your way to one of the many pubs that cater to different age groups and preferences. Most pubs in Swords serve food and have music playing, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal and a lively atmosphere. The Manor Inn, located on Brackinstown Road, is a popular spot with lounge and bar options, and music on the weekends. For a more traditional pub experience, try The Orchard Pub in Applewood Village, which offers bar food and drinks.
In between shopping and pub-hopping, don't forget to visit Swords Castle, a 13th-century castle surrounded by enchanting gardens. With its stone walls and rich history, it's like stepping back in time. The castle, along with Malahide Castle and Newbridge House, offers a glimpse into Ireland's past and is just a short distance from the town centre.
If you have more time to explore, you can easily get to Dublin city, just a 10-dollar trip from the airport. There, you can visit the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, home to over 17,000 species of exotic plants and flowers, or wander through the streets of Dublin, soaking up the history and culture of this vibrant capital city.
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Visit Portmarnock Beach, one of the best beaches in Dublin
If you're looking for a beach near Dublin Airport, Portmarnock Beach is a great option. Located within easy reach of Ireland's capital, Portmarnock Beach is known for its smooth golden sand, giving it the nickname "Velvet Strand". The beach stretches for almost five kilometres, providing ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks.
Portmarnock Beach offers beautiful views of the Howth Peninsula, Lambay Island, and Ireland's Eye. The beach is also backed by sand dunes, which are home to diverse flora and fauna. These dunes are protected, so it's important to refrain from climbing on them. Before 11 am in the summer, you'll see horses and dogs enjoying the beach too!
Portmarnock Beach has historical significance as well. It served as the starting point for two pioneering flights, including the famous Southern Cross flight by Charles Kingsford Smith in 1930. You can still see a monument commemorating this achievement on the beach today.
If you're looking to explore more of the area, consider visiting nearby attractions such as Malahide Castle, the marina, or the coastal walk to Portmarnock Beach from Malahide Beach. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities, Portmarnock Beach is definitely one of the best beaches Dublin has to offer!
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Take a bus or taxi to Dublin city centre and visit the Ha'Penny Bridge
If you're looking for things to see and do around Dublin Airport, one option is to take a bus or taxi to Dublin city centre and visit the Ha'Penny Bridge.
The Ha'Penny Bridge, also known as the Liffey Bridge or the Iron Bridge, is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the River Liffey in Dublin. It was opened in May 1816, and initially, a toll of half a penny was charged to cross it, giving the bridge its name. The toll was raised to one-and-a-half pence at one point, but it was eventually dropped in 1919.
The bridge is rich in history and has undergone several renovations over the years. In 1998, a Dublin City Council assessment called for refurbishment, and 52 different design options were considered before the bridge was tented and a temporary bailey bridge was erected. The bridge was closed for repair and renovation in 2001, and it reopened in December of that year, sporting its original white colour. Over 1000 individual rail pieces were sent to Northern Ireland for repair and restoration, and 85% of the original railwork was retained. The lighting was updated, and a stepped ramp replaced the steep gradient, making the bridge more accessible.
In 2012, Dublin City Council removed love locks from the bridge due to maintenance and damage risks. Despite this, the bridge remains a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with 27,000 pedestrians using it daily in 2001.
Getting to the Ha'Penny Bridge from Dublin Airport is straightforward. You can take a bus or taxi directly to Dublin city centre, and the bridge is located in the heart of the city, close to many other attractions. The journey should take around 20 minutes, and tickets for the bus can be purchased right outside the airport. If you have luggage, you can leave it at your accommodation or in a locker before exploring the city.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some things to do near Dublin Airport during a layover:
- Visit Swords Castle, a historic site built around 1200 A.D.
- Check out the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, which is just a 20-minute drive from the airport.
- Go to Portmarnock Beach, one of the best beaches in Dublin.
- Visit the local pubs and try an Irish coffee.
- Head to the city of Dublin, which is just a 10-minute drive from the airport.
Here are some things to do at Dublin Airport during a layover:
- Eat a meal at one of the many eateries offering a variety of cuisines, including traditional Irish food, healthy burgers, Thai food, and locally made chocolate.
- Visit the airport's first plant-based cafe, located in Terminal 1.
- Relax in the DAA Airport Lounge, a Sanctifly partner located in Terminal 1.
- Take some time for reflection in the multi-faith prayer room in Terminal 2.
- Do some shopping in the Loop retail zone.
If you have a long layover and are willing to venture further into Dublin, here are some options:
- Visit the Ha'Penny Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that crosses the River Liffey.
- Explore the city's literary tradition, unique culture, and historical sites, including museums and art venues.
- Take a bus tour, such as the Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour.
- Visit the Dublin Zoo to see a variety of animals and engage in educational experiences.
