Historic Sites in Bray

"It’s the ‘must-do’ on almost everybody’s Dublin list – a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, and with seven stories of, well, stories (and interactive experiences), we’re only delighted to have one of the world’s most popular sites on our doorstep. Grab a photo from the Gravity bar, or at the famous St. James’ Gate."

"The number 1 visitor attraction in Dublin, over seven floors this tour brings to life the rich heritage of Guinness and tells the story of its origins at St. James’s Gate in Dublin to its growth as a global brand. You’ll also get a free pint at the top where you get spectacular views over the city."

"Take some time out of your day in Dublin to discover the Dublin Castle, and you’ll find yourself falling for the unique combination of fortified architecture and culture. Steeped in history that includes both Viking and medieval times, the Dublin Castle was the seat of English power until 1922. Today, the space itself is constantly put to use as an immersive teaching tool, to inform locals and visitors alike about the region’s history and continued importance."

"Dating back to the early 13th century, when Vikings established their headquarters here, this medieval structure stands as a relic of British rule over Ireland. Today the well-preserved estate offers a glimpse into the way previous generations lived and hosts exhibits on art, fashion, and other Irish history artifacts. Tickets for guided tours are recommended, especially if you're eager to see the interior apartments and historic quarters."

"Dublin Castle is not quite a castle as you might be expecting, although there has been a castle on this site since around 1166. In fact, the only real “castle” looking part of Dublin Castle is the Record Tower, which dates from 1228."

"First up is Kilmainham Gaol Museum. Once used as a prison, Kilmainham Gaol is now a museum run by the Irish government detailing some of the most courageous and most devastating events in Irish history. Imprisoned there were the Irish rebels accused of inciting many Irish rebellions, including the 1916 Easter Rising. It was at Kilmainham Gaol that the British put to death by firing squad many of the leaders of the 1916 Rising."

"The infamous former prison built in 1796 represents a period of history in Ireland that is unpleasant but formative. Many prisoners housed here were part of the various rebellious movements and some were executed under British and Irish Free State rulers who wanted to squash the independent rebellions. Today, the facility is still in use as a government agency building and a museum that is open for public guided tours."

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"Source: Photo by user Andreas F. Borchert used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Worship at this dated Irish cathedral in Dublin dates back to medieval times, and is still open today for public services!. Welcome to Christ Church Cathedral, where for almost 1000 years, believers have found a common sanctuary beneath lofty ceilings."

"Christ Church Cathedral (founded c.1028) is the spiritual heart of the city, and one of the top visitor attractions in Dublin. Step inside and you can enjoy the cathedral’s beautiful interior and fascinating medieval crypt."

"After visiting Christ Church Cathedral, you may be forgiven for thinking that it can’t get any better in terms of gorgeous churches in Dublin. A short walk from here will lead you to Dublin’s other ‘iconic’ church, St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Many would argue that St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the church to visit if you are considering what to do in Dublin in one day."

"St. Patrick’s Cathedral was founded in the 12th century and is Ireland’s largest church, situated in the heart of Dublin City. There is plenty of history here; Jonathan Swift (author of “Gulliver’s Travels”) who was the dean of the Cathedral from 1713-1745 is buried here. The cathedral regularly hosts choral concerts and is worth experiencing."

"This stunning cathedral welcomes over 500,000 visitors a year. Some come to worship god while others visit as tourists. There is a free app available as well as guided tours."

"Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre is situated in the 14th Century Castle/Town House just less than 5 minutes from train (DART) and bus stations. All year actors from Deilg Inis Living History Theatre Company are on site to enlighten, entertain and engage you in a Live Performance every half hour in ‘The Tudors are Back...’.Depending on the season you can encounter the Ghost, The Merchant and Rupert the Archer."

"When it comes to visitor engagement, none of the other castles on this list can top Dalkey Castle. They take their guided tours to the next level with costumed actors who pretend to be archers, cooks, and coin minters. There is even a barber/ surgeon!"

"Dalkey Castle, dating from 1390, is located in South County Dublin in the lovely heritage town of Dalkey. The Castle has living history actors ready to welcome visitors and bring history to life. All tours must be booked online."

"Magnificent Castletown House simply has no peer. It is Ireland’s most imposing Georgian estate, and a testament to the vast wealth enjoyed by the Anglo-Irish gentry during the 18th century. Hour-long guided tours begin at noon and 3pm, offering an insight into how the 1% made out in the 18th century; otherwise you can wander at will. Don't miss a stroll down to the river for grand views back to the house. Castletown is signposted from junction 6 on the M4."

"One of the most famous places to visit at Trinity College is the Trinity College Library to see the Book of Kells. The writing was complete in 800 AD, and it’s supposedly the oldest and most famous book in the world. The book has the four Gospels of the New Testament in Latin, which people come from all over the world to see."

"It is spectacularly ornate, completely unique and impeccably preserved. During your visit, you’ll also pass through Trinity College’s iconic Long Room Library – which is worth the trip alone. Right in the heart of Dublin, this attraction should be one of the first you tick off your list."

"Chapel Royale, the castle’s chapel, was beautiful and full of tales of its own. If you find yourself hungry or thirsty, there is a lovely eatery at the back of the castle with outdoor seating. The tour lasts one hour."

"Wicklow's most visited attraction is this magnificent 64-sq-km estate, whose main entrance is 500m south of Enniskerry town. At the heart of it is an elegant Palladian mansion, but the real draw is the formal gardens and the stunning views that accompany them. Most of the house is not open to the public, but there's a fine cafe and several gift and homewares shops to be enjoyed, while the grounds are home to two golf courses and the best hotel in Wicklow."

"On Dawson Street, Sun Bear Gelato is still open for takeaway cones and cups. They are also making milkshakes too!. Just be sure to call in your order beforehand to adhere to their call and collect guidelines."

"With five front units open seven days a week and over 25 stalls springing to life at the weekends, Howth Market is one of the focal points of this quaint seaside town and attracts locals just as much as those from further afield. Conveniently located beside the DART station, this market is perfect for browsing on a sunny day before heading along the cliff walk or onto the pier. Though the market sells a great mix of wares, from woodwork to antique jewellery, the food is the highlight."

"There are so many reasons to visit this picturesque northside village on the weekend. But the market is a good enough reason in its own right. You're likely to find an array of organic produce, freshly baked goods, jewellery, clothing, antiques and loads more when checking out this market."

"Last but certainly not least is Coco Bó on O’Connell Street. Coco Bó use the finest quality ingredients from all around Ireland to make a delicious selection of whipped ice-cream. If you are feeling particularly adventurous you should try their specialty- delicious ice-cream sundae’s!"

"99 hot chocolates to get you through the colder mornings - more whipped cream you say?. A post shared by Coco Bó (@cocobodublin) on Oct 8, 2015 at 1:15am PDT"

"Again, you will have done your homework and booked something in advance, we hope (though there always is a chance to get late tickets even for the Abbey Theatre, with a bit of luck). If you are set on enjoying an Irish night out, a large number of pubs offer their services and many also provide entertainment (free or for a small fee in most cases). Just follow the crowds, which will, more than likely, bring you to the Temple Bar area."

"The last item on our list is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of modern architecture in the city. The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre was designed by Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind in 2010, and its contemporary, angular style ties in perfectly with its home in the ultra modern Grand Canal area. The design ties into its theatrical theme with a striking composition of a ‘red carpet’ with bright resin-glass paving extending from the theatre, covered with distinctive red glowing angled light sticks."

"Designed by Studio Libeskind in 2010, the Grand Canal Square formed an important milestone for the redevelopment of the Dublin Docklands area. The 2000-seat theater is based on the concept of stages: the stage of the theater, the stage of the piazza, the stage of the multiple lever lobby above the piazza."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kanakari used under CC BY-SA 3.0. Bord Gais Energy Theatre is a performing arts venue located in the Docklands. It is the city’s biggest fixed-seat theater and was designed by Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind for the Dublin Docklands Development Authority."

"Located near the Parkgate street entrance to the Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is one of the fun days out in Dublin you should consider putting on your itinerary. Opened in the first half of the 1800’s, Dublin Zoo has undergone a huge transformation within my own lifetime. I remember visiting it as a child and enjoying it, but it’s gotten better with expansion and the introduction of the African Plains area."

"The beauty of the zoo is you can do it all in your own time - whether you've only got three hours to spend there, or you intend on being there all day. There's so much to see, and arriving early means you can check the feeding times for certain animals and pop back when they're on. The African Plains are a great addition to the zoo, and seeing the animals up close is really exciting for the kids."

"Dublin Zoo is an amazing 60 acres of park in the city transports families to the Arctic, the plains of Africa and Indian Rainforests before kids visit Pets’ Corner and the City Farm. Visit the website for details of opening hours, admission prices and family packages."

"A little trip away from Dublin City Centre, it’s the perfect romantic location for beach strolls or some sunset portraits. It has the tall grass, sea air and the iconic Poolbeg Towers as the quintessentially-Dublin backdrop!. A great spot for an engagement session, an elopement or a lovely portrait spot on a wedding day if you’re driving in from the south side."