23 Best Things To Do In Dundalk, Ireland

things to do in dundalk ireland
Hannah
Hannah 
Updated
| 11 min read

Dundalk is situated near the border of Northern Ireland, and halfway between Dublin and Belfast. To its west, stands a fort called Dun Dealgan, of which the town’s Irish name was derived. It means “the fort of thorns”. Dundalk has successfully preserved historical sites dating back to the neolithic period despite cultural modernization. Beyond busy streets, lie historical places laced with mythological stories and a rich historical background. It’s such a pleasure for those who want varying kinds of adventures, such as fun indoor houses, bars with excellent services, and museums that can transport visitors back to the past. If you are ready to start your own adventure, here is a rundown of the things to do in Dundalk, Ireland.

1. Go on a picnic in Dun Dealgan Motte

Cuchulainn's Castle6
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dundalk99 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Also called the Birthplace of Ireland’s Legendary Warrior, Dún Dealgan Motte is a place where history and myth intersect. “Dun Dealgan” translates to “the stronghold of Dalgan” in Irish. This is where the legendary warrior Cúchulainn was born and raised, according to Irish mythology. The position is right northwest of Dundalk and west of Mounth Road, on a ridge overlooking the Castletown River. With the stunning scenery and rich background story, it’s a nice place where you can have a picnic and relax. The view won’t disappoint and you will surely have a pleasurable adventure.

Dealgan Motte

Address: Farrandreg, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Dealgan Motte

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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2. Explore Proleek Dolmen

Close up of Tomb
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user DarranRaff used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Take a stroll around Proleek Dolmen, found on the grounds of Ballymascanlon Hotel on the legendary Cooley Peninsula in County Louth. This National Monument imitates a giant table stone supported by three large rocks. Proleek Dolmen is actually a tomb used in the Neolithic period, around 3000 B.C. It’s where they cremated remains that included serious products like knives, beads, and pottery. A Scottish giant named Parrah Boug McShagean is said to have brought the dolmen to the site, according to legends. Parrah was also believed to have been buried nearby. Aside from these, tourists can take amazing photos of the milky way, just make sure you have the right gear and camera to capture the breathtaking astral scene.

Proleek Dolmen

Address: Proleek, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Proleek Dolmen

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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3. Immerse yourself in history at County Museum Dundalk

Posted by County Museum, Dundalk, Ireland on Sunday, 25 March 2012

Visit a beautifully restored late 18th-century warehouse in the Carroll Centre at Roden Place in Jocelyn Street and find yourself also visiting County Museum Dundalk. The museum has a well documented history of County Louth. It offers a variety of historical executions such as films, drama, and even concerts. There are guided tours, audiovisual presentations, and even a picnic area. It’s a perfect place to learn and unwind. Visiting is free of charge as the museum is funded by Dundalk Town Council.

County Museum Dundalk

Address: 8 Jocelyn St, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 EFY9, Ireland

Website: County Museum Dundalk

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun, Mon & bank holidays)

Price: Free

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4. Buy local products at Dundalk Craft and Farmers Market

Farmers Market
Source: Pixabay

Shopping has never been this crafty. Take a walk around Dundalk Craft and Farmers market to discover plenty of homemade and handmade food and gifts. You can also find yourself shopping for seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheese, freshly smoked fish, flowers, preserves, bread, home-baked cakes, and even meat. This market offers diverse products ranging from food to different kinds of crafts. It is an annual event on the second and fourth Fridays from April to October. It is a perfect way to get a glimpse of the many talents that Ireland has to offer.

Dundalk Craft and Farmers Market

Address: Market Square, Dundalk, Louth, Republic of Ireland

Website: Dundalk Craft and Farmers Market

Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)

Price: Free

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5. Have a great evening out at Dundalk Stadium

Turners Cross Stadium Shed End Cork City v Dundalk 24 April 2015 1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Guliolopez used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located in Racecourse Rd, Dowdallshill, Dundalk Stadium boasts more than just a racing venue. It is regarded as one of the north east’s most modern entertainment facilities. In reality, it’s the only all-weather horse track and dual racecourse in Ireland. It’s a great evening out with a good atmosphere and appetizing food. So, bring your family and friends with you to complete your laid-back experience!

Dundalk Stadium

Address: Racecourse Rd, Dowdallshill, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 FFP3, Ireland

Website: Dundalk Stadium

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 4:30pm - 10:30pm (closed from Sun - Thu)

Price: 5 - 16 USD

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6. Capture memories at the mesmerizing St. Patricks Cathedral

Posted by St. Patricks Parish Dundalk Ireland on Friday, 4 November 2016

Drop by St. Patricks Cathedral to be mesmerized by its Gothic style architecture. The church does not just display an enthralling facade but its interior is also just as breathtaking. The stained glass is meant to show Saints of Ireland in different situations and it is made to glisten majestically in daylight. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a solemn Sunday and appreciate the beauty of churches. Taking photos is also encouraged in the area, making your visit more memorable.

St. Patricks Cathedral

Address: Dundalk, County Louth, Ireland

Website: St. Patricks Cathedral

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 9am - 10:30am; 12:30pm - 2:30pm; 4:30pm - 6pm

Price: 7 - 8 USD

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7. Go fishing at Stephenstown Pond Nature Park

Posted by Stephenstown Pond on Saturday, 8 June 2019

This award-winning nature park is a definite go-to in Dundalk, Ireland. It is surrounded by phenomenal scenery and wildlife. It is an ideal place where you can take your kids to feed the ducks or just simply marvel at the beauty of nature. A new children’s playground has also been built as one of its new facilities. Fishing is also an ideal activity as the park has lakeside walkways.

Stephenstown Pond Nature Park

Address: Stephenstown Pond Project, Knockbridge, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Stephenstown Pond Nature Park

Opening hours: 8:30am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: 3 USD

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8. Bring your kids to Air Bound Trampoline Park

Alright ladies, you have spoken!! The *Ladies Only jump will go ahead Tuesday evening from 6-7pm ‍‍ If anyone...

Posted by Air Bound Trampoline Park Dundalk on Saturday, 29 June 2019

Looking for the best thing to do with your kids or with your friends in Dundalk, Ireland? Then, get bouncing on Air Bound Trampoline Park. When hunger strikes, there are onsite cafes offering a wide range of food and drinks. Fun and food, Air Bound Trampoline Park has got it, thereby making a perfect place to celebrate children's’ special days. For safety measures, it’s important to know that the place is strictly for five years old and above.

Air Bound Trampoline Park

Address: Unit 19 North Link Retail Park,, Coes Rd, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Air Bound Trampoline Park

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 3pm - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 10 USD

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9. Go jogging in Ice House Hill Park


Go for a relaxing walk in Ice House Hill Park. If you’re looking for a place with a touch of green, this place has it. Families can opt to have a picnic on a sunny day. There are benches available for those who just want to rest and marvel at the beauty of nature, as this place can make up for the lack of green spaces in Dundalk. Kids can exercise their curiosity through a duck-feeding activity. Ice House Hill Park is also a perfect location for when you want to jog or run. It is a popular picnic place for a sunny day. Also, the park is also good for when you want to jog or run.

Ice House Hill Park

Address: O'Hanlon Park, Demesne, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Ice House Hill Park

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free

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10. Catch a performance at An Tain Arts Centre


Set up a plan for an artistic visit. Tain Arts Centre is an attractive building that houses theatre and art exhibitions. What used to be a city hall now holds musical performances and displays magnificent pieces of art. There really is beauty in repurposing landmarks into more magical experiential places. The An Tain seating capacity is 350 in its main theatre and 55 for its studio theatre. You can visit the place for its visual arts gallery and workshop spaces and their social media account for regular updates. Every day, there’s something to look forward to in Tain Arts Centre, new exhibits that are worth the appreciation.

An Táin Arts Centre

Address: Crowe St, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: An Táin Arts Centre

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: Upon request

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11. Spend a day exploring Cu Chulainn’s Castle

Sétanta - Cú Chulainn's Castle, Mark Duffy

Posted by ƸӜƷ Boeken & Co ƸӜƷ on Sunday, 4 February 2018

Take a break from the busy streets and visit a historical place with a solemn atmosphere. It is named after a legendary warrior from the Irish Mythology, Cuchulainn. The castle sits atop a hill and it is known to be the highest point in town. Enjoy the peaceful scenery with a picnic setting. Visitors here enjoy taking in the historical ambiance and standing on top of the castle for the view. Don’t forget to charge your phone, because surely, you’ll enjoy taking photos of this place.

Cu Chulainn’s Castle

Address: Longwalk Road, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Cu Chulainn’s Castle

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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12. Shop at LongWalk Shopping Centre

**public announcemount ** Great news just in, The longwalk shopping centre is to get a new look. Planning permission...

Posted by Dundalk Banter on Friday, 7 April 2017

If you need anything when you visit Dundalk, Ireland, LongWalk Shopping Centre is your go-to place. It features 21 shops varying in products and services, one of which is Tesco. The shopping center also offers free parking lots that make it convenient for shoppers. Longwalk Shopping Centre is also committed to charity and holds fundraising events throughout the year so when you shop here, know that it goes to a good cause.

LongWalk Shopping Centre

Address: Longwalk Road, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: LongWalk Shopping Centre

Opening hours: Mon - Wed & Sat: 8:30am - 7pm; Thu - Fri: 8:30am - 8pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Free

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13. Let your kids have fun at Pirates Den

Posted by Pirates Den Dundalk on Thursday, 5 January 2017

Pirates Den is one of the must-go-to places for your kids. Bring your kids here for ball pits, swing ropes, slide, and learning areas. This Indoor Play Area admits kids with different age ranges. It has areas specifically for your babies aged zero to two years old and toddlers who are two to five years old. Meanwhile, those who are aged five and over can enjoy the “big kids zone”. After hours of jumping, running, and hopping satisfy your hunger and worry no more because they also have cafes that serve a variety of foods. If you traveling with the kids, Pirates Den is the perfect place to treat them

Pirates Den

Address: Coes Rd, Marshes Lower, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Pirates Den

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 2pm - 6pm; Sat: 10:30am - 6pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

Price: 5 - 6 USD

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14. Make a quick stop at Dundalk Clarke Railway Station Museum

Posted by Dundalk Railway Heritage Society on Friday, 9 November 2018

Make a short visit to the museum located near the Dundalk Railway Station. If you have spare time, stop by the museum to experience a bit of the history of the place. It is a properly maintained museum that never fails to impart knowledge about the local railways and highways. For some visitors, it’s a little gem that surprised them. It’s a great place to lose time while waiting for the train.

Dundalk Clarke Railway Station Museum

Address: Carrickmacross Road, Dundalk, County Louth

Website: Dundalk Clarke Railway Station Museum

Price: Free

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15. Drop by the historic Kelly's Monument

Kelly's Monument, outside St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dundalk Co. Louth

Posted by Mark Duffy Photography on Saturday, 5 March 2016

Take a walk in this place, which has always been familiar to the people of Dundalk. Kelly’s Monument has a great history; it exists to commemorate the men who died trying to rescue the crew of Baroue Mary Stoddard, a marine tragedy that took place in 1858. This monument was built in 1859 and it is one of the oldest attractions of the town. It holds great importance that the Urban Dundalk Council resisted its demolition.

Kelly's Monument

Address: Roden Pl, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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16. Play some golf at Dundalk Golf Club


If you want to hit some swings while staying in Dundalk, Dundalk Golf Club is your bet for it. For a nice sunny day, this golf club offers a scenic view of Dundalk bay and it is an ideal place to spend the weekend as it does not get too crowded. Food stalls can be found that serve varied menus at reasonable prices. The place also gets great reviews for the excellent service of the club’s staff, definitely improving the customer experience so you can expect nothing but the best from these guys.

Dundalk Golf Club

Address: New Golf Links Rd, Haggardstown, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Dundalk Golf Club

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri: 10am - 8:30pm; Sun: 10am - 9pm

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17. Enjoy a meal at The Jockeys

Posted by Jockeys Bar Dundalk on Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Take a massive meal at The Jockeys Bar in Dundalk, Ireland. Located in Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, The Jockeys is known for its varied menu and hefty servings, enough to be tagged as the place “where the locals eat.” Not only that, but the prices are also reasonable and their crew is very friendly. This is an ideal place for a hangout with friends and even for a reunion. With old farm memorabilia hanging on its wall, the restaurant exudes the old Irish charm that its visitors immediately feel once they sit on their chairs. It’s the kind of restaurant that knows how to value its history, turning sweeter, warmer, and more experienced as the years go by. Moreover, The Jockeys is family-run, thus explaining how it managed to maintain a familial, friendly atmosphere. If you’re a sucker for success stories, the staff will gladly tell of their 30 years’ experience in the industry.

The Jockeys

Address: 48 Anne St, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 PT63, Ireland

Website: The Jockeys

Opening hours: 9am - 11:30pm (daily)

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18. Watch a movie at The Omniplex Dundalk

Posted by Dundalk Omniplex on Tuesday, 7 February 2017

The Omniplex Dundalk is a modern cinema with comfortable reclining lazy boy seats. The cinema also offers movies in multiple viewing types, such as 2D, 3D, and IMAX. It’s a very convenient place to go to because of its many parking spaces. You can also book online for maximum convenience. So, if you want to watch the latest movies today, head out to The Omniplex Dundalk and they will give you the silver screen fix!

The Omniplex Dundalk

Address: Dundalk Retail Park, Inner Relief Rd, Marshes Upper, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: The Omniplex Dundalk

Opening hours: 1pm - 10pm (daily)

Price: 10 -11 USD

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19. Go swimming at Aura Dundalk Leisure Centre


If you’d like to plan a fun swim, check out Aura Dundalk Leisure Centre. You can even book it for a birthday party. It has a range of facilities and services which include a sauna, fitness class studio, and gyms. They also have learning classes and activities for the kids. When summer takes over, certainly this place lands the top list for children and friends. It encourages physical activities that people will enjoy, making it an ideal place for the summer, for everyone!

Aura Dundalk Leisure Centre

Address: St Alphonsus Rd, Marshes Lower, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Aura Dundalk Leisure Centre

Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm; Mon - Fri: 7am - 10pm

Price: 1.50 USD

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20. Sip some amazing wine at Windsor Bar and Restaurant

Fancy a beer? We have a huge selection to cater for every palate. Can't guarantee the barrel though..

Posted by Windsor Bar & Restaurant on Saturday, 25 August 2018

Treat yourself and maybe take someone special to Windsor Bar and Restaurant. This award-winning emporium prides itself on its selection of bars and food. This place is as versatile as it can get; you can go here to enjoy a 4-course meal, a romantic date, or even just a pretty good once in a while me time. Families can visit the place to enjoy scrumptious meals and just enjoy the overall modern atmosphere of the bar. Two main courses with everything that you could possibly want are valued at only 30 pounds. Overall, it’s a place for every kind of celebration, big or small.

Windsor Bar and Restaurant

Address: 2nd Floor, Humana Bldg, Santa Rosa - Tagaytay Rd, Don Jose, Santa Rosa, 4026 Laguna

Website: Windsor Bar and Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5pm - 1am (closed on Sun)

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21. Shop at Marshes Shopping Centre

Posted by Marshes Shopping Centre on Tuesday, 9 July 2019

Head out to Marshes Shopping Centre to unwind or treat yourself and your kids to some shopping. Marshes Shopping Centre is bright, clean, and spacious which makes customers shop in peace. If you don’t know what to give someone for a special day, you can even buy Marshes Gift card online. Simply purchase online and your loved one will receive an e-mail to be redeemed at their customer service. Well isn’t that a convenient way to treat someone?

Marshes Shopping Centre

Address: Marshes Avenue, Marshes Lower, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: Marshes Shopping Centre

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 7pm; Fri: 9am - 9pm; Sat: 9am - 7pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm

Price: Free

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22. Have a drink or two at The Spirit Store

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Out for a St Stephen's Day stroll? Lankum's album is on, and we are open until 7pm for takeaway mulled wine and hot drinks of all sorts!!

Posted by Spirit Store on Saturday, December 26, 2020

This pub has been around for long. Teens and young adults find themselves appreciating art, music, and socialization here. For nights when you feel like having a pint and getting to make some new friends, it’s the place you can trust. It would also be nice to pop by and witness any of the following: live concerts, drama, poetry nights, and comedy nights. Spirit Story is a venue for people who just want to sit down, have a drink, and let loose. If you want to get social, come by The Spirit Store. It will surely give you an intimate experience filled with music and fun. For your convenience, you can e-mail The Spirit Store in advance to inquire about the latest show and seat plans.

The Spirit Store

Address: George’s Quay, Marsh North, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: The Spirit Store

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 4pm - 11:30pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 12:30am

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23. Enjoy a fabulous dinner at The Rum House

It’s Saturday night and that means it’s time to let loose! DJ Graham Coleman is taking over our decks tonight so expect...

Posted by The Rum House on Saturday, 16 February 2019

Dine in style at the Rum House, Dundalk. With a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere, Rum House is most definitely on the list for those who want to celebrate their own special moments. The food is delicious and valued reasonably and even paired with varied types of drinks and good music. It is such a nice place to visit to enjoy a quaint place with excellent service.

The Rum House

Address: 92 Park St, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland

Website: The Rum House

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12:30pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 12am

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A memorable vacation

Dundalk, Ireland is certainly a place to visit. It offers a great and mesmerizing view of nature, bars and restaurants worthy of being tried out, and other places both fun and educating. Each place is unique to its own experience, with traditions, myths, and legends combined giving you memorable moments. Weekends and night outs are made exciting because surely, there are places to go to. So, if you need a quick getaway to de-stress, here is a rundown of the things to do in Dundalk, Ireland!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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A Filipino travel enthusiast who is passionate in experiencing life to its fullest and in going beyond her horizon. She has traveled to some parts of Asia, especially the islands of the...Read more

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