15 Best Things To Do In Greystones, Ireland

1. Savor some organic food at The Happy Pear

Combining the best of both a natural food market and a cafe, The Happy Pear offers a plethora of organic produce grown from the owners’ own farm. These organic produce are also used as cooking ingredients for the cafe’s various food and drinks, which guarantees a delicious meal and great dining experience for all visitors. The cafe’s menu is composed of a variety of soups, salads, burgers, pizzas, and many more. If you want to go green and eat organic, then The Happy Pear is a must-visit.

The Happy Pear

Address: Church Rd, Rathdown Lower, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: The Happy Pear

Opening hours: Sun - Mon, Wed - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 8am - 6pm (closed on Tue)

2. Have a relaxing walk through Greystones Coastal Linear Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Greystones Coastal Linear Park is a 16-acre (6.4-hectare) park that links the harbor and the nearby cliffs via a path. Built as part of a harbor development program, Greystones Coastal Linear Park features paths with safety barriers to prevent visitors from scaling the cliffs. There is also a dog park for owners and their furbabies to enjoy.

There is also a path that leads through several wildlife corridors, which are composed of undisturbed meadows, good vegetative cover, and an open drain for wildlife to prosper. Visitors will truly enjoy the sight of nature at this park.

Greystones Coastal Linear Park

Website: Greystones Coastal Linear Park

3. Learn about Delgany Village at Delgany Heritage Trail

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

Located in Delgany Village, Delgany Heritage Trail showcases the wonderful history and culture of the village as visitors walk through the path surrounded by woodland while taking in the fresh forest air. The trail begins at the heart of the village and will take you through several places of interest and heritage sites–as well as through steep steps and muddy areas, so do take caution.

This trail is a beautiful opportunity to not only take a relaxing walk but also to learn about the local culture.

Delgany Heritage Trail

Address: Church Cottage, Bóthar an Teampaill, Delgany, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: Delgany Heritage Trail

4. Try some fine wine at La Touche Wines 4 U

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

From fine wines to artisan food, La Touche Wines 4 U offers a wide variety of wines that are sure to complement any event, whether it’s a party, wedding, or any other special occasion.

This wine store boasts the various awards that it had won over the years, from 2016 to 2020. Among these awards is being featured as one of the top 10 Best Wine Bar Nationwide in the Sunday Business Post in 2020.

La Touche Wines 4 U

Address: Unit 1 & 2, La Touche Pl, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, A63 XF59, Ireland

Website: La Touche Wines 4 U

Opening hours: Mon: 10:30am - 6pm; Tue - Sat: 10:30am - 7pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 6pm

5. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweet Boutique Greystones

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

Do you have a sweet tooth or are craving a sweet fix? If the answer to either is yes, then Sweet Boutique Greystones has you covered. This one-stop candy store offers a plethora of candies and chocolates that are sure to satiate your hankering for sweet treats.

The candies on sale are a wonderful variety of sour, American, Asian, novelty, and even retro–many of which, you might not easily find at a supermarket. There are also Valentine’s Day gifts and specials that you can buy for that special someone.

Sweet Boutique Greystones

Address: Meridian Point, Church Rd, Killincarrig, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: Sweet Boutique Greystones

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

6. Enjoy the sun, surf and sand at Greystones Blue Flag Beach

Greystones Blue Flag Beach is one of the most popular Greystones attractions. Known locally as south beach, it has a Blue Flag certification, which denotes that it meets standards set up by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The beach, therefore, has the very best environmental and safety standards, and is a nice place to spend time when vacationing with the family in the summers. It is easily accessible from the nearby car park and you can spend time paddle boarding or swimming and enjoy the clean waters and the area. Located amidst town, the beach is a short walk from the DART station and has coffee shops nearby that are ideal for grabbing a bite to eat. The views at the half-mile long beach are striking and children can spend time at the playground that is adjacent to it. Water at the beach is warm and pleasant during summer, but its temperature can dip after sunset.

Greystones Blue Flag Beach

Address: Killincarrig, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: Greystones Blue Flag Beach

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

7. Go on a boat ride at Greystones Harbour Marina

Recently constructed the Greystones Harbour Marina has space for up to 250 boats. Since it was opened in 2013, the harbor and the marina within, has steadily grown in size and it is one of the best spots to visit when in the town of Greystones. It is located at the site of the centuries-old harbor, and is designed along the modern lines. It provides visitors with stellar views of several nearby locations, including Bray Head and the Wicklow mountains. Designed to provide top-quality services and facilities to people and their boats that frequent it, the harbor has seen its occupancy rise every year. It is especially busy during the summer and often operates at full capacity. Free WiFi and a range of other facilities ensure that visitors and registered berth holders enjoy a hassle-free visit. The harbor and its marina are used by many local clubs for water sports including sailing.

Greystones Harbour Marina

Address: Harbour Marina, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, A63 YD62, Ireland

Website: Greystones Harbour Marina

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

8. Listen to local music at Hot Spot Music Club

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by That Irish Dude Des (@animafotografie)

If music is your passion and you want to experience what the locals in Greystones prefer in terms of entertainment, then head to the Hot Spot Music club. It is a popular hangout for locals and hosts live gigs. It is also frequently hired to hold private events and gatherings, such as fundraisers and corporate meetings. It is located on the floor above the beach house, at the harbor marina. Several famous performers and groups have graced the stages at the club, including Andy Irvine, Hozier, and Kila. Additionally, the club hosts performances by local talent such as Hue Grass. The music at the club spans a wide range and encapsulates Spanish flamenco. Jam sessions are held on Sunday and these are free, and feature performances with several musical instruments. The club includes a full-service bar and a barista menu.

Hot Spot Music Club

Address: The Beach House, Victoria Rd, Rathdown Lower, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: Hot Spot Music Club

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 8pm – 12am; Sun: 4:30pm – 8pm (closed on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu)

Price: 28 USD for two (approx.)

9. Catch a performing arts show at Whale Theatre

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Whale Theatre (@whaletheatre)

If you’re wondering what to do in Greystones, consider visiting Whale Theatre. Located in the heart of the town, Whale Theatre is a popular venue that hosts a variety of events and even screens movies. The ticket price for each event or movie screening varies. It has a seating capacity of 130 people, and the stage and seating provided are flexible and often change. The theatre has two stages, a full-size commercial kitchen, and a full bar. It is home to two theatre groups, and often hosts film screenings by the Greystones Film Club. The sophisticated sound system of the theater is one of its highlights. It is easily accessible and there are train and bus stations nearby, while those who prefer to use their car can make use of the parking, which is available at Meridian Point Car Park and can avail of a discounted fee upon inquiry.

Whale Theatre

Address: Theatre Lane, Adjacent Meridian Point, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, A63 V1F8, Ireland

Website: Whale Theatre

10. Experience the wild and spectacular Cliff Walk

A good way to understand the coast around Greystones is to go on the Cliff Walk. There are two routes and locals can give you information about each. The route can be traversed from the town of Greystones to Bray. Many who try the Cliff Walk start in Bray and wind up in Greystones, after an approximately 7 km (4 mi) journey on foot. As the town has numerous cafes and restaurants, which are ideal for resting after you have been walking for several hours. The Cliff Walk covers a path along the coast and is filled with lovely scenery and wildflowers, especially during the summer. The Cliff walk route is very safe and well maintained all year round and it passes near colonies of various birds and cliffs that dot the area. After completing the walk, visitors can return to Bray or Greystones via the DART.

Cliff Walk

Website: Cliff Walk

The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Anne

11. Soak in the history at Kindlestown Castle

Kindlestown Castle is located in Delgany, a five-minute drive inland from Greystones. The castle is an example of a ‘Hall House, and is believed to have been built around 1300 AD. The Archbold family was believed to have lived there. Part of the eastern wall and the northern wall are intact to the level of the parapet. However, the western and southern walls were demolished following the medieval period. The castle is constructed of rough limestone and window seats have survived on the first floor. Visitors can access the castle on the slopes of Kindlestown Hill to the north of the town. The structure is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) west of Greystones railway station. It offers sweeping views over the countryside and Irish Sea. Kindlestown Castle has been declared a National Monument in Ireland.

Kindlestown Castle

Address: Old Delgany Rd, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

12. Smile at the Beach Bear Greystones

During your Greystones sightseeing trip, don’t forget to check out this cute bear statue! This charming bear appears to be on a mission to have fun at Greystones beach. The sculpture is the work of artist Patrick O’Reilly and was donated to the Greystones Tidy Towns Committee by property developer Dermod Dwyer. Mr. Dwyer donated the bear in memory of his daughter, Caroline Dwyer-Hickey who died of cancer in the town at a young age. When the sculpture was first placed at the beach, there was a mixed response, with some locals finding it inappropriate for the area. Others believed the bear would scare young children visiting the beach. However, most residents found the bear statue to be charming and inoffensive.

Beach Bear Greystones

Address: Marine Rd, Rathdown Lower, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

13. Gaze at the historic Killincarrig Castle

The village of Killincarrig was built before Greystones and is known for its many ancient structures, including an Elizabethan manor house. The manor house is now known as Killincarrig Castle and stands in ruins. The castle was constructed during the early 16th century and initially owned by Henry Walsh. Among the ruins, it can be seen the castle had two floors and an attic. The village’s history tells that Oliver Cromwell stayed at Killincarrig Castle for a number of nights. According to legend, Cromwell’s horse was stolen by locals during his stay here. Access to Killincarrig Castle is difficult, as the ruins are overgrown and it is surrounded on most sides by private property.

Killincarrig Castle

Address: Killincarrig, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

14. Say 'Cheers!' at The Beach House pub

The Beach House is a charming pub and eatery open every day of the week and offers several venues to suit all patrons and groups. The property serves great beer, wine, and scrumptious food made from locally sourced ingredients. The décor is shabby chic, with exposed stone walls and timber sleepers as well as retro furniture. The property has a lovely indoor dining area and laidback outdoor seating too. So grab your buddies and head over to The Beach House for a pint or two!

The Beach House

Address: The Harbour, Rathdown Lower, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: The Beach House

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

15. Dine on freshly made dishes at The Hungry Monk

The Hungry Monk has been family-owned by Pat and Sylvia Keown since 1988. The restaurant is run by Pat, her son, Julian, and his wife Samantha. The restaurant boasts dishes that are crafted using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients, including crab and lobster caught off Wicklow Coast, and pheasant and venison shot locally too. A wide range of spirits, local craft beers, ales and an award-winning wine list are also available to diners.

The Hungry Monk

Address: 1 Church Rd, Killincarrig, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Website: The Hungry Monk

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5pm - 11pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 8:30pm

Explore Greystones

Since Greystones rose to the top of the most livable communities list, and won the title conferred by the LivCom awards in 2008, the town has continued to grow and attract the attention of tourists, especially during the summer. Greystones has also surely and steadily built a reputation as one of the towns in Ireland with the best cafes.