While Dublin city centre has plenty of well-known attractions, Dublin’s Southside has just as much to offer families, both outdoors and indoors. From heritage sites to tracks and trails where you can walk, cycle, climb and explore, there’s an adventure around every corner. So whether you live in Dublin or are just visiting, here are 10 brilliant things to do with the family in Dublin’s Southside – many of them completely free.
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Fun Things to Do with the Family South of the River
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We’ve teamed up with Dublin’s Outdoors to bring you a flavour of what’s on offer for families within easy reach of the city centre. From fun in the water to climbing and exploring mountains and treetops, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy.
These are our top 10 parent-recommended picks.
#1. See Dublin from Above at The Hellfire Club
Enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin City and Bay from Montpelier Hill, home to The Hellfire Club, the name given to the ruined building on top of the mountain.
Originally a hunting lodge built in 1725 by William Conolly, local legend has it that stones from two large tombs on the original site were used in its construction – and that spirits took revenge by blowing the roof off shortly after it was built. It later became a meeting place for The Hellfire Club itself.
Today you can enjoy forest walks and trails with stunning views over Dublin on your way up to the ruins.
#2. Explore the Past at The Round Tower, Clondalkin
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One tower, a thousand years of history: that’s what awaits at the Round Tower, Clondalkin. It’s one of only a handful of remaining round towers in Co. Dublin and includes an interactive visitor centre, public gardens and a café.
It’s free to visit, including the exhibition, and you can download the tour as an audio guide on your phone. Families of all ages will enjoy a visit here.
#3. Enjoy Family Walks and More in South Dublin’s Parks
There are numerous parks to explore across Dublin’s Southside, all traffic-free and perfect for a family day out. Many have playgrounds and other amenities, with walks alongside water where you can spot canoeists, kayakers, ducks, swans and other wildlife. Corkagh Park is one of the best known, and is home to a purpose-built cycle track that’s popular with families getting started on two wheels.
Explore Dublin’s Outdoors – plan your perfect day out or family trip to Dublin.
#4. Search for Fairies
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There are a few spots across Dublin’s Southside where you can search for fairies, including Corkagh Park, Tymon Park and Lucan Demesne Park. The trails were developed in conjunction with the Irish Fairy Door Company and are a hit with children of all ages – best of all, they’re free to visit.
#5. Get Back to Nature in the Dublin Mountains
For a real challenge, check out the Dublin Mountains Way, offering roughly 40km of trails running from Shankill in the east to Tallaght in the west. It’s best tackled in sections over a few days rather than all at once.
For something less strenuous, many Dublin families have fond memories of climbing Three Rock Mountain, named for the three large rocks near the masts at the summit – a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with sweeping views over the city.
You can also enjoy zip-lining, bouldering and mountain biking, along with rambling, hiking, running and orienteering, when you take to the mountains in South County Dublin.
#6. The Grand Canal Greenway
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For a stroll along the banks of The Grand Canal, there’s an 8.5km route starting from the 3rd Lock at Inchicore and running to the 12th Lock at Lucan. It’s entirely off-road, so it’s perfect for the whole family, buggies included.
If you fancy going further afield, the Grand Canal Way runs for 117km from Lucan Bridge all the way to Shannon Harbour.
#7. Have Some Rainy Day Fun Rock Climbing
From a stadium where you can watch Shamrock Rovers to a theatre, cinemas and a play centre with a sensory area, there are plenty of indoor options for a rainy day in Dublin’s Southside.
A firm favourite is rock climbing at The Dublin Climbing Centre in Tallaght, where everyone from complete beginners to experienced climbers is catered for. Safety is a priority, and the whole family will enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
#8. Rafting on the River Liffey
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Rafting isn’t just for holidays abroad – you can also try it on the River Liffey. Children can take part in a variety of water experiences with rafting.ie. All you need is swimwear for under your wetsuit and a towel – everything else is provided.
#9. Have a Zip Through the Treetops
Get the adrenaline pumping and see Dublin from the treetops at Zipit in Tibradden Wood. Just 15 minutes from Dundrum Town Centre, you can enjoy up to three hours of swinging and gliding through the trees. Children must be supervised throughout. It’s a guaranteed fun day out.
#10. Take an Interactive Stroll with the South Dublin Heritage Trail
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Download the interactive heritage trail app and discover some of the history and lesser-known sights in the villages of South County Dublin. With both audio and visual guides, you can download it directly to your phone and explore at your own pace.
We hope this has given you some ideas for fun days out with the family in Dublin’s Southside. You’ll find plenty more on DublinsOutdoors.ie, including places to stay, eat and more fantastic things to do.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are these Dublin Southside activities free?
Several are free or low-cost, including the Round Tower in Clondalkin, the fairy trails in Corkagh, Tymon and Lucan Demesne parks, and walking or cycling routes like the Grand Canal Greenway and Dublin Mountains Way. Activities like rafting, Zipit and rock climbing typically involve a booking fee – check with each provider for current pricing.
What ages are these activities suitable for?
Most parks, trails and heritage sites suit all ages, including buggies. Activities like rafting and Zipit have minimum age requirements, so check the operator’s website before booking.
Do I need to book in advance?
For free outdoor spots like parks, trails and the Round Tower, no booking is generally needed. For activities such as rafting, rock climbing and Zipit, it’s best to book ahead directly with the provider.
Is Dublin’s Southside good for a rainy day?
Yes – indoor options include rock climbing at The Dublin Climbing Centre in Tallaght, plus cinemas, theatres and play centres across the area.
Related Articles
- 40 Fun and Free Things to Do in Dublin with Kids
- 30 Terrific Things to Do for Teens and Older Kids in Dublin
- Family-Friendly Walks and Trails Around Dublin
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