If you fancy some fresh air, why not go for a walk?  We have some fabulous places for walking around Dublin North.  Here are some ideas for 5 family walks in Dublin North County:

#1. Coastal Walk, Malahide, Co. Dublin

The coastal walk in Malahide is a favourite for many of North County Dublin residents.  Even on a rainy day you are bound to meet at least a couple of keen walkers but when the weather is fine you will meet several people walking alone, in couples, in families, in groups, with buggies, bikes and scooters.

Malahide Beach has a large car-park where you can start your walk and a safe path runs all along the coast road to Portmarnock.  You will pass the rocky coast from low rock to high rock and the scene then changes as the Portmarnock Velvet Strand replaces the rocky coast.  A fabulous walk with wonderful views of Lambay Island and Howth.

#2. Howth Head, Howth, Co. Dublin

Another absolutely wonderful walk.  Like Malahide, Howth is also a seaside village popular all year round.  A good place to start is Balscadden Road which is around the corner from the East Pier.  The road rises steeply up the hill and continues along the cliff path.  The cliff path leads eastwards passing Puck’s rocks.

The path from Casana rock boasts the best bird-cliffs.  After the next bay there is a long walk and the outward route ends at the wall of the lighthouse on the little Baily.  You will find several routes back to the carpark.  Howth is a viewing point where sites of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains can be seen.

#3. Red Island, Skerries, Co. Dublin

Skerries is a fabulous place to spend some time and if you like a nice walk, then Red Island in one of the best.  A good place to start is at the monument at the northern end of Skerries main street where a side road leads to the shore.  Walk southwards along the beach.

The island to the south is Shenick’s island and it is possible to walk out to it at low tide. On the northern side of the island the rocks will often show bands of colour which is very beautiful.  The road back to town takes you past the busy harbour.  Overall a really nice experience.

You might also enjoy Top 10 Things to do in Dublin North County with kids and Free Things to do in Dublin North County with Kids

#4. Loughshinny, Co. Dublin

Traditionally a fishing and market garden area, Loughshinny nestles midway between the towns of Skerries and Rush in North County Dublin.  If you begin by walking along the beach it brings you to the cliff path. When you have pass the remains of a building turn left. Stone steps bring you to the embankment of the promontory fort which stretches for 400 metres. Just beyond the Martello tower, rock pools, arches, and caves become visible.  A really interesting walk.

#5. Clontarf, Dublin 3

Start your walk at Clontarf Promenade,  fabulous on a summer’s day, you will see everyone out and about. Walk down to the old bridge and pop onto Dollymount beach to tread the sands and collect shells if the tide is out.

Fancy some bird watching? Then stroll up to Bull Island, a delightful nature reserve just 2 minutes from the beach!

You can finish you walk by going back down towards St Anne’s Park, truly a lovely relaxing walk.

Article written by Therese, mum of 2.

You might also enjoy these ideas for other places to go walking around Dublin which are suitable for kids: 10 Great Family Walks in Dublin, 6 Fun Nature Walks in Dublin

Do you have a favourite nature walk in North County Dublin that the kids enjoy?  Tell us about it in the comments below.

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