Dun Laoghaire spotlight #2: Things to do in this lovely seaside town

With so much to do in our own neighbourhood of Dun Laoghaire, we had to separate all the info into two separate pieces!

We’ve already listed our favourite, top quality eateries and watering holes in the area, so now we want to show you that there’s much more to this picturesque seaside town than just food and drink.

While away an afternoon in the gorgeous Maritime museum, walking the pier, exploring the Sunday market or just browsing around some of the shops. Even if you only have an hour or two to spend here, it’s worth venturing out and soaking up the unique atmosphere that a bustling, metropolitan seaside town exudes.

That, plus the fresh sea air will do you the world of good.

National Maritime Museum & dlr Lexicon

Haigh Terrace

Photo cred: 10best.com

The National Maritime Museum of Ireland is home to an incredible array of historical artifacts and exhibitions focusing on maritime history, exploration, navigation, radio, deep-sea technology, nature and art. Beside the Museum is the dlr Lexicon, the flagship library for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown which boasts unparalleled views of Dublin Bay, and makes for a gorgeous place to enjoy a good read or get some work done.

Søstrene Grene

89 George’s Street Lower

Søstrene Grene is like a classier version of Tiger and Ikea combined; full of soft pastels and delicate designs. Here you’ll find everything from home accessories and soft furnishings, to party decorations, knitting wool and healthy snacks. The range is ever changing and it’s probably best if you wait until payday before paying a visit; you’ll be surprised by how compelled you feel to buy the various, ever-changing, too-cute-to-boot items in that store.

The Pier

East pier

Photo cred: Bryan Hanna

No visit to Dún Laoghaire would be complete without walking one of the Harbours piers. The East Pier, is the more trodden of the two. At 2.6km out and back, it’s featured in some famous films over the years, including Michael Collins (1996) and Sing Street (2016). And if you need an extra push to get the kids to pound the pavement, it’s worth pointing out that Teddy’s ice cream now have a little hut at the end of the pier

Barnardos Charity & Bridal Shop

8 George’s Street Upper

Barnardos Bridal Rooms stock brand new bridal gowns and wedding accessories that have been donated by some of Ireland’s top bridal retailers, wholesalers and designers. They sell wedding dresses at bargain prices, which can be as fun to try on as they are to buy. To add to the allure of this lovely little shop, it’s worth remembering that proceeds from each purchase go to Barnardos children’s charity, so you can sleep easy in the knowledge that you’ve supported the brilliant work that they do.

Art of Eating health food shop

47 Georges Street Upper

Art of Eating is a gorgeous little health food shop located at the bottom end of Dun Laoighre village. As well as a wide-ranging supply of organic and specialty products, the friendly staff serve homemade fresh food every day at their deli counter (which caters to vegetarians, vegans and raw foodists, and 90% of which is wheat and gluten-free). Emphasis is placed on antioxidant-rich, restorative food that serves to heal the body from the inside out.

The People’s Park

Park Rd

Photo cred: William Murphy 

You’ll be hard pushed to find a nicer way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon than with a stroll around The People’s Park, wandering amongst the various stalls, sussing out the various food offerings, and getting distracted by all the gorgeous little dogs there are just waiting to be petted. There is a huge array of local artisan food producers and craftspeople showcasing their wares here, so you’re bound to pick up a nice treat or trinket after wolfing down a gorgeous falafel wrap or fresh and fragrant curry.

Main photo cred: William Murphy