Living Like Nobility at Malahide Castle And Gardens
While many of the tourist spots in Dublin are found near Dublin City Centre, I can’t help but gush over the beauty that is Malahide Castle and Gardens. While it isn’t as massive as Dublin Castle, it’s still a majesty to behold and is perfect for a quick field trip.
I had first visited Malahide Castle a few years before I fully moved to Dublin, and it was a wonderful place to visit. The ornate walls and beautiful paintings that adorn the place are complemented by antique furniture that exudes royalty and nobility.
If you’re looking to visit Malahide Castle and Gardens and have no idea where to start, then we’ve got the guide for you. We’ll share all the important details, and we’ll even throw in a few tips to make your visit that much more special.
What is Malahide Castle and Gardens Known for?
Malahide Castle and Gardens were once an estate owned by Richard Talbot, and it was later donated to the state. It’s part of the Malahide Demesne Regional Park and is a favoured historic site to visit by tourists, and is known for its concerts.
Best Time to Go to Malahide Castle And Gardens
The best time to head to Malahide Castle and Gardens is during the warmer months of June through August. If you’re looking to visit the heritage sites when there are fewer people, we’d suggest visiting in the Winter.
Things to Know about Malahide Castle and Gardens
Address: Malahide Castle and Gardens is located at Back Rd, Malahide Demesne, Malahide, Co. Dublin, Ireland, and is north of the capital city’s northern borders.
Operating Hours: Malahide Castle and Gardens are open seven days a week starting from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Parking: There is ample parking at Malahide Castle and Gardens. If parking is full, we suggest parking at Malahide DART Station, Bridgefield Car Park, or Malahide Shopping Centre.
Contact Information: You can reach the officials at Malahide Castle and Gardens by phone at +353 1 866 6780 or by email at [email protected].
Pets: Pets are not allowed inside the premises of Malahide Castle and Gardens. Assistance dogs are permitted within the gardens’ premises, provided they are accompanied by proper documentation.
Accessibility At Malahide Castle And Gardens
Wheelchair Accessibility: The entire Malahide Castle and Gardens complex is wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps and elevators throughout the facilities. If you have any concerns, you can contact their email at [email protected].
Assistive Devices: The castle staff also offers wheelchairs and hearing aids to those who need them. You can request these from their staff.
Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilets are located throughout the entire site. If you’re having difficulty finding them, you can easily ask one of their staff to assist you.
Accessible Parking: The facility offers accessible parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
Tailored Tours: The tours at Malahide Castle and Gardens can be easily modified to accommodate the needs of visitors with disabilities.
Sensory-Friendly Experiences: They also offer sensory-friendly experiences for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
How To Get To Malahide Castle And Gardens
Car: Malahide Castle and Gardens is far from Dublin City; as such, when heading here, you need to head to Back Road, which is accessible through Malahide Road. Alternatively, you can also head to Back Road through Swords Road.
Dublin Bus: Dublin Bus is one of the easiest ways to head to Malahide Castle and Gardens from the city. Below are the designated bus routes that pass nearby and the specific bus stops associated with them.
| Dublin Bus Route | Bus Stop | Operating Hours |
| Route 32X | Malahide Castle Stop | Monday to Friday: • 7:15 AM – 4:45 PM |
| Route 42 | Malahide Castle Stop | Monday to Friday: • 6:25 AM – 11:45 PM Saturday: • 7:30 AM – 11:45 PM Sunday: • 9:10 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Route 42D | St. Sylvester’s School Stop | Monday to Friday: • 7:30 AM – 5:10 PM |
| Route 102 | Malahide Village Stop | Monday to Friday: • 5:50 AM – 11:40 PM Saturday: • 5:45 AM – 11:45 PM Sunday: • 8:40 AM – 11:40 PM |
| Route 142 | St. Sylvester’s School Stop | Monday to Friday: • 7:10 AM – 5:35 PM |
DART Train System: The DART train system is the easiest way to head to Malahide Castle and Gardens from Dublin. You can ride from one of the DART stations in Dublin to Malahide Station.
Taxi: You can also head to Malahide Castle and Gardens via taxi. We wouldn’t recommend this option unless you’re willing to pay a high fare. This option would take you directly to the castle, however.
How much is a Ticket to Malahide Castle And Gardens
There are six different experiences available when visiting Malahide Castle and Gardens. You can also obtain a membership card when visiting, if you plan to visit a few times a year.
| MALAHIDE CASTLE AND GARDENS | ||||||
| Ticket Type | Classic Castle Tour | Whiskey Tour & Taste | Fairy Trail + Butterfly House | Railway & Fairy Trail Special | Castle & Casino Railway Combo | The Hunt Dinner Party |
| Adult | €17 | €35 | €10 | €16 | €17 | – |
| Child | €9 | €8 | €10 | €11 | – | |
| Child (0-3) | – | – | FREE | – | – | – |
| Family (2 + 3) | €48 | – | €34 | €48 | €48 | – |
| Senior | €12 | – | €9.50 | – | €12 | – |
| Student | €12 | – | €9.50 | – | – | – |
| Dinner Party | – | – | – | – | – | €110 |
| MALAHIDE CASTLE AND GARDENS | |
| Membership Type | Membership Price |
| Adult | €80 |
| Family | €150 |
| Joint Senior | €90 |
| Senior | €60 |
| Student | €60 |
Types of Experiences at Malahide Castle and Gardens
There are a total of six different experiences at Malahide Castle and Gardens. Below is some insight into each experience, along with what you can expect from each.
Classic Castle Tour
| Classic Castle Tour | |
| Days Available: | Monday to Sunday |
| Time Slots: | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Number of Slots | 30 Slots |
The Classic Castle Tour will let you explore the entirety of Malahide Castle and Gardens. You’ll be given a chance to explore each room, along with the gardens, the fairy trail, and the butterfly house, while being guided by a tour guide.
Whiskey Tour & Taste
| Whiskey Tour & Taste | |
| Days Available: | Select Dates |
| Time Slots: | 4:30 PM |
| Number of Slots | 35 Slots |
The Whiskey Tour and Taste is an adult-only tour that offers a unique twist on the Classic Castle Tour. Aside from the tour, it also offers a special Whiskey Tasting Experience, hosted by the Whiskey Island team.
Fairy Trail + Butterfly House
| Fairy Trail + Butterfly House | |
| Days Available: | Monday to Sunday |
| Time Slots: | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Number of Slots | 500 Slots |
If you’ve already explored the Castle and you’re looking to simply revisit for the Fairy Trail and Butterfly House, then this cheaper experience might be for you. In this tour, you’ll only be able to explore the Fairy Trail, Walled Garden, and the Butterfly House.
Railway And Fairy Trail Special
| Railway And Fairy Trail Special | |
| Days Available: | Wednesday to Saturday |
| Time Slots: | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Number of Slots | 500 Slots |
If you’re already planning on exploring the Casino Model Railway Museum and you’d like a quick trip through nature, then Malahide Castle and Gardens offers a special ticket just for you. You’ll be given a ticket for the Railway Museum and for the Fairy Trail.
Castle And Casino Railway Combo
| Castle And Casino Railway Combo | |
| Days Available: | Wednesday to Saturday |
| Time Slots: | 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Number of Slots | 500 Slots |
The Castle and Casino Railway Combo offers the same experience as the previous tour, but with an exclusive tour at Malahide Castle instead of the Fairy Trail. They recommend that you arrive 15 minutes early, just to ensure you can get your tickets.
The Hunt Dinner Party
| The Hunt Dinner Party | |
| Days Available: | Friday to Saturday |
| Time Slots: | 4:30 PM |
The Hunt Dinner Party is an exclusive experience where you’ll get to dine at Nugents Hall at Malahide Castle. This experience offers a 4-course meal that’s accompanied by lively entertainment. This is the ultimate experience for those who want to feel like royalty.
Rooms at Malahide Castle and Gardens
There are a total of six different experiences at Malahide Castle and Gardens. Below is some insight into each section of the castle and what you can expect to see in each place.
The Great Hall
The Great Hall is a Gaelic feasting room and is one of the most impressive ones of its kind in Ireland. Decorating the Great Hall are Jacobite portraits, antique Irish furniture, and a captivating Minstrel’s Gallery that echoes Malahide Castle’s medieval past.
The Oak Room
The Oak Room is located in the oldest section of the castle and is aptly named due to the ornate oak carvings that adorn it. In this room, you’ll learn more about the interests and passions of the Talbots through the many furnishings and items inside the room.
The Library
There is also a library located inside the Castle, and here you’ll find bookcases that once housed the Talbots’ collections of rare antique books and manuscripts. Nowadays, it’s simply a room of bookcases that has a sense of comfort and peace.
The Drawing Room
The Drawing Rooms are elegant rooms that were created as a place for the Talbots to entertain their guests. These rooms feature a wonderfully unique shade of colour known as “Malahide orange,” which can only be truly appreciated upon visit.
Bedrooms
These private chambers were once the bedrooms of the Talbots. From Lord Milo, the famed diplomat-spy, to Lady Joyce, an actress turned lady of the manor, these quarters were where the Talbots rested and retreated.
Gardens
The gardens at Malahide Castle and Gardens were the famed creation of Lord Milo Talbot de Malahide, who was the most knowledgeable Irish gardener of his time. You’ll find a wide assortment of flora that has been kept and cared for up to this day.
Butterfly House
The Butterfly House is a substantial greenhouse that houses a massive collection of butterflies. Accompanied by lush tropical plants, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported into a wondrous paradise as these little creatures flutter about.
Fairy Trail
The Fairy Trail is a trek through the woods that surround Malahide Castle. Young children are encouraged to explore with their parents as they traverse these enchanted woods to find the houses and the secrets of the fairies that reside there.
Where to Eat When Visiting Malahide Castle and Gardens
After a relaxing stroll and visit to Malahide Castle and Gardens, I’m sure you’ll find yourselves feeling quite peckish. You’re in luck, as there are several restaurants nearby that’ll fill you up with some of the best dishes served this side of Dublin.
Old Street Restaurant
Media Credit: Old Street Instagram
Website: https://oldstreet.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oldstreetdublin
Address: Old St, Malahide, Co. Dublin, K36 A262, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 845 5614
Price Range: €20 – €30
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday:
- 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday:
- 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday:
- 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Old Street offers vibrant, seasonal menus of modern Irish dishes that are sure to make your mouth water. If you’re heading here, we’d suggest trying their Charred Fillet of Sea Bass. The fish is flaky and comes with an assortment of clams and vegetables.
The food here isn’t just your regular fare; they serve Irish dishes with a twist. People say the ribeye steak that’s aged for 30 days is one of the best things on the menu.
McGoverns Restaurant
Media Credit: Powered Up Productions Instagram
Website: https://mcgovernsmalahide.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/McGovernsRestaurant
Address: The Diamond, Main Street, Malahide, Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 828 3906
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday:
- 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
McGoverns Restaurant is a family-run restaurant that takes pride in offering a friendly dining experience to its guests. If you want something crunchy, we suggest the chicken goujon wrap, which is filling and packed with garlic mayo, lettuce, and onion jam.
One standout is their “All Things Seafood” deal: three courses for €33. You can get calamari, buffalo prawns, hake & chorizo fish cakes, or even mussels.
That’s Amore – Malahide
Media Credit: That’s Amore Instagram
Website: https://www.thatsamoremalahide.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thatsamore.malahide
Address: 12 Townyard Lane, Malahide, Co. Dublin, K36 XK81, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 845 6278
Price Range: €20 – €30
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday:
- 12:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday:
- 12:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday:
- 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM
That’s Amore has been serving Malahide for over 20 years with its delectable Italian dishes. The best dishes here are their seafood options. We recommend trying their Risotto Seafood, as it doesn’t have a fishy taste and the risotto is quite creamy.
On the dinner menu, you’ll spot food like Linguine Amalfi with mixed seafood. Honestly, this one’s the bomb, so we highly suggest you get it.
The Greenery Malahide
Media Credit: The Greenery Instagram
Website: https://thegreenery.ie
Address: 1 Coast Rd, Malahide, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 816 8576
Price Range: €10 – €20
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday:
- 8:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday:
- 8:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Saturday:
- 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday:
- 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Greenery boasts a wonderful seaside view that can’t be found anywhere else. We highly recommend trying seafood pasta, as the seafood in Malahide is some of the best in the country. The sauce for this pasta is quite superb and light.
Where to Stay When Heading to Malahide Castle and Gardens
Here are some of the hotels and hostels that we’d recommend when staying near Malahide Castle and Gardens or Dublin City.
Grand Hotel Malahide
Media Credit: Grand Hotel Malahide Instagram
Website: https://www.thegrand.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrandHotelMalahide
Address: Grove Rd, Malahide, Co. Dublin, K36 XT65, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 845 0000
Price Range: Starts at €154
The Grand Hotel Malahide is situated near Malahide Beach and offers a unique seaside experience that overlooks a significant portion of Malahide Marina. You’ll find some of the poshest rooms in Malahide at this location.
The Arena Health & Fitness Club is a highlight: a 21-metre indoor pool (bigger than many in Dublin), sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped gym with trainers.
Clontarf Castle Hotel
Media Credit: Clontarf Castle Hotel Instagram, Clontarf Castle Hotel Facebook
Website:https://www.clontarfcastle.ie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClontarfCastleHotel
Address: Castle Ave, Clontarf East, Dublin 3, D03 W5NO, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 833 2321
Price Range: Starts at €259
If you’re not tired of the castle experience, then we’d suggest booking at Clontarf Castle Hotel. The hotel was once a medieval castle that has been fully renovated to house guests from around the world, offering services that’ll make you feel like royalty.
Rooms here are packaged with King Koil pillow-top beds, hypoallergenic bedding, and walk-in rain showers. But the best yet is the 40-inch 4K TVs with Chromecast.
LATROUPE Jacobs Inn
Media Credit: LATROUPE Jacobs Inn Instagram
Website: https://www.latroupe.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoinLatroupe/
Address: 21-28 Talbot Pl, Mountjoy, Dublin 1, D01 W5P8, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 855 5660
Price Range: Starts at €23.66
Latroupe is a favourite among travellers, as they offer affordable accommodation and their private rooms are some of the best, even surpassing those of actual hotels.
Yes, instead of basic bunk beds, they’ve got pod-style sleeping setups. These are complete with curtains, individual lights, and even USB ports. You get your own little retreat at an affordable rate.
Abbey Court Hostel
Media Credit: Abbey Court Hostel Instagram
Website: https://www.abbey-court.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbeycourthostel
Address: 29 Bachelors Walk, North City, Dublin, D01 AX90, Ireland
Contact Details: +353 1 878 0700
Price Range: Starts at €19
Abbey Court is a beloved hostel for those who want to visit Dublin without breaking the bank. It offers private and dorm rooms that are complemented by spacious common areas and a complimentary breakfast.
Oh, did we mention their on-site resto, the Maze Restaurant? Yes, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes like their famous full Irish breakfast and aMAZEing burger.
Tips When Visiting Malahide Castle and Gardens
We’ve gathered a few neat tips when visiting Malahide Castle and Gardens, and we’re willing to share them with you to make your visit a memorable one.
Get Their Membership
If you’re looking to visit the castle several times a year, then getting their membership is the best way to save money. You’ll have access to most of the castle, and you can visit daily, if that’s your style.
Stay in Dublin City Centre
While it’s better to stay close to the sites you want to visit, there’s a reason why most hotels are concentrated in Dublin City Centre. You can easily travel across the entirety of Dublin County just from the city centre, so just stay there.
Ride The DART
The DART train is the fastest way to get to Malahide Castle. We highly suggest studying their timetables and checking them frequently. They occasionally change the times due to accidents or sudden changes.
Take Lots of Pictures
Malahide Castle and Gardens have some of the best scenery in Dublin County. If you have time, we suggest exploring the surrounding area, especially near the coast. It offers some spectacular views that are perfect for photos.