Sitting along the east coast in County Wicklow you’ll find the picturesque coastal town of Bray. Rain or shine, tourists head to Ireland for a city escape in welcoming Dublin. I’ve been to Dublin before and to other coastal towns in County Wicklow but Bray was another experience altogether. It’s around 40 minutes on the Dart from Dublin.
It helps that I have close friends who live in Bray, meaning my experience will never be that of a normal traveller. Instead I have their company so the laughter and gin is constantly flowing. Bray was once a seaside resort for Dubliners and when the sun is beating down you’ll see masses of people all the way down from Bray Head to the promenade.
I’ve never felt as relaxed as I did this time in Ireland and I think it’s something to do with the 6km walk we went on. I’m always game for a walk. Especially next to the sea, with a lot of greenery surrounding me. I love a mix of Earth’s elements to get the most of a walk.
Here’s a round-up of what I did on one of my days in Bray and I think it makes for a perfect day.
Coastal Trek
If you’re staying in Dublin but want scenic views then Bray doesn’t take much planning. You can jump on the Dart (their railway network) and head into Greystones. From here, walk along the coast, following the railway track back on yourself towards Bray. It’s a beautiful sight seeing the Dart pass along the foothills of Bray, right by the cliff edge. Along the route there’s a spot where one of the cliff tunnels collapsed from natural erosion and they had to build a new one.
You can start the trek from Greystones towards Bray or the other way around. If you do it my friend’s way (from Greystones) then you’ll end up at Bray Head, descending to the promenade and a short walk away from indulging in great local Glendalough gin.
The night before it had rained, and we didn’t take this into consideration. If you have hiking shoes, wear them. Unlike me, someone who loves to walk but doesn’t own any. It was a lot of fun and we had to jump over many puddles (or little rivers if you ask my opinion). On a sunny day you won’t be alone along this track as the locals make the most of their scenery.
Speaking of scenery, there’s a reason you’re doing this walk. Don’t forget to look back as well as forward while walking because the hanging cliffs, land protruding into the ocean and railway track all give this part of County Wicklow its character.
As we got closer to Bray a little robin happened to fly and perch on the wall in front of us. If you know me, you know I am fond of birds. I managed to capture a photo of him on my Canon, looking directly at me. It was a beautiful moment. Enjoy the photo!
Bray Head
Bray is the longest established seaside town in Ireland and when you’re standing on the promenade you can see the hill with a big cross at the top of it. In 2018 locals uncovered the Éire sign on Bray Head which dates to the second World War. It’s of historical significance and a relatively new discovery and it’s worth a look. I didn’t look. But I think you should. I’m sure the view is even better the further up in the sky you are.
Along the promenade you’ll find a few restaurants and I went to one the night before. You could see the sea waves hitting the shore at 9pm, it was quite a sight. I opted for Italian that night and it was a delight for the senses. I think what made my experience at this restaurant even better was the service. I don’t think I’ve ever been given customer service of that much care unless I’ve been on a food review. And I wasn’t on a review here! I’ll try and remember the name of the restaurant.
There’s also an old abandoned hotel here and sometimes films are shot here because it’s super spooky. Smashed windows etc. It’s not a place I’d entering on my own. I can only imagine how creepy it looks at night.
Harbour Bar
Pop into the Harbour bar after the Bray Head cliff walk. This is where I tasted the Glendalough gin, recommended by my friend. If you’re hungry, then it’s the place to stock up on toasties, as that’s all they serve. There’s always something going on here, from the toastie festival, live music and craft beer. That week they were hosting a comedy festival and seeing as it’s a few minutes’ walk from the beach, the bar was bustling with those celebrating the sunshine before it turned to liquid.
Overall
I love Bray. I may be biased because having the company of great friends will always sway me but I genuinely felt quite relaxed here. I also enjoyed coffees with my girl nearly every day at their new coffee shop. Also another place’s name that I need to chase-up.
If you’ve got a Dearbhla then you’re guaranteed a fire-cracker of a weekend. If you don’t have a Dearbhla, then maybe just go for the cliff walk and Glendalough gin.
No Comments