Bray has something for everyone... from its rich heritage and splendid scenery to excellent transport links, a vibrant arts scene, a bustling town centre and thriving industry.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Download map

The Town’s history predates Norman times, when Strongbow, granted lands on behalf of the Crown, to Sir Walter de Riddlesford circa 1171. Thanks to the arrival of the railway in 1854, the bustling town developed as a popular seaside resort and became known as the “Brighton of Ireland”. Bray has a wide range of festivals and activities to keep visitors entertained throughout the year. Enjoy Bray’s splendid seafront, walk the magnificent Bray Head walk to Greystones, visit Sea life or Killruddery House and Gardens. Enjoy an evening in any of our lively hostelries, choose from a wide range of tempting restaurants to dine in, or stay in our excellent hotels. Why not base yourself in Bray while visiting Dublin and County Wicklow. Bray, (Bré or Brí Cualann) is known as the “Gateway to the Garden of Ireland”, due to its location in Northeast Wicklow, Ireland’s most scenic county

Activities, Attractions & Adventures

Killruddery House & Gardens

Killruddery House & Gardens offers a wide range of events and activities for all the family, including house tours, gardens, Farm Market every Sat (free entry & parking), Tea Room and Farm Shop.

Brennanstown Riding School

Brennanstown Riding School is one of Ireland’s best known Equestrian Establishments. Catering for both adults and children (6 years and over) in picturesque stables just outside Bray off the N11 at Exit 7, the Centre offers riding lessons, cross country riding and trekking in the Wicklow Mountains’.

Bray Harbour

Bray Harbour has a thriving colony of mute swans which need to be nurtured and protected. Bray Harbour is a hub of water sports, while also a tranquil picturesque vision, especially on relaxing summer evening.

Bray Bowl

Bray Bowl is on the Quinsborough Road, close to the DART station. It has a wide variety of activities to suit all ages – including 10 Pin Bowling, Pool, Snooker, American Pool, Quasar Laser and a state of the art Video Arcade.

Walks and Hikes

Take a walk along Bray’s mile long Victorian promenade which starts in the Harbour area near Martello Terrace, the former home of James Joyce author of Ulysses.  Take the famous Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones with breath taking views along the east coast. This natural, 7km unspoilt trail is a must for the outdoor enthusiast. Climb Bray Head to the Cross at its peak and enjoy panoramic views of north Wicklow and south Dublin.

Activities & Entertainment To Enjoy

Sea Life Aquarium

National SEA LIFE Centre aquarium is home to over 1000 fresh water and marine animals from Ireland and all over the world. Step beneath the waves at sea life bray and get closer than ever before to the creatures and features of the world’s oceans. Check it out at www.sealife.Ie

Mermaid Arts Centre

A jewel in the artistic and cultural life of County Wicklow, Mermaid Arts Centre presents a wide and varied programme of performances to
delight the audience – music, drama, comedy, film and dance. Mermaid Gallery shows works by some of the finest artists both national and international.

The Harbour Bar

The Harbour Bar, Bray was established in 1871 and has had a colourful history over those 143 years. The bar has seen many celebrated people drop in for a pint; people such as James Joyce, Katherine Hepburn, Peter O’Toole and Bono. The bar was respectfully renovated in 2013 when the Duggan family bought the bar from the O’Toole family. The charm and curios that made The Harbour Bar famous have been retained, and the Backroom and Upstairs are now open to enjoy a cosy pint and a Toasted Special by the fire. The Harbour Bar prides itself on a commitment to
showcasing excellent music with traditional Irish music in the Bar and live bands onstage in the Live Lounge from Wed-Sun. The Harbour Bar was voted ‘Best Bar in the World’ by the Lonely Planet travel guide in 2010, and since then it has only gotten better!”

Indulge in Some Retail Therapy

Bray has an excellent selection of traditional, local independent retailers, together with our eclectic shops to cater for everyday needs, and your
quirky gift ideas. Enjoy a browse around our town centre shopping area, you are sure to find a bargain.