Dalkey and Killiney
The coastal villages of Dalkey and Killiney are Dublin’s most desirable locations, which is no surprise given their position on the coast, located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. They are neighbouring villages, connected by a small public park, and are located on hilly terrain with many properties, and especially those overlooking the sea, built into the hillside, offering breath-taking views.
Their coastal location, and with the presence of pretty village settings make Dalkey and Killiney a huge draw for its residents. There are many independent shops, boutiques, restaurants, and artisan cafés with an abundance of outdoor activities and places to see. There is a thriving food and drinks scene, especially in Dalkey.
The area is home to some famous locals Bono, The Edge, Enya, and Van Morrisson. Dalkey village is listed as an Irish heritage town with three castles in the town and a 10th century church. It is also home to two festivals with Dalkey Lobster Festival taking place every August with world-class seafood and jazz music. Dalkey Book Festival is an annual event in June which supports and promotes Irish writers.
Killiney Hill Park is a much-loved green space and public park with breath-taking views of the coastline, Dublin, and Wicklow mountains. Make sure to visit the Obelisk, a wonderful tearoom with an extensive history.
Beaches in the area include Killiney Strand, a pebble beach around 2km long, and Whiterock Beach, smaller but sandy.
Outdoor activities in the surrounding area include rowing, kayaking, fishing, and island ferries. Notable places to visit are Coliemore Harbour with fantastic views across the bay and a five-minute boat ride goes to Dalkey Island with a Martello Tower and impressive church ruins.
The area is very well served by public transport links with the DART into the city centre along with many bus routes to the city centre and to the nearby area of Dun Laoghaire. The nearest N11 and M50 junctions are within a 10 minute drive.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre has fun tours and live performances on the history of the castle which are great for the whole family. When you arrive, you will be fully immersed in the history of Dalkey.
Step back in time and enjoy traditional Irish storytelling with tea and cakes in Biddy’s Cottage. It is an authentic Irish cottage experience right in the heart of Dalkey.
EDUCATION
There are several local and private schools in the area.
Listing Castle Park is a co-ed primary school for children from 3 to 12 years.
Rathdown School is an all-girls pre-school, junior and senior level school catering for all ages from 3 to 18.
Holy Child Killiney is an all-girls secondary school, Loreto Abbey Dalkey is an all-girls Catholic secondary school.
St. Joseph of Cluny is an all-girls Catholic secondary school.
DINE AND DRINKS
Foodies have lots of choice in Dalkey with lots of food and drink options on offer. Grab a bite to eat in one of its many seafood restaurants or enjoy a drink in one of its historic pubs.
Corner Note serves really good food with local-sourced produce. Mugs Café serves breakfast and lunch in a friendly setting.
Finnegan’s is a popular option for locals offering tasty lunch options with an extensive wine menu.
The Queen’s, Finnegan’s and The Club are some of the top-rated pubs to visit and The Magpie Inn has great craft beers and a selection of simple food. The King’s Inn and The Vico have beautiful interiors in a traditional pub setting.
Restaurants in the area that should be checked out for any occasion include Ouzos Steak & Seafood, 1909 Restaurant, Dalkey Duck, DeVille’s Bistro, Thai House, and Jaipur Indian Restaurant, all offering quality food options.
SHOPPING
The town centre in Dalkey has several shops to get the essentials and there is also a Supervalu. Select Stores is also an award-winning wholefood shop, juice bar and café to be checked out. There is also a Supervalu at Killiney Shopping Centre.
For larger weekly shops, Glenageary, Sallynoggin and Dun Laoghaire are all close by.
OTHER NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFERINGS
Hyde Park has sports pitches and a children’s playground and is home to GAA and soccer clubs. Other smaller parks include Dillon’s Park and Sorrento Park. Sandycove and Forty Foot are only a short distance from Dalkey towards Dun Laoghaire.
