Marlay Park (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Marlay Park?
Wide paved loops suit prams, free Changing Places room with hoist aids diapering, cafés offer high-chairs; lack of dedicated nursing lounge and loud concert days mean parents should pick quiet hours.
Positives:
- Free Access: No entry fee and free use of pram-friendly paths and playgrounds.
- Baby-Friendly Amenities: Changing Places room, high chairs, and accessible toilets are available.
Challenges:
- Crowded Weekends: Markets and events can make paths busier and limit space for prams.
- Limited Shade on Lawns: Open lawns have little cover; bring a sunshade or umbrella for the baby.
What is Marlay Park?
- A 120-hectare suburban park in Rathfarnham, south Dublin, combining mature woodlands, open lawns and lakeside vistas
- Anchored by Marlay House, an 18th-century Georgian manor set amid a Regency walled garden and ornamental waterways
- A municipal estate integrating sports pitches, a par-3 golf course and designated concert lawns within its landscaped terrain
What is so special about Marlay Park for with baby?
- Wide, flat paths ideal for pushing a pram
- Smooth, paved routes through the Regency Walled Garden
- Convenient picnic lawns near parking and toilets
- Cafés with baby-changing facilities and high chairs
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for pram-friendly walks, a picnic, and a café break without rushing with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Marlay Park
Stroll Woodland & Lakeside Paths:
Follow the flat, wide loop around the lake and through the woods.
Tip: Start at the main car park to minimize distance pushing the pram.
Explore Regency Walled Garden:
Walk on smooth paved paths beneath shade from fruit trees.
Tip: Keep an eye out for seasonal flowers and rest on benches near the orangery.
Picnic on the Lawns Near the Lake:
Spread a blanket on the grass close to parking and toilets.
Tip: Bring your own blanket and snacks for a quick feed and nap spot.
Café Break with Baby-Change Facilities:
Visit Boland’s (Brambles) or Wicklow Way Café for drinks and snacks.
Tip: Ask for the Changing Places key at Brambles café to access the large family room.
Use the Changing Places Room:
Access a fully equipped, spacious changing and nursing facility.
Tip: Pick up the universal key at Brambles café between 9 am and 5:30 pm.
When is the best time to visit Marlay Park (Dublin, Ireland)?
On weekends from May to September, the farmers’ market runs 10 am–4 pm and can be busy. Visit early or on weekday mornings for quieter picnic spots.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Marlay Park (Dublin)
Brian Carruthers
A very large public park with ample car parking dotted around the perimeter. A couple of small coffee shops around the park. A small Avery inside the walled garden.
AJ Nagle
Was there for Noah Kahan recently and Green Day last summer. Great venue for gigs. I do think more veggie/vegan food should be available given how many food trucks and how many people are there. The staff are fantastic and friendly in terms of accessibility. Although the accessible platform itself should be more towards the centre rather than completely to one side Overall, good venue, good atmosp...
Andy K.
Beautiful park, with an aviary that has soo many bird species, can spend an hour watching them and meandering through the many canals and walkways that zigzag the forested park. Also they have lovely cafes and a public toilet! Plus food stalls on the weekend.
William Hitchcock
Beautiful park that is accessible to Dublin City Centre if you’re willing to take a bus ride, it’s a trail head on the Wicklow Way (and a hike up to the Fairy Castle).
Ron Bajaroff
Nice park very quiet and a love of open space to walk around, I really liked the combinations of water in the park which add to the natural vibe of the location
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry | EUR 0 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 12 |
| Café snack and drink | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 22 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Marlay Park
- Plan Your Route: Use the lake loop first then return via the walled garden to break up the walk.
- Early Start: Arrive before 11 am to secure a picnic spot and avoid café queues.
Map of Marlay Park
Address: Grange Rd, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, D14 Y6X5, Ireland
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About Marlay Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 1 204 7931See available options
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