Marlay Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Marlay Park?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can spend hours on two adventure playgrounds, ride free miniature trains, join lawn games, and eat at markets; toilets, picnic tables and rangers make visits easy, but watch open water.
Positives:
- Free Entry and Facilities: Park access, playgrounds and walking trails are free year-round.
- Child-Friendly Cafés: Boland’s and Wicklow Way Café offer kids’ menus and high chairs.
Challenges:
- Weather-Dependent Activities: Mini-train rides run only in dry weather, and paths can be muddy after rain.
- Weekend Crowds: Playgrounds and picnic spots fill up quickly on weekend afternoons.
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 kids?
- Enjoy two playgrounds designed for 3–12 year olds.
- Ride the free miniature railway on Saturdays (May–Sept).
- Explore the weekend farmers’ & craft market with family treats.
- Picnic by the lake and watch boats from the viewing platform.
- Stroll the Regency Walled Garden for a fun plant-spotting game.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A half-day visit lets your family enjoy playgrounds, a picnic, the mini-train, and the weekend market without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Marlay Park
Children’s Playgrounds:
Two large playgrounds with slides, swings and climbing frames for ages 3–12.
Tip: Visit early to claim a picnic bench nearby and supervise younger kids.
Miniature Railway Rides:
Free steam-style train rides each Saturday (May–Sept, 14:00–16:30).
Tip: Check the weather as rides pause in bad weather.
Farmers’ & Craft Market:
Weekend market (Sat–Sun, 10:00–16:00) with local foods and treats.
Tip: Let kids sample ice cream and pick a small souvenir.
Regency Walled Garden:
Formal garden with herb and fruit beds ideal for a short stroll.
Tip: Turn it into a plant-spotting game for children.
Picnic & Boathouse Viewing:
Open lawns near the lake perfect for family picnics, with lake views.
Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks; the viewing platform offers safe water views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Marlay Park
- Arrive Early on Weekends: Get to the park by 10:00 to secure picnic spots and avoid crowding at playgrounds.
- Pack Waterproof Gear: Bring raincoats and sturdy shoes to enjoy trails even in light rain.
Reviews of Marlay Park
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
When is the best time to visit Marlay Park (Dublin, Ireland)?
From May to September, arrive on Saturday afternoons for free miniature train rides. On weekends year-round, the farmers’ market runs 10:00–16:00. In wet weather, wear waterproof shoes as paths can get muddy.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Market snacks and ice cream | EUR 10 |
| Lunch at Boland’s Café | EUR 25 |
| Souvenir at craft stalls | EUR 15 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 50 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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 793110 BEST nearby Activities
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