Dun Laoghaire Turns 200 - Our Favourite Spots

One of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Dublin is celebrating its 200th birthday today - Dun Laoghaire Harbour. 

The first stones of the harbour were laid 200 years ago, by Charles Whitworth, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland then. 

There will be a birthday to celebrate today, and will be launched by our President Michael D Higgins. The Air Corps will fly over it, and the Defence Force will do a 21 gun salute on the pier. 

With the Bank Holiday fast approaching, you may be planning a day trip. There's so much to do in Dun Laoghaire, it would be impossible to be bored there. 

Here's our top 5 recommendations:

Walk Dun Laoghaire Pier

This is one of the nicest walks you can do in Dublin. You get a beautiful view of the sea and boats along the harbour. Walk to the lighthouse at the top and look out over in to the sea. You may even see a seal. It's also a good place to train for Fanta's Sandstorm. More on that HERE. 

 

Dublin is a city by the sea! Fringed with coastal gems, from castles and cliffs to beaches and restaurants, it’s an awesome playground, right on our doorstep! Pic @dearestdublin #love #dublin #instatravel #instagood #igers #vsco #vscocam #travel #pic #instadaily #instamood #photo #igersdublin #irlanda #ireland #lonelyplanet #igersireland #lovedublin #dublincity #dublinbuildings #dublinireland #visitdublin #sea #sunset #DunLaoghaire #pier

A post shared by Visit Dublin (@visitdublin) on May 28, 2017 at 6:53am PDT

Visit Teddy's for a 99 

Located on Windsor Terrace, its a sin to go to Dun Laoghaire and not get a Teddy's. Grab one after your pier walk and sit by the seafront. Gorgeous. They also have two pop-ups on the pier. On a sunny day, the queues go on for ages, but trust us - it's worth the wait. 

 

The best 99's in the world! @teddysicecream #teddysicecream #99 #dunlaoghairepier #99icecream

A post shared by Cian Ryan (@cianryan_photo) on Sep 13, 2016 at 6:24am PDT

Shop in the Dun Laoghaire Sunday Market

Every Sunday in the People's Park, there's a market. It's packed to the brim with delicious food, drink, books and clothing. It's a lovely spot to grab a bite and chill on the grass. 

 

Dun Laoghaire is hands-down my favourite place in Dublin to spend a Sunday afternoon :) #dunlaoghaire #dunlaoghairemarket #sundayadventures #sunday #sundaymarket #dublin #southdublin #ireland #coffee #spanishfoodstalls #seasidetown #sundaywalk

A post shared by Lauren B (@incorrigible.dreamer) on Oct 9, 2016 at 5:56am PDT

Dive into the 40ft 

If you're a thrill seeker (and a deadly swimmer) this is something for you. Once only restricted to men, this 250 year old attraction is one of Dubliners' favourite places for a dip. It can be icy, but incredibly refreshing. It's usually packed on a hot summer's day. 

 

Another morning, another swim. Despite last minute protests we swam from sandycove around to the forty foot. Deep chill ensued! Great start to the day. #sandycove #seaswimming #sea #fortyfoot #lianeup #dailyswim

A post shared by Mark Earley (@markearleyphotography) on May 29, 2017 at 11:33pm PDT

Go for brunch in the Gourmet Food Parlour

After all that walking and swimming you'll be in need of a good feast. Located on the Harbour Square, you haven't far to walk at all. They've a wide range of delicious food, and are open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and do brunch on the weekends. We're sold. Find their delicious offerings HERE. 

 

Good morning from GFP #breakfast #fullIrish #eggsbenedict #tea #coffee #Dublin #dunlaoghaire #swords #santry #Malahide thanks for the pic @thelambergs 🙌🏻

A post shared by Gourmet Food Parlour (@gourmetfoodparlour) on May 30, 2017 at 1:05am PDT

Image credit: Laura O'Reilly Instagram Teddy's Instagram and GFP Instagram