Located a little south of the town of Malahide in County Fingal, the medieval Malahide Castle is an impressive and imposing structure, blending centuries of history in a single setting. While parts of the castle date back to the 1100s, its grounds offer some of Ireland’s best 18th century garden landscaping, making a trip to Malahide Castle a must for both history and nature enthusiasts.
Malahide Castle itself has been in the Talbot family for over 800 years. An exhibition on the ground floor takes visitors on an interactive journey through the history of both the family and the castle itself. Malahide Castle’s landscaped gardens are another of its key features. Over 5,000 different species of plant grow here, making this one of the most varied and luxurious botanical gardens on offer in the Replublic of Ireland.
Beyond the walls of the Victorian garden you will find Malahide Castle’s expansive demesne, packed with mature rustic woodland. Once Malahide Castle’s private estate, the demesne is now home to an 18-hole pitch and putt course, an excellent children’s playground as well as a number of woodland trails and tranquil spaces that are perfect for family picnics.
Malahide Castle is just half an hour’s drive north of Dublin via Malahide Road. Whether you want a tour of Malahide Castle’s resplendent stately rooms or just want to enjoy 260 acres of natural surrounds, a visit to Malahide is a must if you’re visiting County Fingal.
