Booterstown Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Booterstown, County Dublin with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations and excursions.


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Introduction to Booterstown

​ Located in County Dublin in the East Coast and Midlands region of Ireland, Booterstown is a tranquil seaside suburb. It is conveniently located just 7km south of Dublin City Centre and offers visitors the perfect blend of a relaxed coastal atmosphere and easy access to the bustling city. ​

List of Places to Visit in Booterstown

​ Whether you are a culture enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or just looking to relax, Booterstown has plenty to offer. Here are some must-visit places in Booterstown: ​

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

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  • Booterstown Nature Reserve: A peaceful and scenic nature reserve that is home to a variety of plants, birds and wildlife.
  • Blackrock Castle Observatory Explore Ireland’s only interactive astronomy center and discover the mysteries of the cosmos through the view of powerful telescopes.
  • James Joyce Tower and Museum: This museum is located in the iconic Martello tower where James Joyce stayed for a few nights in 1904. It’s a must-visit place for literary enthusiasts. ​

    Natural Attractions of Booterstown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Killiney Hill Park: This park sits on a 153-meter-high hill featuring 360-degree views of Dublin and Wicklow Mountains.
  • Sandymount Strand: A long and wide sandy beach that provides a perfect spot for a walk in the fresh air and enjoying water sports, especially swimming.
  • Dun Laoghaire Pier: This pier stretches out into the bay and is perfect for a leisurely stroll, ice cream or a morning sunrise. ​

    Hiking/Biking Routes of Booterstown

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Booterstown has a range of hiking and biking routes to explore, including:

  • Dublin Bay walk: This 7km walk follows the seashore from Booterstown to Sandymount and offers stunning views of the Dublin skyline and the Wicklow Mountains.
  • The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk: This is a popular, scenic 6km walk begins at Bray and winds along the cliff tops via lovely hill, beach and over the Dargle river.
  • Killiney Hill loop trail: This beautiful loop trail located in Killiney Hill Park is 6km long and offers stunning views of Dublin Bay and some of the city’s most impressive buildings. ​

    Best Things to Do in Booterstown: Activities and Tours

  • Dublin Bay Cruise: Take a relaxing one-hour cruise around Dublin Bay and view the stunning coastline from a different vantage point.
  • Dublin Bay Paddleboarding: Try the unique experience of stand-up paddleboarding on the smooth waters of Dublin Bay.
  • Wicklow Mountain and Glendalough Tour: A guided tour of Wicklow Mountains National Park, including a visit to Glendalough to explore the monastic sites and hike around the lakes and hills. ​

    Week-Long Itinerary for Booterstown

Day 1: Arrival in Booterstown and evening stroll along Sandymount Strand.

Day 2: Hiking at Killiney Hill and exploring nearby villages of Dalkey and Bray.

Day 3: A day trip to Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains, including optional horse riding.

Day 4: A city tour of Dublin, including Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Dublin Castle.

Day 5: Biking tour to Malahide Castle and Gardens or Bull Island.

Day 6: Visiting the coastal towns of Howth and Dun Laoghaire, including boat tours and shopping.

Day 7: Relaxing day by exploring the picturesque local markets, cafes, and music venues of Booterstown. ​

Food and Drink Scene of Booterstown

Irish cuisine provides an excellent wealth of local flavors and ingredients. In Booterstown, you will find a mix of traditional Irish cuisine and innovative modern culinary experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Boxty: A potato pancake dish, served with bacon or salmon, sour cream, and chives.
  • Seafood Chowder: A hearty soup made with fresh seafood, potatoes, cream, and vegetables.
  • Irish Beef Stew: A classic dish made with beef, vegetables, and rich Guinness broth.

Local Beverages

  • Irish whiskey: Jameson and Tullamore Dew are some of the most popular brands of Irish whiskey.
  • Irish cider: Bulmers and Magners are two of the most popular Irish cider brands. ​

    Where to Stay in Booterstown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Booterstown has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, including:

  • Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel: A luxury hotel set in a historic building surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Ariel House: A charming guesthouse in a restored Victorian mansion, just a few steps away from DART station.
  • The Martello Hotel: Located just by the Dun Laoghaire pier, this hotel hosts live music and offers excellent seaside views. ​

    What to Buy in Booterstown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Booterstown is a great place to buy souvenirs and local products. Popular items include Claddagh rings, Aran sweaters, Irish linen, hand-knit woolens, traditional pottery, and Irish whiskey.

Local Culture and Customs of Booterstown

Ireland is known for its warm and friendly culture. The local residents will welcome you with open arms and make you feel at home. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the city and surrounding area also has a deep religious and historical significance, so always be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Booterstown

The best time to visit Booterstown depends on your preferences. However, the summer months (June-August) are the ideal time to visit when the temperatures are mild and the days are longer. Additionally, if you are a fan of Joyce’s “Ulysses,” which is set on June 16 in Dublin, you should definitely visit around this time!

Do’s and Don’ts of Booterstown

Do:

  • Embrace the Irish culture and explore the traditional pubs, restaurants, and shops.
  • Visit the local markets, including the Booterstown farmers’ market for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t get too rowdy in the pubs, and always drink responsibly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Booterstown

Booterstown is very safe for walking and traveling, but always keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings.

Health in Booterstown

Ireland has a reliable healthcare system, with easy access to public and private hospitals. It is also important to note that a European Health Insurance Card is necessary while traveling in Ireland.

Getting to Booterstown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Booterstown is easily accessible, with different transport options depending on your budget and preferences:

Airports Near Booterstown

  • Dublin Airport: This airport is located just 21 km north of Booterstown and is the largest airport in Ireland.
  • Belfast International Airport: This airport is located approximately 180 km north of Booterstown and offers another option for travelers.

Bus Stations Near Booterstown

  • Dublin Bus: This is the main bus network of Dublin and runs a regular service to Booterstown.
  • Aircoach: Aircoach is a private bus company that runs a frequent service between Dublin Airport and the city center, including Booterstown.

Other Options

  • DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit): The DART is the suburban rail system of Dublin which connects Booterstown with the center of Dublin and other parts of the city.

How to Get Around in Booterstown

​ The best way to get around Booterstown is by walking or cycling. This is an excellent way of exploring the scenic countryside and getting some exercise while doing so. Visitors can also take the DART or bus to get around the city and its suburbs. ​

Where to Go Next from Booterstown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dublin City Center: Take a trip to the bustling center of Dublin and explore the culture, history, and nightlife of this vibrant city.
  • Howth: A charming fishing village situated on a rocky peninsula, offering stunning views of the sea, and a lively fishing harbor.
  • The Wicklow Mountains National Park: This is a must-visit destination especially if you are looking for some outdoor adventure activities like hiking and horse-riding.

Conclusion

​ Booterstown is a hidden gem in Ireland, with its unique blend of coastal charm, rich history, and easy access to Dublin City. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an active adventure-packed vacation, Booterstown has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and make your way to this charming coastal town for your next vacation!

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