There is no fear of being bored on a summer’s day in Dublin. The city comes alive during the warmer months with lots to see and do, plenty of public space to relax and dozens of family-friendly activities to get involved with. If you’re visiting Dublin this summer, plan the perfect day with your family and friends starting with central, comfortable accommodation in Ashling Hotel. Our location close to Heuston Station, Phoenix Park and Dublin City Centre is perfect for exploring the best of summer in the city.
Dublin City Parks
We’re spoiled for choice in Ashling Hotel, surrounded by lovely green spaces on all sides. Our front garden is the small but pretty park where the statue of Anna Livia lies in a water feature. Very close by is the surprisingly peaceful expanse of Croppies Acre, a city park that is somewhat of a hidden gem. IMMA and the Gardens at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham are beautiful places to spend a few hours or grab lunch in the sun. The crown jewel of the parks of Dublin is the massive Phoenix Park which has open fields, playgrounds, flower gardens, the state guesthouse, the home of our president, herds of wild deer and more. Dublin Zoo is a great place to spend a summer afternoon in Phoenix Park too. Grab your picnic blanket and explore the parks of Dublin.
Things to do in Dublin
Save museums and galleries for rainy days so you can explore the great outdoors of Dublin City Centre when the sun shines. Take a walk down Grafton Street for some shopping or grab an ice cream and spend an hour exploring Merrion Square or St. Stephens Green Parks. Hop on an open-top tour bus or join a walking tour and get to know Dublin a little better while enjoying the warmer weather. Viking Splash Tour even enters the River Liffey giving you a unique view of Dublin. Explore some of Dublin’s important landmarks like the grounds of Trinity College, Richmond Barracks or the Botanic Gardens. Make the most of the sunshine while it lasts.
Festivals in Dublin
The Dublin events calendar fills up during the summer months with people flocking from all over to spend time in the sun at a fun Dublin event. June starts with Bloom Festival (2-6th) a hugely popular garden show in Phoenix Park, followed by Forbidden Fruit (4 & 5th) a two-day musical extravaganza in Kilmainham. The Dalkey Book Festival (16-19th) always attracts famous faces and Dublin Pride (22 – 26th) stands out as the most colourful festival in Ireland. July is just as busy with Longitude (1 & 2nd) in Marlay Park and the Festival of Curiosity in the city centre. August’s main event is the Horse Show in the RDS which brings equestrian trainers, admirers and enthusiasts from all over the world. We also have concerts, theatre events, conferences and so much more to look forward to!
Best Beaches in Dublin
When the sun shines, Dublin’s locals remember how close we live to the sea! Dublin City is a short hop on a bus or DART (train) to some beautiful beaches and coastal towns. On the North Side, we have the expansive Portmarnock and nearby harbour town Malahide, as well as challenging hikes (and delicious ice cream) in Howth. To the south, you can visit Dun Laoghaire’s pretty pier, the beach at Greystones or Killiney or a Dublin-adopted coastal town that’s actually in Wicklow, Bray. Each seaside destination has a lovely walk or pier, sometimes has amusements for kids, and always has excellent seafood restaurants and cafes. The sea is cold all year round but if you’re brave enough, there will be plenty of locals getting in for a dip.
Book the perfect summer accommodation for your friends, family or as a couple this year in Ashling Hotel. Our spacious rooms, excellent location, and great value for money mean you can explore Dublin in summer exactly the way you want. Our best rates are exclusively available when you book directly on our website or with one of our team. We look forward to playing a small part in your summer in Dublin this year.
