Visit Bray.

Dubliners’ favorite place to spend a Sunday! Bray is a small coastal town south of Dublin. Its seaside resort is renowned throughout Ireland, allowing you to discover the region’s beaches while still being within easy reach of the capital! Perched majestically on the east coast of Ireland, the town of Bray is a key destination in County Wicklow, and a must for those seeking the perfect blend of history, nature and entertainment.

History of Bray

Anglo-Norman origins

Bray is much more than just a tourist destination. Its history dates back to the 12th century, when it was established by the Normans.

A fortified castle was built at its heart, around which grew a village that, over the centuries, became the vibrant town we know today. This transition is reflected in Bray’s architecture, where medieval buildings coexist with Victorian ones.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

Visit Bray

A young and dynamic seaside resort!

Situated at the mouth of the River Dargle, Bray is nestled between the Wicklow Mountains to the west and Bray Head Mountain to the south, which rises to an altitude of 241 meters. In other words, the scenery is quite exceptional! Don’t miss the town’s main beach, a gigantic strip of sand stretching for 1.6 km! An esplanade runs along its entire length, giving you a commanding view of the coastline. A real wonder!

As for the town itself, Bray is a dynamic place, ranking eighth in Ireland’s top 10 largest cities.

You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in this town of 30,000 inhabitants, and discover its restaurants, Irish pubs and tourist and craft shops.

When it comes to accommodation, the city offers a wide range of options, from hotels to B&Bs.

All at an affordable price, which can be adapted to your budget if required. There’s plenty to do here, especially in the area of water sports. Diving, swimming, water-skiing and thalassotherapy are all on the agenda during the summer season.

Must-sees

Take a stroll through the streets of Bray and you’ll discover a number of historic treasures. The most emblematic is undoubtedly Saint-Paul church, built in the 19th century. Its neo-Gothic style and dazzling stained glass windows are a feast for the eyes. The Château de Bray, now in ruins, offers another glimpse into the town’s past. Located close to the town center, it’s easily accessible for history buffs.

But Bray isn’t just about history. It’s also a popular destination for picturesque landscapes and a wide range of activities. Among the places to visit, the Seafront Promenade is a must. This coastal promenade offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and is dotted with inviting cafés and pubs.

Just west of the town, Bray Head Mountain offers hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views. At the summit, you’ll discover a stone cross, a memorial to those who lost their lives in the Second World War.

Another place to visit is the National Sea Life Centre. This marine education and conservation center offers visitors the chance to observe a wide variety of marine creatures up close.