Bray Head: A Scenic Escape in County Wicklow
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Bray Head in County Wicklow, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the picturesque County Wicklow, Bray Head is a stunning mountain peak that offers breathtaking views of the Irish coastline and the surrounding countryside. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and casual hikers alike, this natural wonder is a must-visit during your stay.
A brief summary to Bray Head
- Newcourt, Co. Wicklow, IE
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks to enjoy a break with a view at the summit.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider exploring the nearby Bray town for local shops and eateries after your hike.
Getting There
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Car
From Glendalough, head southwest on the R756 road towards Laragh. Continue on R756 for about 4 kilometers until you reach the junction with the R759. Turn right onto R759. Follow this road for approximately 6 kilometers until you see signs for Bray Head. The entrance to Bray Head will be on your left. There is parking available near the entrance.
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Public Transportation
From the Glendalough Visitor Centre, walk to the nearest bus stop and take the Bus Éireann Route 183 towards Bray. The bus will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Bray stop. From the bus stop, head southeast on Main Street and follow the signs towards Bray Head. It is about a 20-minute walk from the bus stop to the Bray Head trailhead.
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Walking
If you are already in Glendalough, you can walk to Bray Head. Start at the Glendalough Visitor Centre and head south towards the R756 road. Once you reach R756, turn right and follow the road for about 4 kilometers until you reach the junction with R759. Turn right onto R759 and continue walking for about 6 kilometers. Look for the entrance to Bray Head on your left. The entire walk will take around 2 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Discover more about Bray Head
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bray Head Cross
0.0 km
Hike to the iconic Bray Head Cross for breathtaking panoramic views of the Wicklow coastline, Dublin Bay, and a touch of Irish history.
The Brandy Hole
0.4 km
Discover a historic smuggler's cove with stunning coastal views on Bray Head, County Wicklow. A glimpse into Ireland's maritime past.
Raheen-A-Cluig
0.6 km
Discover the historic Raheen-a-Cluig in Bray: a medieval church ruin with stunning coastal views, rich history, and local legends.
Bray Promenade and Beach
1.4 km
Experience the charm of a Victorian seaside resort at Bray Promenade, with stunning views, lively entertainment, and a beautiful beach.
Killruddery House & Gardens
1.6 km
Discover the historical charm and natural beauty of Killruddery House & Gardens in Bray, Co. Wicklow, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Squirrel's Scramble
1.7 km
Experience an exhilarating treetop adventure at Squirrel's Scramble in Killruddery Estate, Bray. Zip lines, rope bridges, and outdoor fun for all ages!
Killruddery Lime Avenue Walk
1.8 km
Wander through history on the Killruddery Lime Avenue Walk, a serene escape amidst towering trees in County Wicklow's historic Killruddery Estate.
Alive Outside Adventure Centre
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Alive Outside Adventure Centre in Bray, Co. Wicklow, where excitement meets nature.
KilIruddery Estate
1.9 km
Explore Killruddery Estate: a historic house and gardens with a working farm, cultural events, and stunning scenery in County Wicklow, near Dublin.
Oldcourt castle
2.1 km
Explore Oldcourt Castle in Bray, a medieval tower house offering a glimpse into Ireland's captivating history and scenic landscapes.
The Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Bray
2.3 km
A blend of architectural styles and community spirit in the heart of Bray, County Wicklow.
Great Sugar Loaf
6.0 km
Explore the stunning Great Sugar Loaf in Co. Wicklow, offering breathtaking views and a memorable hiking experience in the heart of Ireland's natural beauty.
Killiney
7.7 km
Discover Killiney: Dublin's scenic coastal escape with stunning views, historical charm, and tranquil beaches.
Maulin
10.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Maulin, a striking mountain peak in Co. Wicklow, offering stunning views and invigorating hikes amidst nature's serenity.
Fairy Castle
12.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Naylors Cove
0.6 km
Discover Naylors Cove in County Wicklow: a scenic coastal escape with stunning views, rich history, and tranquil beauty for nature lovers.
Bray Head Cliff Walk
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking views of the Bray Head Cliff Walk, a stunning hiking trail along the Irish coastline with picturesque landscapes and vibrant nature.
Star Leisure & Casino
1.0 km
Bray's premier amusement center and casino, offering family-friendly entertainment and adult gaming on the scenic seafront.
Stone Tower Art
1.3 km
Discover captivating art amidst the serene beauty of County Wicklow at Stone Tower Art, a unique and inspiring cultural destination.
Trigonometric Point Ballynamaddagh
1.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Trigonometric Point Ballynamaddagh in Co. Wicklow, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Bray Seafront
1.5 km
Experience the Victorian charm of Bray Seafront: stunning views, lively atmosphere, and a perfect seaside escape in County Wicklow.
Airshow Bray
1.5 km
Experience thrilling aerobatics and family fun at Ireland's largest aviation festival on Bray's scenic seafront. Free entry!
Bray Bay Beach
1.8 km
Experience the charm of Bray Bay Beach: stunning scenery, Victorian promenade, and seaside fun on Ireland's east coast.
Mermaid County Wicklow Arts Centre
2.1 km
Experience diverse performances, exhibitions, and creative workshops at Bray's leading arts venue, enriching Wicklow's cultural landscape.
Bray
2.1 km
Experience the captivating charm of Bray in Co. Wicklow, where stunning coastal scenery meets rich history and vibrant culture.
Bray canal
2.1 km
Escape to the serene beauty of Bray Canal in County Wicklow, a perfect spot for peaceful walks and nature lovers.
The Harbour Bar
2.2 km
Experience the charm of Bray at The Harbour Bar, a quintessential Irish pub offering local beers, hearty meals, and stunning coastal views.
Swan Sanctuary
2.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Swan Sanctuary in Bray, Co. Wicklow, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.
River Dargle Viewing Platform
2.4 km
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North Beach
3.9 km
Experience the beauty of North Beach in Greystones, Co. Wicklow, where stunning coastal views and outdoor adventures await every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Cassoni's Fish & Chips
1.0 km
Discover the taste of traditional Irish fish and chips at Cassoni's Fish & Chips in scenic Bray - where quality meets coastal charm.
Gimme Burger
1.1 km
Experience gourmet burgers with stunning coastal views at Gimme Burger in Bray - where flavor meets seaside charm.
Wilde's Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Wilde's Bar & Restaurant in Bray - where traditional Irish flavors meet contemporary dining amidst stunning coastal views.
The Strand Hotel And Bar
1.2 km
Discover coastal charm at The Strand Hotel And Bar in Bray - where exquisite dining meets vibrant nightlife against stunning sea views.
The Curry Leaf Indian Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic modern Indian cuisine at The Curry Leaf in Bray—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
CAFFÈ VERGNANO 1882
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Caffè Vergnano 1882 in Bray - where every meal feels like a vacation.
THE STRAND HOTEL FORMER OSCAR WILDE HOME
1.2 km
Experience the charm of Oscar Wilde's former home at The Strand Hotel in Bray—where history meets modern hospitality along Ireland's breathtaking coast.
Mc's & Harvey
1.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Mc's & Harvey gastropub in Bray, Co. Wicklow - where tradition meets modern dining.
Dirt Birdz
1.4 km
Discover Dirt Birdz in Bray - where flavorful takeout meets friendly service amidst stunning coastal scenery.
The Promenade Bar & Grill
1.5 km
Experience coastal dining at The Promenade Bar & Grill – where delicious food meets breathtaking views along Bray's beautiful promenade.
The Palm
1.6 km
Discover delicious dishes and stunning coastal views at The Palm gastropub in Bray - where every meal is an experience.
Tower Bistro
1.6 km
Discover Tower Bistro: A charming French-inspired eatery in Bray serving exquisite dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
The Martello Bar
1.6 km
Discover The Martello Bar in Bray: where delicious grill cuisine meets breathtaking sea views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Martello Hotel
1.6 km
Experience seaside dining at The Martello Hotel in Bray - where delicious food meets vibrant atmosphere along Ireland's beautiful coast.
The Grain Store at Killruddery
1.6 km
Discover exquisite local flavors amidst breathtaking gardens at The Grain Store in Killruddery House.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ToyHampers.ie
1.3 km
Discover the magic of gifting at ToyHampers.ie in Bray, where unique toys and thoughtful gifts await every visitor.
Tesco Superstore
1.7 km
Experience the convenience of Tesco Superstore in Bray, where local flavors meet everyday essentials for every traveler.
F&F Clothing
1.7 km
Explore stylish and affordable clothing for the entire family at F&F Clothing in Bray Centre, your fashion destination in Co. Wicklow.
Bray Shopping Centre
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Bray Shopping Centre in Co. Wicklow, where diverse stores meet local charm.
Chuan Jin Lin Asian Supermarket
1.8 km
Discover a world of authentic Asian flavors at Chuan Jin Lin Asian Supermarket in Bray, where culinary delights await around every corner.
Sevenoaks and Steele
1.8 km
Explore the charming Sevenoaks and Steele gift shop in Bray for unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of Ireland.
Fortunes Antiques & Interiors
2.1 km
Explore a captivating collection of antiques and vintage decor at Fortunes Antiques & Interiors in Bray, Co. Wicklow, where every piece has a story.
Milan & Co.
2.1 km
Explore Milan & Co. in Bray for unique fashion and local treasures that capture the spirit of Co. Wicklow.
Dealz
2.1 km
Explore Dealz in Bray for unbeatable prices on clothing, household goods, and everyday essentials, making your visit to this charming town even more enjoyable.
The Purple House Boutique
2.1 km
Discover unique fashion and personalized service at The Purple House Boutique in Bray, Co. Wicklow, a shopping gem for every traveler.
Gala
2.2 km
Discover Gala, your go-to convenience store in Bray, offering all the essentials for your adventures in beautiful Co. Wicklow.
Myrtles Boutique
2.2 km
Explore Myrtles Boutique in Bray, where fashion meets local charm and unique styles await every visitor.
anita b.
2.2 km
Explore Anita B. in Bray for unique women's clothing and a warm shopping experience that reflects the heart of Irish fashion.
toyzone
2.2 km
Explore Toyzone in Bray, a haven for toys and games, offering a delightful shopping experience for families and kids of all ages.
Enable Ireland Charity Shop
2.2 km
Explore the Enable Ireland Charity Shop in Bray for unique second-hand finds and support a great cause while shopping sustainably.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Conlon's Wine Bar Bray
1.6 km
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O'Driscolls Seaside Bar
1.8 km
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Echo Bar
1.9 km
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The Hibernia
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at The Hibernia in Bray, a perfect bar for relaxation and local culture.
Frank Duffs
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bray at Frank Duffs, where friendly faces and delicious drinks create unforgettable memories.
The Ardmore
2.1 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Ardmore, a charming pub in Bray, Co. Wicklow, perfect for enjoying local brews and hearty meals.
The Boomerang Bar
2.2 km
Experience the charm of Bray at The Boomerang Bar, where delightful drinks and friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
The Tin Roof Bar
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local brews at The Tin Roof Bar, a cozy pub in Bray, Co. Wicklow, where warm hospitality meets Irish charm.
Goldsmiths Pub
2.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic Irish experience at Goldsmiths Pub in Bray, where great food and drinks await.
The Coach Inn
3.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Coach Inn, a charming pub in Bray with a warm atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
The Beach House
4.7 km
Experience the charm of coastal life at The Beach House, Greystones - a perfect blend of stunning views, local brews, and delicious cuisine.
Druid's Well Pub
11.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Druid's Well Pub in Newtown Mount Kennedy, a charming bar ideal for relaxation and local culture.
The Castle Inn Wicklow
13.3 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Castle Inn Wicklow, a cozy grill in the heart of Newcastle Middle, County Wicklow.
Tóchar House
17.0 km
Discover the charm of Tóchar House, a cozy bar in Roundwood, Wicklow, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring stunning landscapes.
Americana Cocktail Bar
18.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Americana Cocktail Bar in Ranelagh, Dublin, where exquisite cocktails meet live music and a lively atmosphere.