EXPLORE FINGAL
ARDGILLAN CASTLE & DEMESNE
Set across 194 acres overlooking the Irish Sea, Ardgillan Castle & Demesne is one of Fingalโs most scenic historic estates. With gardens, woodland, open parkland and spectacular coastal views, Ardgillan Castle & Demesne offers the perfect combination of history and the outdoors.
Located north of Malahide near Balbriggan, Ardgillan Castle & Demesne makes an easy day trip from The Grand Hotel and provides a chance to experience another side of Dublinโs north coast.

Although known as a castle, the building is a large country house with distinctive castellated features. The central section was built in 1738, with further additions made during the 19th century. Today, guided tours allow visitors to discover the restored interiors and learn about the people who lived there.
Outside, Ardgillan Castle & Demesne becomes a destination for walking, gardens and panoramic views. Five miles of footpaths run through the estate, passing woodland, parkland and viewpoints overlooking the Irish Sea.
The estate is particularly appealing for families, with plenty of open space to explore, while couples and walkers can enjoy the quieter corners of the grounds and the views towards the coastline.
A visit to Ardgillan Castle & Demesne can easily fill an afternoon, allowing time to combine the castle and gardens with a leisurely walk before returning to Malahide.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
MAKE A DAY OF IT
Enjoy breakfast at The Grand Hotel before travelling north towards Ardgillan Castle & Demesne. Explore the historic house, gardens and parkland, then take one of the walking routes through the estate.
Ardgillan Castle & Demesne is part of the wider Fingal landscape where historic estates, coastal villages and open countryside sit alongside the Irish Sea. Return to Malahide in the afternoon for a relaxed lunch, coastal walk or evening drink.
For guests staying at The Grand Hotel, Toots Train Tours are an easy way to discover more of Malahide while keeping the day relaxed and enjoyable.
Why visit Ardgillan Castle & Demesne:
- 194 acres of parkland overlooking the Irish Sea
- Historic house dating back to the 18th century
- Guided tours of the restored interiors
- Gardens, woodland and walking trails
- Beautiful coastal and countryside views
- A family-friendly day out from Malahide

ON YOUR DOORSTEP
BEGIN IN MALAHIDE
Some of the areaโs most memorable experiences begin just moments from the hotel. Wander through Malahide Village, where independent shops, cafรฉs and the marina create an easy-going coastal atmosphere, or step into centuries of local story at Malahide Castle & Gardens. With the village, castle grounds and shoreline close by, there is no need to travel far to make a day feel well spent.
SEA AIR & OPEN ROADS
FOLLOW THE COAST
Beyond Malahide, the Fingal coastline opens out into long sandy beaches, harbour towns and sea-view walks. Head to Portmarnock for an expansive beach stroll, hire a bike and explore at your own pace, or make the journey to Howth for harbour dining and dramatic cliffside views. It is an invitation to take the scenic route, with every turn offering a new perspective on Dublinโs north coast.
EXPLORE FINGAL
GARDENS, ESTATES, & COASTLINE
Take the time to explore the wider character of Fingal, where historic estates meet open parkland and the Irish Sea. Discover the gardens and coastal views of Ardgillan Castle, step back in time at Newbridge House & Farm, or travel north to Skerries Mills for a glimpse of traditional craft and coastal village life. Each offers an easy day out from Malahide, with space to wander, pause and see a different side of Dublin.
DUBLIN WITHIN REACH
MAKE A DAY OF THE CITY
Dublin City is close enough to enjoy at your own pace, whether you are planning a family day out, attending a major sporting occasion or taking in the capitalโs best-known sights. Visit Dublin Zoo in Phoenix Park, experience the atmosphere of Croke Park or Aviva Stadium, or see the city through a guided DoDublin tour. When the day is done, return to The Grand Hotel and the calmer rhythm of the coast.
YOUR MALAHIDE BASE
A STAY MADE FOR SEEING MORE
The Grand Hotel brings together the ease of a coastal stay with access to the very best of Malahide, Fingal and Dublin City. Start with breakfast overlooking the water, set out for a day of discovery, then return for considered dining, a drink in the bar or a quiet evening in your room. Every stay offers the freedom to experience more, without losing sight of the moments that make time away feel special.

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Where to find us
Grand Hotel Malahide, County Dublin, K36 XT65, Ireland
Tel: +35318450000
Email: info@thegrand.ie