Malahide Castle , Botanical Gardens & Butterfly House

Malahide Castle is the perfect day out in Dublin, just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport. Explore the history of this medieval castle dating back to the 12thCentury with the most beautiful Botanical Gardens and Ireland's only exotic Butterfly House. There's something for everyone, little ones are kept busy and active on the 1.8km Fairy Trail in The West Lawn and treats from the Avoca Cafe & Foodhall. Explore, learn and create memories at Malahide Castle. Free parking, accessible from Dublin City Centre by Bus, Train or bike!

This magnificent castle has a fascinating story dating back to the 12th Century, set on 260 acres of land and is one of the oldest castles in Ireland. It had been home to the Talbot family for nearly 800 years from 1174, when Richard Talbot, a knight of Henry ll, accompanied the king to Ireland and was given the “lands and harbour of Malahide” for his “war-like” services in the Anglo-Norman conquest. Eleven years later the Castle was built as the family seat, save for ten years when it fell into Cromwell’s clutches.

Today friendly guides and an interactive exhibition help you explore its rich history and interior. Visit the Oak Room, Small and Great Drawing Rooms, the Great Hall and bedrooms before heading to the Botanical Walled Garden home to some of the world’s rarest plants. Within the Walled Garden lies the exotic Butterfly House, located in the largest of the gardens glasshouses, The Cambridge House. The interactive garden exhibition tells the story of Lord Milo Talbot – the visionary behind the vast collection of plants. The Demesne has marked pathways, a children’s playground, picnic sites, and sports facilities including 9-hole golf course. Back at the Castle, a gift shop and Avoca foodhall, café and retail store complete this enchanting day trip.

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Hope you enjoy our new video, filmed July 2021. We are delighted to be fully open again :)