Of all the summer festivals that take place on the southside of Dublin, the King of Dalkey festival…read morecan possibly lay claim to being the most venerable. Founded by a few young fellas in 1787, the institution of the King of Dalkey (or, to give him his full title, "King of Dalkey, Emperor of the Muglins, Prince of the Holy Island of Magee, Baron of Bulloch, Seigneur of Sandycove, Defender of the Faith and Respector of All Others, Elector of Lambay and Ireland's Eye, and Sovereign of the Most Illustrious Order of the Lobster and Periwinkle") was created in order to have a bit of an excuse for a hooley. The last King of Dalkey was inaugurated back in 1983 (Larry the First), but there is still a festival. Basically, there's a few gigs in local pubs and some street performances and such, but it's a good excuse as any to go down to one of the southside's most pleasant seaside towns for a few scoops.

Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray is exactly what a community arts centre should be. It finds a good…read morebalance between local productions and those of professional theatre, dance and musical groups. It screens a decent selection of art-house films every Monday night (alas no popcorn!) and it showcases the work of diverse artists in the gallery upstairs. Local singers, dancers, actors and musicians, who were previously forced to perform in ill-equipped school halls, now have a professional theatre at their disposal. Troops of mini dancers, wannabe starlets and aspiring musicians tread the same boards as professionals, and they don't have to get changed in a grotty school toilet anymore! The building itself, just off Bray's Main Street, is modern and bright, and the aroma of coffee from the Betelnut Cafe greets you as you enter (The Betelnut also offers drinks at performances). Some people find the seats a little bit uncomfortable after a long stretch so bring a cushion if the show has a long running time, and try to get an aisle seat if you have long legs!

Did not expect to find a little gem like this all the way out in Bray! Slick design, really cool…read moreprogramming, nice vibe, good staff, and cute cafe area. Ticks all the boxes really. Except the comfortable seating box which it lost out points on unfortunately. But besides that, I'd go again. I went to see Bjork's Biophilia (highly recommended for fans of hers, and non-fans alike). The sound was brilliant and the screen clear. It's a nice small size as well which is great, and good value for money. A stroll along the prom, a bite in Platform Pizza, and a show in here, and you'd have a near perfect night tbh!

After checking out the Main Street of Bray, we headed to its main attraction- the seafront and…read moreharbor! This seafront was more manicured than the one we'd just come from at Greystones. There was a proper paved promenade, a fun fair and tons of eating options. I also think this beach had more stones than sand compared to Greystones. However it's an apples to oranges comparison between Greystones & Bray Beaches and while I have a personal preference (It's Greystones all the way for me!) there is no denying that when it comes to comfort amenities, those are more prevalent in Bray. Enjoyed my walk, but if I had a choice, I'd go back to Greystones rather than come to Bray. Yelp 115/ 2019

We went to the Christmas Festival while on holiday over NYE in Dublin. Hands down this was our best…read moreexperience. We are not into horse racing but friends from Dublin told us it was the best place to rub elbows with the locals and learn about Ireland's history/culture. This event did not disappoint. The people watching was amazing - it was like the Irish version of the Kentucky Derby with ladies in fancy hats and heels. We dressed business casual and felt like we fit in just fine. There was good programming on the history of each horse, owner, trainers, etc., and tons of boards with the odds. There were a variety of platforms/locations to see the pre-race competitors and winners so it didn't feel cramped. There were tons of food/drink stands with a variety of Irish favorites. You could make small bets - no minimums. It was very easy to get to by train with a short .5 mile walk. It was very easy to pick up our tickets at the service desk given that we were international guests. We got premium tickets with assigned seating but this probably wasn't necessary. It was so cold that everyone would go inside between the races to the warm lounge, and then to our seats for the race. Overall, everyone we met was super friendly and it was a good time.

Let's get this straight: I'm not a grumpy, 70-year-old social recluse with a gambling problem…read more Promise. But I do like Leopardstown Racecourse. Actually, I love it! Of all the Racecourses I've visited in my time (and I've seen a few, going to the races is very 'hip' in Australia) I'd have to say Leopardstown is probably the best. I mean, what more could you ask for in a racing venue?? Far-reaching, verdant racing area, huge grandstand with ample seating for all punters (and not just the racing elite), loads of bookies and gambling options and let's not forget the healthy dose of bars and fast food outlets. Leopardstown provides all this and more. And you know what the 'more' is?!? An on-site nightclub and plentiful bars that are open WELL after the close of the day's racing event. This is something I've not encountered before, not in all my previous racegoing experience (unless you count the makeshift outdoor dancing areas they set up at the 'bush' races - Roma, Goondiwindi, Dalby, you know who you are, but to be fair, it never does rain in Western Queensland!) So this is the first time I've experienced the civilised, bar-like atmosphere of a post-race event event at a racecourse. And I tell you what, it sure makes a difference. It is so refreshing to have somewhere to party on late into the evening without the risk of losing half of your friends (and newfound crushes!) in taxi queues, McDonalds branches and other bars in other areas of the city. This idea concentrates the after race partying, and ensures your racegoing revellry can continue uninterrupted into the evening and beyond. Way to go Leopardstown, love your work! And at only around 30 minutes from Dublin's city centre (and with a free shuttle bus from Sandyford luas line on race days and during festivals) your new favourite racecourse is oh-so accessible!

went in with my kids today, was sent to the cash desk in the casino section by a staff member for…read morechange, as I waited for someone to come to the cash desk another member of staff came over and pointed at my kids and said "no kids", I said pardon and again he pointed at my kids and said "no kids". I said I was waiting for someone to give me change and he walked away. My kids where by my side and not near any machines or tables. As I walked away someone came to the cash desk and asked if I was ok, I said no, and walked out.

From the owner: Star Leisure and Star Casino have some of the hottest attractions in Bray…read more Located on the beautiful Seafront, a short walk from the Main Street in Bray, there is no better place to enjoy yourself in Bray. Star Casino, with it's purpose built Texas Hold'em Poker Room, is Bray's answer to Las Vegas. There is a tournament schedule to suit every type of player, it's a great atmosphere for everyone. Star Leisure is a great place to bring the family with games and attractions for children of all ages. Ideal for visitors to Bray whatever the weather or just to pass a few hours in a fun environment.

The authentic Irish pub experience - loud, crowded, lots of cheerful patrons, friendly service,…read moreplenty choices for drinks and large portions of delicious food. This was my first meal in Ireland, and my first experience of Guinness 0.0. We were lucky to be given the last table, as it was Friday night, and there were bus-loads of tourists (for upstairs space). Guinness 0.0 turned out to be too bitter for me, but my husband happily finished my pint, after finishing his own. I was then recommended to try their alcohol-free Chardonnay, which was very nice and more suited my palate. One usually goes to a pub to drink with friends, and wouldn't expect much from the food offerings, but this place obviously puts a lot of thought and effort into their cooking, both in taste and in presentation. Good drinks, good food, and good company, in a loud and happy space - a perfect Irish experience!

Very cozy interior that welcomes you in for comfort foods. I've had other seafood chowders in…read moreIreland, but Merry Ploughboy's might be my favorite! This rich and creamy soup if perfect to warm you up on a cold day. It is also served with two pieces of brown bread with butter. Makes you feel right at home!