HERITAGE HOT SPOTS: What is it?Malahide Castle and Demesne is in the seaside village of Malahide on the north coast of Dublin. Originally a Norman tower house, the castle was extended and castellated in the 18th century. It was owned by the Anglo Norman Talbot family for eight centuries until the death of Milo Talbot in the 1970s. It was then sold to Dublin County Council and is now managed by Shannon Heritage on behalf of Fingal County Council.
Why visit?
Malahide Castle and its former owners, the Talbot family, have a story that interweaves with key historical changes in Ireland.
The castle itself has a fine collection of Georgian furniture displayed in the four main rooms open to the public: the Oak Room, the Small and Great Drawing Rooms and the Great Hall.
Also worth a visit are the ornamental walled gardens with an extensive collection of plants from around the world.
Why now?
The castle has been recently re-opened for guided tours after four-and-a-half years of restoration. There are new exhibitions and interpretative centres on the Talbots and the gardens’ 5,000 species of plants. Avoca has opened a food hall and cafe in the courtyard with a terrace and views over two gardens.
How do I get there?
By train, take the Dart to Malahide village: the castle is a few minutes walk from the Dart station. By bus, take the number 42 from Dublin city centre. By car, follow the Malahide Road north of the city until you come to Malahide village. Alternatively, follow the M50 north, taking the exit for Malahide. Admission to the castle and gardens is €12 for adults; €8 for children and €7.50 for seniors. Admission to the gardens only is €7 for adults; €3.50 for children; and €5 for seniors.
malahidecastleandgardens.ie, 01-816 9538
