Overview
South Dublin is a dynamic county in the province of Leinster, bordering Dublin City to the north‑east and the Wicklow Mountains to the south. Home to 301,075 residents (2022), it blends dense urban districts such as Tallaght, Lucan and Clondalkin with expansive green corridors, historic waterways and the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. The county town, Tallaght, serves as a cultural and sporting hub, while the western fringe offers hikers spectacular vistas over the city and the sea.
History
The modern administrative area of South Dublin was created on 1 January 1994 when County Dublin was split into three successor counties. Its name derives from the former electoral county Dublin‑Belgard, which itself referenced the historic Belgard fortress of the Pale. Over the past three decades the county has grown rapidly, expanding from 278,767 inhabitants in 2016 to over 300,000 today. This growth has been accompanied by a strong focus on sustainable infrastructure, exemplified by the recent development of the Grand Canal Greenway.
What to See & Do
12th Lock‑to‑Hazelhatch Greenway
The newest 5 km stretch of the Grand Canal Greenway opened on 18 March 2026, linking the 12th Lock with Hazelhatch. Designed for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users, the route follows the historic Grand Canal, offering tranquil water‑side scenery and easy access to the emerging community of Clonburris. The greenway is part of a 130 km corridor that will eventually connect Dublin to the River Shannon, making it a key segment for long‑distance cyclists and day‑trippers alike.
Read the official opening announcement
RUA RED South Dublin Arts Centre
Located in the heart of Tallaght, RUA RED is the county’s flagship multidisciplinary arts venue. It hosts rotating gallery exhibitions, regular film screenings, music classes, workshops and open‑mic nights. The centre’s programming is deliberately inclusive, with activities for families, seniors (the Sonas Over 55 group) and school‑age children. Visitors can pick up an Explorer’s Gallery pack to engage younger guests with the art on display.
Civic Theatre, Tallaght
The Civic Theatre is South Dublin’s leading performing‑arts space, offering a year‑round season of drama, comedy, dance and community productions. Its modern facilities include a main auditorium, rehearsal studios and a café. The theatre also runs a youth‑inspiration scheme, allowing visitors to support emerging talent.
Wicklow Way – South Dublin Sections
Two popular sections of the Wicklow Way start within South Dublin’s borders:
- Marlay Park to Glencullen – a 17 km moderate walk that climbs from the park’s gentle slopes to the summit of Glencullen (peak 486 m). The route offers a gradual ascent, woodland paths and panoramic views of the Dublin hinterland.
- Glencullen to Knockree – a 15 km stretch that continues the ridge‑line walk, passing the iconic Johnny Foxes Pub before descending toward Knockree (peak 475 m). Both sections are well‑marked and provide opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting and a taste of the county’s rugged terrain.
Operation Transformation Walk – Marlay Park
For a shorter, family‑friendly outing, the Operation Transformation 4 km walk starts at the College Road entrance of Marlay Park. The meeting point is the park’s playground, making it easy for groups with children. The flat, well‑maintained path circles the park’s lake and passes through mature oak groves.
Nature & Outdoor Highlights
Dublin Mountains Way & Ticknock – The Dublin Mountains Way skirts the southern edge of South Dublin, giving access to popular hill‑walking spots such as Ticknock, the Hellfire Club and the historic St. Columba’s College grounds. Well‑signposted trails range from easy forest loops to more challenging ridge walks, all offering sweeping views over Dublin Bay.
River Dodder Greenway – A 7 km riverside path runs from Rathfarnham to Bushy Park, ideal for walkers, runners and cyclists. The towpath is flat, dog‑friendly and passes historic bridges and the scenic Dodder Valley.
Clondalkin Round Tower – A short detour from the Grand Canal Greenway brings you to the 12th‑century round tower in Clondalkin, one of the few surviving medieval towers in the Dublin area. The site is free to visit and provides a glimpse into the county’s early Christian heritage.
Dog‑friendly advice – All greenways and most park trails allow dogs on a leash. Water fountains are available at regular intervals on the 12th Lock‑to‑Hazelhatch stretch.
Cultural Highlights
Beyond RUA RED and the Civic Theatre, Tallaght’s cultural calendar includes:
- Tallaght Arts Festival (usually held in June) – a weekend of outdoor installations, street performances and community workshops across the town centre.
- Marlay Park Summer Concerts – free live music events on the park’s amphitheatre stage from June to August, featuring local and national acts.
- Tallaght Library & Community Hub – offers regular author talks, craft sessions and a children’s story hour, all free of charge.
Events & Festivals
- RUA RED Film Nights – weekly screenings of independent and classic films, often accompanied by Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
- Civic Theatre Seasonal Programme – a mix of touring productions and locally produced shows; tickets can be booked online.
- Operation Transformation Walks – monthly community walks in Marlay Park supporting the national health initiative.
Getting Around
- Luas Red Line – terminates at Tallaght, providing direct links to Dublin city centre and the Luas Green Line.
- DART & Commuter Trains – the nearest DART stations are at Cherry Orchard (for the western fringe) and Shankill (for the coastal stretch of the Grand Canal).
- Bus Services – Dublin Bus routes 27, 49, 84 and 175 serve Tallaght, Clondalkin and Lucan.
- Car – The M50 encircles the northern edge of the county; ample free parking is available at Marlay Park (limited spaces) and at the greenway trailheads.
- Bike Hire – Dublinbikes stations are located at Tallaght (The Square) and at the Marlay Park entrance, making it easy to rent a bike for short rides on the greenway.
- Nearby Suburbs – Blanchardstown is a short drive north and offers additional shopping and leisure facilities.
Practical Information
South Dublin’s attractions are largely free to access, including the Grand Canal Greenway, the Wicklow Way sections and the public areas of Marlay Park. RUA RED and the Civic Theatre charge admission for specific events; ticket prices are listed on their respective websites.
Accessibility – The 12th Lock‑to‑Hazelhatch Greenway was built to accommodate wheelchair users, parents with buggies and cyclists of all abilities. Trail surfaces are compacted gravel with gentle gradients, and several rest points provide benches and water fountains.
Getting there – Tallaght is served by the Luas Red Line, which terminates at the Tallaght stop adjacent to the town centre and the arts venues. The M50 motorway runs along the county’s northern edge, providing easy car access to the greenway trailheads and park entrances.
Seasonality – The greenway and walking routes are open year‑round. The Wicklow Way sections can be enjoyed in any weather, though higher elevations may be cooler and occasionally misty.
Dog‑friendly – All listed greenways and most park paths allow dogs on a leash; water points are available along the 12th Lock‑to‑Hazelhatch route.
Parking – Free parking is available at Marlay Park (first‑come, first‑served) and at the Hazelhatch trailhead. Limited on‑street parking is available in Tallaght town centre.
Useful contacts – For the latest updates on the Grand Canal Greenway, visit the South Dublin County Council website.
Website – https://www.sdcc.ie
South Dublin offers a compelling mix of cultural vibrancy, historic waterways and outdoor adventure, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the Irish capital region.