WHEN you think of Dublin, you may think of the hustle and bustle of a big city. But just under 40 minutes away from the city centre is a stunning idyllic seaside town with loads to do. Malahide is renowned as one of the most beautiful places, with sandy beaches and a famous castle.
Every year there are a series of concerts held at the castle, with the likes of Nicki Minaj, SZA and Shania Twain gracing the stage just this year. The castle itself is steeped in history, built over 800 years ago. Generations of the Talbot family called it home after the lands and harbour of Malahide was gifted to them by King Henry II in 1185.
Their private rooms and collections remained untouched, allowing visitors to step back in time. Inside there are vintage Victorian toys, and intricate oak panelling, along with the original furniture and artwork collection. These include copies of Raphael’s Vatican frescoes along with more recent works on loan from the National Gallery of Ireland.
And portraits of the former residents line the walls. It is also said to be haunted and many have reported eerie happenings, making it known as Ireland's most haunted castle. The castle itself is set on 260 acres of lush parkland, making it the perfect place to host concerts.
Outside there are the gorgeous gardens, and the site is popular for its guided tours of the castle, children's playground, fairy trail, butterfly house, old abbey ruins, walking trails, Avoca store and café and the Talbot Botanic Gardens..