What do you need to know about the Bray Head cliff walk?

The Bray Head Cliff Walk is a popular coastal trail in County Wicklow, Ireland. It connects the towns of Bray and Greystones over a distance of about 7 kilometers. This moderate hike usually takes 2 to 2.5 hours to complete and offers excellent, continuous views of the Irish Sea.

What exactly is the Bray Head cliff walk?

Short answer: It's a 7km coastal path that runs from Bray to Greystones, following the route of the railway line along the side of Bray Head.

This trail is one of the most popular walks in the Dublin and Wicklow area. It follows the coastline, hugging the cliffs on the eastern side of Bray Head, a 241-metre high hill. For much of the journey, you'll see the Irish Rail DART line running parallel to the path just below you, with trains occasionally passing by. The path itself is a mix of gravel track and earthy trail, with some rocky sections.

The walk offers wide-open views across the Irish Sea. On a clear day, you can see far out to the horizon, and looking back towards Bray provides a great perspective of the town and Killiney Bay. It's an accessible walk that gives you a real sense of being away from it all, despite being so close to urban areas.

How long does the walk take and is it difficult?

Short answer: The walk typically takes between 2 and 2.5 hours one way. It's considered a moderate walk, suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

The main path is not overly strenuous, but it isn't flat. You'll encounter some gentle but persistent inclines and declines along the 7km route. The main challenge often comes from the terrain underfoot, which can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. There are no major climbs on the standard lower path.

Choosing your route: the lower path vs the upper cross path

You have two main options when doing this walk. The first is the classic lower cliff path, which is the most direct route between Bray and Greystones. This path sticks to the coast and is the one most people refer to when they talk about the cliff walk.

The second option is the upper path, which involves a detour to the summit of Bray Head. This route is more demanding. It includes a steep climb up to the stone cross at the top, which sits 241 metres above sea level. The reward for your effort is a panoramic view that covers the Wicklow Mountains, Dublin Bay, and the towns below. From the cross, you can follow a path that descends to join the main cliff walk closer to Greystones. Choosing this option adds about 45-60 minutes to your total time.

Which starting point is better: Bray or Greystones?

Short answer: While most people start in Bray, starting in Greystones offers better unfolding views as you approach Bray and its iconic headland.

You can walk the path in either direction, and your choice can change the experience. Both towns have train stations and plenty of places to eat and drink, so logistics are easy either way.

The classic start: Bray to Greystones

Starting in Bray is the traditional way to do the walk. The trailhead is easy to find at the southern end of the Bray promenade. You get the initial climb out of the way early, and then the path levels out for the majority of the walk. You finish at Greystones Harbour, which has several cafes and restaurants perfect for a post-hike reward. The downside is that for most of the walk, the most dramatic scenery of Bray Head is behind you.

The scenic alternative: Greystones to Bray

I think starting in Greystones is the better option. The trailhead is near the Greystones DART station and marina. By walking in this direction, the view of Bray Head, the Sugar Loaf mountains, and the sweep of Killiney Bay is in front of you for the entire second half of the journey. The approach into Bray is far more visually rewarding. Finishing at Bray's long promenade also gives you a wider selection of pubs and restaurants.

How do you get to the trailhead?

Short answer: The easiest way is by using the DART train, which stops in both Bray and Greystones, allowing for a one-way walk.

Using the DART

The DART is the most convenient way to manage this walk. You can drive or get public transport to either Bray or Greystones, do the 7km walk to the other town, and then simply hop on the DART to get back to your starting point. Trains run frequently, usually every 15-20 minutes during the day. This setup removes any need to backtrack or arrange complicated transport.

Parking your car

If you decide to drive, both towns have parking options, but they can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends. In Bray, there is paid on-street parking along the seafront and several car parks in the town. In Greystones, you can find parking near the marina and the main street. Be prepared to search for a spot if you arrive late in the day.

What should you pack for the walk?

Short answer: Pack light but be prepared for changing weather. Essentials include good footwear, a rain jacket, water, and a snack.

The weather on the coast can change in an instant. Even if it's sunny when you set out, it's wise to carry a light rain jacket. The path is exposed, offering little shelter from wind or rain. Here's a simple checklist:

• Footwear: A good rule of thumb is to wear proper hiking boots instead of runners. The path is uneven and can get very muddy after rain, so the ankle support is a real help.
• Water: Bring at least 500ml of water per person. There are no shops or fountains along the path itself.
• Snacks: A piece of fruit or a cereal bar is a good idea to keep your energy up.
• Phone: For photos and in case of an emergency. Make sure it's fully charged.
• Sunscreen: The sun can be strong on the coast, even on a cloudy day.

Pro	Con
It's completely free to do.	The path can be extremely crowded on weekends.
The walk is easily accessible via public transport (DART).	Sections can become very muddy and slippery after rain.
It offers fantastic coastal views for the entire route.	Coastal erosion sometimes leads to path closures or diversions.
You can choose between an easier path or a harder summit route.	There is very little shelter from wind, rain, or strong sun.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Wearing the wrong shoes: Many people attempt the walk in casual trainers or runners. This is a mistake if it has been raining, as the path gets slick and muddy. Wear shoes with good grip, preferably hiking boots.
• Forgetting a rain jacket: This is Ireland. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon without warning. Always pack a waterproof layer, as there's nowhere to hide from a shower on the path.
• Not bringing water or snacks: While it's not a long hike, there are no facilities between the two towns. You'll be glad you brought a drink and a small snack about halfway through.
• Ignoring the signs: Occasionally, sections of the path are closed due to erosion or landslides. These closures are for your safety. Pay attention to any signs and follow the recommended detours.

Alternatives to the cliff walk

If you've already done the Bray Head walk or are looking for something different, County Wicklow has plenty of other options.

• Howth Cliff Path Loop: For a very similar experience on the north side of Dublin. It offers great views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea, and it's also accessible by DART.
• The Great Sugar Loaf: If you want a more challenging climb with 360-degree views, this conical mountain is a great choice. It's a short but steep scramble to the top.
• Glendalough Spinc Walk: For a more dramatic mountain and lake setting. This is a longer and more strenuous hike in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Quick recap

• The Bray Head Cliff Walk is a 7km coastal path connecting Bray and Greystones.
• It takes around 2 to 2.5 hours and is a moderate-level walk.
• Consider starting in Greystones for better views as you approach Bray.
• The DART train is the most convenient way to travel between the start and end points.
• Wear hiking boots for better grip and support, especially in wet conditions.

Is the Bray to Greystones cliff walk difficult?

The walk is considered moderate. It doesn't involve any steep mountain climbing on the main path, but the terrain is uneven with some gentle hills. A reasonable level of fitness is required to complete the 7km comfortably.

How long is the Bray cliff walk?

The standard lower cliff path from the promenade in Bray to the harbour in Greystones is approximately 7 kilometers long. Most people complete this one-way walk in 2 to 2.5 hours at a steady pace.

Is the Bray Head walk open?

The walk is generally open year-round. However, due to coastal erosion, sections of the path are sometimes temporarily closed for safety reasons. It's always a good idea to check for any updates on the Wicklow County Council website before you go.

Can you bring dogs on the walk?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Bray Head Cliff Walk. It's recommended to keep them on a lead at all times, as the path can be narrow, busy with other walkers, and has steep drops in several places.