Begin at Clondalkin Village Centre, near the Clondalkin Library, a modern hub with a nod to the village’s monastic past, easily accessible by bus or Luas from Dublin. Head south (5-minute walk) to Tower Road, where you’ll find The Black Lion, a cosy café and deli perfect for a quick coffee or artisan scone. Its warm ambiance and local ingredients offer a welcoming start.
Stroll west (10 minutes) to The Round Tower, an 8th-century monastic tower, one of Ireland’s finest, standing 27 metres tall. This historic site, part of Clondalkin’s ancient monastic settlement, is surrounded by a small churchyard. For a cheap, hearty lunch, head to The Village Inn on Main Street, a traditional pub with a 19th-century feel, serving classics like shepherd’s pie or fish and chips. Arrive by 12:30 PM to beat the crowds, as it’s a no-reservations local favourite.
Continue north (5 minutes) to St. John’s Church, a 13th-century ruin with a serene graveyard, offering a quick glimpse into Clondalkin’s medieval past. The adjacent Tully’s Castle, a 16th-century tower house (now private), adds a historic touch,. Pause to admire its stone facade from the street.
Head east (10-minute walk) along Orchard Road to The Old Mill Restaurant, a charming spot in a converted mill building with a nod to Clondalkin’s industrial heritage. Grab a pint or a quick bite like their signature loaded potato skins in a no-bookings. Its rustic interior, with exposed beams, feels steeped in local history.
Walk south-east (10 minutes) to New Road and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a 19th-century Gothic-style church with striking stained-glass windows. A brief visit (donations appreciated) offers a serene, artistic pause. The nearby Monastery Road has small shops, adding a touch of charm.
Continue east (10-minute walk) to The Mill Shopping Centre, where Café Togo offers a hot chocolate or artisan coffee in a modern, relaxed setting with views of the village’s bustle. Browse the centre’s boutique stores for a local shopping experience.
End your tour (10-minute walk) at Corkagh Park, a sprawling green space with historic demesne roots, featuring a rose garden and fairy-tale trail. The park’s Camac Valley Visitor Centre (open weekends) offers small exhibits on local history. If time allows, grab a classic 99 ice cream cone from a vendor like The Ice Cream Van near the park entrance to enjoy by the duck pond.
Ireland county by county
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Largest town walking tour
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
