Your Guide to Christmas Attractions Near Dublin

Santa Special Steam Train

The Christmas-themed Santa Special train is a truly magical experience not to bed missed. The train departs from Dublin Connolly station and travels to Maynooth and back, organized by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland. This is a truly enchanting experience for the little ones. Meet Santa and his elves on a magical journey through the winter landscape. A cherished family tradition that’s incredibly convenient from the Glenroyal Hotel.

(Travel Time: 10 minutes)

Christmas at Clonfert Farm

Discover a winter wonderland at Clonfert Farm. This interactive festive experience is a family favourite, featuring Santa’s Cottage, festive food, and playful farmyard animals. It’s a heart-warming, hands-on Christmas adventure that captures the rustic charm of the season.

(Travel Time: 10 minutes)

Dublin Christmas Markets

Immerse yourself in the heart of the capital’s festive cheer. Explore the traditional Dublin Christmas Market, with its charming chalets selling crafts, gifts, and delicious treats. Just a short walk away, the Smithfield Christmas Spectacular offers a rooftop ice rink, a vintage ferris wheel, and dazzling light shows, creating an unforgettable inner-city winter festival.

(Travel Time: 25-30 minutes)

Emerald Park Jingle Fest

Your Emerald Park Jingle Fest ticket provides full-day access to a world of Christmas magic, allowing you to arrive at any time and enjoy the festivities at your leisure. Your admission includes a walk through the enchanting Festive Fairy Woods light tunnel, a Christmas singalong on the Candy Lane Train, and access to the Enchanted Entertainment Tent for snow and bubble fun, special performances, and character meet-and-greets. You’ll also get a fun-filled festive live show in the Big Top Tent, Santa letter posting, and full access to the park’s zoo, playground, and over 10 rides in the Jolly Junior Zone. For an even more memorable experience, you can add on a magical visit with Santa Claus, which includes a special Christmas coin to redeem for a gift; this optional visit requires pre-booking at checkout for an additional charge.

(Travel Time: 35 minutes)

Christmas Shopping

The Glenroyal Hotel’s prime location in Maynooth makes it the ultimate base for your festive shopping. Situated directly across from the Maynooth train station and a major bus hub, you have effortless access to some of Ireland’s finest retail experiences.

Dublin City Centre (30-45 minutes by train): Stroll down iconic Grafton Street, where festive lights, lively buskers, and a stunning mix of high-end boutiques and high-street favourites create an unforgettable holiday shopping experience.

Liffey Valley (20-minute drive): For ultimate convenience, drive just 20 minutes to Liffey Valley Shopping Centre. This massive complex offer an impressive selection of all your favourite high-street stores, family entertainment, and diverse dining options—all gloriously under one roof.

Kildare Village (30-minute drive): Kildare Village is a shopper’s paradise, offering top international and Irish brands at reduced prices all year round. As our hotel guest, enjoy an exclusive 10% savings with a VIP pass.