Check out our Bray Head hike guide. We cover everything you need to know about climbing Bray Head – how to get there, what you’ll need, and how long it will take. Bray Head is a stunning rock formation on the south end of Bray promenade.
Location: Ireland, East Coast
Starting Point 1: Bray Dart Station
Starting Point 2: Bray Head Car Park (53.19520, -6.08898)
Finishing Point: Bray Head Summit
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1.5 Hours (Out & Back)
Distance: 5km (round trip)
Climbing Bray Head
Bray Head has been on our bucket list for some time. And, one sunny morning we decided – hey, let’s give it a go. And, were we glad we did. It is one of the most rewarding hikes on Ireland’s Ancient East Coast. It’s not overly challenging and has some spectacular views. It’s a hike you should definitely tackle if you ever get the chance.
How to Get There
You have two options. You can get there by train or by car. We traveled by train and began our hike from Bray Dart station. It’s one of the last stops on the south end of the Dart line. The Dart can be accessed anywhere along the Dublin coast. There are even several stations in Dublin city center. This means it’s accessible to most people. Just jump on the dart and sit tight until you reach Bray. Once you jump off, you’re hike begins.
Alternatively, if you want to travel there by car, you can park at Bray Head car park. The car park is free and is located right at the start of the Bray Head climb. It’s super convenient. However, it means you will miss out on the walk along the Bray promenade and coastline. The choice is yours. Public transport via the Dart station or private car to the car park. You have options.
What to Pack: Bray Head Essential Gear
The hike is essentially split into two sections. A pleasant walk along the seafront followed by a steep but short climb up a small mountain. The first part is very easy and allows you to stretch your legs before tackling Bray Head itself. The mountain hike is challenging in parts. It is pretty steep. You’ll have to scramble on all fours at times. And, the surface is rocky and uneven. Here’s what you’ll need to pack.
1: Backpack
2: Hiking Boots
3: Waterproof Jacket
4: Water
5: Small Snack
6: SPF (Sun Cream)
7: Sun Hat
8: Hiking Poles
9: Small Binoculars
10: First Aid Kit
note: hiking poles are essential for a safe descent
You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots. Part of the trail is rough underfoot, with jagged rocks and tree roots. The thick soles of quality boots will protect your feet and ankles. If it’s a sunny day, pack some sun cream and a sun hat.
It can be quite windy at the summit, so a thermal layer or windbreaker jacket will come in handy. And, a pair of binoculars will help you get the most from the amazing view at the top. Finally, bring some cash or a card. The promenade on Bray seafront is stacked with a delight of small eateries, fish and chip shops, and quirky bars. Why not treat yourself on the return leg?
Starting Point: Bray Train Station
We began our trek from Bray train station. It’s located just off the main Bray promenade. Once you exit the station, take the short walk to the seafront. This will take just a few minutes. The train station is located on the north end of Bray promenade. Bray Head is located on the opposite end, the south side.
The first part of your hike will be a casual walk the length of the promenade. You can walk along one of the walking areas, the footpath, or the beach. We chose the beach to get up close and personal with nature. It takes 12-15 minutes to reach the south end.
Alternative Starting Point: Bray Head Car Park
If you don’t want to use public transport, there’s a car park right at the start of the climb. Even better, it’s completely free. Just set your Sat Nav to ‘Bray Head Car Park’. Or, plug in these co-ordinates: 53.19520, -6.08898. You’ll miss out on the walk along the beach. And, it will be a much shorter hike, about 40-60 minutes up and back.
Stage One: The Climb
The climb starts almost immediately at the south end of the promenade. You’ll notice a wide concrete walkway once you reach the end of the beach. This is the starting point of your climb. The walkway can be busy. Especially if the weather is good. It’s a popular destination for both locals and day-trippers alike.
This steep walkway is the starting point for both the Bray Head climb and the Cliff Walk. As you make your way up, pay attention to a small detour to the right. You’ll notice a small concrete fence and three steps – see the image below. This is where you turn off to climb Bray Head. If you continue straight ahead, you’ll be taken along the cliff route.
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The climb itself begins with some concrete steps. This makes things pretty easy from the outset. The steps however only last for a short period. After a few minutes, they give way to a well-worn path with stones and tree roots. This is a little harder to climb. Especially if you attempt it in wet weather. Luckily for us, it was a dry and sunny day.
A hiking pole will come in handy here. Just take your time and make sure you tread carefully. The gradient is also pretty steep. We just climbed at a slow steady pace and took a breather whenever we felt like it. The well-worn path is busy. Especially at the weekends and when the weather is good. This means you’ll meet lots of fellow hiking enthusiasts as you go.
And, don’t worry. You can’t get lost. The path is very clear and easy to follow. Here’s a picture of a clearing on the way up. It was a nice place to stop and sip some water. Whenever you feel yourself becoming tired, you should stop and take a moment. Slow and steady wins the race on this one.
The climb itself is amazing. You are immersed in the natural foliage of the mountainside. It has a deeply relaxing effect. This helps counter the effects of the steep climb. At a slow and gentle pace with regular stops, it will take you about 30 minutes to reach the summit. There are some challenging stretches on the way. Like this stretch of uneven rock surface.
However, once you pass this point you’re nearly there. And, as you approach the summit there will be some stunning views of Bray and the Irish Sea coastline to enjoy. It’s time to whip out the camera and the binoculars.
The final ascent follows a narrow path through some thorny bushes. If you wear shorts or short sleeves you will feel these as they brush up against your arms and legs.
Then, you’re there. The summit of Bray Head. And the views are breathtaking. Bray promenade and beach stretch out before you in the distance. It’s hard to believe you’ve climbed so far. The summit is marked by a high cross on a small plateau area. It’s time to reach for your camera and take some photos.
The summit of Bray Head is flanked by the Irish Sea. A deep blue sea rolling out as far as the eye can see. On the other side are the Wicklow mountains. A vast expanse of greenery. And, directly below you, Bray down and its famous coastline. Take a moment to breathe it all in.
The Descent
This is an up-and-down route, so you’ll return the way you came. Areas of the descent are pretty steep. And, you’ll now be familiar with the broken and difficult surfaces. A hiking pole is invaluable on the return journey. And, will help you avoid any slips and falls. A nice tip for a Bray Head hike guide.
Refreshments – The Martello Bray
Once back on the promenade, we were in need of some refreshments. There are plenty of options to choose from. Hot food and fish and chips are omnipresent. We decided to recharge our batteries in the Martello. It’s an interesting bar/restaurant with a great outdoor seating area.
It feels a little like a tropical jungle. The food was good and the cold beer was great. It even had little birds rambling around between the tables feeding on the scraps. That concludes our Bray Head hike guide – all you need to know for hiking Bray Head.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rosa Montero
- B.S. Environmental Science
- Avid Explorer & Globe Trotter
Rosa is a graduate of the University of Arizona, where she delved into the world of green energy and environmental science. Originally from sunny Fresno, California, she moved to Arizona to study. Rosa is the proud owner of a vintage VW camper van. Her trusty companion on countless adventures.
She has a deep passion for clean energy and a love for protecting our planet. Rosa immerses herself in nature through long hikes in Arizona’s famous parks. Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona Red Rock Country are two of her favorites.
When not exploring on foot, she enjoys cycling. Rosa’s enthusiasm for fighting climate change and safeguarding Mother Earth shines through in her work for RV Solar Power Hub.
