Journal •
The New Dublin Port Greenway Opens up a new part of Dublin Bay
Dublin Port recently opened the Tolka Estuary Greenway, a new shared cycling and pedestrian route that extends from EastPoint Business Park to the Dublin Ferry Terminals. The Greenway runs along the perimeter of northern port lands, previously inaccessible to the public, and forms part of Fáilte Ireland’s Dublin Coastal Trail, which showcases the city’s beautiful coastline, stretching from Skerries in the north to Killiney in the south.
This exciting addition to the Dublin Coastal Trail offers a unique perspective on Dublin Bay and the Tolka Estuary, blending natural beauty with the rich heritage of Dublin Port. Cyclists and pedestrians can now experience previously unseen views of the bay and enjoy the sights and sounds of migratory birds, including Brent Geese, Bar-Tailed Godwits, and Common and Arctic Terns.
In keeping with Dublin’s rich natural environment, the Greenway is lined with mature trees such as Pine, Willow, and Sycamore, and features new plantings of over 200 large trees, 5,000 smaller woodland trees, and native wildflowers. These green spaces provide new habitats for birds, bees, and other insects, creating new healthy coastal ecosystems.
The Greenway also preserves the port’s rich industrial heritage. Granite seating at the route’s Discovery Points is made from stones from the 19th-century Alexandra Drydock recovered during the first phase of the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040. These interpretive sites offer a window into the port’s past, alongside the breathtaking natural beauty of the bay.
These Discovery Points allow visitors to pause, learn about the rich history and take in panoramic views. From the site of the 1014 Battle of Clontarf to the dockers’ hard work in the shipyards, and the port’s role during World War II, these observation platforms connect the natural beauty of Dublin Bay with its storied past. Industrial artifacts are also preserved along the route, linking that heritage with modern day enjoyment.
Phase One of the Greenway – now open – marks the beginning of an ambitious vision for the future. A second section is slated for completion in 2026, which will extend the route to the easternmost point of Dublin Port.
Conveniently located near Clontarf, the Greenway is accessible via EastPoint Business Park and the Dublin Ferry Terminal, with refreshment and washroom facilities available at the Circle K service station along the route.
As a certified section of the Eurovelo 2 Capitals Route, the Greenway will link with other national routes by 2025, making it an integral part of Europe’s growing cycling infrastructure.
Contribution by Dublin Port Company
Images by Dublin Port Company
Join us on Saturday 19th October for cycling and walking tours of the New Dublin Port Greenway. Booking available for the cycling tour here and the walking tour here.
We want to thank Dublin Port Company for supporting this years Open House Dublin Festival 2024.
