Bray Head Walk is a 9.8-kilometre loop trail where you can breathtakingly beautiful scenic views of County Dublin and Bray itself. The hill dominates the end of the promenade and the stone cross atop the hill is an iconic feature of the town. While the climb is not particularly daunting, some parts can be a bit of a challenge and require some scrambling. But if the hike up doesn’t leave you breathless the views sure will!
Take a look at spectacular drone footage of Bray from the sky:
Bray Head Looped Walk
To start the climb, follow the promenade up towards the hill. The real climb begins at the steps; from here there is a well-worn path straight up to the cross. The path will bring you up through trees and on a dirt path. Be prepared for a bit of a scramble up rocks at the top. The path can get quite mucky when it rains so dress appropriately.
At the top of Bray Head, there is a stone cross which was placed there in 1950 during the Holy Year. From here you get a magnificent panoramic vista of Bray, North East Wicklow and Dublin Bay. You can also see some of Bray Head’s neighbouring mountains, the Great and Little Sugar Loaf and Carrickgollogan, locally known as Kathy Gallagher.
To come down following the same path again, or if you want to extend the walk follow the path to the South. This will bring you on a walk parallel to the Cliff Walk below, and bring you towards Greystones. The path will veer off to the right and follow it to come out at Windgates on the Bray to Greystones Road. Follow the path back to Bray passing Bray Golf Club, keep going straight until Newcourt road, turn right and follow the road till the end then turn right to end up back on the seafront, where you can relax with well-deserved ice cream or cup of coffee in one of the many fine cafés and restaurants.
Advice to Walkers
Leave no trace (Principal of Outdoor Ethics) please adhere to this code on any outdoor trips.
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Dispose of waste properly or take it home with you.
- Leave what you find
- Be considerate of others
- Respect other walkers and cyclists
- Respect the rules of the road
- DOGS should always be kept on a lead
- Wicklow County Council are not responsible for any damage or falls
Think Safety
- Part of this route is very challenging
- Have the correct apparel and walking shoes
- Take adequate clothing food and fluid
- If you encounter any emergency difficulties contact the emergency services on 999/112
Download the Bray Head Loop Walk Map by hitting the ‘Click here’ button below.
The De Buitléar Way
The Slí de Buitléar, or The De Buitléar Way was opened in May of 2014. The ribbon was cut by Lailí De Buitléar, wife of the filmmaker and conservationist, along with local officials and Councillors. Eamon De Buitléar was a Bray native and is best known for his wildlife filming and documentaries, and along with his wife, he was very active in community events.
He passed away in 2013 at the age of 83, and this walk was erected in his memory. Bray Head is teeming with flora and fauna and is a most fitting place to remember this great lover of nature. A sign is placed at the entrance to Bray Head with a brief history of the man and his work, as well as some information about flora and fauna to keep an eye out for.
