Monkstown

Monkstown is a pretty coastal village in South Dublin, one of Dublin’s most sought after areas. Monkstown is also right next to the popular towns of Blackrock, Glasthule, and Dun Laoghaire. It is renowned for its wonderful seafront walks and array of high-end restaurants, independent shops, and pubs.

As a seaside village, sailing is very popular and local sports clubs include Monkstown Rugby Club, Monkstown Tennis Club, along with hockey and boxing clubs.

Other local leisure activities include the scenic pier walk in the nearby Dun Laoghaire, a visit to People’s Park, and many coastal walks in the area, all with breath-taking views. Dun Laoghaire is within very easy access with lots of local facilities including a state-of-the-art library, harbour, marina and yacht clubs. A must visit is The Dun Laoghaire County Council Market in The People’s Park, showcasing 50 local vendors, held on Sundays during the summer months.

Monkstown is very well serviced by public transport. There are numerous bus routes serving the city centre, including the Aircoach and the DART. Salthill Monkstown Dart station offers quick and easy access for commuters. Bus routes include 63, 7 and 7a.

Education

There is an excellent number of primary and secondary schools in the area. Local primary school options include Monkstown Park Junior School, Holy Family National School and Educate Together.

The main secondary schools include CBS Monkstown and Rockford Manor. Other close by options are Blackrock College, Holy Child Killiney, Loreto Foxrock and Willow Park Junior and Senior Schools.

Shopping

There are many family run boutiques, a dry cleaner, and a wonderful garden centre called Howbert & Mays in the village.

Convenient shops include a local Spar shop with Insomnia Coffee, and a Centra.

Hewett Newsagent is a third-generation family run newsagent, located in the heart of the village.

Searson’s Wines is a well-known independent shop offering wine from some of the finest producers from all over the world.

Avoca Monkstown features a food market with fresh fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread and cakes, and artisan foods.

The nearby Blackrock Shopping Centre has a good range of shops, including a large Supervalu.

The newly developed Frascati Centre in Blackrock is home to 36 retail brands, flagship stores with Aldi and M&S, and an extensive food quarter.

There are also two shopping centres in Dun Laoghaire.

Food and drinks

Salt Café in Avoca offers the best daily breakfast and lunch menus in a cool setting with an outdoor terrace.

Cinnamon is a comfortable eatery, coffee house and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Brunch at the weekend is a must try!

Bresson Restaurant is a popular fine dining restaurant in a casual setting offering classic French and European cuisine.

FX Buckley offers the best steak, seafood menus and an excellent selection of fine wines, drinks and cocktails.

8a Brasserie is a boutique family run restaurant offering a wide range of dishes and wines in an indoor and outdoor setting.

That’s Amore is a lovely Italian Restaurant, Café and Delicatessen, with great food and lovely staff.

Osteria 99 is an Italian Restaurant serving delicious Italian dishes with handmade pastas and homemade desserts.

If you are looking to enjoy a drink, local options include Goggins of Monkstown, Frank’s Bar and McCormack’s Pub in Dun Laoghaire.