Dublin continues to evolve into a city that embraces sustainability, accessibility, and outdoor living. One of the most exciting recent developments on this front is the Dublin Port Tolka Estuary Greenway — a scenic new route that invites walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers to experience a unique blend of industrial heritage and estuarine beauty.
What Is the Tolka Estuary Greenway?
The Tolka Estuary Greenway is a 3.2 km (2-mile) walking and cycling route developed by Dublin Port Company. It runs along the northern fringe of the port, hugging the edge of the Tolka Estuary from East Wall to the heart of Dublin Port. Opened to the public in 2023, this greenway forms part of a wider plan to make the port more accessible and connected to the city.
🛣️ Distance: 3.2 km
🚶♂️ Access: Open to pedestrians and cyclists
🕒 Opening hours: Typically daylight hours; check signage locally
Highlights of the Route
1. Stunning Estuary Views
As you travel along the route, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Tolka Estuary, one of Dublin’s most important natural habitats. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially at low tide when waders and other seabirds forage in the mudflats.
2. Dedicated Cycle & Pedestrian Lanes
The greenway features segregated paths for walkers and cyclists, making it a safe and comfortable space for all ages. It’s ideal for a morning jog, a family bike ride, or a leisurely stroll.
3. Public Art and Heritage Signage
The route is dotted with interpretive panels that explain the history and ecological significance of the port and estuary. You’ll also find striking pieces of public art that connect the past with the present.
4. Connectivity
The greenway connects with East Wall Road, Bond Road, and eventually leads towards Port Centre Plaza, making it a practical route for commuters and a pleasant detour for visitors.
Environmental and Community Impact
The Tolka Estuary Greenway is part of the larger Dublin Port Masterplan 2040, which aims to modernise the port while integrating it more harmoniously into the city. By opening up previously inaccessible industrial land, the greenway offers:
- New green space for inner-city residents
- Improved biodiversity through the restoration of estuarine habitats
- Safe, car-free routes for active travel
It also supports the city’s goals under Dublin’s Climate Action Plan, encouraging more sustainable forms of transport and reconnecting people with natural ecosystems.
How to Get There
The greenway is easily accessible from several points:
- By Bike: Use Dublin’s growing cycle network to connect via East Wall Road.
- By Bus: Dublin Bus routes serving East Wall will drop you close to entry points.
- On Foot: It’s within walking distance of Fairview, Clontarf, and the Docklands.
Use Transport for Ireland’s journey planner to plan your visit.
What’s Next?
The Tolka Estuary Greenway is just the beginning. Future phases will link this path with other green infrastructure, including:
- The Liffey-Tolka Project (a riverside pedestrian and cycle route)
- A greenway loop around Dublin Port, eventually connecting to the S2S (Sutton to Sandycove) coastal cycle route
You can learn more about these plans in the Dublin Port Masterplan 2040.
Whether you’re a cyclist, a local history buff, a birdwatcher, or simply someone looking for a new place to walk, the Dublin Port Tolka Estuary Greenway is a must-visit. It’s a testament to how modern infrastructure can be both functional and beautiful — and a reminder that even in the heart of a working port, nature still thrives.
