Where to Stay in Bray, Co. Wicklow: Your Complete Accommodation Guide
Bray, Co. Wicklow is one of Ireland’s finest short-break destinations — and more and more visitors are realising that a day trip simply isn’t enough. Between the coastal walks, the vibrant food and drink scene, and easy access to some of Wicklow’s most beautiful scenery, Bray genuinely rewards an overnight stay. If you’re wondering where to stay in Bray, this guide covers the best accommodation options right in the heart of town — so you can wake up, step outside, and start exploring straight away.
Why Stay Overnight in Bray?
There’s a version of Bray that day-trippers simply never get to experience. It’s the early morning walk on an empty promenade. It’s a long, unhurried dinner at one of the town’s best restaurants without one eye on the last DART home. It’s a late night at The Harbour Bar — one of the world’s most beloved pubs — without worrying about how you’re getting back to Dublin.
Staying in Bray also opens up the wider beauty of Co. Wicklow at your own pace — Glendalough, Powerscourt, the Sugar Loaf, the Wicklow Mountains. These are places that deserve more than a rushed afternoon visit. A night or two in Bray gives you the freedom to explore the Garden County properly, and to return each evening to a town that has no shortage of great food, great drink, and great company.
The Martello Hotel — Bray’s Premier Seafront Hotel
If you’re looking for the best hotel in Bray, The Martello Hotel is the natural first choice. Situated directly on Bray Seafront, The Martello offers a combination of location, comfort, and atmosphere that’s genuinely hard to beat.
The hotel provides both hotel rooms and self-catering apartments, making it equally suited to couples on a weekend break, families planning a longer stay in Wicklow, or solo travellers who want a comfortable base from which to explore the coast and countryside. The Martello also serves food throughout the day — from hearty breakfasts at 8am to full gastropub meals in the evening — which means you can make the hotel your anchor point for the whole trip without ever needing to go far.
Waking up to a sea view, walking out onto the promenade before breakfast, and returning each evening to a warm, welcoming hotel bar: that’s the Martello experience, and it’s one of the best reasons to stay in Bray.
Perfect for: Couples, families, weekend breaks, longer Wicklow stays, seafront location seekers.
Firefly — Ireland’s First Fully Automated Hotel
For something a little different, Firefly is a genuinely exciting addition to Bray’s accommodation scene. Located just minutes from the seafront in the heart of Bray, Firefly is Ireland’s first fully automated hotel — a stylish, modern property that offers a seamless, flexible experience for the contemporary traveller.
Everything from check-in to room access is handled digitally, giving guests maximum flexibility and a frictionless experience from arrival to departure. The rooms are contemporary and comfortable, and the central location puts you within easy walking distance of the seafront, the town centre, and all of Bray’s best restaurants and bars.
Firefly is ideal for those who value independence and flexibility — whether you’re arriving late, leaving early, or simply want the freedom to come and go on your own terms. It’s a fresh, modern alternative to the traditional hotel experience, and it works exceptionally well for both solo travellers and couples.
Perfect for: Tech-savvy travellers, solo trips, couples, flexible check-in/out, modern accommodation.
What to Do During Your Stay in Bray
Staying in Bray gives you the time and flexibility to experience everything the town and county have to offer. Here are some of the highlights to plan around:
Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk: One of the finest coastal walks in Leinster, taking around 1.5–2 hours with stunning views of the Irish Sea. Walk one way and take the DART back.
Bray Seafront Promenade: The beating heart of the town, lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars. A must for an evening stroll.
Bray Head: A rewarding hike to the summit with panoramic views across the Wicklow coastline.
National Sea Life Centre: A brilliant family attraction right on the seafront, with sharks, rays, seahorses, and more.
Powerscourt Estate & Gardens: About 20 minutes by car — one of Ireland’s most celebrated gardens, with a stunning waterfall and views of the Sugar Loaf.
Glendalough: The iconic monastic city in the Wicklow Mountains, about 45 minutes by car.
Where to Eat & Drink During Your Stay
Part of what makes Bray such a rewarding place to stay is the quality of the food and drink scene right on your doorstep. The Born in Bray family of venues has everything covered:
Platform Pizza Bar — Open from 12pm daily for stone-baked pizzas, sharing plates, and creative cocktails. Perfect for a long, relaxed dinner.
The Martello Hotel — Breakfast from 8am, gastropub food throughout the day, and a warm hotel bar for evening drinks on the seafront.
The Harbour Bar — One of the most celebrated pubs in the world. Essential on any Bray visit. Live music at weekends.
Conlon’s Wine Bar — Intimate seafront wine bar with curated wines by the glass and artisan meats and cheeses.
Frank Duff’s — A brilliant neighbourhood bar in the town centre. Cocktails, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Getting to Bray
Bray is just 30–35 minutes from Dublin city centre by DART, with direct services from Connolly, Tara Street, and Pearse stations running throughout the day. By car, take the N11/M11 south from Dublin. Parking is available near the seafront and in the town centre.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staying in Bray
What are the best hotels in Bray, Co. Wicklow?
The Martello Hotel and Firefly are two of the best places to stay in Bray. The Martello offers a classic seafront hotel experience, while Firefly is Ireland’s first fully automated hotel, offering a modern, flexible alternative.
Is Bray good for a weekend break?
Absolutely. Bray has excellent accommodation, a brilliant food and drink scene, coastal walks, and easy access to Wicklow’s countryside — everything you need for a memorable short break.
Is Bray far from Dublin?
Bray is just 30–35 minutes from Dublin city centre by DART, making it one of the easiest weekend escapes from the capital.
Does The Martello Hotel offer self-catering?
Yes — The Martello Hotel offers both hotel rooms and self-catering apartments along Bray Seafront, making it ideal for longer stays and families.
What makes Firefly different from other hotels in Bray?
Firefly is Ireland’s first fully automated hotel, offering digital check-in, flexible access, and a contemporary experience for travellers who value convenience and independence.
