Bray is a seaside town on the coast of County Wicklow, just south of Dublin and reachable in about 30 minutes by DART train. The town sits at the foot of Bray Head, a prominent headland that offers one of the best coastal walks near the capital — the cliff path from Bray to Greystones takes about an hour and the views along the way are superb.
The seafront promenade has an old-fashioned charm, with amusement arcades, fish and chip shops, and a Victorian-era esplanade. The town has been quietly improving its restaurant and café scene. Bray is also home to Ardmore Studios, where many well-known films have been shot, and the National Sea Life Centre.
For visitors staying in Dublin, Bray makes an easy half-day escape — walk the head, eat fish and chips on the seafront, and take the DART back. It is not spectacular, but it is pleasant and unpretentious.