Irish coastal haven 'overshadowed by nearby Dublin' is a 'true gem'

Tourists often miss out on some of the best towns in Ireland as they opt for the major cities like Dublin and Galway as well as famous attractions like the Cliffs of Moher. However, more and more people are catching on to the underrated and overlooked experiences there are in Ireland.

One of those, as shown beautifully in a recent TikTok video, is Bray. This town is located in Co Wicklow, just south of the border with Dublin .

Bray is known for a number of reasons and is a go-to seaside destination for a day out for many Dubliners. However, not many international tourists know about it.

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A TikTok video posted by Tripocity Destinations highlights Bray as a hidden gem that is often overshadowed by Ireland's nearby capital city. "Bray invites you to discover its secrets to find your own hidden gems in this Irish haven," the narrator says.

If you can't see the video above, click here

Bray has been highlighted before as an underrated destination for tourists. In a list published by esteemed travel publication Time Out, Bray was named as one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world.

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Bray was also included in the publication's list in 2023 and was praised for its diverse range of things to do as well as places to eat and drink. This year, Bray took the number 24 spot on the list, just about making it on.

The town is famous for its cliff walk, its scenic seafront, and its many pubs. There is also a popular aquarium here that many Dubliners travel to visit. Time Out contributor Stephen Emms explained why Bray is such a hit with visitors.

"It was the arrival of the railway in 1854 that made Bray, just twelve miles south of Dublin, so popular it became known as the Brighton of Ireland," he wrote. "After years of decline, its mile-long Victorian seafront now buzzes with cafés and restaurants.

"Stroll from the harbour along the esplanade to the 800-foot high Bray Head, worth the hour’s climb for panoramic views from its rocky summit. Refuel at Butler & Barry on the beach, before a Guinness at ace local institution the Harbour Bar."