Skateparks have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Recognised more as a sport rather than a hobby, skateboarding is even set to make a debut appearance in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.
Skateboards have always been rather cool accessories with popular brands such as VANS keeping them firmly en trend. Not to mention young people usually finding it easier to master the art of performing impressive mid-air tricks.
Skateparks are popular hangout spots for skateboarders and usually have an array of jumps, ramps and half-pipes to name but a few of the adrenaline pumping objects to catapult off.
So for any skater dudes or dudettes visiting the Emerald Isle, here are Ireland’s top 10 skateparks.
10. Charlesland Skate Park, Wicklow
Shoreline Sports Park has lots to offer including a rather epic skatepark with a unique design. The high-performance bowl will challenge most skaters while the classic street area has something for all abilities.
Stunt scooters are not permitted at this skatepark and under-10s are not allowed. Nobody is allowed to skate without a helmet and the park is not open if it is raining.
Address: Charlesland, Greystones, Co. Wicklow
9. Tramore Skatepark, Waterford
This is an outdoor skatepark near the seafront in Tramore. It is good for novice skaters and free to enter. Its proximity to the beach means the bowl can often be sprinkled with sand and attract some non-skaters as a hang-out.
In the summer it is a fun spot to skateboard, scooter or BMX and helmets are advised although no official skatepark rules are indorsed.
Address: Tramore Intake, Tramore, Co. Waterford
8. Ramp Action, Dublin
The original ‘rad’ skatepark, Ramp Action Dublin is somewhat legendary among skateboarders in the capital. It is an indoor skatepark perfect for beginners as well as the more adventurous skaters.
Safety is a priority at RAD with Ireland’s only skate/bike foam pit so it is great for those trying to perfect a stunt. Younger age groups are welcome on stunt scooters and it is open 7 days a week.
Address: Unit 2, 3 Old Belgard Rd, Cookstown Industrial Estate, Dublin, D24 WD00
7. Westside Skatepark, Galway
This skatepark is just one of the many reasons to visit Galway city. Located in Westside park (beside the shopping centre) it features all the usual challenges including a mini ramp, quarter pipe, hips, rails and fun boxes.
It has lots of space and eye-catching graffiti artwork to add the final touch to the look. It is out-door so open to the elements but is free to visit and skate. Another cool place to hang out in Galway!
Address: Westside Park, Galway city
6. Fairview Park, Dublin
Yet another outdoor skatepark best visited in the summer months but free all the same. This somewhat smaller area has a mini ramp, fun boxes, ledges and flat bar, all constructed of metal or concrete so helmets are a must.
It may not be the most challenging skatepark in Ireland but it’s just a short distance from Dublin city centre and has a large playground beside it for the younger siblings so everyone is happy.
Address: Fairview Park, Clontarf road, Dublin
5. Raw Cycles, Limerick
With the weather not always dependable in Ireland, some of the better skateparks are indoor. Raw Cycles in Limerick has lots of space and a range of ramp abilities.
The environment is trendy yet feels safe for young people. The prices are affordable with the chance to buy full-day admission. It’s also great for BMX enthusiasts and bikes, skateboards and safety equipment are all available to hire.
Address: Unit 9 Delta Retail Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick
4. Wreckless, Wexford
Wreckless is an awesome indoor skatepark just outside Gorey. It has a very cool street section as well as a mini-ramp. Sessions prices start at 8 euro for 1 hour but become more reasonable the longer you stay with 4 hours costing just 15 euro. You can also buy a 30-day pass if you live in the area.
The other attraction at Wreckless is the skate shop. It sells top of the range skateboards and some very desirable accessories so parents might want to bring the credit card!
Address: 33, Gorey Business Park, 33 Gorey Hill, Ramstown, Gorey, Co. Wexford, Y25 KF57
3. Bushy Park, Dublin
This is one of the most popular skateparks in Dublin. It has a great pool suitable for most skateboarding abilities. There is lots of space for anyone who wants to have a go and a nice friendly vibe among the skaters.
There are ramps and rails for tricks and a graffiti wall that only adds to the experience. Bushy Park is a well-kept public space with lots going on most of the time so it feels safe for young people to hang out together.
Address: Rathdown Road, Terenure, Dublin
2. Zero Gravity, Sligo
Zero Gravity is by far one of the best indoor skateparks in Ireland and goes above and beyond for passionate skaters. Designed and built by the legendary skateboarder, Mike Keane, it ticks all the boxes for maximum thrill factor.
There are lessons and summer camps available for young skaters while owner, Neville Dunbar, encourages Sligo locals to take an interest in the ongoing development and maintenance of the skatepark. This inclusive vibe brings this state of the art skatepark to another level and is well worth a visit.
Address: 4, Cleveragh Business Park, The Back Ave, Cleveragh, Sligo
1. Bridges Urban Sports Park, Belfast
This super cool skatepark sits under the M3 flyover and has it all. Capsule bowl, handrails, hubbas, grind boxes, quarter pipes and hips make it a skateboarders paradise in the heart of the city.
It is open from 7.30am until 10 pm and the usual park rules apply. The park is also open for BMXing, scootering and parkour but under 11s must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Address: Little Patrick St, Belfast BT15 1BH
