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sport · Sunday 6 September 2026 · 7:30am 
Great Dublin Bike Ride 2026
At Dublin City Centre · Start: Smithfield, Dublin 7
At Dublin City Centre · Start: Smithfield, Dublin 7
Once a year, Dublin’s roads belong to cyclists. The Great Dublin Bike Ride closes streets across the city and county so that riders of all abilities can do something rarely possible in the capital - cover real ground on a bike without sharing the road with cars. Three distances mean you can tailor the day to your legs: the 25km is well-suited to families and occasional cyclists, the 60km is a solid half-day challenge, and the 100km is a proper test of fitness. The event draws thousands of riders and has a genuinely good atmosphere - competitive enough to feel like an occasion, relaxed enough to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Riders set off from Smithfield, Dublin 7 in waves, which keeps things from getting congested at the start. Marshals direct traffic at every junction and are stationed throughout the route to keep riders moving safely. Support stations appear every 20-30 kilometres offering food, water top-ups, first aid cover, and mechanical assistance if your chain or tyres need attention. It is worth bringing your own snacks and at least one full water bottle regardless - eating little and often makes a difference on the longer routes. A finisher medal and goodie bag are handed out at the finish line, and there is usually food and music in the event village afterwards. Helmets are mandatory for all participants. Padded shorts, bright clothing, and a light waterproof are sensible choices for a September morning in Dublin.
Smithfield is easy to reach by public transport. The Red Luas line stops at Smithfield, and a number of Dublin Bus routes serve the area. On event day, driving to the start is not practical - roads in the surrounding area will be closed or restricted for the event, so public transport or cycling to the start is the better option. If you are coming from outside the city, the M50 serves the wider Dublin region, and trains into Heuston or Connolly stations leave you within easy reach of Smithfield by Luas.
Dublin City Centre is on your doorstep and worth a few hours before or after the ride - Smithfield itself is a short walk from the Jameson Distillery, the Old Jameson Distillery, and the old markets area. There is more to see in Dublin and across Co. Dublin.
Heading to Dublin City Centre in Dublin? Dublin has plenty more to see. Read the Dublin area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.