Dalkey, is a compact town with a great deal of history and charactor. It was designated a Heritage Town in 1994. Timmy Ryan, an esteemed local, tells a story regarding his Grandfather Joe Ryan, who came to live in Dalkey age two. In the town, man and boy for a mere 68 years, Joe could be found with old pals on fine days, swapping yarns, sitting in the sun on the bench by Webster’s Corner as it was then known. (This same sunny bench can be found in front of the double hoardings down the end of town). One day a heated discussion on Dalkey matters arose, Joe offered his opinion and was immediately told to shut up, after all what did he know wasn't he only a blow in.
Since 1787, with the odd break here and there, Dalkey had an elected King. A sight to behold in his magnificent cloak and crown, Finbarr, the present reigning King of Dalkey, presides over most major celebrations.
Today Dalkey is a popular area for the bourgeois middle-class with house prices sky rocketing in the past five years. It is still possible to imagine it as a 19th century area because it is largely unspoiled, and seems to have avoided 20th century "modernisation". There are several interesting shops, which include two art galleries, a new and second-hand bookshop, and a delicatessen. There are also six pubs, 11 restaurants, 2 take-aways, 2 cafйs, a wine shop, two off licences and 3 chemists. Why not go for a walk through Dalkey Hill, a large wooded park off Dalkey Avenue; Sorrento Park; or Dillons Park on Coliemore road?
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