
Mermaid Arts Centre Bray
A vibrant cultural hub in Bray, offering diverse theatre, music, and visual arts exhibitions in an intimate, welcoming setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch live performances

Mermaid Arts Centre Bray
Best Time
Catch live performances

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural hub in Bray, offering diverse theatre, music, and visual arts exhibitions in an intimate, welcoming setting.
"Love the mermaid, its a jewel in our town. The staff are always pleasant and the theatre is just the perfect size."

🎟️ Book tickets early
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for theatre and music events well in advance.
🖼️ Explore the gallery
Don't miss the upstairs art gallery for diverse visual arts exhibitions.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Visual Arts Exhibitions
Gallery (Upstairs)
Discover impressive collections of paintings and drawings, often exploring local landscapes and history.

Live Theatre Performances
Main Auditorium
Experience acclaimed plays and comedies, with shows like 'The Snapper' drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Bray Jazz Festival
Main Auditorium
A highlight of the year, featuring renowned jazz quartets and trios, drawing music lovers from afar.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Explore the Art Gallery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book tickets early
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for theatre and music events well in advance.
🖼️ Explore the gallery
Don't miss the upstairs art gallery for diverse visual arts exhibitions.
🚗 Parking & Access
Easy parking and access make this local venue convenient for visitors.
🍸 Bar Variety
While the bar is convenient, some visitors wish for a wider beverage selection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book tickets early
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for theatre and music events well in advance.
🖼️ Explore the gallery
Don't miss the upstairs art gallery for diverse visual arts exhibitions.
🚗 Parking & Access
Easy parking and access make this local venue convenient for visitors.
🍸 Bar Variety
While the bar is convenient, some visitors wish for a wider beverage selection.
🤫 Phone Etiquette
Be mindful of others; avoid using phones during performances as it can be distracting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mermaid Arts Centre is a beloved local venue praised for its intimate auditorium, comfortable seating, and friendly staff, making it a 'jewel' in Bray. It successfully hosts a variety of performances and art exhibitions, though some visitors suggest a wider beverage selection at the bar and better enforcement of phone etiquette during shows.
"Far away place from Dublin which hosts some of the yearly Bray jazz festival. Cute auditorium, not too big, a good size for hosting jazz concerts. Seats are comfy and the venue hosts a bar at the entrance, of course toilets and a space dedicated to art gallery on the first floor. Take the stares to avoid chaos, the bar gets crowded very quickly."
Elisabetta Di Reda
"Love the mermaid, its a jewel in our town. The staff are always pleasant and the theatre is just the perfect size. Only criticism would be maybe a better variety of beverages"
Sue
"Nice local theatre with a wide variety of film, plays and musical acts. Only issue is a lack of staff in theatre itself leading to issues with people using phones to take videos etc which can be very distracting."
David LG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mermaid Arts Centre is located in Bray, which is a bit of a journey from Dublin. Taking the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train is a popular and scenic option. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Once you arrive at Bray DART station, the Mermaid Arts Centre is a short walk away.
Yes, there is generally ease of parking available near the Mermaid Arts Centre, making it accessible for those driving.
The venue is known for its good access, making it a comfortable experience for most visitors.
For events, especially during busy periods like the Bray Jazz Festival, taking public transport like the DART is often recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the Mermaid Arts Centre is within walking distance from Bray DART station, making it convenient for public transport users.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Mermaid Arts Centre's official website, or at the venue itself. For popular shows, booking online in advance is strongly advised.
Yes, ticket prices can vary depending on the performance. Concession prices are often available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the specific event listing for details.
The opening hours can vary depending on whether there is a performance or exhibition. It's best to check the Mermaid Arts Centre's official website for the most up-to-date information on gallery and box office hours.
While some tickets might be available on the door for less popular events, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for theatre productions and the Bray Jazz Festival, as many shows sell out.
Yes, there is a bar located at the entrance of the venue, which is convenient for pre-show drinks.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
Mermaid Arts Centre hosts a diverse range of events including theatre productions, live music (especially jazz), dance performances, and film screenings. They also feature visual art exhibitions in their upstairs gallery.
The auditorium is described as a 'cute auditorium, not too big, a good size for hosting jazz concerts.' It offers an intimate viewing experience.
The seats in the auditorium are reported to be comfortable, contributing to an enjoyable viewing experience.
Yes, restroom facilities are available at the Mermaid Arts Centre.
If you encounter distractions like people using phones, it's best to discreetly mention it to a staff member. The venue aims to provide a good experience for all attendees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there is a bar for drinks, dedicated dining facilities are not a primary feature. Visitors often grab a drink before or after a show.
The bar offers a selection of beverages, though some patrons have expressed a desire for a wider variety of drinks.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium. It's best to consume any items at the bar area or before entering the performance space.
Bray town centre has numerous restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines, so you can easily find dining options before or after your visit.
Yes, the bar can get crowded very quickly, especially before shows or during intermissions. It's advisable to get your drinks early to avoid the rush.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during live performances to avoid distracting other audience members and performers.
Photography rules in the art gallery can vary per exhibition. It's best to check for signage or ask gallery staff for guidance on whether photos are allowed.
The exterior of the Mermaid Arts Centre can be picturesque, and the art gallery offers visually interesting exhibits. Capturing the atmosphere of the venue before a show can also make for good photos.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances and often in art galleries to protect the artwork and avoid disturbing others.
You might be able to take photos of the empty auditorium before a show begins, but always be mindful of staff instructions and avoid disrupting any setup.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check the specific age recommendations for any show you're considering. The art gallery upstairs also provides a quieter, engaging experience for families interested in visual arts. Remember to be mindful of noise levels and phone usage, especially during performances, to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
The auditorium's size is often cited as a major plus for music events, offering an intimate setting where you can truly appreciate the performance. Comfortable seating and good acoustics contribute to an excellent listening experience.
🎨 Art Aficionados
Visiting the gallery before or after a performance adds another layer to the cultural experience. While photography rules can vary, it's a space to appreciate art in a relaxed setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mermaid Arts Centre Experience
The venue also boasts an upstairs gallery that consistently features an impressive range of visual arts. Exhibitions often highlight local talent and themes, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work. This dual focus on performing and visual arts makes Mermaid Arts Centre a comprehensive cultural destination.
Visitors frequently commend the friendly and helpful staff, contributing to the venue's reputation as a 'jewel in our town.' While the bar is a convenient amenity, some patrons have noted a desire for a broader selection of beverages. Overall, Mermaid Arts Centre is celebrated for its accessibility, cozy ambiance, and its significant contribution to the arts scene in Bray.
Attending Events at Mermaid Arts Centre
When attending, consider arriving a little early. The bar area can become quite busy, especially before a performance or during intermissions. Getting your drinks early can help you avoid the rush and settle into your seat comfortably. While the venue is praised for its accessibility and parking, opting for public transport like the DART can be a stress-free alternative, especially during major festivals.
During performances, it's important to be mindful of fellow audience members. The venue encourages a respectful environment, and distractions like phone usage can detract from the experience for others. By keeping these tips in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the rich cultural offerings at Mermaid Arts Centre Bray.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit