Max HeyraudIarnród Éireann is consulting on a potential Kylemore station in west Dublin, a possible new boost for a citywide transport network that has long lagged behind nightlife, raising the question: could Dublin finally be ready for later club hours?
Dublin’s transport system has historically lagged behind other European capitals, but for once, it feels like the city may be catching up. New DART stations, late-night buses, routes that stretch to Kildare, Wicklow, Meath, and other surrounding areas well into the dawn, talks of a Transport Security Force, and even the long-awaited Dublin Metro have all re-emerged in planning discussions, with MetroLink planning permission expected to be granted this year. Michael Martin spoke at the DCU MetroLink market event, stating, “The funding is now in place” for the project.
While the ongoing debate about taxi price hikes continues, alternatives for many now exist for those who want to enjoy nightlife culture or work at night.
The DART+ South West upgrades, which increase train frequency and capacity, could make late-night travel across southwest Dublin and beyond a realistic option, while existing 24-hour bus routes like the E1 and E2 already link key neighbourhoods to the city centre, supporting extended nightlife. Future network expansions, including the proposed Kylemore station, signal a broader commitment to improving mobility, particularly for areas like Ballyfermot and Bluebell, which have historically been poorly connected at night.
The recent opening of Woodbrook Station in August 2025 completes another piece of Dublin’s late-night transportation puzzle, improving connections between Shankill, Bray, and the surrounding areas to the city centre. While it primarily serves commuter traffic, the station also allows night owls in the city’s south to easily access gigs, club nights, and after-hours events without relying on taxis or lifts.
Enhanced safety measures, such as plans for a dedicated Transport Security Force, could further reduce barriers for club-goers, making late-night travel not only more convenient but also safer and more accessible.
Give Us The Nights Rhythm of the Night Irish Nightclub and Dance Culture Report recommends expanding 24-hour transport to all cities, with further post-midnight services rolled out to towns and rural areas. The report encourages inter-county travel at night to support increased activity outside of cities, starting with pilot Night-time Economy locations such as Buncrana, Drogheda, Kilkenny, Longford, and Sligo. It also calls for a further assessment of underperforming regions that need greater night-time transport connectivity, with input from industry stakeholders to maximise ideas and opportunities.
However, it’s fair to say that Dublin has largely caught up with many of its late-night transport shortcomings. With new services added in recent years, and more likely on the way, alongside expanded bus and rail routes and the long-running Nitelink operating every Friday and Saturday, the infrastructure is in place. At Christmas, DART and commuter services already run later under the holiday timetable, so it’s not unrealistic to imagine the same happening on weekends if licensing reform moves forward. Looking at the current picture, things seem ready to roll—we could keep clubs open until 5 AM this Friday, and the transport system would handle it.
