A beautiful seaside village to the north

A town with the feel of village, Skerries is set in a beautiful seaside location in Fingal. It has a vibrant atmosphere and fascinating history and is easily accessible using local rail service direct from Connolly Station or a combination of that and the DART.

The name Skerries (‘Na Sceirí’ in Irish) translates as ‘the rocks.’ Skerries, like many Irish locations, was invaded by the Vikings so it is thought the name’s origins also derive from the Norse ‘skirrs’ or ‘sceir’ meaning ‘sharp rocks.’

People have inhabited Skerries for about 8,000 years. It has five islands off its coast including Colt, Shenick, Rockabill, St. Patrick’s and Red Island (a tied island). 

All of them have interesting features, from the 12th century church on St. Patrick’s Island to the Martello Tower on Shenick to the lighthouse and abundant bird population on Rockabill. Red Island was known for its holiday camp, which had its heyday in the 1950s and 1960s.

It is believed that in 431 AD Pope Celestine sent St. Patrick as the first bishop to Irish Christians and that he landed on an island off Skerries in 432. 

From here, he would go the mainland to convert the people. This island is named in his honour and the existing church in the town is also dedicated to the saint.

Other notable features in the town include Ardgillan Castle and Demesne, Baldungan Castle and Skerries Mills. 

Ardgillan Castle and Demesne has 78 hectares of parkland overlooking the Irish Sea as well as a fabulous view of the Mourne Mountains. As well as the ‘castle’ (which is more of a manorhouse), there is a walled and rose garden. The park is open to the public.

Since the 12th century, flour has been milled at Skerries Mills. The complex, fully restored by Fingal County Council, is now a major tourist attraction and is open 7 days a week showing the authentic workings of a 19th century mill including two different windmills, a water mill and bakery.

Skerries has also always been very industrious, from its guise as a thriving fishing port and a centre of hand embroidery to a resort town and commuter area for Dublin city.

It has two beaches, one is a stony beach to the north near the harbour and another is on the long, sandy South Strand. Skerries is built around two long streets, Strand Street and Church Street. 

There are many bars, restaurants and cafes in the town centre and a variety of local festivals and events all year round. 

Community spirit is very strong here with a wide variety of sports clubs and local organisations. It even has its own news outlet in the form of the fortnightly publication, Skerries News.

Skerries is the ideal escape for a day trip or holiday with lots to enjoy at any time of the year. For more informtion, visit visitskerries.ie

To explore more in Skerries click here.