Overview
Skerries sits on the north-east coast of County Dublin, roughly 30 km from the capital. Once a modest fishing port, the town has grown into a lively coastal community that balances commuter life with a strong maritime heritage. The compact layout, sandy shores, and working harbour make it straightforward to explore on foot, whether you’re stopping for a few hours or planning a full day trip.
History & Background
The name Skerries comes from the Old Norse skere, meaning “rocky islands”. Long before it became a seaside retreat, the area was shaped by early monastic settlements and Viking activity. A 5th-century religious site once stood on Church Island (St Patrick’s Island), while the sheltered waters later served as a landing point for Norse traders and raiders. By the 18th century, Skerries had established itself as a bustling fishing harbour and a centre for hand embroidery. The arrival of the railway in 1844 connected the town to Dublin, spurring growth and tourism. The 19th century also left a lasting defensive legacy: the Martello Tower on Red Island, constructed during fears of a Napoleonic invasion. Much of this history is preserved today at Skerries Mills, a restored complex that has processed grain since the 12th century.
What to See & Do
Beaches & Coastal Walks
Skerries offers two distinct sandy beaches and a dedicated coastal path that stitches the shoreline together.
- South Beach – A wide, 2.5 km stretch of sand backed by low dunes. It’s popular for long walks, swimming, and sunset picnics. The beach is bordered by a promenade that provides easy access to the harbour and clear sightlines to the three offshore islands. Concrete platforms known as The Captains and The Springers offer sheltered spots for a dip.
- North Beach – A calmer, more sheltered cove protected by the headland. It’s a reliable choice for families and paddleboarders, with gentler waves and a promenade that runs alongside Red Island.
- Skerries Coastal Walk – A 2.5 km one-way route linking North and South beaches. The path loops around the headland, offering uninterrupted sea views, seating areas for birdwatching, and interpretive panels covering local geology and maritime history.
Heritage & Culture
The town’s historic buildings and public art projects are easily accessible and mostly free to explore.
- Skerries Mills – The town’s standout heritage attraction. The site protects three National Monuments: a four-sail windmill (c. 1460), a five-sail windmill (c. 1780), and a watermill. Guided tours run daily from 10:00 to 16:00 (closed on Christmas and New Year). Admission is €12 for adults, €11 for students and seniors, and €31 for a family ticket. Saturdays feature the Skerries Mills Farmers Market, running 10:00–15:00 in summer and 10:00–14:00 in winter, with local produce, crafts, and baked goods.
- St Patrick’s Way and Art Trail – A free 5 km walking route that winds along the seafront and through the town centre. The trail is marked by five commissioned public art pieces, each accompanied by QR-coded information boards that explain the local history and the artists’ concepts.
- Martello Tower (Red Island) – A well-preserved early-19th-century coastal defence tower. The structure offers clear views across the harbour and toward the offshore islands.
- Ardgillan Castle & Demesne – Located just north of the town, this Georgian estate sits within 81 hectares of parkland. The grounds include formal gardens, woodland trails, and a children’s playground. Guided castle tours depart every 15 minutes from 11:00 to 16:15, seven days a week. Grounds entry is free, while castle tours cost €5.
Water-Based Activities
The sheltered harbour and nearby islands make Skerries a practical launch point for coastal excursions.
- Sea Kayaking – Portobello Adventure runs guided paddling trips to Shenick Island, Colt Island, and St Patrick’s Island. Tours typically cost around €40 per person, with shorter introductory sessions available for beginners.
- Boat Tours – Skerries Sea Tours operates seasonal excursions to Rockabill Lighthouse (approximately 5 km offshore, known for its seabird colonies) and Lambay Island (the largest private island off the east coast, featuring historic castle ruins). Trips run for 1–2 hours and include commentary on local wildlife and maritime history.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Skerries Watersports offers SUP rentals and guided sunset paddles departing from the harbour area.
Food & Drink
The harbour front is lined with pubs and cafes that cater to both locals and visitors. Stoop Your Head on Harbour Road is known for its seafood focus, particularly crab claws and chowder. For a change of pace, The Brick House serves Spanish-style tapas on a terrace with sunset views. Joe Mays, a family-run pub dating back to 1865, offers outdoor seating overlooking the bay. Other reliable spots include Nealon’s, The Snug, and Blue Bar for drinks, while Di Vino, Potager, 5 Rock, Olive Café & Deli, and Molly’s Café cover everything from Italian pasta to vegetarian café fare.
Practical Information
Getting There
- Train – The Dublin–Belfast line stops at Skerries, with services departing from Dublin Pearse or Connolly stations. The journey takes 30–40 minutes, with trains running every 30–60 minutes.
- Bus – Bus Éireann route 101 travels from Dublin Busáras to Balbriggan via Skerries. Dublin Bus route 33 also connects the town, though the trip from the city centre takes roughly 90 minutes.
- Car – Take the M1 north and use exit 4 (Lusk/Rush/Skerries) or exit 6 (Balbriggan). Street parking is available in the town centre, with additional free spaces near the Mill complex.
Opening Hours & Fees
- Skerries Mills: 10:00–16:00 daily (closed Christmas & New Year). Adult €12, Student/Senior €11, Family €31.
- Ardgillan Castle: Grounds open 11:00–16:15 daily. Castle tours €5.
- St Patrick’s Way & Art Trail: Open 24 hours. Free entry.
- Skerries Golf Club: 07:00–19:00 (seasonal). Green fees vary; online booking required.
Seasonal Tips
Summer months (June–August) bring longer daylight for coastal walks and an expanded schedule for boat tours and the farmers market. In winter, the Mills and art trail remain accessible, though the market closes at 14:00. Dogs are generally welcome on both North and South beaches, but seasonal leashing rules apply during peak summer weeks. Check harbour-side signage for current restrictions.
For day visitors, the most efficient route is to park near the Mill complex, walk the coastal path to South Beach, and finish with a harbour-side lunch. The town’s compact size means you can easily cover the main sights, grab a coffee, and catch a train back to Dublin in a single afternoon.