A trip around North County Dublin

 

North County Dublin

A trip around North Co Dublin

  

North County Dublin is one of my favourite parts of the county. Once you get north of Swords, it feels much more rural and coastal than most people expect, with quiet beaches, working harbours, castles, and tiny villages. 

Malahide Castle & Gardens (beyond the castle)

Most people visit the castle, but the real gem is exploring the 260-acre demesne. Wander through the walled garden, Fairy Trail, and woodland paths, then continue to the marina and beach. Early morning or late afternoon is especially peaceful.

Skerries

Skerries has managed to stay a proper seaside town rather than a tourist hotspot.

Don't miss:

• The harbour at sunrise

• Skerries Mills

• Red Island coastal walk

• Fish and chips by the harbour

• A pint overlooking the sea

It's also one of the best places in Dublin for photography.

Ardgillan Castle

Often overshadowed by Malahide, Ardgillan has:

• spectacular sea views

• Victorian gardens

• woodland walks

• almost no crowds compared with Dublin's better-known attractions.

Donabate Portrane Cliff Walk

One of the finest coastal walks near Dublin.

It follows low cliffs with views towards:

• Lambay Island

• Howth

• the Irish Sea

It's only about 2.5 km one way, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon

Loughshinny

A tiny fishing village that many Dubliners have never visited.

It has:

• a sheltered swimming cove

• colourful boats

• a Martello tower

• dramatic cliffs

It feels more like the west coast than somewhere 40 minutes from the city.

Portmarnock

Portmarnock is often overlooked because people head straight to Malahide or Howth, but it's one of the best places in Dublin if you enjoy long beach walks, sea views, and a quieter atmosphere. 
The main attraction is the Velvet Strand, a 5 km stretch of sandy beach that's one of Dublin's finest.
From the beach you can see:

• Ireland's Eye to the northeast.
• Lambay Island farther north.
• Howth across the bay.

You can easily combine Portmarnock with nearby towns:

• North to Malahide via the beach and coastal paths.
• South toward North Bull Island and Sutton.

The Naul

Hidden in the rolling countryside, this little village has:

• beautiful views over the Delvin Valley

• riverside walks

• traditional pubs

• the Séamus Ennis Arts Centre for traditional Irish music

The surrounding landscape is among the most scenic in Fingal.

Rush

Less polished than Malahide but wonderfully authentic.

Try:

• South Beach

• the harbour

• quiet coastal paths

• local cafés

If you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins offshore.

Lusk

Often overlooked because people drive straight through.

Visit:

• St MacCullin's Church

• its rare medieval round tower

• the remains of the medieval monastery

It's a fascinating glimpse into early Christian Ireland.

Balbriggan

While not usually on tourist itineraries, it has:

• a lovely harbour

• the restored lighthouse

• excellent cliff walks north towards Bremore

• surprisingly good seafood.

Discover Malahide, Dublin: A Seaside Gem Steeped in History

 

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Dublin, look no further than Malahide, a charming coastal village just 30 minutes from the city centre. With its rich history, stunning seaside views, and welcoming village atmosphere, Malahide perfectly blends Irish heritage with modern coastal living. Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, or casual explorer, Malahide offers endless things to see and do.

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Explore Over 800 Years of History at Malahide Castle

The crown jewel of the town, Malahide Castle, is one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited castles. Built around 1185 by the Talbot family, who arrived in Ireland with the Norman invasion, the castle remained in their hands for nearly eight centuries — an extraordinary legacy that makes it one of the most historically significant landmarks in the country.

The castle has witnessed everything from medieval battles to royal visits. During the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, 14 members of the Talbot family were said to have gone to war from the castle — and none returned. Ghost stories abound here too; locals whisper about the White Lady, said to haunt the castle’s Great Hall.

Inside, guided tours showcase the castle’s beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian-era interiors, antique furniture, and ancestral portraits. Outside, the 260-acre Malahide Demesne is home to lush parkland, a botanical walled garden, and a Butterfly House — perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Top Tip: Visit early in the morning to explore the gardens before the crowds, and grab a coffee at Avoca Café, located in the visitor centre.

Yellow Walls And Malahide Estuary

To the South West of Malahide Village, Yellow Walls had a big cotton industry - hence the name, due to the discolouring of the walls when the cotton was draped over them. Nearby you have Malahide Estuary, the estuary of the Broadmeadow River that flows through Meath and North County Dublin. The estuary contains mud flats, and a variety of flora and wildlife.

There is a pleasant walk along the estuary that is popular during the summer months.

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Things to Do in Malahide Village

After exploring the castle, wander through Malahide Village, a postcard-perfect hub of independent shops, cosy cafés, and lively pubs. The village’s mix of historic buildings and modern boutiques gives it an irresistible charm.

• Shop local: Browse Irish crafts, art, and fashion in the various local boutique stores.
  
  

• Taste the town: Stop by Bon Appétit, a Michelin-recommended restaurant, for fine dining, or grab a casual bite at Fish Shack Café for fresh seafood.
  
  

• Raise a pint: End your afternoon at Gibney’s of Malahide, a family-owned pub dating back to the 1930s, famous for its live music and warm Irish welcome. You also have Duffy’s pub and Fowlers, both of which serve lovely food.

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🌅 Walk the Coast: From Malahide Marina to Portmarnock Beach

Malahide’s coastal walks are among the most scenic near Dublin. Start at Malahide Marina, where yachts line the waterfront, and follow the coastal path toward Portmarnock Beach. The views across Dublin Bay are stunning — especially at sunset. You can further enjoy these sitting on the terrace of the Sands Hotel while enjoying a drink or a meal.

Outdoor enthusiasts can try paddleboarding, sailing, or kite surfing, while birdwatchers will love spotting herons and oystercatchers along the shoreline.

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🎭 Festivals, Culture & Local Events

Malahide is more than just a pretty village — it’s a vibrant cultural destination. Each summer, Malahide Castle Concerts bring world-famous artists to perform in the castle grounds, creating one of Ireland’s most unique open-air music experiences.

Throughout the year, the village hosts food markets, craft fairs, and heritage walks, offering visitors a taste of local life and Irish creativity.

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Why You Should Visit Malahide, Dublin

Malahide captures everything that makes Ireland special — deep-rooted history, friendly locals, stunning coastal scenery, and a vibrant community spirit. It’s an easy day trip from Dublin by DART (train), yet it feels a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

So whether you’re exploring Malahide Castle’s ancient halls, enjoying fish and chips by the sea, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of the village, you’ll find that every corner of Malahide tells a story — one that continues to unfold with each visitor.

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📍 Getting There

• By Train: Take the DART from Dublin’s Connolly Station — about 30 minutes.
  
  

• By Car: Roughly 16 km north of Dublin City Centre via the R106.
  
  

• By Bike: The coastal route from Clontarf to Malahide offers scenic sea views and safe cycling paths.
  
  

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In short: Malahide is a must-see for anyone visiting Dublin — a destination that combines Irish history, coastal beauty, and modern charm in one unforgettable experience.