Tourist Attractions

Best Tourist Attractions
  • St. Patrick's Island One of three uninhabited islands off the shores of Skerries, St. Patrick's is a gorgeous place to visit on a sunny day. It is here where you'll find the ruins of the first monastery. It is said that if you visit at the right time of day, you can see a silhouette of St. Patrick reflected out of window on the last remaining wall. The ruins and the island itself are gaining popularity with both local and foreing visitors, who are finally realizing and appreciating the historical, cultural and religious importance of the site not just in Skerries, but in Ireland as a whole.
  • The Rockabill Lighthouse Built in the mid 19th century on a rocky protrusion just a few miles off the shores of Skerries, the Rockabill Lighthouse is one of the most recognisable, and visible, icons in town. The building of the structure was first commissioned in 1837 but it took nearly a decade and a half to complete due to disagreements over who would cover its cost. The round construction was made of a mix of limestone and granite and its light powered by coal gas at first, then paraffin wax and, eventually, electricity. Rockabill has now been operating unmanned for almost two decades. The islet and its most revered embellishment receive visitors on a daily basis, thanks to the continuous ferry services which link passengers from Skerries Harbour. Rockabill is home to Europe's most significant colony of seafaring Roseate Tern, so history and bird aficionados alike make the constant pilgrimage to this most important island. Should you be a fan of neither birds nor history do not worry, the views from this spot, as well as the high chance you'll come face to face with a colony of seals, entices visitors of all ages and all inclinations. Take a boat trip to the Rockabill Lighthouse and come discover for yourself just how special a place it really is.
  • Hamilton Monument Right in the heart of the old town is where you'll find this obelisk-shaped monument, erected in honour of one of Skerries' most famous residents. James Hans Hamilton was a prolific landowner in the area at the beginning of the 19th century, and was also a prominent Member of Parliament in Dublin, where he represented his County. It should be noted that when it came to political transparency, this era left much to be desired. This was long before the idea of a secret ballot war intorduces, meaning that the majority of people were enticed, somehow, to vote for their landlord-MPs rather than their opposition.
  • The Carnegie Library The Carnegie Library is one of Skerries' quiet achievers. It may not get as much attention as some of the more prominent landmarks in town, yet it definitely deserves a special mention. Architecture buffs ought not to miss this stunning century-old building when visiting Skerries. The building is absolutely striking with its intricately carved facade, trusses and cornices. A frontal view is ideal for seeing the five separate bays, although the clock tower is what takes centre stage no matter where you admire the building from! Funnily enough, the three-faced clock you can see nowadays was actually only installed a couple of years ago, during the century celebration of the construction of the church. As funds apparently ran out when the church was completed, this addition was postponed until further notice and, it's safe to say, it was definitely well overdue.

    Address: 41 Strand Street
    Opening Times: Every day 10am-5pm (with short lunch break). Closed on Sundays.
    Phone: +353 1 8491900
    Email: skerrieslibrary@fingalcoco.ie
  • Methodist Church Aside its trademark Catholic Church, Skerries is also home to a lovely Methodist Church. The building itself may be much more low-key than its grander siblings in town, but it is no less splendid to admire, thanks to its sublime stained glass windows. The church took its first worshippers in 1880 and continues to service Skerries' devout Methodist community to this day. Join the Sunday service and you'll also have a chance to admire the beautiful interior of the church.

    Address: Strand St, Skerries
    Opening Times: weekly Sunday service at 10.30am
    Phone: +353 1 832 9185 (Parish Priest: Rev. David Nixon)
    Email: info@skerriesmethodistchurch.org
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Skerries-Methodist-Church/278262345538934
  • Baldongan Church and Tower The Baldongan Castle ruins are found south of Skerries, about half way to Lusk. The original church was built here by the Knights Templar in the 12th century and towers added in the 15th century. The castle, which was built alongside it, has all but disappeared. The imposing 21 metre fortified tower is what makes this an utterly striking site from afar. Baldongan was the residence of two very prominent Anglo-Irish royal families, until it was seized in 1642 by Cromwellian forces. Come visit the ruins on your visit to Skerries and you'll no doubt be impressed by the fortitude of this amazing construction. If you can, pick a clear and sunny day; the elevated position of this site gift breathtaking views of the countryside...it would be a pity to miss them.
    Address: On LHS of the R127, about 5kms before Lusk.


Funded by the Cianan Clancy Community Enhancement Fund 1997 to 2024