Overview
Balbriggan offers a quiet contrast to bustling Dublin, with a historic harbour, Martello tower, and the nearby Ardgillan Castle set in coastal parklands. The town grew from a tiny fishing village in the 18th century into a textile centre producing the long-johns that gave the town its name to the world — John Wayne famously hollered 'put your balbriggans on'.
Architecture · Beach · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Accommodation
Limited accommodation in Balbriggan itself; best to book ahead or stay in nearby Skerries which has more options including B&Bs and self-catering.
Connectivity
Full 5G coverage from all Irish carriers as of May 2024.
Food
Main St has cafes and takeaways. Evening dining options include Thai, Indian, and bar food. Ice cream at Pappagallino's on Quay Street is a local favourite.
Transport
Commuter trains from Dublin take 45 minutes and run every 30-60 minutes. Bus Éireann 101 runs every 20 minutes from Dublin Airport. The town is walkable but you need a vehicle for countryside attractions.
Weather
Best visited May-September for coastal activities and longer days. Coastal weather can be changeable year-round.