There are so many reasons to love Skerries. Just north of Dublin, on the rugged Fingal coast, there are so many things to do and see. 

Easily accessible by Northern line commuter trains, beautiful tranquil scenic routes pretty much everywhere, AND second in all of Ireland in 2011's Best Place to Live in Ireland awards, Skerries has got it going on. And here's why.

1. Rockabill Restaurant

Rockabill is a dreamy restaurant located on Skerries main street, serving up some of the best food Skerries has to offer. Their poached eggs are the stuff of dreams, and the perfect thing to wake up to first thing.

2. Skerries Mills

Since the 12th century, flour has been milled at the Skerries mills. The fully restored complex brings to life the authentic workings of windmills, water mills and bakeries of the 1800's. 

Providing some interesting insight of how things were way back when. A great activity for a day trip, to get a truly authentic feel for the place.

3. Ardgillan Castle

Located equal distance from Balbriggan and Skerries, this 18th-century castellated country house sits on the coastline, all upon meticulously manicured lawns. 

The house itself was built in 1738 and contains some of the finest period furnishings and antiques. But the real beauty of it all is the setting, at the edge of the wild Irish Sea, with miles of walking paths and coastal views, as well as a rose garden and an herb garden. Behind which, there's a nice cafe for a quick bite or some ice cream. Ideal.

4. Di Vino Tapas Restaurant

Family run Italian Restaurant Di Vino is situated right in the heart of Skerries. 

They serve modern and authentic Italian food and wine in a cosy and friendly atmosphere. Their seafood is the freshest around, and they take pride in their delicious, yet incredibly healthy menu.

5. Blue Bar

Situated on the Skerries, Blue Bar gets all the best crowds and all the best views. The bar itself is a jack of all trades, providing casual dining, a lively night out with friends, after work cocktails or just somewhere to perch on your day off.

It's the only west facing harbour on the east coast of Ireland, so they enjoy incredible sunset views from the patio deck each and every night.

6. Skerries Sea Tours

Skerries Sea Tours is a family run business, offering exciting tours of Dublin's dramatic coastline. They run two passenger trips daily; to Rockabill Lighthouse (75mins, €35 per person) and Lambay Island (120mins, €50 per person), with custom tours available.

They are totally exciting, a new way to see our city, and totally insured, as well as 100% safe. A trip you'll find hard to forget.

7. Joe May's pub

Located on Harbour Road, Joe May's is a true taste of Dublin. A pilgrimage for locals and tourists alike, Joe May's allows you to sit on the harbour wall and watch the hundreds of bikes rolling by. The pint is unbeatable and the service is too.

8. Newbridge House & Farm

The aesthetically pleasing 18th century manor that is Newbridge House is set on 350 acres of parkland, twelve miles north of the city centre and boasts one of the finest Georgian interiors in all of Ireland.

 Each room is open to the public has its own style of antique and original furniture. The grounds also contain a 29 acre traditional farm, complete with farmyard animals, the perfect treat for a Summer's day.

Newbridge House & Farm is located in nearby Donabate.

9. Red Island

Starting at the old monument in the north of the town Red Island has a quirky, seaside village feel to it and you feel as if you are hundreds of miles away. The perfect place to stretch the legs, and maybe end up in one of the village's eateries.