About

Located in close proximity to the city of Dublin, Fingal providers travelers with an opportunity to explore the rich legacy and history of one of Ireland's most scenic, quaint regions. Derived from the Gaelic phrase “Fine Gall”, roughly translated as “Land Of The Fair-Haired Stranger”, Fingal has captivated visitors from all corners of the globe with its enriching legacy.

An eclectic mix of rolling, coastal communities and rustic towns, Fingal's numerous hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions are guaranteed to entertain and inspire. For those who are visiting the region for the first time, as well as for travelers who know the region well already, Fingal's countless array of captivating venues and landmarks have helped distinguish this area as a “must-visit” location that offers a neverending supply of fun!

Travelers from around the world have made unforgettable memories during their time in the beautiful lands of Fingal. Truly one of the most unique locations in all of Ireland, Fingal offers a variety of memorable experiences that are guaranteed to entertain both adults and chidlren alike. Visit Fingal today!

Facts

Fingal currently hosts a population of approximately 273,000 (as taken from the 2011 census). This represents a 13.8% increase over the results reported in the 2006 census.

Fingal is the third largest county in Ireland by population, and the region stretches over a geographical area of 450 square kilometres. The coastline of Fingal includes 88km of land, stretching between Sutton and Balbriggan.

History

The history of Fingal can be traced back to the 8th century, when the area was first explored and settled by the Vikings. In 1014 AD, the Irish Kings defeated the Vikings at the now famous Battle of Clontarf. That being said, the influence of the Vikings has not completely been forgotten. The black crow featured on the battle flags of these fierce warriors has remained an iconic symbol of the region, and is currently included on the official flag of Fingal. Did You Know? Ireland has adopted the harp as their national symbol. Historians have discovered that this harp was derived from the flag of the High King Of Ireland who defeated the Vikings at the Battle of Clontarf.

Heritage Sites

Ardgillan Castle & Demesne Located on the coastline between Balbriggan and Skerries, Ardgillan Castle is actually a country home that features a variety of architectural additions designed to create the appearance of a more imposing fortress. Read more about Ardgillan Castle & Demesne Malahide Castle & Demesne Erected on a massive, 100 hectare plot, Malahide Castle was built during the 12th century and remained the home of the illustrious Talbot family until 1975. The oldest remaining section of this popular national landmark is a 14th century tower. Read more about Malahide Castle & Demesne Newbridge House & Demesne Located on a scenic 150 hectare plot, the Newbridge estate is believed to have been designed by Charles Fritzell nearly two and a half centuries ago. The grounds of the Newbridge House feature beautiful woodland belts and an abundance of wildflowers. Read more about Newbridge House & Demesne Swords Castle The historic residence of the Medieval Archbishop of Dublin, Swords Castle stretches across a .5 hectare area of land and is surrounded by an imposing perimeter wall. Read more about Swords Castle / Lodge Castles The castles that have been constructed throughout Fingal and surrounding areas act as a structural “time-capsule”, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of these lands. Read more about Castle Swords Round Tower The Swords Round Tower is the last remaining relic of the medieval church it was formerly attached to. Travelers who are interested in scaling the tower will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the surrounding counties. Although the first church established here is believed to have been destroyed in the 17th century, the structure was rebuilt in 1811. Read more about Swords Round Tower Lusk Round Tower Within the Lusk Heritage Center, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the famous, 9th century round tower, a medieval-era belfry, as well as the newer, 19th century church that has been built here. The Lusk Tower is one of several examples of medieval architecture that still exists today within Fingal. These artifacts serve as iconic reminders of the diverseand fascinating history of these ancient lands. Read more about Lusk Round Tower Martello Towers A series of small defensive forts erected in the 19th century, these formidable structures were designed during the Napoleonic Wars and remained in use long after. Each of the towers is capable of hosting up to 25 soldiers. Martello towers were erected throughout the Fingal region, and many of these buildings remain standing today, providing tourists with a wide variety of potentially entertaining discoveries. Read more about Martello Towers St. Doulagh's Church This 12th century structure shows strong Saxon influences. Featuring seven individual apartments, as well as a “leper's window” designed to enable afflicted individuals to receive communion, this location has since become a popular tourist attraction. Read more about St. Doulagh's Church Dunsink Observatory The Dunsink Observatory is considered to be Ireland's oldest and most revered institute of scientific research. For over two centuries, scientists at Dunsink Observatory have contributed to a variety of cutting-edge astronomical pursuits here. A trip to the Dunsink Observatory can prove to be a fascinating experience for both adults and children who are interested in learning more about the celebrated history of this respected facility. Read more about Dunsink Observatory Hurdy Gurdy Museum Located inside of Howth's popular martello tower, the Hurdy Gurdy museum offers travelers the opportunity to explore the history of radio and gramophone technology in Ireland. Read more about Hurdy Gurdy Museum National Transport Museum The National Transport Museum provides travelers with a fascinating glimpse into the history of public and commercial transport, with the earliest exhibitions on display dating back to 1883. Both history buffs and casual tourists alike will find something of interest in this eclectic and entertaining museum. Children will enjoy the opportunity to gaze at a variety of real-world transportation vehicles used throughout history. Read more about National Transport Museum Newbridge Traditional Farm This 19th century farm was largely self-sustaining, featuring an extensive collection of crops, animals and skilled laborers. Travelers can learn more about historic agricultural practices during their time here. Read more about Newbridge Traditional Farm Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre Visitors can explore the rich heritage and legacy of the region at the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre, which features a variety of informative and engaging exhibits. Read more about Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre. Skerries Mills This historic agricultural centre offers tourists a chance to immerse themselves in the fascinating pastoral legacy of the region. For those who have visited Ireland previously, it should come as no surprise that these lands have served as fertile agricultural resources throughout history. That being said, they have also proven to be a catalyst for change, most notably during the famine that occurred here in the opening years of the 20th century. Read more about Skerries Mills

Geology

No matter where you look in Fingal, you're bound to find unique traces of the unique geographical history of the region. Over the span of 10,000 years, a variety of powerful natural forces have transformed Fingal into the beautiful terrain many of us enjoy today. Both the flora and fauna living here today are the product of an astounding array of decisive transformations.

Heritage

Archaelogical-Heritage

The earliest settlers in Fingal devoted themselves to developing a thorough and sustainable agricultural platform. Some of the earliest artifacts found in this region include primitive stone farming tools. A variety of ancient structures have also been revealed, including Aideen's Grave, a popular landmark, and the passage grave sites found near Bremore. A number of artifacts here shed light on early Christian influences, including the iconic Swords Tower and Lusk Tower. The vast majority of artifacts open to visitations from tourists date back to the Medieval Period.

Architectural-Heritage

Featuring an outstanding collection of rural buildings, historic farms and large country homes, as well as more contemporary structures, including the international airport, Fingal and its neighboring regions offer visitors countless opportunities for exploration and enrichment. Some of the more popular domestic structures here include estates at Luttrellstown, Newbridge, and Ardgillan, among others. Although the region gained significant notoriety for its collection of thatched structures, very few of these are still in existence today.

Natural-Heritage

In addition to the numerous man-made structures found throughout the region that have become popular tourist attractions, Fingal also hosts an array of beautiful natural scenery. Popular points of interest here include Baldoyle Bay, Rogerstown Estuary and Lambay Island, among others. For those interested in exploring the diverse collection of grasslands, wetlands, and coastal areas here in Fingal, self-directed or guided tours through the region will prove to be an enjoyable excursion. Thanks to the Wildlife Acts of 1976 and 2000, many of Fingal's natural landmarks have been designated as Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) and Special Areas of Conservation (SAC). Special Protection Areas (SPA) have been created around Fingal in order to ensure that the wide collection of bird species here are not put in danger by human intervention.

Vikings

The history of the Viking presence in Ireland can be tracked back to 795, when the first Viking forces invaded Ireland. Five decades later, the Vikings had established settlements in Fingal, which were later abandoned in 902. Although the Vikings re-established their community in 917, they were later defeated by the Irish Kings in the historic Battle of Clontarf. The iconic black raven featured on the Viking flag has been adopted by the Ireland as a national symbol.

Environment

Featuring both urban and rural regions, Fingal's unique diversity is one of many attractions that draws people from around the world to this particular area of Ireland. One of the more interesting geographical features of the area is the Fingal Dublin coastal corridor, which contains several notable beaches, islands and headlands. In close proximity to the coast are three notable heritage homes and demesnes, the Ardgillan Demesne, Newbridge Demesne and Malahide Demesne. The coastal region of Fingal is known for its stunning, breathtaking vistas.

Islands

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