VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at the Skerries Mills

Skerries Mills, located in the picturesque coastal town of Skerries, Co. Dublin, just 30 minutes north of Dublin City, is a unique heritage centre showcasing three national monuments: a four-sail windmill (c. 1460), a five-sail Great Windmill (c. 1821), and a watermill with an associated bakery (operating since the 12th century). This not-for-profit social enterprise, restored over a decade by Fingal County Council, FÁS, and the local community, offers an immersive experience into Ireland’s industrial heritage.

Guided Tours: Daily 50-minute guided tours (€6 for adults, discounted for children, students, and seniors) are a highlight, led by knowledgeable guides like Paddy or Gavin, who share quirky facts and local stories. Visitors start in the four-storey watermill building, trying their hand at stone-grinding flour and observing the working waterwheel powering sieves, shakers, and blowers. The tour continues across a crop field to the four-sail windmill, built on a prehistoric fort, and the five-sail Great Windmill, standing 15 meters tall. Both windmills offer access to their inner mechanics, showcasing grinding stones and sack hoists. The tour provides stunning views of Skerries town, the coastline, and the Mourne Mountains. Booking is recommended, as tours can sell out, especially in peak season (June–August).
Watermill Café: The café, located on the second floor of the watermill building, serves freshly baked scones, tarts, traybakes, and a variety of hot and cold meals using local ingredients. Reviews praise the huge, delicious cheesecake but note mixed experiences with coffee quality and average scones. The outdoor dining terrace is fully accessible, offering scenic views of the mill pond and wetlands.
Craft Shop: The award-winning Craft Shop, recognized by the Crafts Council of Ireland, stocks high-quality Irish-made goods, including pottery by Colm Di Ris, Rathlin Knitwear, handmade jewellery, wood-turning, and Irish interest books. Prices are reasonable, with items ranging from small souvenirs to unique giftware like Fingal Linen and Wild Goose crafts. The shop is on the second floor, accessible by chair lift.
Surroundings and Activities: The mills are set amidst a restored mill pond, mill races, and wetlands, offering peaceful walks with coastal views. The Skerries Mills Farmers Market, held every Saturday (10:00 AM–3:00 PM in summer, 2:00 PM in winter), features local produce, jams, cheeses, and crafts, adding to the community vibe. The site hosts art exhibitions and events year-round, celebrating local talent. Visitors can also explore nearby Skerries attractions like the harbour, beaches, coastal walks, or Ardgillan Castle, just a short drive away.
Atmosphere and Accessibility: The mills are a family-friendly destination, with free parking and a welcoming atmosphere. Guides are praised for being friendly and engaging, tailoring tours to diverse groups, including language school students. The watermill building and café are accessible, but the windmill tours involve climbing and are not wheelchair-friendly. The site is a 15-minute walk from Skerries train station, 23 km from Dublin Airport, and easily reached via the M1. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (April–September) or 4:30 PM (October–March), except for closures on March 17, December 24–27, and December 31–January 1.

What’s New:

Enhanced Farmers Market: The Saturday Farmers Market is expanding its offerings, with a focus on organic and fairtrade crafts. Expect new stalls featuring local artisans, possibly tied to the Local Crafter Project, showcasing talents like Patsy Flood O’Connor or Silverspirit Jewellery.
Community and Educational Programmes: As a social enterprise, Skerries Mills is increasing its community engagement, with new workshops for primary, secondary, and third-level students focusing on wind power, waterpower, engineering, and social history. These may include interactive sessions on sustainable energy.
Improved Café Following 2024 feedback about inconsistent coffee quality, the Watermill Café is likely refining its menu or staff training to ensure consistency, aiming to elevate the dining experience while maintaining its focus on traditional baking.

Practical Information

Millers Lane, Townparks, Skerries, Co. Dublin, K34 K293.
Contact: +353 (0)1 849 5208, www.skerriesmills.ie.
Tips: Book guided tours in advance via the website, especially in summer. Visit on Saturdays for the Farmers Market. Wear comfortable shoes for the crop field walk and windmill climbs. Combine with Skerries’ beaches, harbour, or nearby Ardgillan Castle for a full day out. Check the website for exact tour times and event schedules.

Skerries Mills offers a blend of industrial heritage, scenic beauty, and community spirit, with new events, educational programmes, and café improvements enhancing the visitor experience. For the latest details, visit www.skerriesmills.ie