Skerries, Co. Dublin

So far remarkably unspoilt, Skerries is not completely undeveloped but its essential atmosphere has remained unchanged for decades (perhaps because it does not yet have marina and all its attendant development) and it makes a refreshing break from the hurly-burly of Dublin city.

The harbour is renowned for its fishing, notably Dublin Bay prawns (langoustine), and the surrounding area is famous for market gardening, so it has always been a good place for a very subtstantial bite to eat - and there are several pubs of character along the harbour front to enjoy a pint before a meal.

While in the area, allow time to visit Skerries Mills (working windmills (Tel: +353 (0)1 849 5208) and Ardgillan Castle and Victorian Gardens (Tel: +353 (0)1 849 2212) nearby at Balbriggan, both of which have tea rooms.