Introduction to Dingle town, Dingle Peninsula, Ireland; things to do

Dingle town in Ireland

DINGLE town is at the southern end of the Dingle Peninsula set facing the harbor.  The most westerly town in Europe, its restaurants offer tasty food and its cozy pubs present traditional Irish music.  The main street runs along the harbor (Strand Street), and another higher main street runs up above behind it (Main Street); several smaller side streets join them.  Buildings are painted in an array of colors--the area is popular with artists--and wandering around browsing the shops and peeking into the pubs is a great way to pass the time.  Don’t leave the area without driving the Slea Head Drive, also known as the Ring of Dingle.  As it circles the southern peninsula, it passes many of the antiquities that are scattered across the area and provides spectacular views.  Peak season is August, when the Dingle Races draw crowds from throughout the area to watch the horses run every other weekend.

Things to Do

St. James’ Church  Main St., 087 2849656.  Folk concerts are sometimes scheduled in this charming small church that seats just 100.  An ancient cemetery adjoins. 

entry to St. James’ Church in Dingle town, Ireland

 

Commodum Art and Design  Main Street, +353 66-9151380.  Interesting locally made woolens and art pieces fill this clean-lined shop.  I was partial to the knitted flock of sheep inhabiting the window display.  Hand-knitted right here in the shop from natural Aran wool, you can buy a lamb or slightly larger sheep or a whole flock.

handmade sheep souvenirs at Commodum Art and Design
in Dingle town, Ireland

More things to do on the Dingle Peninsula.

More information about Ireland.

Travel articles to inspire and help you plan some spectacular local and foreign getaways. 

images c2013 Carole Terwilliger Meyers