Dingle Guide
To help with your stay we have created a detailed guide to all things Dingle.
Dingle Guide
is thoughtfully designed to provide
Dingle Guide
is thoughtfully designed to provide
Dingle Guide
is thoughtfully designed to provide
Dingle has recently been named the Top Foodie Town in Ireland and for good reason. Here are some of our favorites.
Solas (Strand St)
Tapas style restaurant that offers the freshest locally sourced produce, brought together to make some of the most delicious meals you will ever experience. The key element of what they get right is the simple excellence of the plates because the Solas food offer is red-hot-good: the prawns with chickpeas; the stunning chowder croquette; pork belly with an apple and lime tartare that is worth the trip to Dingle all on its own.
Out of the Blue (Strand St)
'No chips', reads the menu of this funky blue-and-yellow, fishing-shack-style restaurant on the waterfront. Despite its rustic surrounds, this is one of Dingle's best restaurants, with an intense devotion to fresh local seafood (and only seafood); if they don't like the catch, they don't open. With seafood this good, who needs chips?
Ashes (Main St.)
Owned by a distant relation of Gregory Peck, this elegantly fronted gastropub serves modern takes on seafood in old-fashioned surrounds. The tempura of Pollack with coriander aioli is mighty fine.
The Blue Zone (Green St.)
Looking for the best pizza in Ireland, thank look no further. Not only is the pizza delicious but the wine list is excellent, the salads as wonderful and the atmosphere is a delight. This is a great location for a relaxed fun dinner in Dingle.
The Boatyard (Strand St.)
The Boatyard restaurant is located down by the pier overlooking Dingle Harbour. It has an elegant conservatory overlooking the Harbour and the outside decking is an ideal location for relaxing with a friend, having a chat over a glass of wine and perhaps a bowl of freshly steamed mussels.
Gluten Free
Dingle has many delicious restaurants that cater to all food types and diets. This is especially true for Gluten Free options. Almost all restaurants will offer options that are GF. A few that we recommend are
The Blue Zone (Green St): Delicious pizzas on a GF base along with yummy salads.
The Fish Box (Green St): Delicious fish that can be pan fried to insure its GF.
Murphy’s Ice Cream (Strand St): Off the charts Ice Cream with most being GF.
For any restaurant we recommend, please check their online menu, call ahead or stop by to make sure they still serve GF options as their menus can change or GF items may not be available. All are more than happy to chat about their menu, explain their separate fryer system (if available) and ways in place to not contaminate the food to ensure it is GF.
The Supermarkets in Dingle all have an extensive selection of GF products. For both selection and price, we recommend Lidl (at the bottom of Main Street take a left and it's on the right)
Feeding the Kids
Are you looking for child-friendly restaurants in Dingle? There are so many great restaurants in to choose from, but the problem often for parents is which one will cater to all of the family. In no particular order, here’s are our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Dingle.
Murphy’s Ice Cream (Strand St)
A must see in Dingle. They love to see children coming in the door and give free tastes of all of their ice cream.
The Blue Zone (Green St)
Large selection of delicious pizzas. Great salads and a nice wine list for the adults. Lovely cozy restaurant setting.
The Fishbox, (Green St)
Fresh, off the boat fish. Lots of options for the entire family. Portions are large so think about splitting between the kids.
The Dingle Diner (Strand St)
Great for the entire family. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served.
Dingle is home to over 30 unique pubs, including one that is half hardware store and half bar, just in case you need some nails with your pint of Guinness. Here are some of our favorites.
John Benny’s (Strand St.)
A toasty cast iron woodstove, stone slab floor, memorabilia on the walls, great staff and no intrusive TV make this one of Dingle's most enjoyable traditional pubs. Local musicians pour in most nights for rockin' trad sessions.
Foxy John’s (Main St)
Dingle has more than 50 pubs, many of them mongrel affairs that still have vestiges of their lives as shops. Foxy John’s on Main St is one example and stocks hardware and outdoor clothing as well as beer and whiskey. They even rent out bikes!
The Courthouse (The Mall)
The Courthouse is the first place we send people looking for traditional Irish music and a relaxing, memorable evening. If you are a tourist on a short visit and are craving outstanding music, this is the place.
An Droichead Beag (Main St)
Sitting beside a bridge leading to the road over the Conor Pass, this pub is known for its “mighty” sessions of Irish traditional music scheduled every night of the year.
Dick Mack’s (Green St)
Probably Dingle’s most well-known pub. It carries on a cobbler’s tradition, with a small leather shop still on the premises and an array of handcrafted leather boots, belts, and key fobs still on display. The walls are lined with family memorabilia, old pictures, and books. The bar area is small and includes an old-fashioned snug.
Kennedys Bar (Goat Street)
It’s like visiting someone’s home except they can also serve you delicious Dingle & Tonic. One of our favorite bars in Dingle is also just a stone’s throw from Harriet’s Cottage. A lovely cozy and warm atmosphere will await you, a definite recommendation for your first beverage in Dingle.
Dingle Festivals
Dingle has many fun festivals throughout the year, including the best Food Festival in Ireland and the world renowned Other Voices Music Festival. Click here for a comprehensive list of all that is happening in Dingle to make your stay more fun.
Aside from making your morning brew at Harriet’s Cottage, you have some great cafes just a short walk away, where you can get your fix. Most will also have breakfast items as well. Note, sometimes their hours are a little flexible, so we advise checking their IG/FB page or Google Maps.
Bean in Dingle: M-Sa 8.30am. Green St. Close to the church.
The Hares Corner: M-Sa 9.30am. Main St. Close to the AIB Bank.
My Boy Blue: M-Su 10am. Strand St. Close to Super Valu
Nourish: M-Sa 9.30am Green St. Close to the church.
Pig and Leaf: M-Sa 9.30am. Main St. Down from Centra.
Seed and Soul: M-Su 9am, Strand St. Across from Super Valu
The Dingle Diner: M-Su 9am. Strand St. Across from Super Valu
If it’s before 9am your best option is the Centra Supermarket, just down the street They are open Mon-Su 7am-9pm, have a great self-service coffee/tea machine and yummy Irish Breakfast Rolls / Pastries etc.
Supermarkets
If you are looking to get coffee, Tea etc., at home, then Dingle has three main supermarkets.
Centra (Main St): Located a short walk away, is perfect for a few items you may be short of.
Garveys (Strand St): Great for a full shopping list, also has a great bakery, fish counter and beer/wine selection. Best to bring your car with you as the bags will be plenty. They have parking around the back (on The Tracks Rd).
Lidl (Spa Rd): Very good value and a good selection (not as extensive as Garveys). Also has a bakery and a limited selection of beer/wine.
NOTE: Plastic shopping bags are not given out for free in Ireland. You will be charged 25-50 cent per bag. All supermarkets take credit card (no AmEx or Discover)
The Dingle Peninsula in Ireland is home to some renowned distilleries and breweries. A visit to them makes for a fun tour.
Dingle Distillery, located a 10 min walk from Harriet’s Cottage, is known for its artisanal approach to whiskey production. Established in 2012, it emphasizes traditional methods while also integrating innovative techniques. The distillery produces a range of spirits, including whiskey, gin, and poitín, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. Tours of the distillery often include tastings and insights into the distillation process, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Located just 15 min drive from Harriet’s Cottage, this brewery is known for its commitment to crafting high-quality, small-batch beers. Established in 2013, the brewery focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, which not only supports the local economy but also enhances the flavors of their beers. The brewery offers a variety of styles, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, each reflecting the unique character of the West Kerry landscape. They prioritize traditional brewing methods while experimenting with innovative techniques to create distinct and flavorful brews.
A short stroll from Harriet’s Cottage get you to this unique establishment that combines a traditional pub atmosphere with an on-site brewery. Founded in 2015, it is an extension of the historic Dick Mack's Pub, which dates back to the 1800s and has been a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The brewery has become well-known for its innovative and varied offerings, with a rotating selection that keeps things fresh and exciting. Dick Mack's also hosts events and live music, creating a vibrant community space. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the brewhouse, where they can learn about the brewing process and sample their latest creations. The combination of great beer and the warm atmosphere of the pub makes Dick Mack's Brewhouse a must-visit spot for anyone in Dingle.
There is plenty for the active and adventurous to do on the Dingle Peninsula.
Irish Adventures offer a variety of tours and training that are aimed at all levels and abilities: Adventure tours, Walking & Hiking tours / Holidays in Ireland, Cycling tours, Horse riding tours and more. All activities are run by experienced, qualified and knowledgeable staff
This unique tour takes in the breath-taking majestic coastline of Dingle Bay, the caves and the cliffs all the way to the Great Blasket Islands! Soak in the delights that await you and keep an eye out for the many marine mammals and birds that may greet you as you go. This tour is limited to 10 people max each time, therefore it can offer a very personal experience!. Your captain has a great knowledge of this coastline as he has spent years on the sea in Dingle. Reservations recommended.
Bicycle Hire
Both regular bicycles and electric bicycles are available to hire in Dingle. Dingle Electric Bikes offers a unique eco-friendly adventure. They offer Bike Hire (including delivery and collection) across a range of easy-to-use electric bikes & also high-quality regular bicycles. For the regular cycling experience, you can rent from Paddy’s Bike Shop.
Dingle Horse Riding's stables are located in the hills overlooking Dingle harbor, just one mile from the center of Dingle town. They offer a range of short treks, from one-hour mountain treks to full day treks.
Fully experience the coastline in a whole new way while discovering a new adventure around every corner. Paddle into sea caves, on hidden lagoons and up secret rivers. On every tour, delight in the local wildlife and thoroughly enjoy exploring where others can't.
The southwest of Ireland offers some of the finest golf courses in the world. Due to its popularity, we recommend pre-booking tee times. Some courses offer club rental & caddie hire.
Type: Links Drive time from Dingle: 25 mins.
Located on the Dingle Peninsula, Ceann Sibeal, or Dingle Golf Club as it is also known, is the most westerly golf course in Ireland and for that matter, Europe. The course is certainly the best kept golfing secret in Kerry but at 6,690 yards in length, Ceann Sibeal is one of Ireland's truly traditional championship links courses and is a real test of golf.
Type: Links Drive time from Dingle: 1 hr. 30 mins.
Its very name, Ballybunion Golf Club, strikes a chord with golfing enthusiasts around the globe. Rated one of the ten best golf courses in the world, standing on the first tee at Ballybunion is every bit as awe inspiring as one could imagine in many respects, it is like standing on the first at the Old Course in St. Andrews.
Type: Links Drive time from Dingle: 1 hr. 15 mins
Representing the first European design of Arnold Palmer, Tralee Golf Club in southwestern Ireland is one of the most spectacularly beautiful golf courses you will ever encounter. Having completed his masterpiece, Palmer commented: "I have never come across a piece of land so ideally suited for the building of a golf course. I am happy that we have one of the world's great links here".
Type: Links Drive time from Dingle: 1 ½ hrs.
Dooks Golf Club represents traditional Irish links golf at its best. It offers the visitor a unique links experience in a majestic environment. To the southeast are the famed peaks of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, while looking northwards across the bay; one can see Slieve Mish and the Dingle mountains dominate the landscape.
Type: Links Drive time from Dingle: 2 ½ hrs.
Make no mistake about it; Waterville Golf Links in Kerry is one of the finest links golf courses in the world, never mind Ireland. Located on the Ring of Kerry, the surrounding scenery and quality of golf holes is breathtaking to say the least
Type: Parkland Drive time from Dingle: 1 hr. 15 mins
Nestled amidst the splendor of the Lakes of Killarney in the shadow of the majestic Macgillycuddy's Reeks Mountain range, the Killeen Course is consistently rated amongst the world's top courses and has hosted many major championships
Within a short drive from Harriet’s Cottage (30 mins or less) there are many delightful places to visit. Here are some of our favorites.
Eask Tower:
This round stone tower sits on a hill overlooking Dingle Bay and offers breathtaking 360-degree views. It’s a short, steep hike to reach the tower, and visitors are often surprised by the tranquility and the stunning panorama, making it a peaceful retreat from busier spots.
Dunquin Pier:
A picturesque spot, Dunquin Pier is famous for its winding road leading to the pier and views of the Blasket Islands. It’s a hidden gem for photographers
Kilmalkedar Church:
An ancient early Christian site, this 12th-century church and surrounding cemetery are often overlooked by visitors. The site includes Ogham stones, a sun dial, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Gallarus Oratory:
This iconic building is the only one of its kind surviving intact on the Irish mainland. It dates from the 10th century
Minard Castle:
Located just outside Dingle, this 16th-century castle ruin is set on a picturesque rocky beach. It’s a quiet and serene spot, perfect for those interested in history and scenic landscapes.
Cloghane and Brandon:
These quaint villages located on the north side of the peninsula are lesser known to tourists but offer stunning views of Mount Brandon and the surrounding countryside.
Ballydavid Pier:
A small, tranquil fishing village just north of Dingle, Ballydavid offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy seafood,
Coomeenole Beach:
Often overshadowed by other beaches, this small but dramatic beach near Slea Head offers incredible views of the Blasket Islands and is perfect for a quiet walk or picnic.
The many hills and peaks of the Dingle Peninsula provide for spectacular hikes. Some, such as Mount Brandon can take a full day, here are a few of our suggestions for hikes that take you to stunning places without too much exertion.
Dingle Lighthouse
This lovely walk takes you out to the Dingle lighthouse and keepers' cottage. The trail is flat the majority of the way and is suitable for the whole family. The trail will take you along the Dingle coast through fields with breathtaking pastoral views of grazing cows and sheep. Along the way, you will pass a castle known as Hussey's Folly, built in the year 1845 during the famine. Before you reach the lighthouse, you will pass a laneway down to the beautiful beach Sláidín. Make sure to stop for a swim if the weather permits. The route extends past the lighthouse and takes you along the cliffs providing incredible views of Dingle Bay on a clear day.
Eask Tower
At the summit, there is a commanding view of Dingle and the surrounding area. The trail takes you to the Eask Tower, a beautiful stone building constructed in 1847 as a marker to help guide ships into the harbor below. It was later used as a lookout post in World War 2. The trail is a bit steep in some places but still relatively easy. Be sure to bring good shoes because this trail can be muddy after rainfall. Note: There is a €2/person fee to hike this trail.
Cnoc a’Cairn
This trail is quite beautiful and explores a historical site from an earlier period in the history of Ireland. It leads you up Cnoc a'Cairn offering spectacular views of Dingle Bay. As you turn down towards the graveyard, the path becomes quite overgrown, so long pants are advised. The graveyard 'Reilg Cnoc a'Cairn' was also known as the Pauper's Graveyard. It overlooks the town, and it is said that between 7,000 and 10,000 people are buried here. This includes thousands of people who died of hunger during the Famine. Below the graveyard, you'll see the old Dingle hospital, which was a workhouse in penal times. This hike is a very short walk from Harriet’s Cottage.
To see a comprehensive guide to hiking the Peninsula click here
Venturing beyond Dingle will show you some of the most scenic drives and views you have ever seen. Here is an outline of what day trips you can take from Dingle.
Ring of Kerry:
The Ring of Kerry takes in about 176 km of the most southern peninsula in Kerry, Iveragh, this will take you through some beautiful villages and towns At Caherciveen you can visit the birthplace of the great justice-seeker and parliamentarian Daniel O’Connell (1775-1847). Charlie Chaplin of silent screen fame was a regular visitor to Waterville. Spectacular views await you as you head from Sneem to Moll’s Gap and down into the Killarney Valley.
Tralee:
The town is the capital of the county, the hub of its affairs. Founded by the Normans in 1216, the town has known many rebellions. One of Tralee's main attractions is Kerry County Museum. This Museum comprises life-size reconstructions and priceless archaeological treasures to trace man's history in Kerry from 5,000 BC to the present day.
Killarney:
While its wild beauty and glorious scenery some of Killarney’s best attractions include:
Muckross Gardens & National Park: One of Ireland’s finest stately mansions, the 65-room Muckross House was built for the Herbert family in 1843. Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms sits on the shores of Muckross Lake and is replete with period furnishings and decorative objectives. Three recreated farms on the estate showcase the life of rural dwellers in the 1930s and ’40s.
Lakes of Killarney: Situated in the National Park, the world-famous Lakes of Killarney comprises three individual lakes. Lough Leane, measuring some five miles long and with over 30 small islands, is the largest; Muckross Lake lies in the middle; while the Upper Lake is also peppered with magical islands, each filled with a pleasing variety of trees and shrubbery.
Dingle is renowned for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene, where the town’s pubs and venues come alive with live sessions. Here are some popular Traditional Music venues.
O’Sullivan’s Courthouse Pub (The Mall)
Known for its authentic atmosphere, O’Sullivan’s regularly hosts lively traditional sessions featuring some of the best musicians in the area.
The Dingle Pub (Main St)
Located on Main Street, this popular spot has nightly traditional music sessions that draw locals and visitors alike, with a lively atmosphere and talented musicians.
John Benny’s Pub (Strand St)
Situated near Dingle Harbor, this pub is owned by musicians John and Eilis Kennedy, who are deeply involved in the local music scene. John Benny’s often features traditional Irish music sessions with a mix of local talent and guest performers.
An Droichead Beag (Main St)
Known as “The Little Bridge,” An Droichead Beag hosts a variety of live music sessions, with many dedicated to traditional Irish music.
The Mighty Session (Main St)
This intimate pub on Strand Street is named after its legendary music sessions, offering nightly performances in a cozy setting
Murphy’s Pub (Strand St)
Close to the waterfront, Murphy’s offers traditional music several nights a week, creating a relaxed environment where you can enjoy the music with scenic views of Dingle Bay.
O’Flaherty’s Bar (Strand St)
Situated on Bridge Street, O’Flaherty’s is a well-known spot for traditional Irish music, with talented musicians and a welcoming atmosphere that draws both locals and travelers.
Dingle has a wonderful mix of unique, locally owned shops, here are some of the best:
The Coach House:
This charming store is known for its wide selection of Irish crafts, gifts, and unique items. The shop offers a curated selection of items, including handmade jewelry, woolen products, ceramics, and local artwork that reflect the heritage and natural beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. Many of the products are sourced from Irish artisans.
Dingle Crystal:
Master craftsman Sean Daly creates exquisite, hand-cut crystal pieces inspired by the landscapes and history of Dingle. This shop is popular for unique souvenirs and gifts, showcasing high-quality Irish craftsmanship.
Siopa Ceoil an Daingin (Dingle Music Shop):
A must-visit for music lovers, this cozy shop offers traditional Irish instruments, CDs, and other music-related items. They even host live music sessions during the summer months.
NU Goldsmith:
This charming jewelry shop specializes in handcrafted Irish and Celtic-inspired jewelry, designed by local artist Niamh Utsch. Each piece is unique, capturing Dingle’s beauty and heritage.
Sweet Pea Gift Shop:
An eclectic shop offering Irish gifts, handmade crafts, and home goods. They carry items from local artisans and are known for their warm, friendly atmosphere.
Strand House:
A family-run shop selling a curated selection of Irish-made clothing, wool products, and gifts. They have a great selection of Aran sweaters, scarves, and blankets,
Greenlane Gallery:
A contemporary art gallery featuring works by Irish and international artists, Greenlane Gallery has a range of art styles, from landscapes to abstract, showcasing the creativity of the region.
There is lots to do for kids on The Dingle Peninsula. Here are our favorites, note some options may have seasonal opening times.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium (10 min walk)
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium is a great family attraction. Meet Sandtiger Sharks, Penguins and get hands-on experience at the Touch Tank where you can stroke the friendly Rays. Other exciting displays include an Amazon display which is home to piranhas, catfish and walk through the underwater tunnel.
Pet-a-Lamb (20 min drive)
Try a new experience and hold a lamb while you are on the Dingle Peninsula. Located on the Slea Head route you can also watch the farm sheepdog do his work, visit some Beehive Huts, and enjoy the view across to the Skellig Islands.
Swimming (5-20 min drive)
There are many delightful clean beaches within a short drive of Harriet’s Cottage. These include Ventry, Ballydavid, Maharees, Inch and Beanbawn.
We all scream for Ice Cream (6 min walk)
At Murphy's, they make real ice cream. No colorings, flavorings, or powdered milk - they prefer the real thing - and that starts with farm fresh milk, free range eggs, and organic sugar.
Dingle Playground (9 min walk min)
Newly opened this is one of the best playgrounds in Ireland. Located on the Tracks Road by the roundabout, it’s a wonderful place to bring the young ones.
Dingle Pitch n’ Putt & Crazy Golf (3 min drive)
This 18-hole course is situated just outside Dingle, on the road to Slea Head (left after the bridge). The course itself has plenty of challenges for golfers of all abilities. There are also ten driving range bays to practice perfecting your swing. Clubs and balls are available to hire
Looking to stay in shape during your vacation. Dingle offers many options both outdoor and indoor.
Work Out
In the loft at Harriet’s Cottage, you can find a Yoga Mat and some weights. For the gym experience check out The Skellig Hotel (20 min walk- see below for directions), which in addition to a Gym, also offers fitness classes and a swimming pool.
Run Walk Run
In and around Dingle are great routes for you to walk or run. One route takes you around the town (40 min walk / 20 min run). Head out the front door of Harriet’s Cottage, go left to the top of the street and left again on the main road. Continue this to the bottom of the hill and take a left at the roundabout. This brings you back into Dingle. Stay going straight until you Murphy’s Ice Cream (Sorry!!) and then go left up Green Street. Go passed the Church to the top of the street and then left on Main Street. This brings you back to the Cottage. Another route takes you to Beanbawn (60 min walk / 30 min run). Go out the front door and take a right down Main Street until you hit the bottom (at The Droichead Beag pub). Go right on to The Mall and then left at the roundabout. Continue and before the next roundabout take a right down to the Skellig Hotel. Follow the shoreline path that takes you out to the mouth of the harbor. Reverse route to take you home.
Hop on a Bike
Cycling the Dingle Peninsula has always been recognized as the ideal way to experience the area's breathtakingly beautiful views while pedaling through a combination of dramatic mountain climbs or flat valleys that stretch for miles. There are a number of established bicycle rental outlets dotted around the peninsula where bicycles can be hired by the day or for longer periods. One we recommend and which is only a 4-minute walk from Harriet's Cottage is Paddy's Bike Shop
Dingle offers many great activities but sometimes you want to relax and treat yourself and get pampered. Here are some of our favorite recommendations:
A 3-minute walk from your cottage and you are walking in the front door of Pure Beauty on Main Street. Established in 2010 it is one of Ireland’s premier beauty salons offering everything from nails to tanning to massage.
Located on Green Street (4 min walk), Classic Hair Design offers upstyles, coloring, cutting, and perming. The salon has a warm and friendly atmosphere and Orla & her staff always strive to give the best possible service.
Located in Ballydavid (a 15-minute drive west of Dingle). Experience the Healing Power of the Wild Atlantic! Relax in a Hot Seaweed Bath and choose from a wide range of Massage treatments for your well-being.
Situated in the Skellig Hotel (15-minute walk) with stunning views of Dingle Harbour & Bay. The natural ambience of the Peninsula greets you in the Relaxation Suite where guests can rest prior, between or after treatments and indulge in a Sauna, Steam or enjoy the magnificent views whilst soaking in the Outdoor Hot Tub. Treatments on offer include an extensive variety of luxurious face & body treatments with Individual Signature Treatments that are tailor-made for both men and women by the team of therapists, taking you on a journey to offer the ultimate Spa Experience. This journey can include Hydrotherapy, Hot Stone Therapy, Holistic & Sports Massage, Tanning & Beauty, and Yon-Ka Face & Body Treatments.