Loughshinny may be a small village, but it’s full of stories and natural beauty that make it truly special. Nestled between the larger towns of Skerries and Rush, this quiet spot in Fingal has a character all its own, shaped by the sea, the land, and the people who call it home.

A Glimpse Back in Time

Our village name, Loch Sionnaigh, meaning “Lake of the Fox,” hints at its long history, and the name itself is said to refer to the story of a clever fox who escaped the huntsmen by leading them out into the bay. The village has a history stretching back to Viking times, and in more recent history, it was home to a small copper mine, a remnant of an era when the land’s minerals were highly valued. The mine, located near the cliffs, operated in the 18th and 19th centuries and provided employment for local families. While it’s no longer in use, the entrance can still be seen along the coastal path, a quiet reminder of our industrious past.

Walking along the cliffs, you’ll also notice the striking geological formations known as the Folding Rocks. These layers of shale and sandstone have been twisted and bent over millennia, creating a dramatic scene that’s popular with geology enthusiasts as they offer a view back into the geological history of the region.

The cliff walk also offers breathtaking views over the Irish Sea, and on clear days, you can see as far as the Mourne Mountains to the north. The path along the cliffs is a favourite for locals and visitors alike, providing a perfect vantage point to watch seabirds and occasionally spot a small pod of dolphins.

Coastal Life and Heritage

Loughshinny’s small harbour, though quieter than in its heyday, is still central to village life. You might see a couple of boats tied up and locals out for a stroll along the pier, soaking in the sea air. It’s a simple pleasure but one that never loses its appeal. While the herring runs are more a memory from nearby Skerries, the fishing spirit lives on here too. Many residents still cast lines from the pier, hoping to catch mackerel or pollock, just as their grandparents did.

Beyond the harbour and cliffs, Loughshinny is also known for its rich agricultural land. Many of the fields surrounding the village are still farmed, contributing to the local food supply.

The Bare Acre Farm Shop

The Bare Acre Farm Shop, which opened in 2022, has become a focal point for locals and visitors alike. Located just a short stroll from the crossroads, in the shop you’ll find organic vegetables grown right on the farm, free-range eggs, homemade jams, and home baking. The shop also serves coffee and hot food, making it a great spot to sit and chat with neighbours or enjoy the view over a cup of something warm.

There’s a real sense of community here. Locals gather at the shop for a catch-up, and you’ll often see visitors from nearby towns popping in to pick up fresh produce or enjoy a slice of cake. It’s a modern hub for a village that’s proud of its roots in farming and fishing, bringing a bit of the old ways into the present day.

A Village That’s Here to Stay

Loughshinny has faced its challenges, but the community here is resilient. There’s a strong sense of place and a determination to preserve what makes Loughshinny unique while adapting to new opportunities.

Community actions, such as those undertaken by the Loughshinny Community Association, show that we can look to the future without losing sight of our past.

If you’re visiting, take the time to walk the coastal paths, enjoy the views from the cliffs, and stop by The Bare Acre for a bite to eat and a chat. You’ll find a village that’s not just a beautiful spot on the map but a living, breathing community with a story to tell.

And who knows? You might even find yourself captivated by this little corner of Fingal, where the past and present meet against a backdrop of sea and sky.