Wondering what’s happening in your area this month? We’re looking at everything from Georgian mansions and farm animals to chocolate factory tours in this month’s At a Glance with Glenveagh as we take a whistle-stop tour of what’s happening in Donabate.

Newbridge House and Farm

Less than a 20 minute stroll from the heart of Donabate is Newbridge House and Farm. A popular venue for birthday parties and school tours, the grounds are home to pigs, goats, ducks, cows, sheep, horses and more, making it the perfect place to bring the kids of a weekend. In addition to the interactive Discovery Farmyard Trail, the grounds also boast one of Ireland’s finest intact Georgian mansions, which is open for a visit and includes a ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’ full of antiques.

Newbridge House Farm is also offering tours for Culture Night on 20 September, with no reservation needed. Newbridge House and Farm also regularly hosts music events, and offers guests dedicated spots for yoga and picnicking.

Visit the Beach - Anytime

For the last few years, Ireland has managed to hang on to its warm weather quite late into the year. This is great news for any residents of Donabate who have yet to experience one of Dublin’s longest stretches of sand. Donabate’s beach, which has a prestigious Blue Flag rating, offers visitors a chance to swim, walk the dogs, explore one of the many rock pools, or take in stunning views of Lambay Island, Howth Peninsula and the Malahide Estuary. You’ll also be pleased to know that the beach has retained a Water Quality Rating of Excellent for the past four years running.

Fingal Poetry Festival, September 13th - September 15th

There will be plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in culture this month as the Fingal Poetry Festival kicks off on September 13th. Many events will take place across the Fingal area, all in close proximity to Donabate, and going beyond the world of poetry. For example, Red Island will play host to Japanese land artist Mayumi as she guides visitors in making mandalas, symbolic works of art inspired by nature. There will also be poetry readings, workshops and more for all ages.

Butlers Chocolate Factory

Live out your Willy Wonka dreams by taking a tour of the Butlers Chocolate Factory. Naturally this tour of one of Ireland’s most historied chocolatiers includes plenty of opportunities to taste the chocolate, and ends with a chocolate workshop. You’ll also get to experience the glass-panelled walkway above the factory floor, which is sure to put you in the mood for something sweet.

Donabate is positively packed with possible avenues for excitement and enjoyment over the coming month, so make sure not to miss out on any of it...