Home & Away with Robert Walshe
www.robertwalshe.com
Weekend Hotspot – Martello Tower – Sutton Co Dublin Martello Towers, or ‘Martello’s’, were small defensive forts first built in the South East of England during the Napoleonic War between 1805 and 1808. The name “Martello” derived from the name of a tower at Mortella point in the gulf of Fiorenzo. So impressed were the British by the strength of the tower, they suggested that similar towers would be useful in Ireland and England. However, an error occurred during communication be-
tween the sides and the word “Mortella”, was written as “Martello”. The original towers are circular in shape, with 2-4 meter thick walls, which were made from solid stone all sourced locally. The front entrance doorways of the towers are 3.0 metres from the ground which meant at the time access to the entrance was only made by ladder which could be later removed to protect against an invader. The Towers never fired cannon in anger, as Napoleon never invaded Ireland or England. However, it is believed that the Towers acted as a deter-
n Martello Tower at Red Rock Sutton Co Dublin.
rent, as Napoleon had every intention to invade. A large proportion of Martello’s have been converted to dwellings, many of those with an additional roof added on top. In Dublin alone there are 21 Towers that remain standing many are derelict, some demolished, some are owned by government departments, and others are privately owned, some of which are habited and some uninhabited. Martello Tower Sutton with breathtaking views across the north coastline of Dublin bay is the only tower in Ireland available for rental. The refurbishment is both sympathetic & impressive offering guests a truly unique self catering holiday option beside the sea. Accommodation consists of three levels: two bedrooms and bathroom on the lower level; living area and balcony overlooking the bay on the middle level; and a modern kitchen/dining room offering breathtaking 360° views from roof level. This unique historic building is available for rental as a holiday home, a short term letting or even corporate let-
For our best deals call 0044 28 9038 1111 or visit www.mooneyhotelgroup.com ting. Howth nearby has long been a popular destination for day trippers keen to explore its fishing village, its hills and sea cliffs. Despite its proximity to Dublin city, it largely retains a remote feel on account of its relative isolation from the rest of the mainland. The harbour remains home to a substantial fishing fleet and the village is a smart affluent suburb of the Repubn The Top Floor at lic’s capital thanks Martello Towe r. to the DART railway service. The village and the cliff path draw many restaurants here includtourists throughout the year ing my personal favourite and expect to find some of “King Sitric”. Martello Tower the islands finest sea food is a member of Ireland’s Blue
n Martello Tower Bedroom.
Book a stunning collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, Castles, Restaurants and private rentals. For best rates visit www.irelands-blue-book.ie/ martello-tower-sutton www. martellotowersutton.com Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Q Radio Network and Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland. www.robertwalshe.com