03:44, Sunday, October 12, 2008 (in Ireland)

Balbriggan, Co Dublin

Balbriggan, a sea-side town located 32km (20mi) north of Dublin City Centre in North County Dublin. The name of the town in Irish is either Baile Bricín, meaning Town of the Small Trout, or Baile Brigín, meaning Town of the Small Hills. The town was originally a small fishing village where King William of Orange and his army set up their camp after the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. In 1920 the town was burned and looted by the “Black and Tans” (a British Military force similar to the SS) after a Royal Irish Constable was murdered during the 1916-21 War of Independence.

Balbriggan has much to offer tourists. Safe sandy Beaches: an operational harbour and light house as well as the beautifully restored Ardgillan Demesne and Castle set in 83 Hectares (200 acres) of rolling parklands, with access to beautiful rose and kitchen gardens. Balbriggan Golf Club, An 18 hole championship course with full facilities including bar and restaurant. Historical Sites dating back from the 14th Century at Balrothery, Bremore & Four Knocks. The Fresh Water lake at Balrothery near Balbriggan offers good trout fishing. There is also a tourist information office located on Georges Square in Balbriggan.