The Forty Foot
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Forty Foot Sandycove Dublin

3.9
·6k reviews·Dublin, Ireland

A historic Irish bathing spot with over 250 years of tradition, offering bracing sea swims and stunning views of Dublin Bay.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Year-round

Embrace the bracing Irish Sea!

CrowdMedium
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The Forty Foot

Forty Foot Sandycove Dublin

Best Time

Year-round

Embrace the bracing Irish Sea!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Irish bathing spot with over 250 years of tradition, offering bracing sea swims and stunning views of Dublin Bay.

3.9
(6k reviews)

"Nice pub, fabulous outdoor area over looking the sea. Great prices for good food and beer."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer.

🏊‍♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming

Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Forty Foot Swim

The Historic Forty Foot Swim

Sandycove, County Dublin

Plunge into the icy Irish Sea at this iconic, centuries-old bathing spot. A true test of bravery and a local tradition!

Instagram+2
Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Promontory overlooking Dublin Bay

Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay from this picturesque coastal location.

Reddit
Christmas Day Swim Tradition

Christmas Day Swim Tradition

The Forty Foot

Witness or participate in the wild annual tradition of thousands plunging into the sea on Christmas Day.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chill: A Dip in History

The Forty Foot is a historic bathing spot with over 250 years of tradition. Be prepared for bracing Irish Sea temperatures year-round, even on Christmas Day! Locals and visitors alike brave the cold for a refreshing swim. Instagram+2

Beyond the Swim: Views and Vibes

While famous for its invigorating swims, the Forty Foot area also boasts stunning sea views and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy a meal or a drink at a nearby establishment with a fabulous outdoor area overlooking the water. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Year-round
Why
Embrace the bracing Irish Sea!
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas Day
Why
Witness a unique tradition
Crowd
High
When
Sunset
Why
Magical light for swims
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A quick look at the my latest painting of the Forty Foot, just south of Dublin. I have been trying to produce a better video but the technology has been getting the better of me. #acrylicpainting #acrylic_painting #acrylicpainter #acrylicpainters #acrylicpaints #acrylicpaint #acrylicpaintingoncanvas #acrylicpaintingartist #acrylicartworks #acrylicart #acrylicartoncanvas #landscapeacrylicpainter #a...
steve_browning_paintings
116 likes • 1.5K views

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer. Instagram+1

🏊‍♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming

Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day! Instagram+2

What a delight to dip in history! The Forty Foot situated in Sandycove at the south tip of Dublin Bay is over two hundred fifty years. Locals and tourists share a swim although maybe a touch cold, the Irish Sea is just wonderful! #thefortyfoot #sandycove #sandycovedublin ##dunlaoghaire #ireland #dublin #travelireland #badsisters #irish #irishsea #beach #yesireland
the.witty.wanderer
297 likes • 4.6K views
Christmas Swim - Forty Foot Sandycove, Dublin 🎄 #Christmas #christmastime #Dublin #Ireland #dunlaoghaire #swimming
in.ireland
5.2K likes • 189.5K views

🌅 Sunset Swims are Magical

Experience a truly special swim with stunning sunset views over the water. Instagram

🍻 Post-Swim Refreshments

Enjoy great food and cheap pints with a fabulous sea view nearby. Reddit+2

Have you been here before?😍 The forty foot is a promontory on the southern tip of Dublin Bay at Sandycove, County Dublin, Ireland, from which people have been swimming in the Irish Sea all year round for some 250 years. Credits and caption🎥👇: @henderso1 Swimming at Dublin's Forty Foot 🏊‍♀️🏊 Dublin's Forty Foot is a famous swimming location, perhaps one of the most famous in the world attractin...
ireland.explores
752 likes • 21.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥶 Brace for Cold Water

The Irish Sea is famously chilly! Be prepared for a bracing swim, even in summer. Instagram+1

🏊‍♀️ All-Year-Round Swimming

Locals swim here 365 days a year, including Christmas Day! Instagram+2

🌅 Sunset Swims are Magical

Experience a truly special swim with stunning sunset views over the water. Instagram

🍻 Post-Swim Refreshments

Enjoy great food and cheap pints with a fabulous sea view nearby. Reddit+2

📱 Scan to Order

Many nearby spots use QR codes for ordering; ensure your phone has service or ask for help. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Forty Foot for its stunning sea views and the invigorating, historic swimming experience. The nearby pubs are highlighted for their great atmosphere, reasonable prices, and lovely outdoor seating overlooking the water. Some minor drawbacks include potentially overcooked pasta and the QR code ordering system in some establishments.

"Nice pub, fabulous outdoor area over looking the sea. Great prices for good food and beer. Highly recommended. Lovely helpful staff. Don't miss it if you are nearby. Great table service also."

garry doyle

"Food just ok, price adequate to quality. Cocktails taste like syrup with soda but aperol really really nice and cheap. We got pasta Alfredo and pasta was overcooked but 3 platers for €18.50 so good and tasty. Overall it's nice spot with lovely view. I'll definitely come back."

M G

"I try to pop in here once a week. The staff are really sound. Good food and the Beamish is spot on. Does be a que at the bar but staff keeps it moving. A good crowd always there. Old and young. A beautiful spot."

Richard

What People Like

Fabulous sea views
Historic swimming spot
Great pub atmosphere

What People Dislike

Overcooked pasta
QR code ordering

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Forty Foot by taking the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train south from Dublin city center towards Greystones. Alight at Sandycove station, and it's a short walk to the bathing spot. Reddit Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. TikTok

Parking can be limited in Sandycove, especially during peak times. It's often easier to use public transport like the DART. Reddit

While many enjoy swimming, the water can be deep and currents can be present. It's advisable to swim with others and be aware of your limits. Instagram

Early mornings on weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends or holidays. Instagram The Christmas Day swim is exceptionally busy. Instagram

Access to the water's edge can be challenging due to steps and uneven terrain. It's best to check current conditions or visit during quieter times to assess accessibility. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, swimming at the Forty Foot is free and open to the public. It's a natural bathing spot. Instagram+1

The Forty Foot is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's an open natural bathing area. Instagram

Historically, the Forty Foot was a men-only bathing place with limited facilities. While there are no formal changing rooms, many swimmers change discreetly or use nearby facilities if available. Instagram+1

There is no entrance fee for the Forty Foot or the surrounding coastal path. Enjoy the views and the experience for free. Reddit

While there aren't official guided tours for swimming, local guides or historical walking tours might include information about the Forty Foot's history. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Bring your swimsuit, a towel, and perhaps a warm robe or change of clothes for after your swim. Many swimmers wear wetsuits in colder months. Instagram

Always swim with a buddy, be aware of the tides and currents, and don't swim alone if you're not a confident swimmer. Instagram

The Forty Foot has been a popular bathing spot for over 250 years, with a history of being a men-only area until protests led to inclusivity. Instagram+2

Yes, photography and videography are welcome. Many creators share stunning shots of the location and swimmers. TikTokInstagram+1

The water temperature varies significantly throughout the year, being coldest in winter and warmest in late summer. Expect it to be bracing! Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several pubs and eateries in Sandycove with excellent sea views and outdoor seating. Reddit+2

You can find a range of options from pub grub like pasta and curry to lighter snacks and drinks. Reddit+2

Many establishments offer vegetarian options, and some may have vegan choices. It's best to check menus or ask staff. Reddit

Prices are generally considered adequate to good for the quality and location. You can find cheap pints and reasonably priced meals. Reddit+1

Some places offer table service, while others utilize QR code ordering systems. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for stunning photos. Instagram+1 Midday can also be good for capturing the vibrant blue of the sea. TikTok

Photos of swimmers braving the cold, panoramic sea views, and the rugged coastline are very popular. Instagram+1

Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to get close to the water. TikTok

Focus on the swimmers and the timeless nature of the bathing spot to convey its historical significance. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Forty Foot itself is a bracing sea swim, the surrounding area offers a beautiful coastal experience for families. The nearby Sandycove Beach can be a more gentle introduction to the water for younger children. Instagram Pack plenty of warm clothes for after the swim, and consider visiting one of the local pubs with outdoor seating for a family-friendly meal with a view. Reddit+1 The DART train is an easy and scenic way to get there from Dublin city center, making it a manageable day trip. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Forty Foot is a fantastic free activity for budget travelers! Swimming in the sea costs nothing, and the stunning views are priceless. Reddit For refreshments, look for pubs offering 'cheap pints' and reasonably priced food options. Reddit+1 Taking the DART train is an economical way to reach Sandycove from Dublin city center, avoiding taxi fares. Reddit

❤️ Couples

For a unique and invigorating experience, couples can brave a swim together at the Forty Foot, followed by a cozy meal or drinks at a nearby pub with a sea view. Reddit+2 The romantic sunsets over Dublin Bay provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and conversations. Instagram

🚶 Day-Trippers from Dublin

The Forty Foot is an ideal day trip from Dublin. Take the DART train to Sandycove station, enjoy a refreshing swim (or just the views if you prefer not to swim), and then relax at a local pub for lunch or drinks. Reddit The journey is short and scenic, making it an easy escape from the city bustle. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enduring Tradition of Sea Swimming

The Forty Foot is more than just a swimming spot; it's a testament to the enduring tradition of sea swimming in Ireland. For over 250 years, people have been braving the chilly waters of the Irish Sea here, regardless of the season. Instagram+1 This practice is deeply ingrained in the local culture, with many seeing it as a vital part of their weekly routine for both physical and mental well-being. The community aspect is also significant, with swimmers often forming strong bonds and looking out for one another. Instagram

Social media content often highlights the sheer bravery and exhilaration of these swims, from everyday dips to the iconic Christmas Day plunge. Instagram+2 The visual of people emerging from the icy water, often with smiles and a sense of accomplishment, is a powerful one. It speaks to resilience, a connection with nature, and a unique way of experiencing the Irish coastline. The Forty Foot embodies this spirit, offering a raw and invigorating connection to the sea that draws people back time and again. Instagram

Historical Significance and Evolution

The Forty Foot holds a unique place in social history, particularly concerning gender equality. For a long time, it was exclusively a male bathing area. Instagram+1 This exclusivity sparked protests, most notably the 'Dublin City Women's Invasionary Force,' who took to the water to challenge the tradition and assert their right to swim there. Instagram This activism was a significant step towards making the Forty Foot a more inclusive space for everyone.

Beyond its gender history, the Forty Foot represents a continuous link to past generations who also sought solace and invigoration in the sea. The promontory itself, jutting out into Dublin Bay, has been a natural playground and a place of recreation for centuries. Instagram The fact that it remains a popular and accessible spot today, without formal facilities or fees, speaks to its timeless appeal and the community's dedication to preserving this natural heritage. Reddit

Beyond the Swim: Culinary Delights with a View

While the Forty Foot is renowned for its bracing swims, the surrounding area offers a delightful culinary experience with unparalleled sea views. Several pubs and eateries are situated nearby, providing a perfect spot to warm up and refuel after a dip. Reddit+2 These establishments often feature fabulous outdoor areas, allowing patrons to soak in the coastal ambiance while enjoying their meals and drinks. Reddit

The food offerings range from hearty pub fare, such as pasta dishes and curries, to more casual snacks and a good selection of drinks, including affordable pints. Reddit+1 While some reviews mention ordering via QR codes, which might pose a challenge for those with limited phone service or Wi-Fi, the overall consensus is that the prices are adequate for the quality and the stunning location. Reddit The combination of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the magnificent backdrop of Dublin Bay makes for a memorable experience. Reddit

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