
Sutton Martello Tower Red Rock
Historic Martello Tower offering breathtaking Dublin Bay views and scenic coastal walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Spectacular light over Dublin Bay

Sutton Martello Tower Red Rock
Best Time
Spectacular light over Dublin Bay
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Martello Tower offering breathtaking Dublin Bay views and scenic coastal walks.
"Spectacular views of Dublin Bay and lots of lovely walks along the seashore or the cliff path to Howth."

🚶♀️ Easy Access Views
The tower is private, but the walkway around it offers amazing Dublin Bay views.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Catch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the bay for unforgettable photos.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dublin Bay Vistas
Walkway around the tower base
Panoramic views of Dublin Bay, the Poolbeg towers, and the Irish Sea. Absolutely breathtaking!

Unique Rock Formations
Shoreline to the left of the tower
Intricate rock formations carved by the waves, offering a fascinating natural spectacle.

Seaside Walks
Sutton to Howth
Enjoy lovely walks along the seashore or the cliff path towards Howth for scenic coastal exploration.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Views
Best Time for Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Access Views
The tower is private, but the walkway around it offers amazing Dublin Bay views.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Catch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the bay for unforgettable photos.
How to get around Howth?
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear good shoes for exploring the seashore and potential cliff paths.
🚗 Parking Note
Public parking is limited; consider nearby options or public transport.
Questions about Howth and about whiskey
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Access Views
The tower is private, but the walkway around it offers amazing Dublin Bay views.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Catch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the bay for unforgettable photos.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear good shoes for exploring the seashore and potential cliff paths.
🚗 Parking Note
Public parking is limited; consider nearby options or public transport.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views of Dublin Bay and the unique coastal scenery surrounding Sutton Martello Tower. The area is praised for its tranquility and suitability for scenic walks. However, some guests have reported significant issues with communication and access when booking stays within the private tower.
"I don't think you can visit the interior but the access from the main road in Sutton is only 10 m and the walkway around the tower is open with some breathtaking views of the Dublin Bay and the Poolbeg towers. Don't miss looking for some incredible rock formations where the water slaps in just to the left side."
Dennis Mooney
"The Martello Tower at Sutton is an absolute gem. You are accessible to Dublin city but at the same time are worlds away. Enjoys spectacular views of Dublin Bay and lots of lovely walks along the seashore or the cliff path to Howth. Stunning sunrises, sunsets and moo light. Couldn't recommend it highly enough."
Aileen Woods
"Beautiful scenery around the area including cliff walks and sea. Tower itself is private so not allowed walk around the structure. You can book to stay there if you have deep pockets. No parking in the general area for public although there is a massive unused field that is perfect for parking behind the tower that is used for nothing!"
kieran Kenneally
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tower is accessible from the main road in Sutton. While direct public parking near the tower is limited, you can often find parking in the general Sutton area and walk to the tower. Some reviews mention a large unused field behind the tower that could serve as parking, though it's not officially designated. Taxis can reach the area, but some drivers may be hesitant about the narrow dirt road leading directly to the tower.
Yes, you can reach Sutton by public transport, and from there, it's a walk to the tower. The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train line serves Sutton station, making it a convenient option for those coming from Dublin city. From the station, you can follow signs or use a map app to navigate to the tower.
Driving directly to the tower can be challenging. The access road is narrow and described as a hiking path by some taxi drivers. While visitors staying at the tower might be permitted to use it, general public access by car is not straightforward and may be discouraged.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Sutton Martello Tower is privately owned and often booked for stays. While you cannot typically visit the interior as a day visitor, the surrounding grounds and walkway offer excellent views. If you're interested in staying, booking well in advance is recommended, though be prepared for potential communication challenges.
The area around the Sutton Martello Tower, including the walkway with views of Dublin Bay, is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor public space, there are no strict opening or closing times for viewing the exterior and surrounding scenery.
There is no entrance fee to access the public walkway and enjoy the views of the Sutton Martello Tower and Dublin Bay. The tower itself is private property, and any fees would be associated with booking a stay within the tower.
📸 📸 Photography
The walkway around the base of the tower provides fantastic vantage points for photographing Dublin Bay, the Poolbeg towers, and the sea. The unique rock formations on the shoreline also make for interesting shots. For dramatic lighting, aim for sunrise or sunset.
Generally, photography is permitted in the public areas around the Sutton Martello Tower. However, as the tower itself is private property, be mindful of privacy if you are photographing the structure closely, especially if it is occupied.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the breathtaking scenery of Dublin Bay. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the seashore or the cliff path towards Howth. The unique rock formations and the imposing presence of the tower itself are also points of interest.
Absolutely! The area offers lovely seaside walks and connects to the more extensive cliff path leading to Howth. It's a great spot for a stroll or a more vigorous hike, with beautiful coastal views throughout.
Facilities directly at the tower are limited as it's a private residence. However, the nearby village of Sutton and the town of Howth offer various cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your visit to the tower area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Martello Tower: A Historic Landmark
While the tower's primary function was defense, its location on the coast also provided strategic observation points. Today, it has been converted into a unique private residence, blending its historical significance with modern living. Visitors can appreciate its exterior and the surrounding landscape, which has remained largely unchanged, offering a sense of stepping back in time. The tower's presence adds a dramatic focal point to the stunning coastal scenery.
Accessibility Note: It's important to remember that the tower itself is private property. While you can admire it from the outside and enjoy the public walkway, interior access is typically only for those who have booked a stay. This privacy ensures the preservation of the historic structure while allowing the public to appreciate its external grandeur and the magnificent views it commands.
Exploring the Coastal Scenery
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the tower, visitors can embark on seaside walks. The path meanders along the coast, providing fresh sea air and constant scenic vistas. For those seeking a more extended excursion, this route connects to the famous Howth Cliff Walk, a popular activity for both locals and tourists. This offers a more rugged and dramatic coastal experience with stunning cliffside views.
Don't miss the unique rock formations found along the shoreline near the tower. These natural sculptures, shaped by the relentless action of the sea, are fascinating to observe and photograph. The combination of historical architecture and dramatic natural landscapes makes this area a photographer's and nature lover's paradise.
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