I started the day by enjoying the rare bit of Irish sun, packing my bag, heading out the door and walking into central Dún Laoghaire, where I caught the train to Malahide. I got off the train, headed over to tourist information, and then began my walk towards Malahide Castle. I first enjoyed the gardens, and I really wanted to paint so much there but I didn’t know how much time I had. So I took the tour, and actually it was pretty good. I learned about the fascinating history of this medieval castle, and all about the Tallbot family who owned it, and how throughout the centuries, the castle was used as a meeting place for European nobility. I also learned that it is considered to be one of the most haunted places in Ireland, if you believe in that possibility.

After Malahide Castle I headed back into Malahide town and straight to Malahide beach, where i would have to race against time to get this little plein air painting finished before my train back to central Dublin to meet up again with the fam. This was the result!


Painted with watercolour & gouache. Aquarelle pad, 5.9in x 8.3in