James Joyce Tower and Museum
Túr Shéamais Seoighe
A Martello tower at Sandycove seafront, where the opening scene of *Ulysses* is set. It now houses a free, small-scale James Joyce museum.
This circular gun tower was built in 1804 to guard against a feared Napoleonic invasion. In 1904, Joyce stayed here briefly and later made it the setting for the first chapter of *Ulysses*. Inside, the museum displays Joyce's letters, first editions and personal belongings, and you can climb to the roof for views over Dublin Bay. Run by volunteers, it is free to enter (donations welcome), and its opening hours are limited. Below the tower is the Forty Foot, a famous sea-swimming spot. Take the DART to Sandycove & Glasthule station and walk about 15 minutes. It pairs well with a visit to Dalkey.
Opening hours
Daily approx. 10:00–16:00 (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Dalkey
- Killiney Hill
- Howth
- Powerscourt Estate
- Samuel Beckett Bridge
- Merrion Square
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- National Gallery of Ireland