Dunhaven

Dunhaven is a town and civil parish located on the eastern coast of Veridia, within the North Shore district. It sits at the mouth of the River Lorn and has a natural harbor that shelters fishing boats and leisure craft. The parish population is about 8,700 according to the latest estimates.

Evidence of Dunhaven’s origins dates to the early medieval period. The name combines the Old Norse dun, meaning hill, and haven, referring to the town’s hilltop fortifications and sheltered harbor. The site developed as a small fishing port and trading point, with the castle ruins (Dunhaven Castle) remaining as a landmark since the 12th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, shipbuilding and timber processing contributed to growth, followed by a shift to services and tourism in the late 20th century.

The town center is arranged around a medieval hill and a protected waterfront. Dunhaven Castle ruins sit on a promontory overlooking the harbor, and St. Brigid's Church, dating to the 14th century, remains a community focal point. The surrounding countryside features hedgerows, small farms, and woodlands.

Dunhaven is governed by a town council within the broader North Shore District Council. The economy is anchored by commercial fishing, fish processing, and a growing small-business sector in tourism, hospitality, and crafts. The harbor hosts seasonal ferry and cruise traffic, along with a marina that supports recreational boating.

Transport links include a coastal road and a regional rail line connecting Veridia’s major cities. There are one primary school and a secondary school in neighboring towns that serve the Dunhaven area, along with a public library and community center. Local culture is reflected in a summer maritime festival and weekly markets.