The ruined 16th-century tower next to the graceful stone bridge over the River Doonbeg is all that remains of Doonbeg Castle – its entire garrison was hanged in 1595 by the O'Briens, who had lost the castle 10 years earlier.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
29.08 MILES
Dún Aonghasa is one of the largest prehistoric stone forts in Europe and stands guard over Inis Mór on the edge of a 100-metre sheer cliff drop.
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27.2 MILES
Also known as the Portal Tomb, Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland's most photographed ancient monuments. Built more than 5000 years ago, the other…
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Burren Perfumery & Floral Centre
29.4 MILES
The Burren's wildflowers are the inspiration for the subtle scents at this wonderful perfumery and floral centre, which creates scented items such as…
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27.91 MILES
One of Ireland's most famous prehistoric grave sites, Gleninsheen lies beside the R480 7km south of Ballyvaughan. It's thought to date from 4000 to 5000…
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18.73 MILES
Creamy St Tola goat's cheese is served at some of Ireland's finest restaurants, with award-winning lines including ash log, Greek-style feta and gouda…
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22.88 MILES
The centrepiece of this fascinating historic site where St Tola founded a monastery in the 8th century is the four-storey, 15th-century O'Dea Castle…
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24.08 MILES
North of the Square, Ennis Friary was founded by Donnchadh Cairbreach O'Brien, a king of Thomond, between 1240 and 1249. A mix of structures dating…
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7.18 MILES
Within a 170-hectare forest 800m south of the centre, this stunning 'lost' garden was the private domain of the wealthy Vandeleur family – merchants and…
Nearby County Clare attractions
1.3 MILES
A long, sweeping 2km stretch of golden sand, Doughmore Bay is 4km north of the village. There's often good surf here; rent equipment in Lahinch.
1.58 MILES
Secluded White Strand (Trá Ban) offers relatively safe swimming sheltered from the Atlantic swells. With a Blue Flag rating, the 250m beach is patrolled…
6.62 MILES
St Senan’s Catholic church has a lovely rose window as well as four stained-glass windows by well-known early-20th-century artist Harry Clarke.
6.72 MILES
The 170-plus bottlenose dolphins swimming out in the Shannon are monitored by this dedicated research facility. In addition to learning about its latest…
7.18 MILES
Within a 170-hectare forest 800m south of the centre, this stunning 'lost' garden was the private domain of the wealthy Vandeleur family – merchants and…
8.09 MILES
This uninhabited, windswept and treeless island in the estuary 3km southwest of Kilrush was the site of a Christian settlement founded by St Senan in the…
8.63 MILES
With dazzling views of the setting sun, this lovely beach also offers excellent walks north of the point amid the low cliffs, vast ledges of stone, rock…
8. Tarbert Bridewell Courthouse & Jail
12.54 MILES
If you're catching the ferry between Tarbert and County Clare, take time to visit the renovated Tarbert Bridewell Courthouse, which has exhibits …