Choose from 35 Fun Things to Do in South West Ireland
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Skellig Experience
Situated on neighboring Valentia Island, the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre showcases the history and habitats of the Skelligs, two remote and rocky islets off Ireland’s southwest coast. Exhibits document the history of the UNESCO-listed Skellig Michael monastic settlement, Skellig Lighthouses, and the wildlife of the islands.
The Basics
Housed inside a distinctive glass-roofed building, the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre allows you to find out more about these two wind-swept Atlantic islets from the safety and comfort of indoors. The center is a great complementary activity for those who plan on heading out to the monastic ruins on Skellig Michael, and a terrific alternative for those who can’t access the Skelligs themselves, whether because of bad weather, having young children in tow, or mobility issues.
The center is often visited as part of Ring of Kerry day tours from Killarney, Killorglin, Sneem, or Cahersiveen. Day tours to the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre typically make stops at other nearby sights, such as the fishing town of Portmagee. The center also runs boat cruises around the Skellig Islands (no landing) during the summer months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre is a must for history buffs, natures lovers, and anyone planning a trip to the ruins.
- A restaurant with excellent sea views and a shop are situated at the center.
- The center is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Skellig Experience Centre is situated on Valentia Island, County Kerry. Drivers exploring the Ring of Kerry should depart the route between Cahersiveen and Waterville, following the sign marked Valentia Island and Portmagee. Find the center at the far end of the road bridge from Portmagee.
When to Get There
The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre is open from March through September, with boat trips running from April to September, weather-permitting. The busiest months are July and August. For a quieter experience, get here early in the day.
Stories of the Skelligs
Skellig Michael was originally known for its early Christian monastic settlement, which was built by the Skellig monks who first arrived on the wind- and wave-battered islet in the sixth century. Parts of the complex, including beehive-shaped cells, a church, and graveyard, can still be seen. In recent years, the Skelligs have been thrown into the limelight for a different reason, having been used as a filming location in the latest Star Wars movies.
Address: Valentia Island, County Kerry, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 548
Ross Castle
A vision on the shores of Lough Leane, the 15th-century Ross Castle was built as a medieval fortress for an Irish chieftain named O’Donoghue, and was said to be one of the last strongholds to fall to the brutal English Cromwellian forces in the mid-16th century. The ruin has been restored, and features lovely 16th- and 17th-century furniture.
The Basics
Ross Castle is commonly included on organized jaunting car (pony and trap), hiking, and sightseeing tours around Killarney National Park. Kayak and boat tours, which meander through the Lakes of Killarney—often traveling between Ross Castle and the Gearhameen River near the Gap of Dunloe—regularly stop here too.
You can also tailor private Ring of Kerry day tours, departing from destinations all around the Iveragh Peninsula, to include a photo stop at Ross Castle. While you can view Ross Castle from the outside at any time and explore the surrounding grounds at will, access to the property is by guided tour only. Tours last 40 minutes; purchase tickets at the castle site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With lakes, greenery, and mountain peaks surrounding it in all directions, Ross Castle is one of Killarney National Park’s finest photo opportunities.
- Ross Castle is not well-suited to visitors with mobility impairments. Many parts are difficult if not impossible to access because of steep inclines.
- Tours are limited to a maximum of 15 people; arrive early to ensure a spot.
How to Get There
Ross Castle is just a 6-minute drive from Killarney town. From the N71, take the Ross Road turnoff and follow the road down to the Ross Castle parking lot. From April through October, shuttle buses depart from the Killarney Discover Ireland Centre on Beech Road and stop at Ross Castle.
When to Get There
Ross Castle is open from March through November, with several guided tours taking place daily during this time. The castle is a very popular site within the park, and it can become crowded, especially during July and August. Arrive early in the day if you plan on doing a tour.
What Else to See in Killarney National Park
Ross Castle is just one of Killarney National Park’s many offerings. The park also encompasses the Victorian-era Muckross House and Gardens; Muckross Abbey, a ruined Franciscan friary; and the Gap of Dunloe, a scenic mountain pass bordered by lakes and peaks. In Lough Leane, right next to Ross Castle, is Innisfallen Island, where you can check out the ruins of an abbey and a free-roaming herd of deer.
Address: Ross Castle, Killarney, Ireland
Hours: Daily early March to early November: 9:30am - 5:45pm
Admission: Adult: €5
From ¥ 78
Ring of Beara
The Ring of Beara is a circular road around the Beara Peninsula in southwest Ireland. It follows the coast and is about 85 miles around. The road begins in Kenmare in Kerry County, and you can go in either direction around the loop. The road passes through several small villages along the way, including Castletownbere, Bonane, Lauragh, Ardgroom, Eyeries, and Allihies. You can also see mountainous landscapes, jagged cliffs, waterfalls, lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and herds of sheep.
The Uragh Stone Circle, a neolithic stone circle with some stones reaching almost 10 feet tall, is also located along this journey. A few islands are located just off the coast of the peninsula. One in particular is Dursey Island which is reachable by cable car. Healy Pass offers the best viewing point on the Beara Peninsula. A rock tunnel called Caha Pass connects Kenmare to Glengarriff in Cork County. There is also a 122 mile walking trail for those who would rather take it slowly and see the area on foot.
The Uragh Stone Circle, a neolithic stone circle with some stones reaching almost 10 feet tall, is also located along this journey. A few islands are located just off the coast of the peninsula. One in particular is Dursey Island which is reachable by cable car. Healy Pass offers the best viewing point on the Beara Peninsula. A rock tunnel called Caha Pass connects Kenmare to Glengarriff in Cork County. There is also a 122 mile walking trail for those who would rather take it slowly and see the area on foot.
Practical Info
The Ring of Beara is best started from Kenmare, Ireland. It is officially route N70.
Address: Killarney, Ireland
From ¥ 407
Slea Head
Slea Head is a headland on the western end of the Dingle Peninsula in southwestern Ireland. It is also considered to be the most western point in Europe. Slea Head is a scenic view point offering visitors a look at the Blasket Islands and South Kerry. It is a rocky region that was part of a volcanic area. The Slea Head Drive is a scenic drive that forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Aside from the scenery, visitors will also see some of the region's rare and unique plants and wildlife.
The drive passes through the village of Ventry which is on the coast and has a good beach for swimming and water sports. Then the drive winds through cliffs and offers views of the Atlantic Ocean as it nears Slea Head. Scenes from Ryan's Daughter and Far and Away were filmed near here. The Slea Head Drive continues through wild landscapes and several villages. One of the highlights is the Gallarus Oratory, the best preserved early Christian church in Ireland. The drive also passes through fishing villages and mountainous regions, including Mount Brandon, the second highest mountain in Ireland.
The drive passes through the village of Ventry which is on the coast and has a good beach for swimming and water sports. Then the drive winds through cliffs and offers views of the Atlantic Ocean as it nears Slea Head. Scenes from Ryan's Daughter and Far and Away were filmed near here. The Slea Head Drive continues through wild landscapes and several villages. One of the highlights is the Gallarus Oratory, the best preserved early Christian church in Ireland. The drive also passes through fishing villages and mountainous regions, including Mount Brandon, the second highest mountain in Ireland.
Practical Info
Slea Head is located 10 miles west of Dingle Town and can be reached using route R559.
Address: South West Ireland, Ireland
From ¥ 211
Muckross House & Gardens & Traditional Farms
One of Ireland’s finest stately mansions, the 65-room Muckross House was built for the Herbert family in 1843. It sits on the shores of Muckross Lake amid beautiful gardens, and is replete with period furnishings and decorative objectives. Three re-created farms on the estate showcase the life of rural dwellers in the 1930s and ’40s.
The Basics
Private and group vehicle tours of the Ring of Kerry—departing from Cahersiveen, Sneem, Killorglin, Kenmare, and Killarney—often combine a stop at Muckross House with a visit to nearby attractions such as Coomakista Pass, the Torc Waterfall, and other picturesque viewpoints and villages along the Iveragh Peninsula. Muckross House also features on guided tours of Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney, which typically include Ross Castle, Ladies View, and the Gap of Dunloe on the itinerary too.
Choose between a ticket that grants access to Muckross House and Gardens or one for Muckross Traditional Farms. Or opt for a combo ticket, which provides access to both venues.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Muckross House is a must-see for history and Victorian architecture buffs.
- A Killarney National Park information center is located at Muckross House.
- The estate has an on-site restaurant overlooking pretty flower beds.
- The house is accessible to wheelchair users as are the gardens, with the exception of the rookery. An accessible shuttle bus transports visitors to the farms, though the farm sites themselves are only partially accessible.
How to Get There
Muckross House is just over 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of Killarney. Take the N71 and follow signposts for the estate. If you are car-free, join an organized tour or catch a shuttle from the Discover Ireland tourist office on Beech Road; shuttle buses usually run from April through October.
When to Get There
Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms are open from late March through October. The landscaped gardens are at their most colorful in summer, though this is also when the estate is busiest. Try visiting first thing in the morning or late afternoon to experience the site at its quietest.
What Else to See in Killarney National Park
Muckross makes a great base from which to explore the rest of Killarney National Park. From the house, it’s a 20-minute walk or even shorter jaunting car (pony and trap) ride to the ruins of 15th-century Muckross Abbey, and a 45-minute hike to the scenic Torc Waterfall. Other park highlights, such as the Gap of Dunloe and Ross Castle, are fewer than 30 minutes from Muckross House by car.
Address: Killarney National Park, Killarney, Ireland
From ¥ 78
St. Anne's Church
Built in 1722, St. Anne's Church is known for its large golden fish weathervane, which stands atop its bell tower and can be seen from much of the city. Visitors can climb the tower and try to play a tune on the church's eight bells, which were immortalized in the 19th-century poem, "The Bells of Shandon."
The Basics
St. Anne's Church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cork. Visitors are free to wander around the church when services are not in progress but must pay a small fee to climb the tower and ring the bells. The tower is sometimes called the "four-faced liar" because the clock faces displayed on its four sides never seem to be in sync, and often display different times.
Guided walking tour groups often visit St. Anne's as well as other Cork sights. Visitors can also hire a private guide, or purchase an audio tour that offers the opportunity to explore Cork independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are no toilet facilities at St. Anne's Church.
- Bring a camera; flash-free photography is allowed outside of service times and the views from the top of the tower are spectacular.
- Ascending the tower requires visitors to climb more than 130 narrow stone steps, and may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues or for those who suffer from claustrophobia.
How to Get There
St. Anne's Church is situated in the Shandon district of Cork, north of the River Lee. Walking from St. Patrick's Quay or Grand Parade will take about 10 minutes. Alternatively, Bus Éireann route 203 runs between Grand Parade and the church.
When to Get There
The church is open year-round. Opening hours and tower access can be affected by religious services. The church receives most visitors during the summer months. On busy days, such as Cork Heritage Open Day in August, you can expect to wait in line to ring the bells. To avoid crowds, visit in the morning.
The Bells of Shandon
Visitors to St. Anne's are able to ring the bells of Shandon, which were originally cast in 1750 but have since been recast several times. Instruction booklets show visitors how to play simple tunes, such as "Frère Jacques," by pulling the bells in the right sequence. Earplugs are provided to protect visitors from the loud ringing sound.
Address: Church St, Shandon, Cork, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 135
St. Fin Barre's Cathedral
With intricate tracery, pointed spires, stone gargoyles, and a trumpet-playing golden angel on top, this cathedral boasts an extravagant neo-Gothic design. The interior features marble mosaics, stained glass, ornate sculptures, and a cannonball from the 17th-century Siege of Cork.
The Basics
St. Fin Barre’s is one of the most striking buildings in the city of Cork. The cathedral is often seen from the outside on city sightseeing tours. Visitors who arrive on day tours from Dublin usually get to see the cathedral along with other nearby attractions, such as the English Market and Blarney Castle. Inside the cathedral, guides are on hand to assist visitors.
Things to Know Before You Go
- St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is a must for architecture enthusiasts.
- Keep quiet and be respectful of worshippers.
- Recitals, concerts, and other events are held at the church year-round.
- The cathedral features a gift shop where visitors can pick up souvenirs.
How to Get There
St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is located southwest of the city center. The easiest way to get there is on foot. Walking from Grand Parade will take around 10 minutes.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am to 5:30pm, and Sunday afternoons from 1pm to 2:30pm and 4:30 to 5pm between April and November. Go first thing in the morning to experience the cathedral at its quietest.
Other Important Religious Buildings in Cork
Visitors will find several other religious buildings of note in Cork. St. Peter and Paul’s Church is one of the main Catholic centers of worship, while the 18th-century St. Anne’s Church, home to the famous bells of Shandon, is one of the most visited. About 30 minutes’ drive from the city center lies Cobh Cathedral, an imposing neo-Gothic structure perched on a hill overlooking the small harbor town of Cobh.
Address: Bishop St, The Lough, Cork, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 936
Titanic Experience Cobh
Housed inside the old White Star Line Ticket Office, the Titanic Experience Cobh tells the tales of the 123 Titanic passengers who embarked on their voyage from here in Cobh—the final passengers to step aboard the luxurious liner. Exhibits recount life on board the ship and the events of the disastrous sinking using audio-visual effects.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase tickets for the Titanic Cobh Experience. Once inside, you’ll receive a boarding card bearing the details of one of the passengers who passed through this very office back in 1912. Enjoy a 30-minute guided tour that covers the final steps of those who boarded tenders from this departure point. After, explore the exhibition area independently and finish up in the story room, where you will learn the fate of all the passengers, including the one on your boarding card.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Titanic Experience Cobh is a must for history enthusiasts and Titanic buffs.
- Prebook tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line upon arrival.
- The Titanic Experience Cobh is wheelchair accessible; wheelchair access is through the side entrance.
How to Get There
The Titanic Experience Cobh is situated on Casement Square along the Cobh Waterfront, just a few minutes’ walk from the cruise port. From Cork city, take the train from Cork Kent station to Cobh station, which is just a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, ride the Cobh Connect bus, which runs from St. Patrick’s Quay in Cork city to Park Lane, again just a 5-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Titanic Experience Cobh is busiest during the summer, when more vacationers and cruise ships arrive in town. To avoid waiting in line, book a ticket in advance. Alternatively, come first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Cobh’s Maritime History
As well as being the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic, Cobh town—formerly Queenstown—is also known for its connections to RMS Lusitania, an ocean liner torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1915, and for being the final point of departure for millions of Irish emigrants, leaving Ireland in search of new lives. Find out more about these, and Cobh’s maritime history, at the Queenstown Story exhibit in the Cobh Heritage Centre, and at Cobh Museum.
Address: 20 Casement Square, Cobh, Cork, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 74
Torc Waterfall
Found at the base of Torc Mountain among the lakeland splendors of Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall is a short walk off the winding Killarney-Kenmare road through the dense woodland of Friar’s Glen. Fed by the River Owengarriff, it plunges 66 ft (20 m) down a series of polished rock steps and eventually flows into Muckross Lake. The waterfall is at its most exuberant after rainy weather and is best seen by climbing the steps on its left for panoramic views of the cascade and the surrounding valleys.
A visit to Torc can be combined with a tour of the 110-mile (180 km) Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula; as one of Europe’s most spectacular circular drives, it takes in the lush valleys and mountains of Killarney National Park, ancient stone forts and medieval monasteries. The waterfall is one of the highlights of the 124-mile (200-km) Kerry Way walking route and also forms part of a short circular hike from stately Muckross House.
Practical Info
Torc Waterfall is 4.3 miles (seven km) from Killarney; it is accessible for no charge. Getting there early in the morning or towards evening can help dodge the tourist crowds.
Address: Killarney, Ireland
From ¥ 78
Old Slate Quarry
The Old Slate Quarry is located a short distance from Knightstown on Valentia Island. The quarry was opened in 1816 by the Knights of Kerry and supplied slate to such prestigious places as London’s Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, as well as the San Salvador railway station in South America.
The quarry operated for almost 100 years, employing as many as 400 workers at its peak, and was finally closed as a result of a rock fall at the mouth of the quarry in 1911. It reopened again in the late 1990s and is currently back in operation, with quality slate products being produced by six members of staff.
The site is also home to a huge natural grotto that was built into the mined quarry. Today, this is a popular spot for visitors who want to take advantage of the peaceful setting and dramatic panoramic views out to sea.
Practical Info
The Old Slate Quarry is located on Valentia Island, just of the Ring of Kerry route. For the best views on the approach, leave the car at the crossroads leading to the island’s lighthouse and follow the winding road through the Glanleam woods.
Address: Knightstown, Valentia Island, County Kerry, Ireland
From ¥ 548
Old Midleton Distillery
The Old Midleton Distillery near Cork, Ireland is home to the famous Jameson Irish whiskey. The distillery was founded by the Murphy brothers in the early 19th century, and it wasn't until 1975 that the new distillery, adjacent to the old one, was built. The new distillery produces 24 million bottles of Jameson, Powers and Paddy Irish whiskeys each year, and the old distillery is now a museum where visitors can take a tour and learn how Irish whiskey is made.
Visitors are taught how Irish whiskey is produced and shown the old workings of the Old Midleton Distillery. The world's largest pot still is located here, as well as a 150 year old water wheel. Visitors will also get to see the original malting houses, corn stores, and still houses. At the end of the tour, there are Irish whiskey samples for everyone to try. There is also a restaurant and a gift shop with around 25 brands of Irish whiskey.
Practical Info
The Old Midleton Distillery is located 12 miles from Cork.
Address: Old Distillery Walk, Midleton, Co. Cork, Ireland, Ireland
Admission: Adults: €15.00; Children: €8.00
From ¥ 141
Muckross Abbey
Founded in 1440 as a Franciscan Friary, Muckross Abbey has an exciting and violent history typical of Ireland. In 1589 the monks were expelled by Elizabeth I, and in 1653 Oliver Cromwell's troops burnt it down when he reclaimed Ireland for the English bringing to an end the Irish Confederate Wars. Despite this setback, the friars continued to live here until 1698 when the new Penal Laws against Roman Catholics introduced by the English occupiers forced most in exile in France or Spain. These days it is a ruin but one of the most complete examples of Irish medieval church building you'll see.
Today, the Abbey still has its bell tower and church, and massive gothic arcades and arches. Four of Ireland's leading poets of the period were buried there, three in the church, one in the nearby cemetery. In the centre of the inner court is an old Yew tree. This grew from a sapling taken from the abbey on Innisfallen Island and planted in the new abbey at Muckross. In turn, a slip from this tree was planted at the abbey in Killarney Town.
Within the Killarney National Park, the abbey is a five minute walk from the carpark of Muckross House. It is 3 miles (4.8km) from Killarney Town.
Address: Muckross Estate, Killarney, Ireland
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From ¥ 78
Cromwell's Bridge
No one knows quite how Cromwell's Bridge in Kenmare got its name, but it likely wasn't named after Oliver Cromwell. One popular theory about the stone bridge is that it was named "˜croimeal,' the Gaelic word for "˜mustache,' but when English-speakers overheard locals talking about the bridge, they assumed they were saying "˜Cromwell."
However it got its name, Cromwell's Bridge is one of several beautiful and ancient sites along the scenic Ring of Kerry. It's located just outside the village of Kenmare near the Stone Circle, making it a convenient stop for visitors passing through the area.
Practical Info
Cromwell's Bridge is only a 5-minute, scenic walk from town. Plan to visit the Stone Circle at the same time.
Address: Bridge Street, Kenmare, Kerry, Ireland
From ¥ 548
Ring of Kerry
Explore southern Ireland on a road trip along the Ring of Kerry, a 110-mile (180-km) scenic route of narrow roads winding around the Iveragh Peninsula. As you cruise along the Atlantic Coast on this mountain road through Kells, Derrynane, and Glenbeigh, you’ll find a number of impressive sights.
The Basics
Most travelers start and end the loop in Killarney and make stops all around County Kerry to see historic seaside villages, Killarney National Park, the rugged Atlantic coast, and a few Irish castles. Many tours depart from other Ring of Kerry towns such as Sneem, Parknasilla, Cahersiveen, and Killorglin, the home of the famous Puck Fair festivities, but if you need transportation to southern Ireland from elsewhere in the country, Ring of Kerry day tours are offered with starting points in Dublin, Kenmare, Cork, Limerick, and Kinsale.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As with many ring roads, there is little room to pass at some points. It’s good to note that all tour buses travel counterclockwise from Killarney and that self-driving travelers can head clockwise for less traffic.
What to See Along the Ring of Kerry
From Ross Castle and Muckross House to Torc Waterfall, Bog Village, and the glacial valley of the Gap of Dunloe, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled and your camera out. The ring also passes the golden beaches of Inch Beach, the Lakes of Killarney, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, Ladies View, and Dingle Bay looking out to the Dingle Peninsula. The coastal side of the loop offers a taste of the Wild Atlantic Way, and in County Kerry’s Waterville, visitors tend to stop for photos with the waterfront Charlie Chaplin statue.
How to Tour the Ring of Kerry from Dublin
The Ring of Kerry loop is one of the most popular day trips available from Dublin, as WiFi-equipped coach tours make it easy to see dozens of sights in one day. Bus tours depart from a main street in Dublin city center and head out on a four-hour drive 185 miles (300 km) southwest to then embark on the 110-mile (180-km) loop. Day trips tend to be quite long (upwards of 14 hours) due to all the driving. If a single day isn’t enough, multi-day tours include accommodation and allow you to see more at a slower pace. The ring can also be reached from Dublin on a rail tour, during which travelers take a train to Killarney and then hop on a coach bus to ride the ring.
Address: Killarney, South West Ireland, Ireland
Admission: Free
From ¥ 195
Stone Circle
On a grassy paddock just outside of the village of Kenmare sit 15 stone boulders "” 13 standing upright and another two prostrate. These large stones arranged in an egg shape comprise one of the largest stone circles in Southwest Ireland, dating back to the Bronze Age. In the middle of the stone circle sits a dolmen with a capstone, often used to mark the burial place of a significant figure in the Munster region. Experts believe the capstone to weigh nearly seven tons, which would have required 30-odd men to drag into position.
The stone circle in Kenmare is one of over 180 in Ireland and of 20 in County Kerry. It's the only one in the region to exhibit an egg shape.
Practical Info
To reach the stone circle, follow the signs from market square along the left side of the road.
Address: Kenmare, Munster, Ireland
From ¥ 548