Trade Catalogue 2021 - Wild Atlantic Way Dublin Ireland's Ancient East Ireland's Hidden Heartlands - Heritage Ireland
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heritage ireland Ireland’s National Heritage in the care of the 0ffice of public works Trade Catalogue 2021 Wild Atlantic Way Dublin Ireland’s Ancient East Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands
group trade information
1. groups and trade … explore more ¬ Specific language audio-visual films in some sites for
Bring your group to visit an historic place for a great day out. pre-booked tours
¬ If you are a public group or in the travel trade and have ¬ Access to OPW Tour Operator Voucher Scheme (TOVS).
customers for group travel, FIT or MICE our staff are Payment by monthly invoice.
delighted to present memorable experiences at over 70 Email us at toursopsaccounts@opw.ie
historic attractions.* * Minimum numbers may vary at sites due to COVID–19 restrictions
as at July 2020.
¬ Our guides excel in customer service and storytelling * Some sites may not be fully accessible or closed due to COVID–19
that enthrals and engrosses the visitor, while offering restrictions as at July 2020.
a unique insight into the extraordinary legacy of Ireland’s
iconic heritage. 3. plan your itinerary
¬ Join our mailing list for more information on heritageireland.ie ¬ For inspiration about passage tombs, historic castles,
¬ Contact each site directly for booking – details in Groups / Christian sites and historic houses and gardens throughout
Trade Catalogue Ireland.
* Due to COVID–19 restrictions some sites may not be open. ¬ From brunch to banquets – find out about catering facilities
at sites, events and more …
2. group visit benefits ¬ Wild Atlantic Way
¬ Group Rate – up to 20% off normal adult admission rate. ¬ Ireland’s Ancient East
(min. 10 at most sites) ¬ Dublin
¬ One free tour leader per group booking ¬ Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands
¬ Free once-off familiarisation visit
¬ Ability to amend/cancel bookings free of charge 4. tour operators voucher scheme – contact us
¬ Coach parking at many of our sites ¬ Visitor Services, Office of Public Works,
¬ Use of tour groups own wireless transmission whisper 20 Lakeside Retail Park, Ballindine Road, Claremorris,
system allowed. (This does not include open audio loud- Co. Mayo, f12 dk30, Ireland.
speakers.) Some of our sites have their own guided wireless t. 353 (1) 647 6000 / e. touropsaccounts@opw.ie
transmission system/audio guide provided free of charge. ¬ Coming soon – Holiday Pass. Explore more with a 2-week
¬ Fast track admission for pre-booked groups Holiday Pass. For use by FITs / individuals only.
¬ Exclusive guided tours (some sites have specific language ¬ Join our mailing list for more information on heritageireland.ie
guided tours)
www.heritageireland.ie
office of public works
Ireland’s Iconic Heritage Sites
Coleraine
Letterkenny Derry
Wild Atlantic Way Ballybofey
Strabane
Larne
Antrim
Donegal Belfast
Omagh
ireland’s hidden heartlands dublin 24 Jerpoint Abbey
1 Aughnanure Castle 0 Áras an Uachtarain 25 JFK Arboretum
2 Boyle Abbey 0 Arbour Hill 26 Kells Priory
Enniskillen Armagh
3 Rathcrogan Visitor Centre 0 Casino Marino 27 Kilkenny Castle
4 Famine Warhouse 1848 0 Dublin Castle 28 Loughcrew Belderg Ballycastle Sligo
29 Maynooth Castle Monaghan
0 Farmleigh House Belmullet Killala Newry
30 National Botanic Gardens –. Bangor Eris
wild atlantic way 0 Garden of Remberance
Kilmacurragh Ballina
0 Government Buildings Crossmolina
44 Adare Castle 0 Grangegorman Military 31 Old Mellifont Abbey
Achill Swinford Boyle Cavan Dundalk
45 Ardfert Cathedral Cemetery 32 Ormond Castle Island
46 Athenry Castle 0 Iveagh Gardens 33 Portumna Castle and Gardens Knock
Airport Ardee
47 Ballycroy National Park 0 Kilmainham Gaol 34 Reginald’s Tower Westport Castlerea
Tulsk Oldcastle Kells
48 Burren National Park 35 Rock of Cashel Slane Drogheda
0 National Botanic Claremorris Longford
49 Carrowmore Megalithic 36 Roscrea Heritage Navan
Gardens – Glasnevin Lanesborough
Cemetery (Castle & Damer House) Ballinrobe Roscommon
0 Pearse Museum & St. Enda’s Park
50 Céide Fields 0 Phoenix Park Visitor Centre & 37 St. Mary’s Church Gowran Letterfrack
Mullingar Trim
51 Charles Fort Ashtown Castle 38 Swiss Cottage
Clifden Maam Cross
52 Connemara National Park 0 Rathfarnham Castle 39 Tintern Abbey Athlone
53 Coole Moate Maynooth
0 Royal Hospital Kilmainham 40 The Main Guard Ballinasloe Dublin
54 Derrynane House and Gardens 0 St. Audeon’s Church 41 Trim Castle
Galway Tullamore Dun Laoghaire
55 Desmond Castle 0 War Memorial Gardens 42 Wexford Wildforest Reserve
56 Doe Castle Loughrea Kildare
Islandbridge 43 Wicklow Mountains Inis Mór ,
57 Donegal Castle National Park Aran Islands Birr
Gort Portumna
58 Dromore Wood Portlaoise
59 Dun Aonghasa
ireland’s ancient east Athy
Roscrea Wickow
60 Ennis Friary 5 Altamont Gardens Ennistymon
61 Gallarus Oratory 6 Ballyhack Castle Ennis Nenagh
Carlow
62 Glebe House and Gallery 7 Battle of the Boyne – Tullow Arklow
63 Glenveagh National Park Oldbridge Estate Thurles
Gorey
SHANNON
64 Grianán of Aileach 8 Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre
AIRPORT
Kilrush Limerick Kilkenny
65 Ilnacullin (Garinish Island) 9 Cahir Castle Gowran Ferns
66 Ionad an Bhlascaoid 10 Castletown House and Estate Adare
Cashel Enniscorthy
67 Ionad Cultúrtha an 11 Clonmacnoise Tipperary
Phiarsaigh, Conamara 12 Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre Listowel Cahir New Ross
Newcastle West Carrick-on-Suir
68 Killarney National Park 13 Doneraile Court and
Clonmel Wexford
69 Listowel Castle Wildlife Park Tralee
70 Muckross House and 14 Dungarvan Castle Rosslare Harbour
Dingle
Traditional Farms 15 Dunmore Caves
71 Newmills Corn and Flaxmills 16 Dwyer Mc Alister Cottage Killarney
Dungarvan
72 Parkes Castle 17 Emo Court and Gardens
Youghal
73 Ross Castle 18 Ferns Castle
Carrigtwohill
74 Scattery Island 19 Fota Arboretum and Gardens
75 Skelligs 20 Fore Abbey Cork
76 Sligo Abbey 21 Glendalough Visitor Centre
22 Hill of Tara Bantry Kinsale
23 Heywood Gardens
Skibbereen
From banquets to
brunch ... enjoy
catering facilities at
our historic sites.
Clockwise from top left:
Dublin Castle; Kilkenny Castle; Castletown House
and Parklands; Farmleigh House
www.heritageireland.ie
heritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Ardfert Cathedral
Ardfert, Tralee, Co. Kerry
A trio of medieval churches founded by St. Brendan
‘The Navigator’
opening hours 2020 For anyone with a passion for architecture Ardfert Cathedral will be a
Sat – Wed, 10.00 – 17.15 delight. St. Brendan ‘The Navigator’ was born in the Ardfert area in the
02.04.20 – 30.09.20
sixth century. He founded the monastery not long before embarking on
2021 dates should be similar.
his legendary voyage. He was the subject of a medieval ‘Life of St.
admission Brendan’ and the text known as ‘Navigatio Brendani’. It was his cult
€5 Adult, which inspired the three medieval churches that stand on site today.
Group/Senior: €4.00
The earliest building is the cathedral begun in the twelfth century
€3 Student,
€13 Family incorporating part of an earlier eleventh century church. It boasts some
(accompanied under 12’s free) of the tallest thirteenth–century windows in Ireland and a spectacular
row of nine lancet windows in the south wall. It is famed for its
highlights
magnificent Romanesque West Door with blind arcading similar to that
— Romanesque West Door with
blind arcading similar to that found at Cormac’s Chapel on the Rock of Cashel
found at Cormac’s Chapel on the
Rock of Cashel
— Temple–na–Hoe – a small
masterpiece of Romanesque
architecture
— Romanesque carvings – petalled
flowers, geometric design &
decorative bosses
visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Ardfert Cathedral Pre–booked guided tour. In the expert Moderate. Access for wheelchair Min. 10. 45 minutes €4.00
Guided Tour hands of an engaging Ardfert Cathedral is restricted to Transept and Max. 40 Group Rate
guide with highlights of the medieval main body of Cathedral. Uneven
complex. Commencing at the display terrain outside through centre on
model of the site as it existed in the gravel paths.
middle ages you are led through the site
and the various phases of construction
and architectural features are included
along with historical references to to the
growth of Ardfert as a medieval corpation
and diocese.
Self Guided Tour Self–guided tour of the cathedral. Our Moderate. Access for wheelchair 3 – 60 minutes €5 Adult,
guides can give a brief introduction to is restricted to Transept and €4 Senior/
set you on your way. Commencing at main body of Cathedral. Uneven Group Rate
the display model you get an overview terrain outside through centre on €3 Student,
of the medieval complex. There are gravel paths. €13 Family
very informative interpretation panels (accompanied
illustrating the development of the under 12’s
complex from Early Christian period free)
to the seventeenth century. Much of
the displayed stonework has its own
description.
highlights continued booking nearby
— Carved Ogham stone T. 00 353 (0)66 713 4711 Banna Strand, Ballyheigue Cliff
found locally is displayed in E. ardfertcathedral@opw.ie Walk, Kerry County Museum.
transept
— Effigies of two medieval
location languages
bishops or abbots and Ardfert, Tralee, Co.Kerry, Information sheets are
selection of early Christian V92 KR7P. Located 10km from available in French, German,
grave slabs, baptismal Tralee on R551 (Tralee to Italian and Irish.
font and decorated corbel Ballyheigue Road).
displayed in transept
facilities
Car Parking along the road
outside, Coach Parking (for
one coach), There are no public
toilets. No Tea Room on site.
www.heritageireland.ie
heritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Athenry Castle
Athenry Town, Co. Galway
Athenry is one of the most notable medieval walled towns
surviving in Ireland, owing its foundation to Meiler
de Bermingham who built his castle there c.1250.
opening hours 2020 Athenry is one of the most notable medieval walled towns surviving in
Daily, 9.30 – 17.15 Ireland, owing its foundation to Meiler de Bermingham who built his
26.03.20 – 30.09.20
castle there c.1250. The oldest part of the castle is the hall–keep. It is a
Daily, 09.30 – 16.15
large rectangular building originally containing only a hall at first–
01.10.20 – 04.11.20
floor level and dark storerooms at ground level. For extra strength the
2021 dates should be similar.
lower part of the wall slopes out to form what is called a batter. The only
admission original entrance was at first–floor level and would have been reached
Adult €5.00, Senior/ Group €4.00, by an external wooden stairs similar to the present reconstruction. This
Student/ Child €3.00, Family €13.00.
gave direct access to the hall, the official and ceremonial reception room
Accompanied under 12s go free.
of the castle, where the lord received guests and tenants and presided
highlights over the manor court. Heat was probably provided originally by a
— Athenry is a Medieval brazier in the centre of the hall, with the smoke exiting through a
Heritage Town
louver or opening in the roof directly above. The garderobe or toilet is
— Athenry Heritage Centre and the
located diagonally across from the main entrance to the hall.
Medieval town walls and gates
— Athenry Dominican Priory The fine carving on the exterior of the doorway and on the inner side
of two of the window openings bears witness to the importance of the
hall. The capitals in both cases are carved with floral motifs in local style,
known as the “School of the West”, dating from the late 12th and early
13th centuries.
visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Guided Tour of Castle In the expert hands of the guide, enjoy a Wheelchair access to the ground Min. 10. 45 minutes €4.00
tour of the castle, learn of the architecture floor only. Guides provide a booklet Max. 40 Group Rate
and art of the Middle Ages and the de of photos and points of interest in
Birmingham family history. the interior for those who cannot
access the floors above.
Audio Visual Recently re–roofed, the interior now Wheelchair access to the ground Max. 50 20 minutes As part of
Presentation contains an audio–visual room and floor only. Guides provide a booklet admission fee
exhibition. Fully seated, 15 minute AV of photos and points of interest in
that provides interesting information. the interior for those who cannot
access the floors above.
booking languages tea rooms
T. 00 353 (91) 844797 Leaflet available in Irish, Restaurants and tearooms
E. athenrycastle@opw.ie English and German. in the surrounding town
Audio Visual also available of Athenry outside the
location castle gates. No Tea Rooms on site.
Court Lane, Athenry Town, facilities
Co. Galway, H65 WP93. Exhibition panels, car/coach nearby
parking close to the site. Athenry Heritage Centre,
Toilets on Site. Oranmore approx. 15 mins,
Galway City approx. 30 mins.
www.heritageireland.ie
heritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Céide Fields
Ballycastle, Co. Mayo
Field systems from our earliest farmers, preserved beneath
natural blanket bog.
opening hours 2020 Beneath the wild boglands of North Mayo lies a Stone Age farmed
Daily, 10.00 – 16.00 countryside that gives a unique insight into the sophistication of early
13.03.20 – 30.05.20
farming nearly six thousand years ago.
Daily, 09.00 – 17.00
01.06.20 – 30.09.20 The stone–walled fields, extending over hundreds of hectares, are the
Weekends, 10.00 – 16.00 oldest known globally. Visitors can see the exposed field walls and
01.10.20 – 28.10.20 dwelling enclosure on the neolithic surface and learn how these walls
2021 dates should be similar. hidden under up to 4 metres of bog were located using a centuries old
technique. They can also experience the natural blanket bog with its
admission
own unique vegetation and wildlife.
Student €3 / Group €4 / Adult €5
Family €13 / Under 12s go free! The award–winning visitor centre is set against some of the most
dramatic Wild Atlantic Way coastline. A viewing platform on the edge
highlights
of the 110–metre–high cliff will help you make the most of the
— Hear about the oldest known
fossilised farmland and the latest breathtaking scenery.
discoveries on a guided tour.
Entirely new presentations including an exciting audio–visual
— Admire the ever changing wild
immersive experience due to open in early 2021.
Atlantic from our glass rooftop
whatever the weather.
— Tea Room serving delicious
refreshments.
— Test your head for heights on our
110m high cliff edge platform.
— Amazing pine tree that grew on
the bog 4,300 years ago.
visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Céide Fields Guided walking tour of the site outside On boardwalk with a number Max. 50 45 minutes Group Rate
Guided Walking Tour with trained tour guide. Hear how this of steps. Wet Weather clothing €4.00
landscape has changed from forest to and sturdy footwear advised.
farmland to bogland, and about the The terrain and the weather can
everyday lives of our neolithic ancestors. be challenging.
See the exposed field walls and dwelling
enclosure and try being an archaeologist
by probing for a hidden wall. Walk on the
bog with it’s colourful mosses, heathers,
lichens, sedges and insect–eating
sundews, to the background music of
the lark.
Indoor Exhibitions Entirely new presentations including Indoors fully accessible. Unlimited 30–60 minutes Group Rate
an exciting audio–visual immersive €4.00
experience due to open in late
summer 2020.
Meet our ancestors from the hunter
gatherers, to the first farmers and
the metalworkers. See how the local
environment and landscape has been
ever changing.
Experience the fascinating story of the
ongoing discovery of the most extensive
stone age landscape.
highlights continued booking facilities
— See if you can spot hares, T. 00353 (96) 43325 Car Parking, coach
frogs and the elusive lizard in E. ceidefields@opw.ie parking, tea room, toilets,
the natural bog vegetation. wheelchair accessible toilets,
— All new exhibitions due to location baby changing facilities
open late summer 2020. Glenurla, Ballycastle, available on site.
— Amazing pine tree that grew Co. Mayo, F26 PF66. On R314,
8kms west of Ballycastle, tea rooms
on the bog 4,300 years ago.
on Wild Atlantic Way. 14kms Due to upgrading works,
from Downpatrick Head. Tea Room facility will not be
available until August 2020.
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Charles Fort
Kinsale, Co. Cork
Ireland’s finest example of a 17th century
star–shaped fortification.
opening hours 2020 As one of the largest military installations in the country Charles Fort
Daily: 10.00 – 18.00 has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish
Last Admission at 17.15.
history. The most significant of these include the Jacobite Williamite
Mid–March to End of October.
War in 1690 and the Irish Civil War in 1922–23. Charles Fort was
Daily: 10.00 – 17.00
Last Admission at 14.15. declared a National Monument in 1973. Across the estuary is James Fort,
November to End of Mid–March. an earlier structure, designed by Paul Ive in 1602, in the aftermath of
2021 dates should be similar. the 1601 Battle of Kinsale.
admission Protecting the town and harbour of Kinsale with its strong ramparts,
Adult €5.00, bastions and outer defensives, Charles Fort will introduce you to the
Group / Senior €4.00, history of the making of modern Ireland. Here you will explore
Child / Student: €3.00,
Ireland’s heritage as a former British colony and its strategic maritime
Family: €13.00
Accompanied under 12s go free. and historical connections with Europe.
Join one of our knowledgeable OPW guides to learn about Charles Fort’s
highlights
military architectural splendour. Discover what life was like for the
— Regular Guided tours.
enlisted soldier and his family and encounter the many interesting
— Multi–media Exhibition Centre.
personalities associated with Charles Fort’s military past.
— Tearooms with panoramic views
of Kinsale Harbour. Or you can meander around the site at your leisure and experience our
— Charles Fort is located at the multi–media exhibition within our restored Barrack Stores. After your
start of the scenic Wild Atlantic
voyage of discovery why not sit back and soak up the stunning views of
Way driving route. Scenic
walkway from Kinsale town to Kinsale harbour from our Tearooms, while enjoying a selection of
Charles Fort along the ‘Scilly home–baked delights.
Walk’, circa 30–40 minutes’visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Charles Fort – Guided tours for visitors by informed As a large military installation No Min 40 minutes. €4.00
Guided Tours and trained OPW tour guides. Discover Charles Fort has uneven and sloped Max. 45. Group Rate
cutting edge military architecture from terrain and unprotected high walls.
the 17th century. Explore the life of a Suitable footwear is required.
British Army Redcoat in an Irish garrison Not all areas are wheelchair
town. Hear tales of ghostly apparitions, accessible.
cruel punishments and scorched earth
devastation.
Groups must be pre–booked.
Special tours for school groups (Free
Educational visits – pre–booking is
essential).
Charles Fort – Explore the grounds of Charles Fort at As a large military installation Max. 30–35 40 minutes €4.00
Self–Guided your leisure. Experience our multi–media Charles Fort has uneven and sloped Group Rate
experience. exhibition, WW1 and Royal Munster terrain and unprotected high walls.
Fusiliers photographic exhibition. Seek Suitable footwear is required.
out the legendary White Lady of Charles Not all areas are wheelchair
Fort while appreciating the impressive accessible.
panoramic views of Kinsale Harbour.
Don’t forget to ask about our seasonal
Children’s trails.
highlights continued location tearooms
— Children’s seasonal fun trails Summer Cove, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Tea Rooms closed for 2020.
and treasure hunts. P17 AY18. Charles Fort is located Please contact site for 2021
circa 2 kilometres from Kinsale details.
booking town. Divert from the R600.
Eircode: P17 AY18 nearby
T. 0 0353 (0)21 4772263
E. charlesfort@opw.ie Kinsale Town, Old Head Signal
facilities Tower, The Ringfinnan Garden
languages Off road Car & Coach Parking. of Remembrance, local beach-
es and sailing.
Leaflets in Irish, English, On site Tearoom serving
Scenic coastal walk beyond
French, German, Italian, Span- delicious home–baked delicacies.
Charles Fort to Preghane
ish, Dutch, Italian and Polish. Toilets, wheelchair accessible Headland (south–east from
toilet, & baby changing facilities. Charles Fort). Preghane Head-
Small Gift Shop. land is the site of the former
British and later the Irish
Army’s Firing Range.
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Derrynane House &
National Historic Park
Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry
Immerse yourself in Derrynane; breath–taking coastal
retreat of Daniel O’Connell ‘The Liberator’
opening hours 2020 Derrynane House, the family home of Daniel O’Connell, showcases
Daily, 10.30 – 17.15 The Liberator’s life and lasting impact on Irish culture, human rights
17.03.20–30.09.20 and democracy. The original demesne landscape is set within Derrynane
Daily, 10.00 – 16.00 National Historic Park and covers over 120 hectares with extensive
01.10.20–01.11.20
woodlands, informal gardens, spectacular coastline, archaeology,
Weekends, 10.00 – 16.00
07.11.20–13.12.20 architectural features and internationally protected wildlife and habitats.
2021 dates should be similar. Derrynane is situated in the core zone of the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, one
of three Gold Tier Reserves in the world. Derrynane has a Green Flag
admission
award for meeting the highest international standards of quality,
€3 Student, €4 Group, €5 Adult,
€13 Family, under 12s go free management, amenities and sustainability in public green spaces.
Informal woodland gardens with rare plant collection & endangered South
highlights American species. Walks & Trails, Seashore Nature Trail, Fairy House
— Informal woodland Woodland Trail, Mass Path, Kerry Way. 300 acres of unspoilt Irish
gardens with rare plant
landscape with wildlife habitats of international importance. 1.5 km of
collection & endangered
South American species coastline, breath–taking scenery, top-ten Blue Flag beach, Abbey Island.visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Derrynane House Pre–booked guided tours of Derrynane On flat surface – indoors Min 10. 45 minutes €4.00
House with tour guide. Explore the home Wheelchair accessible Max. 45 Group Rate
of one of Ireland’s great historic figures – (groups over
Daniel O’Connell ‘The Liberator’. See the 27 will be
house, private chapel and coach house split)
and learn about O’Connell’s life and far–
reaching legacy.
Self Guided Tour Self–guided family nature trail with 20 On flat surface – indoors 1 hour €4 group,
stops. Explore scenic coastal habitats, Wheelchair accessible €5 Adult,
with European level protection, that €3 Student,
provide a home for rich and diverse flora €13 Family
and fauna, including rare species such as (accompanied
the Natterjack Toad, Kerry Slug and Kerry under
Lily. The natural wildflower meadows 12’s free)
display a range of native flowers
including a suite of orchids.
Woodland Fairy Trail Self–guided fairy trails in the woodlands Uneven surfaces.Moderate fitness Free
of Derrynane House. Explore the magical level. Suitable footwear.
fairy trails in the woodlands of Derrynane
House. Searching for the fairy homes is
a great family fun adventure. Even on a
rainy day, the shelter of the woods makes
this a memorable day out for all.
highlights continued booking audio visual
— Walks & Trails , Seashore T. 00 353 (0) 66 9475113 Fully Seated for 45 pax,
Nature Trail, Fairy House E. derrynanehouse@opw.ie Available in Irish, English,
Woodland Trail, Mass Path, www.derrynanehouse.ie French and German
Kerry Way
— 300 acres unspoilt Irish
location nearby
Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry, Ring of Kerry, Skellig Michil,
landscape with wildlife
V23 FX65. Located 3.5km Kenmare Town, Ross Castle.
habitats of international
from Caherdaniel (off the N70,
importance
the Ring of Kerry) tea rooms
— 1.5 km of coastline – breath–
taking scenery, top–ten Blue Ahamore Tea Rooms
Flag beach, Abbey Island facilities Open daily, 10.30 – 17.45
Car Parking, coach parking, on 17.03.20 – 30.09.20
site Tea Room in Courtyard, Open daily, 10.30 – 15.45
Toilets, wheelchair accessible 01.10.20 – 01.11.20
toilets, baby changing facilities Groups must pre–book.
t.+353 (0) 87 2655920
E. d.corridan@gmail.com
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Glebe House & Gallery
Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
An artist’s haven set in the Donegal Hills, with works
by international artists.
opening hours 2020 The Glebe House is the former home of the artist and collector Derek
Sat – Thurs, 11.00 – 17.30 Hill. It is set on a hilltop sloping down to Lough Gartan, with the
01/06/20 – 31/06/20
Derryveagh Mountains and Glenveagh National Park serving as a
Sat – Thurs, 11.00 – 11.30
spectacular backdrop.
01/07/20 –31/08/20
Sat – Thurs, 11.00 – 17.30 Derek Hill created a home for himself in the wilds of Donegal that
01/09/20 – 31/10/20 was both unique and inspiring. It’s often said that every picture tells
2021 dates should be similar. a story; in the Glebe House, everything in the collection tells a story.
The house is decorated with William Morris textiles and collections of
admission
Islamic and Oriental art. The full collection includes over three hundred
Adult €5.00, Senior/Group €4.00,
Child/ Student €3.00, Family €13.00. works by leading twentieth century artists such as Picasso and
Accompanied under 12s go free. Kokoshka. In addition there are wonderful collections of Irish, British
Free admission to the gallery.
and Italian works.
highlights Derek Hill’s studio and guesthouse was converted into a Gallery in the
— Exhibitions and Education early 1980’s by the OPW. It now displays a series of curated exhibitions
Programme for schools and
each season.
students
— Art Workshops, Plein Air Painting The gardens at the glebe are an artist’s haven a delightful blend of
— Gardens and Tree Talks formal and informal gardens covering twenty acres on the banks of
— Family Events, Children’s Arts & Lough Garten. There are points of interest everywhere with its large
Crafts and Garden Trails swathes of plants and wonderful trees. The gardens are open all year
round from dawn until dusk.visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Glebe House Join one of our knowledgeable guides Universal access to the ground Min. 10. 45 minutes Group Rate
Guided Tour for a tour of Glebe House that takes you floor only. Max. 15 €4.00
from the early nineteenth century, when
building commenced, right up to the
present day. Hear the fascinating story of
Derek Hill, and discover the incredible
artwork of the Tory Islanders.
Glebe Gallery Exhibitions throughout the year. Universal access to the ground Free
Self Guiding floor only.
Glebe Gardens A delightful blend of formal and informal Moderate, rough paths, Free
Self Guiding gardens covering twenty acres on the uneven terrain.
banks of Lough Garten. Open from dawn
til dusk.
booking location tea rooms
T. 00353 (0) 74 913 7071 Glebe House and Gallery, Glebe Tearooms allow you to
E. glebegallery@opw.ie Churchill, Letterkenny, Co. enjoy a relaxing coffee or light
www.glebegallery.ie Donegal, F92 WP70 bite, in the wonderful setting
Max per group in house is 15. of a landscape largely
It is very important to book in facilities unchanged since the early
advance so large groups can Exhibitions, toilets, and car/ twentieth century.
be accommodated. coach park on site. Open 11.00 – 17.30. Vintage
Afternoon Tea is available from
accessibility 14:00 to 17:00;
Universal access to the booking is essential. Contact
ground floor only of house the Tearooms directly on
and gallery. 00353 87 329 7169.
nearby
Glenveagh Castle and
National Park.
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Ionad an Bhlascaoid
Mhóir – Blasket Centre
Dingle, Co. Kerry
Visitor Centre and Viewing Point at the most westerly edge of
Europe which tells the amazing story of an Island Community.
opening hours 2020 The Blasket Centre on the mainland in Dún Chaoin (Dunquin) on the
Daily, 10.00 – 17.15 tip of the Dingle Peninsula is an architecturally stunning building
13.03.20–28.09.20 celebrating the unique culture and heritage of the famed but now long
2021 dates should be similar.
abandoned Great Blasket Island. It is a “must–see” destination along the
admission Slea Head Drive, the most westerly drive in Europe.
Adult €5.00, Senior/ Group € 4.00, The Blasket Centre tells the story of island life, subsistence fishing and
Student/ Child €3.00,Family €13.00.
farming, traditional life including modes of work and transport, home
Accompanied under 12s go free.
life, housing and entertainment. A story unique to the Island and an
highlights extraordinary window into Irish tradition and culture.
— A powerful audio–visual
The Blasket Centre details the community’s struggle for existence, their
presentation telling the
Blasket story language and culture, and the extraordinary literary legacy they left
— Historical artefacts. behind with a library of Blasket authors translated from the original
— Absorbing displays Irish to many other languages. Their story is told using a variety of
— Clifftop viewing point means – exhibitions, interactive displays, artefacts, audio visual
— Beautiful cliff walk and presentations and artworks.
viewing point
Summer 2020 sees the addition of an amazing clifftop Wild Atlantic
Way Signature Viewing Point overlooking the Blasket Islands, a short
and inspiring walk from the Centre itself.visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Blasket Centre Visit the unique Blasket Centre, pre On flat surface – indoors Min 10. 45 minutes €5.00 per
booking for groups or casual visitors Wheelchair accessible Max. 50 person,
welcome. A an absorbing, enjoyable €4.00 per
experience which stylishly tells the tale person
of a unique Island community which (groups)
wrote its own stories and is a window
into their culture, tradition, language.
Clifftop Walk to A short walk from the Blasket Centre Wheelchair accessible on 15 minutes to €4.00
WAW Blasket Centre to the spectacular Viewing Point paved surfaces. 1 hour Group Rate
Viewing Point overlooking the Blasket Islands and the
most westerly point in Europe.
Visit the Great Take any one of the private ferries from Not suitable for wheelchair or Max. 30 Half day or Contact, Blasket
Blasket Island Dingle, Dún Chaoin or Ventry to the physically impaired visitors. full day Islands Ferry,
Western Island. Our OPW Guides will Facilities on the island are limited Blasket Island
show you the Blasket village and the and the terrain can be challenging. Ferries, Dingle
restored home of Tomás Ó Criomhthain, Bay Charters,
the principal island author. Marine Tours,
Dingle Bay
Speedboat Tours.
Fees Apply.
booking facilities nearby
T. 00 353 66 9156444 Car Parking, coach parking, on Dingle town, Daingean Uí
E. blascaod@opw.ie site Tea Room in Courtyard, Chúis (23km via Slea Head)
www.blasket.ie Toilets, wheelchair accessible Slea Head (6km) Ballyferriter,
toilets, baby changing facilities Baile an Fheirtéaraigh village
location (8km), Gallarus Oratory early
Dun Chaoin, Dingle, Co. Kerry, audio visual Christian church(13 km)
V92 TH73. Slea Head Drive – Kilmalkedar Early Christian
Fully Seated for 45 pax, site (15km)
23 km west of Dingle town Available in Irish, English,
French and German. Leaflet: tea rooms
Irish, English, French, German, Café – ‘An tIascaire’
Italian and Spanish. Open daily, 10.00 – 17.00
Groups must pre–book.
T. 0863896555
E. christymacg@gmail.com.
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Scattery Island Centre
Co. Clare
In the footsteps of St Senan.
opening hours 2020 Off the northern bank of the Shannon Estuary lies Scattery Island,
Daily, 10.00 – 17.00 the site of an early Christian settlement founded by an extraordinary man.
21.05.20 – 31.08.20
St Senan, who was born in the area, built his monastery in the early sixth
Sept. weekends only.
century. It included a mighty round tower, which at 36 metres is one of
2021 dates should be similar.
the tallest in Ireland.
admission There are six ruined churches on the site too. The Church of the Hill
Free Guided Tours, admission fee stands on a high spot, the very place where, legend has it, an angel
applies to boat trip by local operator.
placed Senan so that he could find – and then banish – the terrible
Access is weather dependant.
sea–monster called the Cathach. It is believed that Senan is buried
highlights beside another of the medieval churches.
— Experience the peace and
Scattery was invaded many times over the centuries. The Vikings in
tranquility which brought the
monks to the island. particular believed that the monastery held many riches and returned
— Marvel at the monastery’s several times to ravage it.
ancient ruins including the 36m
A short boat trip will take you to the island, where you can explore its
tall round tower.
multi–layered, 1,500–year history.
— Enjoy the islands unspoilt
natural beauty.
— Home to rare birdlife and schools
of dolphins (during summer)
— Unique Location On Ireland’s
Wild Atlantic Way.visitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Ferry Journey to Ferry journey to and from Scattery Contact the ferry operator Max. 55 30 minutes Contact ferry
Island Island – during good weather seals and regarding accessibility. operator
dolphins are often sighted on ‘Scattery
this journey. Island Tours’.
Fees Apply.
Guided Tour Free guided walking tour of the island moderate Max. 55 1 hour Free
including the abandoned village and the
1,500 year old monastery.
highlights continued facilities
—
Grass land which is home to Car parking, coach parking,
an array of wild bird, animal toilets, wheelchair accessible
and plant life which is of toilets, baby changing
great interest to ecologists facilities, no Tearoom on site.
who visit.
tea rooms
booking Tea Coffee and packed
T. 00 353 (87) 995 8427 lunches are available from
E. scatteryisland@opw.ie Scattery Island Tours with
advance booking.
location walks/nearby
Kilrush, Co. Clare. Access to the Island by
booking directly with
Scattery Island Tours
www.scatteryislandtours.com
www.heritageireland.ieheritage ireland
Ireland’s National Heritage
in the care of the 0ffice of public works
Sligo Abbey
Abbey Street, Sligo Town, Co. Sligo
Where friars’ prayers echo among the ruins.
opening hours 2020 This Dominican friary has dominated Sligo town centre since the mid–
Daily: 10.00 – 18.00 thirteenth century, when it was created by Maurice FitzGerald, the
24/03/20–28/10/20
founder of the town itself. Some of the building from that period has
2021 dates should be similar.
survived the next nine centuries of turmoil.
admission The abbey was partially destroyed by burning in 1414, when it fell foul
€ 5.00 Adult of an unattended candle, and suffered further mutilation following the
€ 4.00 Group/ Senior rate
Rebellion of 1641. According to legend, worshippers salvaged the abbey’s
€ 3.00 Student/ Child – Accompa-
nied under 12s go free. silver bell at that time and threw it into Lough Gill. You can hear it peal
€ 13.00 Family even now – provided, that is, that you are wholly free from sin.
highlights Despite the ravages of history, the abbey contains a great wealth of
— Wealth of medieval carving carvings, including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculpture, a well–
— Gothic and Renaissance preserved cloister and a sculptured fifteenth–century high altar – the
tomb sculpture only such altar to survive in an Irish monastic church.
— High altar – the only surviving
example in an Irish monastic site
— Make a wish or maybe declare
your love at the “Love Knot”.
— Feel the tranquillity in Sligo town’s
only medieval structure
— Try to identify some of the figures
on the O’Crean tombvisitor experiences
Experience Description Fitness Level Min. / Max. Duration Price
numbers (approx.) per person
Tour of Sligo Abbey Pre–booked guided tours of Sligo Some stairs and uneven ground. Min 10 30 minutes. €4.00
Guided Walking Tour Abbey Outside walking tour with a Stones may be slippery when wet. Max. 40. Group Rate
trained guide. Hear all about the dramatic
history of the site. Find which parts of
the structure were built in which century,
learn the identities of the figures in the
O’Crean tomb, hear the story behind the
mysterious “Love Knot” and discover the
Dracula connection.
booking location accessibility
T. 00353 (71) 9146406 Abbey St., Sligo, F91 K796. Wheelchair access to
E. sligoabbey@opw.ie visitor centre and toilet,
facilities partial access to site.
languages Small exhibition, toilets. Steps and stairs on site,
Self guide leaflet in English, Public car park close to site. gravel paths, uneven surfaces.
French, Spanish, Italian,
No Tea Room on site.
German, Dutch. nearby
Sligo Town on the banks of
the Garavogue River. Sligo
County Museum displays
memorabilia of local poet
W.B. Yeats, Carrowmore
megalithic cemetery 4kms.
www.heritageireland.ieYou can also read
