What Are the Best Things to Do in Clare, Ireland?
County Clare is one of the most rewarding parts of Western Ireland, best known for the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, and the lunar limestone landscape of The Burren. Beyond those headline sights, the county offers medieval castles at Bunratty, ancient portal tombs at Poulnabrone, Europe’s longest stalactite at Doolin Cave, and charming villages like Ballyvaughan and Doolin. It covers 1,332 square miles and is easily reached via Shannon Airport, which sits within the county itself.
From the iconic Cliffs of Moher to the atmospheric Aran Islands, there are many fun things to do in Clare, Ireland. The Burren and Cliffs of Moher was officially designated and inscribed as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.
There are lots of interesting sights such as Bunratty Castle and Lahinch Beach. Nicknamed the Banner County, due to the custom of greeting politicians with banners, County Clare is a must visit part of Western Ireland.
The area boasts some of the most scenic drives in Ireland, including The Burren Loop, Lough Dergh and Loop Head and is ideal for an Irish luxury weekend or a longer stay.
1. Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre
If you’re travelling with children, Aillwee Cave is one of the best County Clare attractions. One of the oldest caves in Ireland, they are 1.5 million years old.
Visitors to the cave can admire stalactites, stalagmites, an underground river and waterfall, as well as the bones of the now extinct brown bear. Next door, there’s a Birds of Prey Centre where you can observe the magnificent raptors and even hold them under supervision. Taste delicious Burren Gold Cheese at the Farm Shop.
2. Aran Islands
Not to be confused with the Scottish Arran Islands, these 3 isles are situated in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. They all have their own distinctive character but what they have in common is scenic landscapes and inhabitants who speak Irish as well as English.
An Arran Islands trip is one of the top things to do in Ireland.
Inis Mor
Also known as Inishmore, this is the largest of the Aran Islands. With a population of around 900, this charming island has several interesting sights.
Head to Dun Eochla, the highest point on the island for a great vantage point and to see the stone ring fort. A seal colony can often be observed on the north side of the island at Portmurvy Beach.
Check out the knitted goods at the Aran Sweater Company, next to the port. For refreshments, one of the cutest cafes in Ireland is Teach Nan Phaidi.
Inis Meain Island
The other name for this middle sized island is Inishmaan. It’s worth visiting the oval stone Fort of Conchur here, as well as the Church of the Seven Sons.
Inis Oirr
The smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oirr or Inisheer is easy to get around on a day trip. Hire a bicycle at the port as the roads are very quiet.
From the ruins of O’Briens Castle, the highest point of Inis Oirr, here’s a panoramic view of the island. Head next to Plassey Shipwreck, an imposing boat that drifted ashore in 1960.
From here it’s a short bike ride to Inis Oirr Lighthouse, which dates from 1857. Finish your Inis Oirr visit with a stroll along sandy Tra Inis Oirr Beach, also known as Inisheer Green Coast Beach next to the ferry.
We recommend lunch at Tigh Ned, a traditional Irish pub with a beer garden overlooking the harbour. You can reach the Aran Islands by ferry from Doolin or Rossaveal.
3. Ballyvaughan Village
Set on the southern shore of Galway Bay, Ballyvaughan is one of the prettiest gateways to the Burren. The picturesque coastal village has lovely tea rooms and Monks restaurant, known for its seafood dishes. Grab a table by the window and watch the fishing boats come and go from the little stone pier.
There are several houses with traditional thatched roofs and donkeys graze by the village green. The village makes a handy base for exploring North Clare, with Aillwee Cave, Poulnabrone Dolmen and Gregans Castle Hotel all a short drive away. Chocolate lovers should also seek out Hazel Mountain Chocolate, a small bean to bar producer tucked into the Burren hills nearby.
4. Bridges of Ross
Popular since Victorian times for their unique appearance, the Bridges of Ross should not be missed. Water has eroded the cliff over time and it has formed into natural arches.
You can actually pose for photos here with the sea as a magnificent backdrop.There were actually three natural stone arches but two collapsed.
The remaining arch is an amazing sight. Many seabirds come here during their annual migration. There are no toilets or refreshment facilities but there is a car park.
Head to Keatings Bar in Kilbaha for a bite to eat. They have a lovely harbour view from the terrace, and this is actually the last pub before New York!
5. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
This authentic Irish castle dates from the 15th century and has some fine examples of medieval furnishings. Bunratty Folk Park is a 26 acre site, with over 30 buildings recreating the atmosphere of a rural 19th century Irish village.
Bunratty Medieval Banquet in the Great Hall is a popular experience for visitors, with live medieval themed music and dancing.
6. The Burren Perfumery
A delight for all 5 senses, The Burren Perfumery is tucked away in Fahee North, Carron. This is a very picturesque area of North Clare.
Visitors can see how the perfume is made and buy beautifully packaged toiletries.
There’s a lovely cafe which serves tea made from the kitchen garden herbs and homemade lemonade and cakes. Take a wander through the pretty gardens and inhale the fragrant herbs.
7. Cliffs of Moher
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience recorded 1,136,868 visitors in Fáilte Ireland’s survey for 2022, making it one of Ireland’s top natural attractions. Part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, the cliffs stand 702 feet high above sea level in places and are 5 miles long.
The Cliffs of Moher have featured in several movies including The Princess Bride and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. For the latter, filming took place at a sea cave below the towering cliffs. However, the rock that Harry and Dumbledore are standing on is actually in County Kerry.
This natural wonder was formed around 320 million years ago when sand and mud formed into rock. We recommend visiting the Cliffs of Moher by boat if you have time, as you’ll see the whole of the rock face rather than just the top.
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
If visiting on foot, you can either book a driver to take you there and back or use a hire car. Alternatively, take a cab there and walk back to Doolin.
The main visitor car park is close to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, where you’ll find restrooms, the Cliffs View Cafe, Puffins Nest Coffee Shop and the Cliffs Exhibition. The car parking fee is €8 per passenger, which includes entrance to the visitor centre, although not to O’Brien’s Tower.
There is also another car park tucked away at Guerin’s Farm, from which you can take Guerin’s Path until you reach the Cliff Walk itself. Bear in mind that there are no restrooms or refreshments at this particular car park, around a 15 minute walk from the visitor centre below.
You can get great views from one of the three main viewing platforms. Wear flat shoes with a thick sole as the path is rocky in parts. Dress warmly in layers with waterproof outerwear and hold on tight to your hats!
There is a barrier at the top of the cliff walk for visitor safety. You’ll see some people on the other side of this right next to the cliffs.
This is really dangerous and we definitely wouldn’t go underneath. It’s not worth risking your life for the sake of a photo and visitor footfall can also damage the cliff edge.
Cliffs of Moher Boat Tour
The best way to see the whole cliff face is by boat. Doolin Ferries pioneered the Cliffs of Moher cuise and run regular services from Doolin.
You can take a ferry ride to the Cliffs of Moher or combine it with a boat trip to Aran Island. There are also day trips with a bus pick up at Bunratty, Ennis and Shannon.
The ferries are comfortable and have toilets on board as well as indoor and outdoor seating. The top deck is good in warm weather and gives a great view of the cliffs. You’ll also hear the commentary better up there.
Pick the lower deck on a rainy day as there’s lots of indoor seating as well as a few outdoor seats for a quick photo. From the boat, you’ll get the perfect shot of Branaunmore, a sea stack that was once part of the cliffs themselves.
8. Doolin Cave
During your time in County Clare, don’t miss a trip to Doolin. It’s the point of departure for cruises to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher, and a charming place in its own right.
Doolin Cave
This incredible geological wonder was discovered by two English divers in 1952. The caves contain the longest stalactite in Europe, a very impressive sight.
The Great Stalactite measures around 7.3 metres and was formed from a single drop of water around 70,000 years ago. Stalactites grow roughly 10 centimeters every 1,000 years.
You can see water dripping from the stalactite when the guide shines their torch. The tours are very informative and you’ll learn a lot about the history of the caves.
It’s surprisingly warm inside but we’d still suggest taking a jacket. Flat shoes are a must as you’ll be walking up and down many stairs. As the ceiling height is low in certain places, visitors are required to wear one of the hard hats provided.
Allow a couple of hours here if you can – the tour itself lasts 50 minutes. There’s a cafe selling homemade cakes and gift shop with pottery made from glacial clay found in the cave.
Outside, you’ll find some cute goats that graze on the visitor centre roof, and a scenic nature trail. In fact, Doolin Cave is one of the leading ecotourism attractions in Ireland.
9. Doolin Village
Doolin itself is a picturesque village on the Atlantic Ocean in West Clare with several brightly colored houses. One of these, The Sweater Shop on Fisher Street sells some beautiful designs by local craftspeople. You can’t miss its bright pink facade!
There’s also a charming cafe next to the shop called The Ivy Cottage with a terrace at the front. They do good hot chocolates and homemade cake.
Doolin is known for its music and is considered to be the birthplace of traditional Irish music. Here are a few of the places where you can listen to live performances:
- Gus O’Connors
- Fitzpatricks
- McDermotts
- McGanns
10. Ennistymon
The little town of Ennistymon is an Irish hidden gem. There are several colorful shops and pubs, including Eugene’s where an episode of the TV series Father Ted was filmed. Cooleys House is another popular bar, with good live music.
Ennistymon Cascades gush over rocks in the Cullenagh River. You can get a good view from the bridge at the top or the riverside walk at the bottom of the falls.
11. Father Ted’s House
The house that features in the iconic TV series, Father Ted, is a real hidden gem. Known locally as Glanquin House, it sits on a quiet country lane near Killinaboy, with the grey limestone of the Burren rising behind it.
Fans will instantly recognise it as the Parochial House where Ted, Dougal, Father Jack and Mrs Doyle lived. There is no signage outside Father Ted’s House as this is actually someone’s home, so please do respect their privacy.
If you’re a true Tedhead, combine your visit with a stop in nearby Kilfenora, home to Vaughans pub and the annual Father Ted festival.
12. Kilfenora Village
The Burren Centre
A good introduction to the distinctive landscape of The Burren National Park, the visitor centre has a large gift shop and cafe. There’s an interesting film about the region and a new exhibition showcasing the music of the Kilfenora Ceili Band.
It’s a good pit stop if you’re doing a road trip around County Clare, such as The Burren Loop Drive. This is a 150 kilometer figure of 8 loop. It takes in the Burren limestone landscapes, traditional fishing villages and colorful towns like Ennistymon and Lisdoonvarna.
The village of Kilfenora is the smallest parish in Ireland, and its cathedral is famous for its traditional Celtic crosses. In fact, it’s known as The City of The Crosses.
The crosses can be found in the cathedral grounds and are housed in a glass ceiling. Don’t miss the Doorty Cross which dates from the 12th century. For lunch, head to Vaughans pub, for a great Irish stew.
13. Lahinch
Lahinch Beach is a popular spot on the Atlantic coast for surfing and sea kayaking. Several surf schools offer lessons for beginners, and the long sandy bay gets busy with wetsuited families in summer. Afterwards, warm up with a hot seaweed bath at Lahinch Seaweed Baths, a traditional Irish treat said to soften the skin.
The Old Course at Lahinch Golf Club is one of the best links courses in Ireland. Founded in 1892 and later reshaped by renowned course architect Alister MacKenzie, it hosted the Irish Open in 2019. Lahinch itself is an attractive town with many shops and restaurants, plus a breezy promenade that’s perfect for a sunset stroll.
14. Lisdoonvarna
The Burren Smokehouse
In this Irish spa town you’ll find the Burren Smokehouse on Kincora Road. This is a great place to buy organic Irish smoked salmon from the Burren. There are regular guided factory tours where you can see the smoking process.
Matchmaking Festival
The town is famous for its annual matchmaking festival, spread over 6 weekends in August and September. The official and widely reported attendance figure for the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is 60,000 visitors each September, though peak record years have occasionally drawn up to 80,000 attendees.
It’s the biggest singles event in Europe. People from all over the world come to Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival to enjoy the music and dancing.
15. Loop Head Lighthouse
Situated at the furthest point west on the Clare coast, Loop Head Lighthouse is an imposing sight. Still a working lighthouse, it is now controlled electronically.
One of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland, it was built in 1854. There has actually been a lighthouse on the site since 1670. Guided tours take place every day from mid March to beginning of November. You can see inside and admire the panoramic views of Loop Head Peninsula.
16. Poulnabrone Dolmen
This extraordinary portal tomb dates back to Neolithic times and is over 5,000 years old, making it one of the most photographed Irish landmarks. Two portal stones support a horizontal capstone weighing several tonnes, and the whole structure sits dramatically on a bare limestone pavement in the heart of the Burren.
When archaeologists excavated the site in the 1980s, they found the remains of more than 20 people, along with pottery, jewellery and a polished stone axe. The name comes from the Irish Poll na Brón, meaning the hole of the quern stone.
There’s a free car park and information boards next to the R480 road between Ballyvaughan and Corofin. Come to Poulnabrone Dolmen at sunset if you possibly can, or early in the morning before the tour buses arrive.
17. Tolkien’s Favourite Hotel
The author J. R. R. Tolkien loved staying at Gregans Castle Hotel and Paul and I did too! This stylish boutique hotel has an incredible location in the heart of the Burren.
Admire the unique landscape from the hotel’s garden, which inspired Tolkien to create Middle Earth in Lord of the Rings. There’s a lovely bar and restaurant in the hotel, open to non residents and serving tasty Irish dishes.
18. Spanish Point
If you’re into water sports, head to Spanish Point on the West Coast of County Clare. Popular with surfers, this small village takes its name from the Spaniards who died here when their ships sank in 1588. These were vessels from the Spanish Armada, wrecked off the Clare coast during violent storms as the fleet attempted to sail home around Ireland.
Spanish Point is known for its 9 hole golf course and sandy beach, which is a lovely spot for a bracing walk at low tide. The Armada Hotel sits right on the seafront with views out across the Atlantic.
Just inland, the town of Miltown Malbay is a hub for traditional Irish music and hosts the Willie Clancy Summer School every July, one of the biggest trad music gatherings in the country.
How to Get to County Clare
It’s easy to reach County Clare by car, plane or by sea:
By Car
Among the most popular driving routes through County Clare are:
- The Burren Beauty Drive – 42 miles starting in Kilfenora and finishing at Black Head.
- The Burren Loop – a 93 mile figure of 8 looped drive that takes you along the coast and through ecotourism destination The Burren National Park
- Ennis to Doonbeg – 28 miles along part of the Wild Atlantic Way
- Kilkee Scenic Drive – a good alternative to the Cliffs of Moher, this 16 mile drive in East Clare has spectacular cliff views.
- Loop Head Peninsula Drive – 90 mile round trip taking in the Bridges of Ross, Loop Head Lighthouse and the Long Dock pub in Carrigaholt.
- Lough Derg – a beautiful lakeside drive starting at Killaloe, a popular boating and fishing hub on the river Shannon.
- Shannon Estuary Drive – 135 mile loop including Limerick City, Kilcornan, Askeaton, Foynes,Tarbert, Killimer, Labasheeda, Killadysert,Ballynacally, Clarecastle, Ennis and Bunratty.
By Air
There are regular flights to Shannon Airport from many international destinations. This is the closest airport as it is in County Clare. Alternatively, you can fly to Kerry Airport, 1 hour and 40 minutes drive away, or Cork airport, Dublin airport or Knock airport.
By Rail
Daily train services to Ennis town from Cork, Dublin, Galway and Limerick. The Western Rail Corridor train service connects Ennis and Sixmilebridge in County Clare with towns in nearby Galway.
By Sea
There are ferry ports in Cork (less than 2 hours drive), Dublin (3 hours drive), Dun Laoghaire and Rosslare (4 hours).
You could also combine a trip to Clare with a Northern Ireland road trip – it’s a leisurely 4 hour drive to Belfast, or just 3 hours and 20 minutes to the Mourne Mountains.
Where to Stay in County Clare
Try to spend at least 3 nights in County Clare, although you wouldn’t be bored with a whole week here.
We recommend staying at an Irish country house hotel for a true taste of local hospitality. We arranged our accommodation with Ireland’s Blue Book, the luxury Irish hotel collection.
They have a great selection of luxury Irish hotels and restaurants and will advise you on the best places to stay in County Clare depending on the size of your group and your preferred itinerary.
Here’s one of our favourites:
Gregans Castle Hotel – an 18th century manor house in the Burren, with an award winning restaurant. This charming hotel has been a favourite with celebrities such as Ewan McGregor, J.R.R. Tolkien, Kathleen Turner and Sharon Stone.
It was awarded Best Hotel in Ireland 2019 by The Good Hotel Guide. Enjoy the fabulous views over the Burren landscape from the cosy lounges and bar or the landscaped gardens.
Unique Things to Do in Clare, Ireland
Beyond the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle, County Clare has a handful of experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Ireland.
Father Ted’s House in Killinaboy is a real-life family home that doubles as a pilgrimage site for fans of the beloved Irish sitcom. There’s no signage, so treat it with care.
The Burren Perfumery in Fahee North is tucked so far off the main tourist trail that most visitors simply drive past. The kitchen garden cafe and hand-crafted scents make it worth seeking out.
Poulnabrone Dolmen at sunset is a genuinely atmospheric experience. Most visitors stop in daylight; arriving in the golden hour means you’ll likely have this 5,000-year-old portal tomb almost to yourself.
Doolin Cave’s Great Stalactite measures around 7.3 metres, making it the longest stalactite in Europe. The cave was only discovered in 1952 and remains one of the country’s most underrated geological sights.
The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival spreads across 6 weekends in August and September and draws over 40,000 participants. It is the biggest singles festival in Europe and a wonderfully eccentric slice of Irish life.
For something truly off the map, the Bridges of Ross natural stone arch on the coast near Kilbaha is a Victorian-era curiosity that rarely features on mainstream itineraries.
Things to Do in Clare for Couples
County Clare is a quietly romantic destination, best enjoyed at a relaxed pace with someone you like.
A boat tour to the Cliffs of Moher is the most scenic way to experience the cliffs together. Doolin Ferry runs regular services and you’ll see the full cliff face, including the dramatic sea stack Branaunmore, from the water.
Dinner at Gregans Castle Hotel is a favourite even for non-residents. Set in an 18th century manor house in the heart of the Burren, the restaurant and bar serve excellent Irish dishes against views that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth.
Ballyvaughan village is perfect for a slow morning. Monks restaurant is well known for its seafood, and the traditional thatched cottages and village green make it one of the prettiest spots in Clare.
The Burren Perfumery in Carron makes an easy and lovely half-day detour. Browse the fragrances, then sit in the herb garden cafe with tea and homemade cake.
A sunrise or sunset visit to Poulnabrone Dolmen is free, unhurried, and genuinely memorable. The dolmen dates back to around 3200 BC and the light at either end of the day is spectacular.
Loop Head Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Clare coast and is reached via the scenic Loop Head Peninsula Drive, a 90-mile round trip that takes in the Bridges of Ross and the Long Dock pub in Carrigaholt.
Key Takeaways
●Cliffs of Moher: 702 feet high, 5 miles long, 1.5 million visitors yearly.
●Boat trip beats the cliff walk for seeing the full rock face.
●Shannon Airport sits inside County Clare, making access simple.
●Doolin is the hub for Aran Islands ferries and Cliffs of Moher cruises.
●Poulnabrone Dolmen dates to around 3200 BC; visit at sunset.
●Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival: Europe’s biggest singles event.
●Spend at least 3 nights to do Clare justice.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Clare Ireland
County Clare is a hidden gem in Ireland that often gets overlooked. However, there are plenty of things to do in Clare, from exploring the Burren to visiting landmark castles.
If you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience on your next trip to Ireland, be sure to add Clare to your list. And if you need help planning your trip, be sure check out our other Ireland articles for more inspiration.
If you like this list of things to do in Clare, you might also enjoy:
- A Weekend in Dublin
- Dublin Hidden Gems
- Gregans Castle Review
- Ireland’s Blue Book
- Most Luxurious Cruise Ship Suites
- West Ireland in Big Photos
Read all our Ireland travel tips here
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is County Clare, Ireland famous for?
County Clare is famous for the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions, and for The Burren, a vast limestone landscape that forms part of a UNESCO Global Geopark. The county is also known for Bunratty Castle, the Aran Islands, traditional Irish music centred on Doolin village, and the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, the largest singles festival in Europe.
How do you get to County Clare, Ireland?
The easiest way is to fly into Shannon Airport, which is located within County Clare itself. You can also fly into Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Galway, or Knock airports and drive.
By sea, the nearest ferry ports are in Cork (under 2 hours’ drive) and Dublin (around 3 hours’ drive). Daily train services run to Ennis from Cork, Dublin, Galway, and Limerick.
What are the best things to do in Clare with kids?
Aillwee Cave is one of the top family attractions in County Clare, with stalactites, an underground river and waterfall, bear bones, and a Birds of Prey Centre next door. Bunratty Folk Park, with over 30 buildings recreating a 19th century Irish village, is another great option for children.
The Aran Islands make a fun day trip, especially Inis Oirr where you can hire bicycles and explore at a gentle pace.
How long should you spend in County Clare?
We recommend spending at least 3 nights in County Clare, though you wouldn’t be bored with a full week. Three nights gives you time for the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, Doolin, and one of the Aran Islands.
A week allows you to explore the quieter corners: Loop Head, Lisdoonvarna, Ennistymon, and the scenic coastal drives.
Is the Cliffs of Moher boat trip worth it?
Yes, the boat trip is the best way to see the Cliffs of Moher. From the water you see the entire cliff face rather than just the top, including Branaunmore, a sea stack that was once part of the cliffs themselves.
Doolin Ferry pioneered the cruise and runs regular services from Doolin. You can also combine it with a trip to the Aran Islands.
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This guide of things to do in Clare is in association with Ireland’s Blue Book, Gregans Castle Hotel and Visit Ireland
