Kilrush

This designated heritage town began as an estate town in the 18th century. The Vandeleur family established the original estate nearby in the 1630’s. They are known in local history for their participation in massive tenant evictions in the 1800s.

Today, Kilrush features a beautiful new marina as well as a heritage centre with informative exhibits on the local effects of the Great Famine and the tenant evictions of 1888. Blue flag beaches can be enjoyed in an unspoiled natural environment. Kilrush is also West Clare’s premier business town.

Other interesting attractions in the area include:

Vandeleur Walled Garden, which displays many unusual varieties of plants that are well suited to the area’s unique climate.

Dolphin watching from vessels departing from the Kilrush Creek Marina and sailing on the Shannon estuary.

Shannon Dolphin Trail, which leads along the coast road out to Aylevaroo Point, where dolphins are known to congregate.

The Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre, which features informational exhibits about dolphins and local dolphin research and conservation activities.