Located on the Shannon Estuary, just off Kilrush in Co. Clare, Scattery Island offers a rare visitor experience, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. With it’s natural open spaces, build heritage, diverse plant life and wildlife, Scattery island is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The island is just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Kilrush, departing through the lock gates at the marina, onto the calm waters of the Shannon Estuary. Scattery Island offers visitors a treasure trove of biodiversity and cultural heritage, with visitor numbers limited each season to protect and preserve the island’s unique and natural environment.
Visitors are amazed at the wealth of historic sites, which include five Churches, a Cathedral, a magnificent Round Tower, Napoleonic War Artillery Battery and a working Lighthouse in addition to the recently restored island street village. Today the island is completely uninhabited, and you can explore it’s historic sites and experience its un-spoilt natural beauty in peace and tranquility.
Your visit includes a guided walking tour which will immerse you in the island’s rich history and share with you the stories about St. Senan, the monster Cathaigh, the Viking raiders, Brian Boru, the Spanish Armada and the Shannon River pilots who were the last to inhabit the island until the mid 1970’s. The island’s visitor centre offers even more insight into it’s fascinating history.
*The guided tour is also available in French, German, Italian & Spanish as a downloadable audio to listen to as you walk the island.
Scattery also offers a great a family day out, and our junior VIP’s get their very own treasure trail map to explore the island their own way! Pack a picnic or even enjoy swim while you’re there. The island’s recent recognition at No. 3 on TripAdvisor’s ‘Top Attractions in County Clare’, is a testament to its popularity and its status as one of Ireland’s must-visit destinations.
So, whether you are a history buff, nature lover or simply looking for a relaxing family day out, or a memorable travel experience, Scattery Island is a destination that is not to be missed!
Discover the beauty of Scattery Island and walk the paths of saints and scholars. This tour allows you between 2 and 2.5 hours on the island and includes a guided walking tour.
After the last islanders left Scattery in 1978, a series of wealthy overseas businessmen began purchasing land on the island, and at one time there were plans to turn Scattery Island into a private leisure resort.
However, in 1989, the Irish Government purchased almost all of the land on Scattery, and today the island is owned by the Irish state, which maintains the archaeological and historical monuments and is developing the island as a heritage site for the benefit of both local people and visitors to Ireland.
One of the most recent developments has been the restoration of the island’s street cottages which includes what was the island’s post office. Previous restoration works included the cottages at the main pier, which is now this island’s visitor centre and houses an exhibition where visitors can learn about the island’s rich history and is run by the Heritage Services branch of the Office of Public works and is open during the main tourist season.
