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Scattery Island Tours

Ferry Service and Guided Walking Tours of Scattery Island

Explore Scattery Island

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!

Give the gift of a Scattery Island tour or create family memories together by gifting a visit to Scattery Island. Our gift vouchers are presented in beautiful gift cards and make the perfect memorable gift.

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Scattery Visitor Centre History

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.

Ranked by TripAdvisor as the #1 Thing to Do in Kilrush, Co. Clare, Ireland

A Wonderful Trip and Place to Visit

"I visited Scattery Island last month and thoroughly enjoyed it. The boat ride there and back was wonderful with lots of comfortable seating and even coffee and tea for sale. The time on the island was delightful as well, with the combination of beautiful nature, history of the area, and the traditional buildings. The visitors' center was very well done, housed in a restored typical building of the area and a very nice display."

– travelhoundGreece, TripAdvisor
Scattery Island

"What an interesting island to visit...trip made even better due to fantastic guide Morgan! Highly recommended trip if you are in the area. Staff are so friendly and helpful - we managed to make it onto the last trip for the season."

– travellingjoy2018, TripAdvisor
Great Historical and Monastic Island

"A must do journey if you happen to be in the Kilrush / Kilkee area. A 20 minute ferry ride to an uninhibited island that is steeped in monastic history going back to the fifth century with numerous ancient chapels and monuments. Take the guided tour with great guides who are simply bursting to tell the story of the ancient and recent history. A highly recommended experience."

– BronzeTank, TripAdvisor
Great Family Trip to Scattery island

"We went on the ferry from Kilrush Marina. Irene and the crew looked after us really well on the short scenic trip to the island which is beutiful.You get a glimpse of island life and the monastic settlements which date back over a 1000 years. There is a guided tour imcluded which is very interesting. If your in West Clare this is a must do for a family."

– Barry L., TripAdvisor
Beautiful, Peaceful Island

"I loved the whole experience from start to finish - the boat ride, the informative tour guide, and most of all, the free time to explore the island. I love being away from the traffic, experiencing nature - so beautiful, so peaceful."

– dance4joykt, TripAdvisor
Worth a Visit

"I went here as a huge Group.The age ranged from 1-19year olds plus adults. We had a fantastic day the sun was shining. The tour guide was very helpful and entertaining. We brought a packed lunch for all and we eat that after we explored the island. We went swimming aswell. Overall I would definitely recommend going on a trip here."

– Ciara9876, TripAdvisor
Amazing Tour of an Amazing Island.

"A wonderful experience from start to finish. The island is steeped in history which was so well narrated by our guide. One trip makes you want to return so we went in July 2018 and returned in August!"

– Susan M., TripAdvisor
Day Trip

"Wonderful experience, well worth a visit. Weather was exceptional for Sept. Pleasant boat trip & we enjoyed the Lock experience. Our guide,Micheal made the trip more interesting by including the children & the use of the Irish language. We walked to the lighthouse & a bit beyond that. I would recommend bringing a snack, comfortable shoes & a jacket."

– Marie W., TripAdvisor