Kylemore Abbey: A Lakeside Gem in Connemara
Discover the history, beauty, and tranquility of Kylemore Abbey, a stunning lakeside landmark in the heart of Connemara, County Galway.
Nestled on the shores of Pollacappul Lake in the heart of Connemara, County Galway, Kylemore Abbey is a stunning neo-Gothic castle with a rich history. Originally built as a private residence in the 19th century, it later became a Benedictine monastery and a renowned international boarding school. Today, it stands as one of Ireland's most visited attractions, offering visitors a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
- Pollacappul, Co. Galway, IE
- +3539552001
- Visit website
Local tips
- Allow at least 3-6 hours to fully explore the abbey, gardens, church, and surrounding trails.
- Take the free shuttle bus from the Visitor Centre to the Victorian Walled Garden if you prefer not to walk the 1.3km.
- Check the Kylemore Abbey website for current opening hours, as they vary depending on the time of year.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and trails.
- Enjoy the views of the abbey from across Pollacappul Lake, near the free car park.
Getting There
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Car
Kylemore Abbey is located on the N59 road between Clifden and Westport. From Galway, take the N59 towards Clifden. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Westport, take the N59 towards Clifden. The drive is approximately 50 minutes. There is a free car park available for visitors. Parking is located across the lake from the Abbey.
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Public Transport
Bus Éireann and Citylink operate regional bus services to Kylemore. From Galway, take a bus to Sraith Salach. From Letterfrack, the Kylemore stop is a short walk. A single fare from Galway to Kylemore costs approximately €10-€15. Check the Bus Éireann or Citylink website for current timetables and fares.
Discover more about Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Connemara National Park Viewpoint
3.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Connemara National Park's mountains, valleys, and lakes from this must-see scenic viewpoint in County Galway.
Connemara National Park lodge
4.1 km
Explore the wild beauty of Connemara National Park from this welcoming Letterfrack lodge, offering comfort and convenience for your Irish adventure.
Connemara Adventure Tours
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Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Connemara with exhilarating hikes and scenic cycling at Connemara Adventure Tours.
Walk Connemara
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking trails of Connemara with guided walks, exploring the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of County Galway.
Ballynahinch Castle
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Experience Irish history and luxury at Ballynahinch Castle, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Connemara's stunning natural landscape.
Connemara Real Adventures
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Experience the thrill of the Wild Atlantic Way with Connemara Real Adventures: kayaking, coasteering, climbing, and more in Ireland's stunning Connemara region.
Pines Island Viewpoint
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Capture the iconic beauty of Connemara at Pines Island Viewpoint: Derryclare Lough, the Twelve Bens, and a landscape photographer's dream.
Cleggan-Head
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Connemara Giant
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Marconi Radio Station
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Alcock and Brown landing site
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The Glen Keen Estate & Glen Keen Farm
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Aasleagh Falls
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Omey Strand
17.1 km
Cross the sands to Omey Island, a tidal gem on the Wild Atlantic Way, where history and stunning landscapes await exploration at low tide.
Omey Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kylemore’s Neo-Gothic Church
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Maladrolaun Lake
0.5 km
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Head Gardener's House
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Walled Victorian Garden
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Diamond Hill
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Connemara National Park
2.4 km
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DK Connemara Oyster Farm · Letterfrack
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Lower Diamond Hill Trail
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Connemara National Park Visitor Centre
3.9 km
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Lettergesh Beach
5.0 km
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Lettershanbally Nature Walk
5.1 km
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Tullycross Church
5.7 km
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DK Connemara Oysters
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Bogville Panoramic Views
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Killary Sheep Farm
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Essential places to dine
Kylemore Pass Hotel Approved
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The Hungry Hiker Cafe
3.9 km
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Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant
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Connemara Woodfire
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Misunderstood Heron
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Renvyle House Hotel & Resort
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Delphi Resort
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Owenmore Restaurant
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Fisherman's Pub
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The Lamplight
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Guys Bar Clifden
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Marconi Restaurant Clifden
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Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar
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Mitchell's Restaurant
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Jasmine Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Circle K Express Kylemore
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Letterfrack Country Shop
4.1 km
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Cottage Handcrafts
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Spar
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Ohh! By Gum
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The Ivy Market
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The Little Tin House
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Connemara Blue
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Stanley & Sons
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Connemara Hamper
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Millars Connemara
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Beautiful You Ltd.
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Modern Madam
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Prendergast Antiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Molly's Bar
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Paddy Coynes Pub
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Anglers Rest Bar And Restaurant
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MC McGraths
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Vaughans Pub, Bistro And B&B
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Griffin's Bar Live Music & Bar Food
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Mannions Seafood Bar & Restaurant
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E J Kings Bar & Restaurant
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Mullarkeys Bar
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Lowry's Bar
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Tom King's Bar And Snug
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Ravi's Bar and Resturant
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Joyce's Bar
14.5 km
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Johny O Loghlen's bar
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Kings Bar
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Experience the charm of Kings Bar in Roundstone, Co. Galway, where local brews and traditional music create an unforgettable Irish experience.
