Céide Fields Visitor Centre

About the museum

Beneath the blanket bog of north Mayo lies a network of stone-walled fields, dwelling areas and megalithic tombs that is regarded as the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world. The fields extend over hundreds of hectares, are almost 6,000 years old and are described as the oldest known field system anywhere. The bog that grew over them has preserved them, and it has its own vegetation and wildlife.

The site is run by the Office of Public Works as part of Heritage Ireland. Its award-winning visitor centre, close to dramatic cliffs on the Atlantic coast, holds an exhibition on the Neolithic landscape and offers guided tours. A viewing platform stands at the edge of a sea cliff 110 metres high.

Highlights

• Neolithic stone-walled fields and megalithic tombs preserved beneath the bog
• Award-winning visitor centre with an exhibition and guided tours
• Viewing platform on the edge of a 110-metre sea cliff
• Almost 6,000 years old and among the oldest known field systems in the world

Permanent exhibition

• Céide Fields exhibition – The visitor centre presents the Neolithic field system, the tombs and the bog landscape that preserved them.

Operated by

Office of Public Works (Heritage Ireland)

Admission & discounts

Heritage Ireland promotes the Heritage Card for unlimited access to its sites. Visitors to the Michael Davitt Museum in Straide receive a free pass to this visitor centre.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The visitor centre has an accessible toilet. The site has uneven walkways, and only assistance dogs are allowed. A downloadable visual guide helps first-time visitors, families and people with developmental or learning disabilities prepare for their visit. The terrain and weather can be challenging.

Kids & families

• Baby changing facilities

Baby-changing facilities are available, and a visual guide helps families prepare for the visit.

Getting there & parking

The centre is 8 km west of Ballycastle on the R314. Heritage Ireland links to the Transport for Ireland journey planner for bus connections. There is a car park on site.

Amenities & dining

• Café

Café in the visitor centre; card payments are accepted. No shop or Wi-Fi is listed.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit