Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience
Free visitor experience in the Old Rectory at Mountshannon with three exhibitions on the monastic island of Inis Cealtra in Lough Derg.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience opened to the public in June 2025 in the restored Old Rectory at Mountshannon, overlooking Lough Derg. It was developed by Clare County Council and belongs to the Clare Collection, the council’s group of visitor attractions.
The centre tells the story of Inis Cealtra, also called Holy Island, a monastic island in Lough Derg, from the early Christian period to the present day. Three exhibitions with interactive and multi-sensory displays present the local stories and heritage of the island.
From the harbour in Mountshannon a boat takes visitors to the island on a crossing of about 20 minutes with a local historian, followed by a self-guided tour of the site. The centre also has a café on the first floor with views of the lake, landscaped gardens and outdoor seating.
Highlights
- Three exhibitions on Inis Cealtra from the early Christian period to today
- Interactive and multi-sensory displays
- Free admission to the visitor experience
- Rectory Café with views of Lough Derg
- Boat trips to the island from Mountshannon Harbour
Permanent exhibition
- Inis Cealtra exhibitions – Three exhibitions with interactive and multi-sensory displays on the history of the monastic island from the early Christian period to today.
- Founded
- 2025
- Operated by
- Clare County Council (Clare Tourism Development DAC)
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Admission to the visitor experience is free. The boat trip to the island is charged separately by the boat operators.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By car
Free parking
Free on-site parking.
Boats to the island leave from Mountshannon Harbour.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
- Restaurant: not available
The Rectory Café on the first floor serves teas, coffees and light bites; toilets and free on-site parking.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Good to know | The boat trip to the island takes about 1.5 hours including transfers and runs from April to September, with several sailings daily in summer. |
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