Scattery Island Centre
In the footsteps of St Senan
Scattery Island Centre
In the footsteps of St Senan
We ask that visitors co-operate with OPW guide staff and adhere strictly to the warnings/instructions issued by them. It is also important to wear suitable footwear (boots or strong walking shoes) as some conditions underfoot are not ideal.
Scattery Island Centre
Off the northern bank of the Shannon Estuary lies Scattery Island, the site of an early Christian settlement founded by an extraordinary man.
St Senan, who was born in the area, built his monastery in the early sixth century. It included a mighty round tower, which at 36 metres is one of the tallest in Ireland.
There are six ruined churches on the site too. The Church of the Hill stands on a high spot, the very place where, legend has it, an angel placed Senan so that he could find – and then banish – the terrible sea-monster called the Cathach. It is believed that Senan is buried beside another of the medieval churches.
Scattery was invaded many times over the centuries. The Vikings in particular believed that the monastery held many riches and returned several times to ravage it.
A short boat trip will take you to the island, where you can explore its multi-layered, 1,500-year history.
Explore the wonderful digital archive of the history of Scattery Island created by the Scattery Island Heritage Group
Highlights
Gallery
Opening Times
25 May – 20 September 2023
Notice
Please note that access to the island is dependent on tidal/weather conditions.
Please read the information here
Getting Here
2.5km boat trip from Kilrush Marina – scatteryislandtours.com
Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions
Facilities
- Bookshop
- Family Toilet
- Guided tours
- Museum
- Toilets
Restrictions
- Uneven walkways
Nearby sites to visit
Scattery Island Centre
Listowel Castle
The last bastion of the Fitzmaurices
Approx. 18.8 km from Scattery Island Centre
Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls
Approx. 35.8 km from Scattery Island Centre
Ardfert Cathedral
A trio of medieval churches devoted to St Brendan
Approx. 36.2 km from Scattery Island Centre
Resources
Social Guide
Download, print and read our social guide (PDF) about visiting Scattery Island Centre. This will help first-time visitors, families and people with developmental and learning disabilities to prepare for a visit to Scattery Island Centre.
Download the Social Guide