Conservation Achievements on Shannon Estuary's Scattery Island Celebrated

26th July 2025

Afloat.ie Team

Shannon Estuary's Scattery Island Credit: Afloat

Recent conservation achievements on Scattery Island in the Shannon estuary have been marked by Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kevin “Boxer” Moran.

On a visit to the island two kilometres off Kilrush, Co Clare, this week, Mr Moran described it as “a national treasure and a unique landscape that weaves together early Christian history, military heritage, and traditional island life”.

Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kevin “Boxer” Moran, on a visit to Scattery Island in the Shannon estuary

“The OPW’s work here protects this important legacy while making it freely accessible to the public. I encourage anyone with an interest in Ireland’s past or simply in exploring somewhere extraordinary to plan a visit this summer,” he said.

The island features over 1,500 years of history, from early monastic settlements to vernacular village life.

The OPW, which assumed care of the island in 1989, manages seasonal guided tours and is responsible for ongoing conservation of the island’s built and natural heritage.

Structures on the island include a Romanesque cathedral and round tower linked to St Senan, who founded a monastery here in 543 AD; and several early churches, including Knocknanangel Church, located at the highest point of the island.

There is also a Napoleonic battery and a 19th-century lighthouse; and a restored terrace of 19th-century vernacular cottages, known as ‘The Street’, which now house visitor interpretation and traditional furnishings recreated by OPW craftspeople.

The OPW operates a free guided tour service from May to September, seven days a week, with access provided by ferry from Kilrush Marina.

For further information, visit www.heritageireland.ie or contact Scattery Island Tours for ferry bookings.

Published in Shannon Estuary, Island News

Published in Shannon Estuary

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