Belfast to Clonmacnoise and Adare: Private day trip

Founded as a simple wooden church by Saint Ciaran in the mid-6th century, Clonmacnoise had established itself as one of the most important monasteries in Ireland by the 9th century. Along with attracting scholars from around Europe, a secular community developed around it, with its craftsmen producing some of the finest metal and stonework seen in Ireland. Just a century later, the community fell into decline, and in 1552 it was finally ruined after having been looted by the English garrison at Athlone. Today, the remains of the Clonmacnoise Cathedral, Temple Doolin, Temple Hurpan, and Temple Melaghlin preserve this rich history with a round tower and picturesque cemetery keeping watch over the ruins. At the on-site Visitor Centre, you can learn more about the fascinating history of Clonmacnoise and marvel at the historic artefacts on display, including the 9th-century Cross of the Scriptures.