27 Of The Best Things To Do In Clare In 2026

If you’re looking for some wild and wonderful things to do in Clare, you’ll find plenty of both below!

In this guide, we tackle everything from castles and coastal walks to unique attractions in Clare and some lesser-known points of interest.

You’ll also discover things to do in Clare in the rain on those dreaded wet and windy afternoons to places to visit on those sometimes rare sunny days.

The best things to do in Clare

The first section of this guide will give you a nice, quick overview of the most popular places to visit in Clare, with everything from towns and villages to walks and beaches.

The second section of the guide goes into the specific things to do in Clare, like the mighty Cliffs of Moher and Loop Head to the Burren National Park.

1. The Burren Scenic Drive

The Burren Scenic Drive is a 64km loop through north County Clare that takes around 1.5 hours to drive without stops, though you’ll want to allow at least 1/2 a day.

The route combines coastal roads and inland stretches, running between places like Doolin, Fanore, Ballyvaughan, and Lisdoonvarna.

Along the way, it passes beaches, limestone pavement, prehistoric tombs, ring forts, caves, and viewpoints that open out over Galway Bay and the Atlantic.

The roads are generally good, but narrow in places, and the experience isn’t about speed. It’s a drive that rewards pulling in often, slowing down, and letting the landscape set the pace.

2. The Kilkee Cliff Walk

The Kilkee Cliff Walk follows the Atlantic edge of west Clare and can be done in three main versions, depending on time and fitness.

The short walk is a 1.8km linear trail taking around 30 minutes, running from Diamond Rocks along the town cliffs.

The loop walk is a 4km circuit, completed in roughly 1 hour, combining cliff paths and a return via the road.

For stronger walkers, the long route stretches to 12km out-and-back and takes around 3 hours, reaching Bishop’s Island, Dunlicky Castle and some of the highest, most exposed cliffs in the area.

Related Kilkee reads: See my guide on things to do in Kilkee, like Kilkee Beach, and my guide on where to stay in Kilkee

3. The Loop Head Peninsula

The Loop Head Peninsula is one of the most overlooked places to visit in Clare. It sits on the far western edge of County Clare, where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic.

It’s a rugged, lightly trafficked headland defined by exposed cliffs, narrow boreens and a coastline shaped by constant wind and swell.

The peninsula stretches west from Kilkee to Loop Head Lighthouse and takes around 1.5–2 hours to drive, depending on stops.

Highlights include the Bridges of Ross sea arch, the Kilkee Cliff Walk, isolated beaches, and vast cliff-top views across to Kerry Head and the Dingle Peninsula on clear days.

4. The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher stretch for 13km along the Wild Atlantic Way, rising from 120m at Hag’s Head to 214m near O’Brien’s Tower, making them Ireland’s highest sea cliffs.

Formed over 300 million years ago, they expose layers of shale and sandstone laid down when this coastline sat at the mouth of a vast river delta.

Today, they’re home to 30,000+ seabirds and attract around 1.5 million visitors annually, making them Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction.

On clear days, views extend to the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Maumturk Mountains.

5. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

A visit to Bunratty Castle is one of the most popular things to do in Shannon. Described as “the most complete authentic castle in Ireland”, Bunratty Castle was built by the MacNamara family in 1475 on a former Viking encampment.

From 1804, the castle was uninhabited until Viscount Gort bought and restored it. Now filled with medieval furnishings and artworks, it hosts banquets every night at 5.30 p.m. and 8.45 p.m.

The surrounding Folk Park covers 26 acres and has 30 reconstructed historic buildings in a “living village” setting. Stroll down the street and experience 19th-century Irish life for yourself and don’t miss the stunning walled gardens at Bunratty House.

6. The Ailwee Cave

In the heart of the Burren GeoPark, the Ailwee Caves is one of the oldest in the area, estimated at being over one million years old.

Discovered by a farmer in 1940, it was only mapped and explored in 1977 and it formed by water seeping through the limestone, the cave contains stalactites and stalagmites.

There’s also an underground waterfall. Interestingly enough, bones of Irish brown bears that likely hibernated in the cave were discovered here.

Those that visit can take a guided tour of the cave. If you’re looking for things to do in Clare with kids, there’s also a Birds of Prey centre on-site.

7. Doonagore Castle

Doonagore Castle is a now-iconic landmark in Doolin with a conical roof and parapet. Dating back to the 16th century, it was built on the site of a 14th-century fortress.

It was restored in the 1970s and is now privately owned by the Gorman family. Commanding magnificent Atlantic Ocean views as far as the Aran Islands, the round tower house has many small windows and is surrounded by a protective wall.

In 1588, survivors from the wrecked Invincible, part of the Spanish Armada, struggled ashore here and were captured and hanged. It is said their ghosts can still be seen on stormy nights.

8. The Aran Islands day trip

OK, so, the Aran Islands are in Galway, but they’re easily accessed via a ferry from Doolin Pier, which is why I’m including them here.

You can make the journey from Doolin to Inis Oirr, Inis Mor or Inis Meain and, once you arrive, you can rent a bike and peddle around.

Or, you can explore each of the islands on foot, if you like. Each island is home to a wealth of history and plenty to see and do.

9. Killaloe

Set on the banks of the River Shannon in County Clare, Killaloe is a beautiful waterside village that’s well worth having a ramble around.

When you arrive, park up near Gooser’s Bar and take a stroll down through the town, over the bridge and across to the grassy area in front of Flanagan’s.

You can, if you like, take a river cruise from here, or you can kick-back with a meal with a view in one of several nearby restaurants.

10. Father Ted’s House

Although seeing Father Ted’s House is one of the most popular things to do in Clare, it comes with several warnings.

The filming location for Father Ted is Glanquin Farmhouse, a real private home in the townland of Lackareagh.

The house sits on a narrow rural road, has no parking, and no public access – you can’t enter the grounds or the building.

If you’re not familiar with the TV show Father Ted, it was a series that focused on the adventures and mishaps of a group of priests and their long-suffering housekeeper, Mrs Doyle.

11. The Bridges of Ross

A visit to the mighty Bridges of Ross is one of the more unique things to do in Clare. Here, you’ll find a sea arch that was carved out from years of pummeling by Atlantic waves.

There were once three such bridges (hence the name) but two have collapsed into the sea. There’s a free car park and you walk a few hundred metres along the cliffs to see this natural wonder while enjoying superb sea views.

It’s also a great place for birdwatching as huge flocks of sea birds (including Little Auks, Storm Petrels and Manx Shearwater) migrate south each autumn.

12. The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival

A visit to the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival is one of the more unique Clare attractions (especially if you’re looking for love) and it’s one of the older festivals in Ireland.

The festival, which has been running for a whopping 160+ years, started its life as a way of helping local bachelors find love.

Today, the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, run by the legendary Willie Daly, boasts music, live events and, of course, matchmaking.

If you fancy visiting, there’s plenty of great accommodation in Lisdoonvarna to choose from.

13. Doolin

Doolin is a small coastal village with a huge reputation. It sits at the edge of the Burren, a short walk from the Atlantic, and has long been one of Ireland’s most dependable places for live traditional music.

The pubs in Doolin are the heartbeat of the village, with Gus O’Connor’s Pub, McDermott’s and Fitzpatrick’s drawing musicians nightly, especially in summer.

By day, Doolin works as a base for the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands and coastal walks; by night, it slows to pints, fiddles and long conversations

Related Doolin reads: See my guide where to stay in Doolin and where to eat in Doolin

14. The Burren walks

The Burren is one of the most unusual landscapes in Ireland – a vast limestone plateau shaped by glaciers, rain and time.

It’s an Area of Special Conservation, home to over 500 plant species, where Arctic–alpine flowers grow alongside Mediterranean varieties.

The best-known route is the Burren Way, a 114km long-distance trail typically walked over five days, but it’s far from your only option.

There are shorter Burren walks of varying length and difficulty, each revealing a different side of the landscape – from exposed limestone pavements to sheltered valleys and historic sites.

15. Ennistymon

Ennistymon is another beautiful little base to explore Clare from. It’s also a gorgeous town to explore on foot with a coffee, if you’re just passing through.

This colourful riverside town has old world charm with a delightful shopping centre of local businesses and a multi-arched bridge across the Cullenagh River.

Check out the ‘An Gorta Mór’ memorial in the grounds of the old workhouse which remembers the victims of the potato famine in 1845-50.

16. Fanore Beach

You’ll find the gorgeous Fanore Beach on the road between Doolin and Ballyvaughan in the Burren, where it’s one of nine sites of geological significance within the geopark.

The clear waters at Fanore Beach attract surfers and swimmers and the dunes are a protected habitat stabilised with plants.

If you fancy trying your hand at surfing, the folks at Aloha Surf School offer lessons that’ll suit everyone from beginners to those that have hit the waves previously.

17. Spanish Point for Snamhai Sasta

If you fancy hitting the water, make your way to Spanish Point Beach where Snámhai Sásta (Happy Swimmers) takes place daily at 09:00.

Snámhai Sásta was started by June Curtin, who tragically lost her husband over 6 years ago. June started the community to promote wellness and positivity and to show the mental and physical benefits of sea swimming.

The community here is a welcoming one, so don’t worry if you have never visited before. You can find out more about Snámhai Sásta on their Instagram page.

There’s also plenty of things to do in Spanish Point, when you’ve finished (there’s plenty of accommodation in Spanish Point, too, if you fancy spending the night).

18. Stay somewhere unique

If you don’t fancy staying in one of the many excellent hotels in Clare, you’re in luck – there’s plenty of unique accommodation on offer.

In my guide to glamping in Clare, you’ll find everything from pods and wagons to some very quirky cabins with their very own hot tubs overlooking nearby lakes.

19. Knappogue Castle

Another of the top things to do in Clare involves heading for a stroll around Knappogue Castle and/or trying the Medieval feast.

This medieval castle offers a unique insight into a very grand way of life and the best way to experience it is by attending a Medieval Banquet.

You’ll be greeted by the Earl’s Butler and led to the beautifully decorated Dalcassian Hall for an evening of choral singing, harps, fiddles, an account of the “Rules of Chivalry” and a six-course meal starting with a glass of mead. You can even stay the night!

20. Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt

Take to the water on an exciting nature cruise spotting dolphins, birds and other marine life on an eco-cruise with Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt.

Dolphinwatch has been operating as a family business for over 25 years and sails from Carrigaholt on the Loop Head Peninsula.

As well as pods of leaping dolphins, you’ll see feral goats on Rehy Hill, grey seals, cormorants and even Minke and Humpback Whales in early autumn.

21. The Doolin Cave

Head underground on an eco-tour at Doolin Cave (Pol an Ionain). This is another of the often-missed things to do in Clare.

Those that visit the cave will discover a very unique record-breaker: the Great Stalactite. Reaching down 7.3m (23 feet), it is the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe.

Once you have marveled at this phenomenon, which has taken over 70,000 years to form, explore the Visitor Centre and follow the Nature Trail to see wildflowers and rare animal breeds.

There’s also a Café and a Pottery with handmade pottery created from glacial clay found in the cave. If you’re wondering what to do in Clare when it’s raining, Doolin Cave is a great shout!

22. Craggaunowen

Walk through 1,500 years of history at Craggaunowen with relics dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages.

This Living Museum includes pleasant wooded pathways, ponds, marshes, agricultural fields and forests with points of interest to surprise you around every bend.

As you explore the park, costumed staff will provide details of life in those times. The trail passes a small stone castle (fortified tower house) and recreated thatched dwellings on a manmade island.

23. See Moher from the ocean

Don’t let that ropey jacket I’m wearing in the photo above distract from the fact that the Cliffs of Moher boat tours really are one of the most unique things to do in Clare.

They leave from Doolin Pier and sail out for around 20 minutes. You’ll be treated to views of Moher from afar before the boat bobs closer to the cliff face.

You’ll then sail alongside the cliffs while getting a very different perspective on their sheer size from the choppy waters below.

24. The Doolin Cliff Walk

You can head off on the Doolin Cliff Walk with a local guide or on a solo stroll, with the walk to the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin taking between 2 and 3 hours.

Over the course of the walk, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views and scenery that many who visit Moher miss.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Clare where you’ll you’ll dodge the crowds, this is well worth doing (it’ll be quietish until you approach the visitor centre).

END OF TRAIL CLOSED (2026 update): Large sections of the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk remain closed for safety reasons, with only the short, surfaced routes around the Visitor Centre and the Doolin – Surfers Path section currently open.

25. Poulnabrone Dolmen

Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of the most iconic places to visit in Clare. This is the oldest megalithic monument in Ireland and, as the second most-visited site in the Burren after the Cliffs of Moher, it has a fascinating allure.

This portal tomb has two massive stones erected at the entrance supporting a sloping capstone which would have been sourced from the surrounding limestone pavement.

The chamber had the remains of 21 people dating back over 5,800 years along with a decorated neck pendant.

26. Ennis Friary

The wonderful Ennis Friary in, unsurprisingly enough, the little town of Ennis was built by Franciscan monks in the late 13th century (nearby Quin Abbey is also worth visiting).

Take a guided tour and marvel at the numerous limestone carvings including a carving of St Francis and the MacMahon tomb (1470AD), the decorative east window in the chancel and Gothic windows in the transept.

In its heyday, it would have housed 300 Friars and 600 students and was an important centre of learning in Europe. Those that visit will learn why it closed in the 1690s and what replaced it.

Related Ennis reads: See my guides on things to do in Ennis, where to stay in Ennis, the best pubs in Ennis and where to eat in Ennis

27. Caherconnell Stone Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations

Experience one of the more unique things to do in Clare by watching Border collies rounding up sheep at Caherconnell Stone Fort.

Just one km from Poulnabrone Dolmen, this remarkably preserved ringfort (Caher means stone fort) was once a defensive settlement to protect the inhabitants from wild animals or even raiders.

Common between 400-1200AD, Caherconnell Fort appears to have been rebuilt in the 15th-16th century. It is 40m in diameter with walls up to four metres thick. Learn more from the audio-visual presentation in the Visitor Centre.

A Clare road trip itinerary

Now that you know what to do in Clare, it’s time for a route to follow. 

Above, you’ll see an outline of my Clare road trip itinerary, which can be chopped into 2 or 3 days – cheers!