Activities in Kilmore Quay

The entrance to the picturesque village of Kilmore framed with Thatched Cottages made in the traditional way from straw and stone immediately give the impression of what life was like in the small fishing village hundreds of years ago. Now a bustling fishing port with strong commercial fishing fleets and newly built 55-berth marina, which holds Blue Flag status and provides safe berthing and on-shore facilities for all mariners.

The village of Kilmore Quay is renowned for its seafood cuisine and traditional pubs.

Kilmore Quay Marina holds EU Blue flag status

Kilmore Quay Marina

The first Norman invasion to Ireland was at Bannow Bay in 1169, this historic estuary and peninsula is now home to different settlers, namely Brent Geese, Wigeon, Teal and many other wintering wildfowl.

The Bannow Drive, a signposted route through the villages of Duncormick, Cullentstown, Bannow and Wellingtonbridge is well worth seeing. There is a deserted Norman settlement known locally as the seven castles (private land). It is clearly visible just outside Wellingtonbridge.

Local Activities:

Guillemot Maritime Museum, Garden of Remembrance, Pottery & Stained Glass making.

Enjoy the wealth of sea-life around Kilmore:
Scuba Diving 053 9129703

Puffin on Saltee Islands. Photo courtesy Richie Dwyer LIPF.

Kilmore Quay has an excellent reputation as a sport-angling centre. Diving is popular around the Coninbeg Rocks. The Saltee Islands is a famous Bird Sanctuary. The Islands cliffs support eleven species of breeding seabirds in summer time. Many species of migratory birds pass through here in the Spring and Autumn. Island Trips operate from the Quayside.

Saltee Islands official website http://www.salteeislands.info/

Kilmore Sea Angling & wildlife spotting: 'Karen Ann' Skipper Sean Radford, Tel: 086 8323954

The Kilmore Quay Seafood Festival takes place in July of each year.

The Guillemot lightship - now a maritime museum. Photo: James Burke

A former lightship, the Guillemot, converted into a maritime museum, stands proudly in the harbour. It is maintained and staffed by voluntary enthusiasts and is open to visitors during some months of the year - Tel: 051 560746.

Some local sights. Photos: James Burke

Ballyteigue Burrow nature reserve, within easy walking distance of the village is the finest protected sand dune system in the South East of Ireland, with a huge sandy beach to enjoy. Photo: James Burke

Dunbrody Abbey, founded in 1170, one of the finest examples of a Cistercian Monastery in Ireland http://www.dunbrodyabbey.com/