Killarney Landmarks and Monuments

(Killarney, County Kerry, Republic of Ireland)

Killarney has a surprising variety of landmarks and monuments, ranging from natural highlights - waterfalls, viewpoints and islands - to ancient manor houses and abbeys.

Some of the sights are within walking distance of the town centre, including the Knockreer Estate near the cathedral, although most lie within Killarney National Park. Be sure to visit Innisfallen Island, take in the vistas from Ladies' View and trek to Torc Waterfall, all of which provide impressive views and photo opportunities.

Ross Castle

Address: Knockreer Estate off, off Muckross Road, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 663 5851
Killarney's top landmark is within walking distance of town, lying just to the south overlooking Lough Leane. This is a restored 15th-century structure overrun by Oliver Cromwell's forces in the 1600s. A tower house complete with turrets remains today, surrounded by a pretty walled garden (bawn). During the summer months, boat trips are available from Ross Castle, taking visitors on a cruise around the adjacent lakes and past the famous ruins of Innisfallen Island.
Open hours: daily, March to May, September and October - 09:30 to 17:30; June to August - 09:00 to 18:30
Admission: charge

Innisfallen Island

Address: Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Innisfallen Island sits in Lough Leane and is known for its ancient monastic ruins, dating from the sixth and seventh centuries. Monks here compiled the Annals of Innisfallen over a 400 year period from 950 BC - this very book resides today in Oxford's Bodleian Library. Cruises run out to the island regularly from town, or it can be visited under your own steam in a rented rowboat.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free, charge for cruise and rowboat rental

Knockreer Estate

Address: Cathedral Place, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 663 1633
One of Killarney's prettiest houses (the Deenagh Lodge Gate) is to be found near to the cathedral and within walking distance of the town centre. This site once contained a large manor house and gardens. Although, the manor house burnt down many years ago, the gardens remain a real highlight, featuring ancient trees and beautiful flowers, which include a host of seasonal azaleas and camelias. As you enter through the chocolate-box Deenagh Lodge Gate and its charming thatched roof, it won't be long until you are greeted with views across the lake and valley.
Open hours: office hours
Admission: free

Muckross Friary

Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross Demesne, Muckross Road, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
The Franciscan Muckross Friary is situated just south of town, within Killarney National Park, and is a must-see for those into history or archaeology. The friary hails from the 1400s and was sacked by Cromwell in the 1650s on his tour of the area. The roof is missing today, although it is a fine site nonetheless. You can get to the upper floors via the intact staircase and views from this point are great.
Open hours: June to September, daily - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: free

Torc Waterfall

Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross Road, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
This very pretty waterfall is at the head of Killarney National Park, being sited approximately 8 km / 5 miles to the south of town. The stunning cascade is accessible by walking from Muckross Demesne's parking area along a well-marked trail. You can also climb up over the falls and paddle in the summer-if you dare! Many tourists choose to pay a visit to the Torc Waterfall as part of the popular Ring of Kerry tour, and those looking for the best views may like to follow the trail all the way to the very top of Torc Mountain.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Ladies' View

Address: Killarney National Park, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
This fine viewpoint to the south of town offers a fantastic panorama of lakes and mountains. It is about 20 km / 12 miles south-west along the N71 highway (Muckross Road) that cuts right through Killarney National Park. The title of the view originates from the time Queen Victoria took it in along with her ladies-in-waiting while staying at Muckross House in 1905. Apparently, the British queen and her aforementioned ladies were amazed at its beauty, although it should be noted that it is not worth the trip from town on a drizzly day.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free