Things to do in Southwestern & Western Clare
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Shannon Dolphin & Wildlife Centre
A research facility monitoring the 100 or so dolphins swimming out in the Shannon. Look for the mural of the dolphin on the front of the building, which houses exhibits on the playful cetaceans.
reviewed
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Vandeleur Walled Garden
This remarkable 'lost' garden was the private domain of the wealthy Vandeleur family – merchants and landowners who engaged in harsh evictions and forced emigration of local people in the 19th century (a current resident said of the Vandeleur: 'That lot fled at liberation'). The gardens lie within a large walled area just east of the centre and have been redesigned and planted with colourful tropical and rare plants. Woodland trails wind around the area, and there's also a cafe.
reviewed
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Eugene's
Not to be missed, Eugene's is a classic pub that defines craic. Intimate, cosy and has a trademark collection of visiting cards covering its walls, alongside photographs of famous writers and musicians. The inspiring collection of whiskey (Irish) and whisky (Scottish) will have you smoothly debating their relative merits.
reviewed
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Naughton's Bar
The terrace alone is enough to make Naughton's a mandatory stop, but the food is even better. Fresh local produce and seafood combine for some mighty fine pub meals at this very atmospheric family-run pub which dates to the 1870s.
reviewed
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Murphy Blacks
How do you ensure that you're getting the best fish? Go to a place owned by an ex-fisherman. This deservedly popular dinner spot is booked up solid night after night for its carefully crafted dishes. Tables outside are a summer-night treat.
reviewed
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Vaughan's Anchor Inn
Noted for its excellent seafood (yes to the scallops and halibut), Vaughan's packs 'em in – and out. When it rains, you can settle in the pub by a peat fire, when it shines (sometimes 15 minutes later) you can take in the air at a picnic table. Newly renovated – and compact – rooms offer sleepy refuge.
reviewed
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Pantry
With a Euro-sleek look, this bakery/deli/cafe is filled with surprises and fresh treasures. The scones are plainly the best in Clare and pretty much everything else you order from the seemingly simple menu will have you saying, 'That's the best…I ever had'.
reviewed
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Holywell Italian Restaurant
At the north end of the centre, this dark and casual restaurant fills up during the summer months. Fresh pastas and thin-crust pizzas are not your bog-standard spag-bol slop.
reviewed
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St Senan's Catholic Church
St Senan’s Catholic church contains eight detailed examples of stained glass by well-known early 20th-century artist Harry Clarke.
reviewed
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Courthouse Studios & Gallery
Besides excellent pubs and good sleeping options, Ennistymon has a healthy arts scene. These studios are in an impressively renovated 1800 building with ever-changing exhibitions by local and international artists.
reviewed
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Naturequest Gallery
The local flora and fauna are the inspiration at Naturequest Gallery, an artist-run gallery just off the Butter Market.
reviewed
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Oceanlife Ireland
By the harbour. Has tanks and other equipment for hire and runs a range of courses.
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Joseph McHugh's Bar
Next to Vaughan's, lots of courtyard tables and regular trad sessions make this old pub a winner.
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Farmers Market
There is a local farmers market, which spreads its fertile wealth on Market Sq.
reviewed
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Cooley's House
Another great old pub, but with music most nights in summer and on Wednesday (trad night) in winter.
reviewed
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Farmers Market
The local farmers market is held on the Butter Market square.
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Farmers Market
reviewed
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Farmers Market
The local farmers market is held on the Butter Market square.
reviewed
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Farmers Market
There is a local farmers market, which spreads its fertile wealth on Market Sq.
reviewed
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West Clare Railway
A 2km vestige of this historic line survives near Moyasta on the Kilkee Rd (N67) 6km northwest of Kilrush. Run by volunteers, the beautifully restored steam-powered trains shuttle back and forth over the open land.
reviewed
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Stella Maris
This popular hotel has a good menu of local seafood and steaks on offer through the day. Enjoy quality ocean salmon and shellfish or one of many specials in the bright and simple dining room or in the usually crowded pub.
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Quayside Restaurant
Local gossip is dissected each morning amid the smells of fresh coffee and the wondrous baked treats emerging form the oven. Tables overlook the townside bustle or boats moored out back.
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Nagle's
A trad pub and an undertakers in one. Just the spot for wakes or your last earthly pint.
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Kilrush Shannon Dolphin Trail
This 4km route ends 3km south of Kilrush at Aylevarro Point, where signs have dolphin info and where you can often see Flipper's progeny frolicking offshore.
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