Kenmare

Kenmare (pronounced 'ken-mair') is the thinking person's Killarney. Ideally positioned for exploring the Ring of Kerry (and the Beara Peninsula), but without the coach-tour crowds of its more famous neighbour, Kenmare (Neidin, meaning 'little nest' in Irish) is a pretty spot with a neat triangle of streets lined with craft shops, galleries, cafes and good-quality restaurants.

One of the few planned towns in Ireland, Kenmare was laid out on an X-shaped street plan in the late 18th century by the marquis of Lansdowne as the showpiece of his Kerry estates. It earned its living as a market town and fishing port, and from ironworks, lead mining and quarrying. The Market House and the Lansdowne Arms Hotel still survive from this period – pick up a copy of the Kenmare Heritage Trail from the tourist office to discover more.

Explore Kenmare

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Kenmare.

  • Restaurants

  • Bistro

    Boathouse Bistro

    At the water's edge, this blue-and-white 1870s boathouse 4.5km west of Kenmare has been stunningly converted to a beach-house-style bistro specialising in…

  • Irish

    Tom Crean Fish & Wine

    Named for Kerry's pioneering Antarctic explorer, and run by his granddaughter, this venerable restaurant uses only the best of local organic produce,…

  • Irish

    No 35

    Hand-cut limestone walls, exposed timber beams, stained-glass windows and an open fire set the stage for some of Kenmare's most creative cuisine. All…

  • Irish

    Mews

    Two of Kerry's top restaurateurs helm this stylish, palm-filled spot hidden in a laneway off Henry St. Vermouth-cream chowder with citrus oil, Kerry beef…

  • Bistro

    Mulcahy's

    Candlelight and high-backed leather chairs create an intimate atmosphere in Kenmare's best-known restaurant, where chef Bruce Mulcahy weaves his culinary…

  • Cafe

    Jam

    Cheerful and bustling Jam makes a great breakfast venue, with a menu that includes granola with fruit, pancakes with bacon and maple syrup, and scrambled…

  • Market

    Farmers Market

    Stalls on the town square sell vegetables, cheese, honey, gourmet ice cream, bread, smoked salmon and other artisan produce during Kenmare's weekly…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Kenmare.

  • Activities