Achill-henge, Achill Island Travel Guide

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Discover Achill-henge, a modern and controversial structure offering unique views on Ireland's Achill Island, County Mayo.

Achill-henge is a modern concrete structure located on Achill Island, resembling Stonehenge but without any historical or cultural connection. Constructed in 2011 by property developer Joe McNamara, it has sparked controversy and debate due to its lack of planning permission.

A brief summary to Achill-henge

Keel East, Co. Mayo, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Achill-henge.

Wear appropriate footwear as the terrain around Achill-henge is uneven.
Check for access updates before visiting due to the ongoing legal situation.
Visit during clear weather to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

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Getting There

Driving

Achill-henge is located near Keel East on Achill Island. From Achill Sound, follow the R319 towards Keel. Continue through Keel village. As you leave Keel, watch for signs for Achill-henge. Parking is limited near the site, and a short walk is required. There are no parking costs.
Public Transport

Take Bus Éireann route 450 from Westport to Achill. Alight at Keel and walk east towards Keel East. From there, follow local road signs to Achill-henge, a walk of approximately 20-30 minutes. Bus fare from Westport to Achill is approximately €10-€15.
Taxi

Taxis are available on Achill Island. Arrange a taxi from your location on the island to Achill-henge near Keel East. A taxi from Keel to Achill-henge will cost approximately €10-€15.

Discover more about Achill-henge

Achill-henge is a contemporary monument on Achill Island, off the coast of County Mayo, that invites curiosity and contemplation. Erected in 2011 by Joe McNamara, the structure consists of 30 concrete columns topped with a ring of stone, standing over 4 meters high with a 100-meter circumference.Despite its Stonehenge-like appearance, Achill-henge bears no historical or cultural link to ancient Irish henges or stone circles. McNamara built it without planning permission, leading to legal disputes with the Mayo County Council. He argued it was an 'ornamental garden' exempt from planning rules, but the council and An Bord Pleanala rejected this claim.Achill-henge has garnered mixed reactions. Some locals admire it as an engineering feat, while others object to its presence on the landscape. Theresa McDonald, Director of the Achill Archaeological Field School, raised concerns about its proximity to a Bronze Age site.Regardless of the controversy, Achill-henge has become a point of interest for visitors to Achill Island. It serves as a place for reflection, offering views of the surrounding mountains and Atlantic waters. The monument embodies modern interpretations of ancient practices and stands as an unexpected landmark amidst Achill's natural beauty.