O'Brien's Tower: Sentinel of the Cliffs of Moher

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Experience Ireland's dramatic coastline from O'Brien's Tower, the historic viewing point atop the majestic Cliffs of Moher.

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O'Brien's Tower

Perched at the highest point of the majestic Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland, O'Brien's Tower has captivated visitors since 1835. Built by local landlord Cornelius O'Brien, the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the dramatic coastline, the Aran Islands, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

A brief summary to O'Brien's Tower

Burren Way, Lislorkan North, Co. Clare, IE
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Book your Cliffs of Moher tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure entry and potentially save on admission costs.
Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as the cliffs can be exposed to strong winds and rain.
Allow ample time to explore the Cliffs of Moher and O'Brien's Tower, as there are numerous viewpoints and walking paths to discover.
Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take advantage of the Cliffs of Moher app and audio guide to learn more about the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.

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Getting There

Car

If driving, follow the signs for the Cliffs of Moher from major roadways. Parking is available at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. During peak season, arrive early as the car park fills quickly. Parking is included with the admission ticket. Expect to walk 5-10 minutes from the car park to O'Brien's Tower. Parking costs are included in the admission price to the Cliffs of Moher Experience, which is approximately €8 if purchased on the spot or as low as €4 if booked online ahead of time. There are alternative parking options available, such as Guerin's Path Car Park, which charges €5 per car. Hags Head Parking charges €2-3 via an honesty box. Liscannor Village & Sports Field offers free parking.
Public Transport

The Bus Éireann Route 350 operates daily between Galway and Ennis, stopping at the Cliffs of Moher. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre and O'Brien's Tower. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be less frequent outside of peak season. A single fare from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher ranges from €10-€16. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to Ennis and then transfer to the Bus Éireann Route 350 to reach the Cliffs of Moher. From Dublin, take a bus to Galway and transfer to the 350 bus. The bus from Dublin to Galway costs approximately €29-€45.
Walking

For those who enjoy a scenic walk, the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk extends from Doolin to the north and Liscannor to the south. From Doolin, the walk to the Cliffs of Moher is approximately 6 miles (2.5 hours). Follow the marked path along the coastline to reach the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre and O'Brien's Tower. Be prepared for uneven terrain and changing weather conditions. There is no fee to walk to the cliffs, however, if you wish to enter the visitor center, there is a fee.

Discover more about O'Brien's Tower

O'Brien's Tower, a historic landmark on the Cliffs of Moher, stands as a testament to both natural beauty and human vision. Constructed in 1835 by Cornelius O'Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru, the first High King of Ireland, the tower served as an observation point for the increasing number of tourists visiting the cliffs. O'Brien, recognizing the tourism potential of the area, aimed to provide visitors with a vantage point to fully appreciate the magnificent scenery. Standing at the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher, O'Brien's Tower offers breathtaking views that stretch for miles. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Loop Head to the south and the Twelve Bens in Connemara to the north, as well as the Aran Islands to the west. The tower itself is a striking structure, built from local limestone, and adds to the dramatic landscape. Over the years, O'Brien's Tower has become an integral part of the Cliffs of Moher experience. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower via a spiral staircase to enjoy the panoramic views from the rooftop viewing platform. Inside, the tower sometimes hosts art exhibitions or offers souvenirs. The tower has undergone renovations to ensure its preservation for future generations. Today, O'Brien's Tower continues to draw visitors from around the world, offering a unique perspective on one of Ireland's most iconic landscapes.