Our Lady's Well: A Place of Prayer and Reflection
A historic and peaceful holy well near Kenmare, offering a serene space for prayer and reflection amidst the beautiful Kerry landscape.
Our Lady's Well is a traditional spring well that has served as a local pilgrimage site for centuries. Known in Irish as *Tobar Mhuire*, the well is a place of quiet reflection and devotion. The site features a statue of the Virgin Mary and a flat rock bearing deeply incised crosses. These crosses were made by pilgrims performing 'the rounds,' an ancient ritual of walking clockwise around the well while reciting prayers. Visitors can still observe the tradition of 'doing the rounds,' walking *deiseal* (clockwise, following the sun) while praying. A decade of the rosary is said while walking the circular path, and after each decade, a stone is used to mark the cross on the rock. The Feast of Our Lady's Assumption on August 15th is a particularly special day at the well, with Mass celebrated on site. Located a short distance from Cromwell's Bridge, Our Lady's Well provides a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the enduring religious traditions of the region. The well is easily missed, but worth seeking out for its peaceful atmosphere and historical importance.
Local tips
- The well can be easily missed; look for a small sign next to the entrance of the Limestone Guest House or access it from the car park of the nearby funeral home.
- Consider visiting on August 15th, the Feast of Our Lady's Assumption, for a special Mass and a chance to witness traditional devotional practices.
- Take a moment for quiet contemplation and prayer at this peaceful and well-maintained site.
A brief summary to Our Lady's Well
- Cromwell Ct, Kenmare, Gortamullin, Co. Kerry, IE
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Kenmare, Our Lady's Well is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head east on Main Street (N71) towards Killarney. Turn left onto Shelbourne Street, then continue onto Gortamullin. The well is located on Cromwell Ct, Gortamullin, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, look for a small sign next to the entrance of the Limestone Guest House.
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Public Transport
The 270 bus route serves Kenmare. From Kenmare, it is a short walk to Our Lady's Well. Head east on Main Street (N71) towards Killarney. Turn left onto Shelbourne Street, then continue onto Gortamullin. The well is located on Cromwell Ct, Gortamullin, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, look for a small sign next to the entrance of the Limestone Guest House. Bus fare within Kenmare is approximately €2-€4.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kenmare. A taxi from the town center to Our Lady's Well will take approximately 5 minutes. Taxi fares generally start around €7-€10.
Attractions Nearby to Our Lady's Well
Landmarks nearby to Our Lady's Well
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Ladies' View Gift Store Cafe Bar & Roof Terrace
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Caha Pass
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Priest's Leap
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Killarney National Park Car Park
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Dinis Cottage
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Bamboo Park(Páirc Bambú)
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Glena Cottage
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Brickeen Bridge
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Muckross Lake Boat Tours
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Muckross House
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Garnish Island
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Muckross Traditional Farms
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Friars Glen Country House
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Muckross Horse Riding Centre
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Muckross Riding Stables