Raheen-a-Cluig: A Coastal Ruin with a Story
Discover the historic Raheen-a-Cluig in Bray: a medieval church ruin with stunning coastal views, rich history, and local legends.
Raheen-a-Cluig, also known as the Church of the Little Bell, is a medieval church and National Monument nestled on the northern slopes of Bray Head in County Wicklow. Overlooking the Irish Sea, the site offers commanding views of the coastline. The church's name, derived from the Irish Ráithín an Chloig, translates to "little fort of the bell," though no fort has ever been found there. Believed to have been constructed in the 12th or 13th century AD, Raheen-a-Cluig was likely given to the Augustinian order by the Archbold family. It may have been dedicated to St Michael or St Brendan. The church features a doorway in the northeast wall and round-headed windows in the east and west gables. Close by, there were once two smaller buildings and an enclosure, possibly a cillín, a burial ground for those denied consecrated burial. Though partially restored in the 18th century, the church has remained a ruin for several centuries. Over the years, it has also been used as a hideout by smugglers, adding to its intriguing history. Local legends tell tales of hidden treasures and secret tunnels, and some visitors have even reported ghostly sightings. Today, Raheen-a-Cluig invites visitors to explore its historical remnants, enjoy panoramic views, and ponder the lives of those who came before.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the ruins is uneven.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a pleasant outdoor experience.
A brief summary to Raheen-A-Cluig
- 54 Raheen Park, Bray, Newcourt, Co. Wicklow, A98 A2R1, IE
Getting There
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Walking
From the free public car park at the top of Raheen Road in Bray, the ruins are a short, approximately 5-minute walk. Follow the track on the right-hand side of the car park as you enter. The path is an easy incline leading to the church.
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Public Transport
From Bray DART Station, take Dublin Bus number 45 or 145 towards Newcourt. Get off at the 'Newcourt' stop, approximately a 5-10 minute bus ride. From there, walk towards Raheen Park, turn right onto Raheen Park, and Raheen-A-Cluig is located at number 54.
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Taxi
A taxi from Bray town center to Raheen-a-Cluig will take approximately 5-10 minutes. Taxi fares in Ireland are metered, with a standard initial charge, and additional fees based on distance and time. A short trip within Bray is likely to cost between €8-€12, but this is an estimate and can vary.
