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Céide Fields: A Window to Neolithic Life

Explore the world's oldest field systems at Céide Fields, a unique Neolithic landscape on Ireland's dramatic Wild Atlantic Way.

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Discover the Céide Fields, an extensive Stone Age monument in County Mayo, Ireland, featuring the world's oldest known field systems dating back nearly 6,000 years. Explore the remains of ancient farms and dwellings beneath a blanket of bog, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of our Neolithic ancestors.

A brief summary to Céide Fields

  • Monday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:15 pm

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear and weather-protective clothing, as the terrain can be uneven and the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Arrive by 2:30 PM to fully experience the visitor center and guided tours.
  • Consider visiting on the first Wednesday of the month for free admission.
  • Take the guided tour for an interactive experience using metal rods to locate the buried stone walls.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Ballycastle, follow the R314 northwest for approximately 8km. The Céide Fields visitor center and car park are signposted along the R314. There is ample parking available at the visitor center.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Éireann route 499 to An Bheithigh. From An Bheithigh, it is a 9-minute walk to the Céide Fields. Bus 446 also serves Balderg from Ballina.

Unlock the Best of Céide Fields

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Discover more about Céide Fields

The Céide Fields, located on the rugged north Mayo coast, offer a captivating journey back to Neolithic Ireland. This remarkable archaeological site preserves the most extensive Stone Age field system in the world, with field walls dating back almost 6,000 years. Buried beneath a layer of peat bog, these ancient fields, homes, and megalithic tombs provide a unique window into the lives of early farming communities. The award-winning visitor center showcases the history and significance of the Céide Fields through interactive exhibits and an audio-visual presentation. Knowledgeable guides lead tours across the bog, allowing visitors to discover the hidden walls and learn about the unique ecology of the landscape. A viewing platform on the edge of dramatic cliffs offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The story of the Céide Fields began in the 1930s when a local teacher noticed unusual stone formations while cutting turf. It wasn't until his son, an archaeologist, began further investigation that the true extent and significance of the site were revealed. Today, the Céide Fields stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Ireland's Neolithic inhabitants, offering a profound connection to the past.

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