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Alcock and Brown Landing Site: A Monument to Aviation History

Visit the historic site where Alcock and Brown made the first non-stop transatlantic flight in 1919, a landmark in aviation history.

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The Alcock and Brown Landing Site in Derrigimlagh, Co. Galway, marks the spot where the first non-stop transatlantic flight landed in 1919. British aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown completed their daring journey in a modified Vickers Vimy bomber, forever changing aviation history. Today, the site offers a scenic looped walk through the bogland where they landed.

A brief summary to Alcock and Brown landing site

  • Marconi St, Derrigimlagh, Co. Galway, IE

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the 5km looped trail around the bog.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the bog and coastline.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions in the bog can be unpredictable.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Clifden, take the R341 south towards Ballyconneely. After approximately 4km, you will see the parking area for the Derrigimlagh Bog on the left. The Alcock and Brown Landing Site is part of this looped walk. Parking is available. Check local signs for any parking fees.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Éireann route 463 from Clifden to Ballyconneely. From Ballyconneely, you can walk or take a taxi to the landing site. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers along Marconi Street towards the coast. Bus fares from Clifden to Ballyconneely typically cost around €3-€5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Clifden to the Alcock and Brown Landing Site. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver beforehand, as prices may vary. A typical fare could range from €20-€30.

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Discover more about Alcock and Brown landing site

Nestled in the remote boglands of Derrigimlagh, County Galway, the Alcock and Brown Landing Site commemorates a pivotal moment in aviation history. On June 15, 1919, British aviators John Alcock and Arthur Brown completed the first non-stop transatlantic flight, landing their Vickers Vimy biplane in what they thought was a field, but turned out to be a bog. Their journey began in St. John's, Newfoundland, and lasted just under 16 hours, covering approximately 1,900 miles. The pair faced numerous challenges during the flight, including fog, ice, and engine trouble. Despite these hardships, they successfully navigated to the Irish coast, where they spotted the Marconi wireless station before landing. Today, the landing site is marked by a stone cairn and is part of a looped walk through Derrigimlagh Bog, a Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point. Visitors can explore the unique landscape, view art installations, and learn about the history of the site through informative signage. Nearby, a sculpture of an aircraft tail-fin on Errislannan Hill commemorates the 40th anniversary of the flight. The site also lies close to the remains of Marconi's transatlantic wireless station, which adds to the historical significance of the area.

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