Bláth na hInse
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Clare Museum: A Journey Through County Clare's History
Explore 6,000 years of County Clare's history through fascinating artifacts and engaging exhibits in the heart of Ennis. Free admission!
Clare Museum, located in the heart of Ennis, offers a captivating exploration of County Clare's rich history, spanning over 6,000 years. Housed in a beautifully restored former Sisters of Mercy Convent, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that bring the region's past to life.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Clare Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9:30 am-1 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-1 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-1 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-1 pm
Friday
9:30 am-1 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-1 pm
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Getting There
Walking
Clare Museum is located in the center of Ennis, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From O'Connell Square, walk along Arthur's Row, where the museum is located, across from the Temple Gate Hotel. Alternatively, you can access Arthur's Row from Friars Walk. The entrance to the museum is through the Tourist Information Office, which shares the same building.
Public Transport
Clare Museum is approximately a 12-minute walk (950m) from the Ennis Bus and Train Station. From the station, turn left onto Quin Road, then right at the roundabout onto Clon Road. Take the first left and proceed straight through another roundabout. The museum is located at the far side of Friars Walk car park. Bus Éireann and TFI Local Link provide bus services to Ennis from various locations. A bus from Ennis Station to Carmody Street is about €3-€5. The 'TFI Go' app allows you to book tickets online.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Ennis. A taxi from the Ennis Bus and Train Station to Clare Museum, approximately 1.1 km, will cost about €5-€7. The starting price of a taxi in Ennis is about €4.90, with each kilometer costing about €1.90. Expect to pay around €35-€45 for a taxi from Shannon Airport (SNN) to the museum.
Driving
If driving from Limerick, follow the N18 towards Galway and exit at Exit 12 onto the N85. Follow signs for Ennis at the Clareabbey Roundabout and continue for 1.5 kilometers before turning right onto Clon Road. Pass through a minor roundabout and then take the first left. Pass through another roundabout to a public car park. The Museum is located at the far side of the car park. If driving from Galway, follow the M6 towards Dublin and exit at Exit 18 for the M18 towards Limerick. Exit for Ennis at Exit 13 and follow the R352 into Ennis. After 4 kilometers, take a right turn, following signs for Town Centre. Pass through a roundabout to a public car park. The Museum is located at the far side of the car park. Parking is available in the public car park at the rear of the museum, adjacent to the Temple Gate Hotel. Parking rates in Ennis car parks are a minimum of €1.00 per hour. Other parking options include Abbey Street Carpark, Behind the Cloister, Temple Gate Carpark, Ennis Multi-Story Carpark, and College Road.
Local tips
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Allow at least an hour to fully explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the history of County Clare.
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Check out the museum's website for information on upcoming lectures, workshops, and special events.
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The museum is located in the center of Ennis, making it easy to combine your visit with exploring the town's shops, restaurants, and other attractions.
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Admission is free, making it an affordable and accessible destination for all.
Discover more about Clare Museum
Clare Museum invites visitors to delve into the captivating story of County Clare, from its ancient origins to the present day. The museum's exhibits, thoughtfully displayed across two floors, weave together archaeological finds, historical objects, and engaging multimedia presentations.
Housed in a former Sisters of Mercy Convent dating back to 1854, the building itself holds historical significance. The convent played a role in the local community, serving as a school and a place of refuge. The museum's location in the center of Ennis makes it easily accessible to visitors.
The museum's collection includes artifacts on loan from the National Museum of Ireland, as well as local collections that highlight the county's unique heritage. Visitors can explore themes such as Earth, Power, Faith, Water, and Energy, gaining insights into the lives and experiences of the people of Clare throughout the ages.
Among the museum's highlights are excavated finds from the Poulnabrone Portal Tomb, letters written by Daniel O'Connell, a Sheela-na-gig from Ballyportry Castle, artwork by Sir Frederick William Burton, and objects related to Éamon de Valera. The museum also features exhibits on Clare's association with the Spanish Armada and its musical traditions.
With its engaging exhibits, historical artifacts, and central location, Clare Museum provides an enriching experience for anyone seeking to discover the heritage of County Clare.
A brief summary to Clare Museum
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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