O'Brien's Tower: A Majestic Historical Landmark
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at O'Brien's Tower, a stunning landmark on the Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland.
O'Brien's Tower is a remarkable historical landmark located on the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland. Built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O'Brien, this iconic stone structure serves as a viewing point for the stunning coastal scenery and the powerful Atlantic Ocean. As you ascend the spiral staircase to the top of the tower, you are greeted with panoramic views that stretch for miles, where the rugged cliffs meet the crashing waves below. With its strategic location, O'Brien's Tower was originally constructed as a viewing point for tourists and a means to attract visitors to the area, and it has continued to fulfill that purpose for nearly two centuries. The tower itself boasts a fascinating architecture, merging medieval castle aesthetics with Victorian influences, making it a picturesque landmark against the dramatic backdrop of the cliffs. Visitors can explore the tower's interior, which provides insights into its rich history and the life of Sir Cornelius O'Brien. As you gaze from the top, you may even catch sight of the Aran Islands or the distant hills of Connemara on a clear day. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in nature's beauty, O'Brien's Tower is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Ireland's cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The surrounding area offers a variety of walking trails and opportunities to appreciate the remarkable flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for a day of exploration and discovery.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the paths around the tower can be uneven and steep.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly along the cliffs.
- Bring binoculars to spot wildlife and enjoy the expansive views of the coastline.
- Consider combining your visit with a walk along the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk for a full day of exploration.
A brief summary to O'Brien's Tower
- Burren Way, Lislorkan North, Co. Clare, IE
- +353838302523
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Cork City, take the N20 road heading north. Merge onto the M8 at Junction 16 towards Waterford. Continue on the M8 until you reach Junction 14 for the N25 toward Rosslare and then merge onto the N67. Follow the signs for Lislorkan North and Burren Way, which will lead you to O'Brien's Tower. The total drive is approximately 2.5 hours. Make sure to check for parking options near the tower as it is located in a scenic area.
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Public Transportation
To reach O'Brien's Tower using public transport, start by taking a bus from Cork City Bus Station to Ennis. This journey takes about 2 hours. From Ennis, you can take a local bus or taxi to Lislorkan North. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary throughout the week. The bus service may not run frequently, so planning your trip ahead is essential. Once you get to Lislorkan North, follow the signs to Burren Way to reach O'Brien's Tower. Please note that there may be a small fare for the local bus.
Attractions Nearby to O'Brien's Tower
- Cliffs of Moher
- Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark
- Cliffs of Moher Experience
- Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Cliffs Of Moher
- Pollboy Lookout
- Cliff walk
- Viewpoint South, Cliffs Of Moher
- Viewpoint North, Cliffs of Moher
- Moher Hill Open Farm and Leisure Park
- Moher Cottage
- St. Brigid's Well
- The Rock Shop
- Cliffs walking trail
- Moher Tower at Hag's Head
- Cliffs of Moher walking Tours
Landmarks nearby to O'Brien's Tower
- Viewing point Cliffs of Moher
- Lime kiln historical ruins
- Burren Castle Hotel Lisdoonvarna
- Spectacle Bridge
- Bothar nA hAillite
- Trá Inis Oirr (Inisheer Blue Flag Beach)
- Tigh Ruairi (Rory's Pub) Bed & Breakfast, Inis Oirr, Aran Islands
- Wanderly Wagon Tours
- Brú Radharc na Mara (Sea View Hostel), Inis Oírr, Aran Islands
- South Aran House
- The Burren Visitor Centre & Cafe
- Inis Meáin Island Stays
- Teach Synge - Synge's Cottage
- Dún Chonchúir
- An Dun B&B Inis Meain, Aran Islands.