Ennis Friary, County Clare Travel Guide

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Explore the serene ruins of Ennis Friary, a 13th-century Franciscan monastery in County Clare, and discover its rich history and intricate carvings.

Founded in the 13th century by the O'Brien dynasty, Ennis Friary is a well-preserved Franciscan monastery in the heart of Ennis, County Clare. Explore its intricate carvings, medieval tombs, and tranquil ruins that offer a glimpse into Ireland's rich religious and architectural past.

A brief summary to Ennis Friary

Lower Abbey St, Ennis, Clonroad Beg, Co. Clare, IE
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ennis Friary.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds have uneven walkways.
Take a guided tour to learn about the friary's history and significance.
Visit the friary in the late afternoon to see the east window illuminated by the sunlight.
Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.

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Explore Ennis Friary on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ennis Friary, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Ennis Friary is located in the center of Ennis town, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations. From the Ennis Bus Station, walk southwest on Station Road, then turn right onto Friar's Walk. Continue onto Lower Abbey Street, and the friary will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. There is no cost associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Ennis Bus Station is located a short distance from the friary. From the bus station, you can take a local bus to Friar's Walk, which is a short walk from the friary. Local Link Limerick Clare operates a bus from Ennis Friars Walk to Ennis Station hourly. The journey takes approximately 3 minutes and costs between €3 - €5.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Ennis. A taxi from the Ennis Bus Station to Ennis Friary will take approximately 1 minute and cost between €6 - €8. Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands or can be booked in advance.

Discover more about Ennis Friary

Ennis Friary, or Mainistir na hInse in Irish, stands as a testament to medieval Ireland's religious and cultural heritage. Founded in the mid-13th century by the O'Brien dynasty, who ruled much of north Munster, the friary quickly grew into a significant center of learning and worship. By 1375, it housed 350 friars and a renowned school with 600 pupils and was known as the last school of Catholic theology to survive the Reformation.Located in the heart of Ennis, County Clare, the friary features exceptional 15th- and 16th-century sculptures carved in local limestone. Among the notable features are the figure of St. Francis displaying the stigmata, the McMahon tomb, and the beautiful east window with its five lancets that illuminate the chancel. The sacristy, with its ribbed, barrel-vaulted ceiling, is another impressive structure to explore.Despite the suppression of monasteries in the 16th century, Ennis Friary continued to function for some time. In the early 17th century, it was handed over to the Church of Ireland and used as a place of worship until the late 19th century. Today, the friary is a National Monument of Ireland, managed by the Office of Public Works, and open to the public. Visitors can explore the ruins, admire the sculptures, and learn about the friary's history through guided tours and exhibitions.