Press release
Minister O’Donnell announces Scattery Island reopening for Visitor Season 2024
Published on
Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
Minister of State for the Office of Public Works Kieran O’Donnell TD announces that Scattery Island will reopen to visitors on Friday 24th May 2024. Access to the site is dependent on favourable weather, sea and island conditions.
Minister O’Donnell said:
“I am very pleased to announce the reopening of Scattery Island for the summer season. The OPW have recently restored the Street on the Island, which was once home to the Scattery pilots and the island’s post office, before the island was finally abandoned in 1978. These views can once again be appreciated by visitors to the Street as can the historic view back to Cappa and Kilrush. I encourage you to visit this wonderful heritage site and take a tour of the island to enjoy the remains of an ancient monastic settlement.”
Scattery offers a calm and tranquil environment in which visitors can explore a wonderful range of interesting sites all within walking distance. Learn about St. Senan’s brave battle against the serpent Cathagh and his founding of a monastic settlement dating back to the early fifth century, and discover the fascinating history this little island holds from the early monastic times right through to the last of the islanders who inhabited Scattery.
Eve Brennan, Chairman of Scattery Island Heritage Group said:
The Scattery Island Heritage Group is overjoyed to see the substantial investment the OPW have made in restoring Scattery Islands dwellings and monuments. We believe that the restoration of the Island's village in particular, serves to honour the memory of Scattery Island's families, and share their heritage with the wider community. SIHG is delighted to continue working collaboratively with the OPW as part of this exciting community focussed initiative.
Scattery Island contains the remains of an ancient monastic heritage featuring a round tower, the cathedral and several medieval churches. Alongside these fascinating structures, the island also has a lighthouse, an artillery battery and a wonderfully restored village.
Your tour will begin at Kilrush Marina where you board the ferry. Upon reaching the island, our dedicated OPW tour guides will warmly welcome you. Get ready for an enlightening guided walking tour that unveils the island’s rich history.
Booking details can be found at Heritage Island / Visitor Centre
Visitor queries can be addressed to scatteryisland@opw.ie
For further information, please contact pressoffice@opw.ie
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Access to the island is dependent on tidal and weather conditions.
Ferry Travel time is around 30 mins each way – departure times vary depending on weather. Duration on the Island is approx. 2.5 hours, but every 2 weeks there is an option of approx. 4 hours stay on the Island.
We ask that visitors co-operate with OPW guide staff and adhere strictly to the warnings and instructions issued by them. It is also important to wear suitable footwear (boots or strong walking shoes) as some conditions underfoot are not ideal.
Please leave no trace on the Island, please bring home any unwanted foodstuffs or rubbish.