A heritage town, Kenmare is sited where the River Roughty opens into the estuary of the Kenmare River. Founded by Sir William Petty in 1670 on land given to him by the English Government. Telling the story of Kenmare’s heritage is the Kenmare Heritage Centre in the Square. This centre deals with the history of the town and includes a Heritage Trail of historic sites within walking distance of the town.
Lace Making – An industry of note in Kenmare. Point lace and other varities have been world famous for years.
Dunkerron Castle – This castle, 2 miles west of the town, on the Sneem Road, was built in 1596. It stands on a huge rock and for centuries was the stronghold of the O’Sullivan’s.
Early Christian Church – On the Sheen Falls Road, 1 mile from the town, lies this ruin in the Kenmare old church, now Kenmare cemetry.
Sheel Falls and River – Well worth a visit for its beauty. Also a terrific river for the keen angler.
Druid’s Circle – About 1 mile South West of the town, off Market Street, lies this circle of prehistoric stones, fifteen stones standing in a ring about 15 metres in diameter. A large Dolmen lies in the centre.
Holy Well – This well lies on the main Killarney Road about 1 mile from the town. Our Lady’s Well and Shrine at Gortamullen is reputed to have healing powers.
Cromwell’s Bridge – Off the main Killarney Road, approximately 1 mile outside the town, lies this interesting bridge, not as the name suggests has it any connection with Cromwell, but with a once flourishing Franciscan Friary, which it linked with the mainland across the Finnihy River.
Reenagross Park – lies on the main Kenmare/Glengariff Road approximately 1 mile, surrounded by landscaped woodland walks.
And so over Peakeen Mountain through Moll’s Gap and back to Killarney.
Killarney is approximately 19 miles from Kerry Airport; 50 miles ftom Cork Airport; 86 miles from Shannon Airport., 188 miles from Dublin Airport.
Things to do in Kenmare
- Sea-fari – take an exciting seafari on a boat to see dolphins, seals etc from Kenmare.