Poulnabrone Dolmen (Poulnabrone Portal Tomb)

Overview

Poulnabrone Dolmen, also known as Poulnabrone Portal Tomb, is a prehistoric megalithic tomb located on the Burren in County Clare, Ireland. This ancient monument dates back to the Neolithic period and is one of the most iconic and photographed sites in Ireland.

It is one of the most famous and well-preserved portal tombs in Ireland, offering a glimpse into the country's ancient past.

Ancient Historical Archaeological

Location

Address

Poulnabrone, Clare

Neighborhood: The Burren

Coordinates

52.990800, -9.135000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours

tuesday Open 24 hours

wednesday Open 24 hours

thursday Open 24 hours

friday Open 24 hours

saturday Open 24 hours

sunday Open 24 hours

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild, variable

• Wildflowers in bloom
• Lambs in the fields

summer

Warm, sometimes hot

• Long daylight hours
• Outdoor events

autumn

Cool, crisp

• Fall foliage
• Harvest time

winter

Cold, wet

• Winter solstice celebrations
• Peaceful atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

No booking required
Free admission
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Water Camera

seasonal

Warm layers in winter Hat and sunglasses in summer

not allowed

Drones Large groups without permission

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking on uneven ground

• Uneven terrain
• No facilities on site

Medical facilities: Nearest medical facility in Lisdoonvarna

Payment Information

Accepted

N/A

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

entry Free

parking Free

food N/A

souvenirs N/A

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or disrespectful attire

Booking Tips

• Not required
• N/A
• N/A
• N/A

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Burren App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Guided tours, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and visitor centers

Charging Stations: Nearby visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Shannon Airport

Distance: 50 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

€60 45 min

public_transport

€10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

€3 15 min

taxi

€15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It is a significant part of local history and heritage

Historical Significance: Dates back to the Neolithic period, used for burials

Insider Tips

Best views are from a slight distance
Visit early morning for a peaceful experience

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Burren National Park
• Stop by the local cafes in Lisdoonvarna
• Ask locals about the history and legends of the site

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Dia dhuit

thank_you Go raibh maith agat

where_is Cá bhfuil

how_much Cé mhéad

beautiful Álainn

ticket Ticéad

Guide Languages: English, Irish (Gaelic)

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide shots to capture the landscape

Result: Iconic Irish landscape

#Poulnabrone #Burren #Ireland #AncientIrish #Megalithic

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Inside the tomb (restricted)

flash photography Allowed but not recommended

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Burren National Park

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: National Park

Lisdoonvarna