Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden

Overview

Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden is a historic and serene place set in the picturesque Connemara region. It offers a glimpse into the past with its beautiful abbey, charming church, and stunning gardens.

Kylemore Abbey is a significant part of Ireland's heritage, reflecting the story of French Benedictine nuns who found refuge here after the French Revolution.

Abbey Garden

Location

Address

Kylemore Abbey & Estate, Connemara, Galway

Neighborhood: Connemara

Coordinates

53.583300, -9.900000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to October), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (November to March)

Admission

Adults

15 EUR

Children

7.50 EUR (ages 5-17)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild, rainy

• blooming gardens
• spring walks

summer

warm, sunny

• extended opening hours
• outdoor performances

autumn

cool, crisp, rainy

• autumn colors
• harvest time

winter

cold, rainy, short days

• holiday lights, Christmas market

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID comfortable walking shoes tickets water

seasonal

jacket and umbrella (all year) warm clothing (winter) hat and sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

large bags or backpacks drones pets (except guide dogs)

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking involved

• uneven paths, stairs in some areas

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

credit/debit cards, cash (Euros)

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

adult entry 15 EUR

child entry (5-17) 7.50 EUR

family ticket (2 adults, 4 children) 40 EUR

parking 5 EUR

coffee/tea at café 3-5 EUR

souvenirs 5-30 EUR

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes or hiking boots, inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Baby changing stations

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Kylemore Abbey Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide with historical information, Ticket booking and discounts, Event calendar, Gift shop and café information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, café, and some garden areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center and café

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Galway Airport (GAL)

Distance: 70 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

taxi

100-120 EUR 1 hour 15 minutes

public_transport

25-30 EUR 2 hours

rental_car

Varies 1 hour 15 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 70 km

bus

15-20 EUR 2 hours

taxi

100-120 EUR 1 hour 15 minutes

rental_car

Varies 1 hour 15 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Kylemore Abbey is a significant part of local heritage, reflecting the story of the French Benedictine nuns who made it their home. The beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings offer a serene escape from daily life.

Historical Significance: Kylemore Abbey was built in 1902 as a private home for Mitchell Henry and his family. In 1920, it was donated to the Benedictine nuns who had fled France during the French Revolution. The abbey has been a place of worship and education ever since.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds
The best food and coffee can be found at the café by the abbey
Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the history and stories of Kylemore Abbey

Local Recommendations

• Try traditional Irish coffee at the café
• Ask for guide Mary for an engaging tour experience
• Visit the nearby Connemara National Park for more stunning landscapes

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Go raibh maith agat

where_is Cá bhfuil

how_much Cé mhéad

beautiful Álainn

ticket Ticéad

Guide Languages: English, Irish (Gaelic), French, German, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Kylemore Abbey front view

Best Time: Golden hour in the morning or late afternoon

Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the entire abbey

Result: Breathtaking photos of the abbey with soft lighting

#KylemoreAbbey #Connemara #Ireland #HistoricSite

Victorian Walled Garden

Best Time: Spring or summer for blooming flowers

Tips: Low-angle shots to capture the vibrant colors

Result: Beautiful garden photography

#VictorianGarden #Kylemore #Flowers #Nature

Glen Gardens and Woodland

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting

Tips: Use natural light to highlight the beauty of the landscape

Result: Serene and picturesque nature photos

#GlenGardens #Woodland #NatureLovers #Connemara

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas, gardens, and woodland

prohibited areas inside buildings, church, and private areas

flash photography not allowed inside buildings

commercial photography permit required for professional shoots

drone policy prohibited without prior permission

tripod policy restricted, check with staff

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Connemara National Park

Distance: 10 km

Walking: 20 minutes by car

Type: National Park

Clifden

Distance: 15 km

Walking: 25 minutes by car

Type: Town

Killary Fjord

Distance: 20 km

Walking: 30 minutes by car

Type: Natural Wonder

Renvyle Beach

Distance: 12 km