Walk the cloisters
The 15th-century cloister is one of the best-preserved examples of Franciscan architecture in Ireland. The intimate covered walkways around the garth survive almost as they stood when the friars prayed here.
Quin Friary
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About
A remarkably intact 15th-century Franciscan friary built inside the ruins of a 13th-century Norman castle, in the village of Quin, County Clare.
Things to Do
Explore the church
The medieval stone high altar is still in its original position, with the rare remains of an early 17th-century stucco crucifixion on the wall above a tomb. Minor altars, the sacristy and the transept chapels can all be walked through.
Climb the tower
The tall bell-tower, built by Maccon MacNamara around 1430, still stands intact and its top affords panoramic views over Quin village and the surrounding countryside.
Spot the Norman castle remains
Look for the foundations of the corner towers and curtain wall of Thomas de Clare's 1281 castle, destroyed in 1318, which the friary was later built within.
Find the graves and memorials
Síoda Cam MacNamara founded the friary as his family burial place, and the MacNamara tomb survives beside the altar. The limestone memorial slab of John Hogan, the last friar, who died in 1820, lies in the east cloister walk.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open daily 09:30–17:00 (unguided site in the care of the Office of Public Works).
- Admission: Free of charge
- Parking: Free car parking at the site, including wheelchair-accessible parking; spaces are limited.
- Food: The Abbey Tavern, a rustic dog-friendly pub with free parking, is in Quin village nearby; more restaurants and pubs are a 15-minute drive away in Ennis.
Getting Around
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