Kylemore Abbey & Gardens

Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

Kylemore Abbey in County Galway is a beautiful estate in Connemara. It features a Victorian Walled Garden, a Neo-Gothic church, and scenic trails. It is famous for its postcard-perfect scenery—the iconic image of a baronial castle reflected in a Connemara lake. The Benedictine nuns of Kylemore invite visitors to experience this magnificent place.  From the love story that started it all, to engineering initiatives, model farms, royal visits, and the Abbey’s former role as a girls’ boarding school.

Learn about Kylemore’s rich history by guiding your way through the multimedia experience and restored Victorian period rooms. Delve deeper into its history by attending a history talk with one of their experienced history guides. Visitors can enjoy home-cooked food and handmade crafts. There are lots of activities for kids, including seeing the Giant’s wishing stone and meeting Connemara ponies and Kune Kune pigs.

Dining at Kylemore

The Kylemore Kitchen Café offers a dining experience steeped in tradition, with home-cooked meals inspired by the Abbey’s Victorian heritage and recipes from the Benedictine nuns. Emphasizing family-friendliness and inclusivity, the café serves 100% Irish meat and provides options for various dietary needs, without requiring an estate entrance ticket.

The Garden Tea House, in proximity to the Victorian Walled Garden, is the ideal spot for light refreshments amidst the beauty of Connemara, accessible with an estate ticket.

Both establishments celebrate the culinary heritage of Kylemore and invite visitors to savour the flavours of Connemara.

Craft & Design Shop

The Kylemore Abbey Craft & Design Shop is a treasure trove for visitors, offering a variety of reminders of Connemara and gifts for loved ones. Exclusive items include:

• Kylemore Abbey Pottery
• Handmade soaps and chocolates crafted by the Benedictine Nuns at the Abbey’s own facilities

The shop features a selection of high-quality giftware and unique Irish products, ensuring there’s something for every taste and budget