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Historic Guided Tours of +800 Yrs Old Ballintubber Abbey
Features
- Free cancellation available
- 1h
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
- Multiple languages
Overview
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ballintubber Abbey on a guided tour
- Stroll the beautiful grounds and visit the Underground Crypt and St. Patrick’s Well
- Hear the tales of Priest Hunter Sean na Sagart and Tobboid na Long
- Admire religious artworks by Imogen Stuart, Br. Joseph McNally, and more
- Learn about the Abbey's origins, survival through centuries, and its restoration
Activity location
- Wild Atlantic Way
- County Galway, County Galway, Ireland
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Abbey, Ballintober, Co. Mayo, F12 W584, Ireland | Check in at the visitor center located through the Cloister to the Right of the Main Door
- Cluain Pádraig, County Mayo, Ireland
Check availability
Historic Guided Tours of +800 Yrs Old Ballintubber Abbey
- 1h
- English
What's included, what's not
- Guided tour of Ballintubber Abbey (approx. 45 minutes)
- Expert storytelling and historical insights from our guide
- Access to the Abbey grounds and cloister area
- Opportunity to visit the holy well
- Exploration of the Abbey’s architectural features and art
- Time to browse the Visitor Centre and Gift Shop
- Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages
- Optional Fees and Charges:
- Lighting a candle: Guests may choose to light a candle for personal reflection or prayer.
- Donations: Visitors are welcome to make a donation to support the ongoing preservation and care of this historic monument.
- Gift Shop Purchases: While not required, items such as local crafts, souvenirs, and books are available for purchase in the Abbey’s Visitor Centre
What you can expect
Guided Tour of Ballintubber Abbey – A Journey Through 800 Years of Irish History
Location: Ballintubber Abbey, County Mayo, Ireland
Duration: 45 minutes
Start & End Point: Visitor Centre – Giftshop
Check in 10 minutes before your tour begins
Go on a captivating journey through time, faith, and resilience at the heart of Ireland’s countryside. Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Mayo, Ballintubber Abbey offers a unique experience for history lovers, spiritual seekers, and couples dreaming of a timeless wedding venue.
Founded in 1216 by Cathal Crobhdearg Ó Conor, the last High King of Connacht, the Abbey has stood through fire, suppression, and centuries of change. Begin your tour at the Visitor Centre and Giftshop, where you’ll meet your local guide before stepping into the storybook landscape of Ballintubber.
Explore the iconic Abbey itself, home to 800 years of unbroken worship. Admire its original stonework, Gothic arches, and intricate carpentry. Learn about its dramatic past: from its suppression during penal times to its remarkable restoration. Hear tales of endurance that earned it the name “The Abbey that Refused to Die.”
Walk through the tranquil Cloister Walk and follow the beautifully landscaped outdoor Stations of the Cross. Your guide will bring to life stories of notable figures connected to the Abbey, including:
-Tibóid na Long, son of the legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley, buried within the Abbey.
- Seán na Sagart, the notorious priest hunter of the 18th century whose grim legacy echoes through local lore.
Visit St. Patrick’s Well, believed to be blessed by the saint himself long before the Abbey was founded. Discover the ancient Tóchar Phádraig pilgrim path, walked for centuries by those seeking spiritual solace, connecting Ballintubber to Croagh Patrick.
Step into the solemn beauty of the
Underground Crypt and explore Elizabeth’s House, a quiet space of prayer and reflection. Pause by the gentle Waterfall, a hidden gem tucked within the grounds, perfect for a moment of contemplation or a photo opportunity.
As you move through each sacred space, you'll also discover a stunning collection of religious artworks by Ireland’s finest artists, including Imogen Stuart, Br. Joseph McNally, Oisín Kelly, and Desmond Marian Kyne.
The tour concludes back at the Visitor Centre, where you can browse local crafts and mementoes in the giftshop.
Whether you’re uncovering Ireland’s medieval past or scouting a location for a fairy-tale wedding, Ballintubber Abbey offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Book now to secure your place on this 45-minute guided tour of Ireland’s most enduring spiritual site.
Location
Activity location
- Wild Atlantic Way
- County Galway, County Galway, Ireland
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Abbey, Ballintober, Co. Mayo, F12 W584, Ireland | Check in at the visitor center located through the Cloister to the Right of the Main Door
- Cluain Pádraig, County Mayo, Ireland