Kylemore Abbey: Day Trips and Tours from Galway

The iconic grey stone castle that adorns postcards, book covers and pamphlets all across Ireland is none other than Kylemore Abbey. A 19th-century gem, the abbey sits on the banks of Lough Pollucapal in the epicenter of the lush Connemara region.

A day trip to Kylemore Abbey from Galway takes you through this magnificent emerald landscape and transports you back in time as you set foot in the abbey. More than 100 years of history unfold before your eyes as you experience the beautifully restored building and grounds for yourself.

You will find below everything you need to know about visiting Kylemore Abbey, one of the most picturesque day trips from Galway.

How to get to Kylemore Abbey from Galway?

Kylemore Abby is in western Ireland in the heart of Connemara. This verdant hilly region is part of County Galway, and the abbey is roughly an hour outside of the city of Galway.

From Galway to Kylemore Abbey by car

Reaching Kylemore Abbey from Galway by car is a breeze. The 80-kilometer drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Simply follow the N59 most of the way and turn right on the R344 towards Letterfrack when the road splits.

From Galway to Kylemore Abbey by bus

Regional bus routes travel from Galway to Letterfrack Village and the nearby town of Clifden. Bus Eireann, however, runs directly to Kylemore Abbey. This offers a convenient and low-cost option for a day trip to Kylemore Abbey from Galway.

Guided tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway

Guided tours to Kylemore Abbey from Galway offer you the opportunity to visit the Abbey and the surrounding areas in the most comfort. Group tours depart from Galway bus station, while private tours offer pickup from your hotel for the utmost convenience.

How much does the entrance ticket to Kylemore Abbey cost?

The Kylemore Abbey entrance fees are as follows:

• Adult (18-64): €15.00
• Student (16-17): €12.50
• Senior (65+): €12.50
• Children under 16:free
• Family (up to 6): €38.00

A family consists of 2 adults and up to 4 young adults aged 16-18.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway?

Day trips to Kylemore Abbey from Galway leave between 9 AM and 10 AM from Galway Coach Station. The first stop on the trip is Kylemore Abbey, where you can spend between two and three hours exploring the grounds.

Wander around the gardens and see the history of the abbey come to life in the period rooms. Historic exhibitions will captivate you with displays of period costumes, archives, and artifacts.

Next, you will soak in the views from Ireland’s only fjord, Killary Fjord. Along the way, you will pass the tallest mountain range in western Ireland, Twelve Bens of Connemara.

Tours also venture through charming Irish-speaking villages and stop in Leenane or Spiddal for a bit of exploring. The drive continues on the scenic route past Connemara National Park and back to Galway.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Kylemore Abbey?

Group tours to Kylemore Abbey from Galway are the most popular and take you past a few extra stops on the way.

Guided tours to Kylemore Abbey from Galway

Guided group tours are the best and most budget-friendly way to explore the magnificence of Kylemore Abbey. The tours include a couple of hours for exploration on the grounds as well as a few stops at villages and viewpoints along the way.

These tours include your transportation and entry ticket, and pickup and drop off at the same location make them extra convenient.

Private tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway

Traveling doesn’t get much more luxurious than a private tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway. Travel in a group of up to three people as you journey through the rugged west of Ireland to see mountains, lakes, and historical sites.

You can personalize your itinerary, including making stops at Connemara and the Doolough Valley.

Day trip to Kylemore Abbey plus Connemara National Park from Galway

Adding a long stop at Connemara National Park to your Kylemore Abbey itinerary is the best way to see the lush surroundings of western Ireland up close.

Enjoy the fresh air, take a walk on the accessible hiking trails, or simply admire the breathtaking beauty of the area from the comfort of the tea room.

How much does a tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway cost?

A standard guided tour to Kylemore Abbey from Galway costs between €30 and €50 and includes your entrance ticket to the abbey and transportation in a comfortable coach. More expensive tours stop longer in villages and add a few scenic stops along the way.

To enjoy a luxury private tour to Kylemore Abbey, you will pay from €450, with the most inclusive tour running at €600. These prices are for a group of up to 3 people.

A full-day tour that includes a few hours at Connemara National Park costs €48.

What will you see and do on a Kylemore Abbey day trip from Galway?

Kylemore Abbey is a 19th-century castle that once belonged to Mitchell Henry, a prominent Irish politician of the time. Benedictine nuns sought refuge at the castle when World War I broke out and, subsequently, transformed the property into an Abbey.

Today, visitors can explore the manicured grounds that the nuns have restored to their former glory. You can also visit the period rooms that have been brought to life with historical artifacts from their former occupants.

A tranquil five-minute stroll next to Lough Pollucapal will lead you to the neo-gothic cathedral of Kylemore Abbey. The cathedral is a serene structure that pays homage to 14th-century architecture. The mausoleum of Mitchell Henry and his wife is also located just behind the cathedral in a tree-lined section of Kylemore Abbey.

What are the Kylemore Abbey opening times?

Kylemore  Abbey is open throughout the year, but the opening times vary with the seasons. From April to October, the abbey opens from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. The opening times may change in winter and autumn, so visitors are advised to check the official website for changes.

When is the best time to visit Kylemore Abbey?

The best time to visit Kylemore Abbey is in the summer season. June is the least rainy month when you will have the best chance of experiencing clear skies to fully appreciate the marvelous gardens.

Travel tips

• Don’t forget to charge your camera as you’re sure to want to snap some photos throughout the day.
• Pack an umbrella and light rain jacket in case of wet weather.
• Pack lots of snacks and enjoy a picnic at Connemara National Park.
• Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy a walk on one of Connemara’s circular routes.