On the northern shore of Liscannor Bay, Liscannor combines a maritime connection with local history and nature. John Philip Holland was born here; the distinctive local flagstone is called Liscannor Stone. If you are considering Liscannor as a destination or place to stay, you can weigh up the coast and sea fishing, local history, quarrying, and nature and wildlife experiences.
Coast and local stone
Liscannor lies on the northern shore of the bay and is one of County Clare’s most important sea-angling harbours. Sea fishing gives its coastal connection a practical, activity-based side. Another feature is the distinctive local flagstone, which bears the name Liscannor Stone. These offer two different reasons to choose the destination: an activity at sea and a stone whose name is closely associated with the town.
John Philip Holland in Liscannor
John Philip Holland, an inventor of the submarine, was born in Liscannor. A statue of the pioneering engineer stands in the centre of the main street. It depicts him in connection with the first submarine commissioned by the US Navy and the Royal Navy. The John P. Holland Centre provides information about his life and work. In this way, his birthplace is linked to a specific topic in the history of engineering; the statue and the Centre offer different points of focus.
Wildlife and activities
Moher Hill Open Farm was established to inform visitors about traditional Irish farm animals and animals of exotic origin. The site also has a nature trail and a mini-golf course. Its attractions therefore range from learning about animals and nature to a standalone leisure activity. Visitors comparing what Liscannor has to offer will find a different focus here from that of the Holland statue and the John P. Holland Centre: animals, nature and mini-golf rather than local and engineering history.
Stone, exhibition and tea room
The Rock Shop in Derreen, Liscannor, features a video presentation about the history of quarrying and the characteristics of different flagstones from the Liscannor-Moher area. The shop also displays rocks, fossils, jewellery and unusual gift items. The tea room serves coffee and homemade cakes and offers views across Liscannor Bay. The video presentation introduces the history of quarrying and the region’s flagstones; the other items on display broaden the theme to include rocks, fossils and jewellery. The tea room adds another way to experience the bay.
County Clare: more nature
Other natural attractions in County Clare include the Cliffs of Moher and walking trails in Burren National Park. At O’Brien’s Tower, the Cliffs of Moher reach a height of over 700 feet; they stretch for almost 14 kilometres along the Clare coast. The visitor facilities include 800 metres of surfaced paths and viewpoints, including access to O’Brien’s Tower. As operating details may change, check them before visiting. Visitors can explore walking trails in Burren National Park; here too, it is worth checking current trail conditions before making plans. County Clare is accessible via a road network and bus and rail services, and Ennis is connected to the national rail network. Check current connections for your specific journey.
Discover more destinations: Bodyke, Miltown Malbay, Spanish Point, Kilshanny, Cross, Purt, Kilmurry, Corofin.
For the broader travel overview: County Clare.
