Discover Quin

Quin combines a medieval history with riverside and walking themes. If you are looking for a hotel in Quin, you can first consider whether the Abbey, a walk through the village, or nearby destinations will shape your stay. Quin lies on the River Rine and is considered an example of a medieval settlement. The following highlights show the different attractions Quin and nearby destinations have to offer.

Quin Abbey and Medieval History

Quin Abbey was founded in the 14th century and inhabited by Franciscan friars. The cloisters were built in the 15th century, making them part of a later construction phase. Quin Franciscan Friary also includes remains of the de Clare castle and parts of its towers. The site therefore brings together different historical elements; when placing them in context, it is important to note the gap between the Abbey’s founding and the construction of the cloisters. From the tower of Quin Abbey, visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. This combines views of the site itself with views across the surrounding area.

Walks, River and Walking Route

A walk in Quin takes you over the humpback bridge to Main Street, which is lined with numerous pubs and shops. Individual businesses and opening hours may change. If you plan to visit a particular shop or pub, check its current opening hours in advance.

Fishing is possible on the River Rine in Quin year-round. Local fishing conditions and regulations may change; check them before planning your fishing trip. Another option is the Mid Clare Way: Quin is one of six starting points for this 143.9-kilometre circular route. It runs mainly along quiet minor and farm roads, with short sections on forest tracks and across fields. The stated distance refers to the entire circular route, not a walk through Quin. This offers both a walk through the village and a separate, considerably longer route for different kinds of plans.

Nearby Destinations

Magh Adhair is a state-owned National Monument near Quin, cared for by the Office of Public Works. The monument is located in a working field and is unguided; visitors should take care. Check the official visitor information in advance. Historically, Magh Adhair is associated with some of the earliest medieval royal assemblies and inaugurations, and was the gathering place of the Dál gCais.

Craggaunowen is eight kilometres east of Quin. The award-winning prehistoric park covers 50 hectares of wooded grounds. Knappogue Castle is two kilometres from Quin. The late medieval building is used as a venue for medieval banquets. If a banquet is relevant to your plans, check availability in advance.

More to Explore in County Clare

For a broader view of the region, County Clare offers its own destinations with different attractions. The Cliffs of Moher stretch for almost 14 kilometres along the Clare coast; at O’Brien’s Tower, they reach a height of over 700 feet. The visitor site includes 800 metres of paved paths and viewpoints, including access to O’Brien’s Tower. The fully accessible visitor centre features a self-guided exhibition and a virtual reality experience on a cliff face. Visitors can explore walking trails in Burren National Park.

Inis Cealtra, also known as Holy Island, is also in County Clare: the island lies in Lough Derg on the Shannon, and its history as a monastic settlement dates back to the 7th century. County Clare can be reached via a network of roads, bus and rail connections; Ennis is connected to the national rail network. Connections and journey times may change.

Discover more destinations: Bodyke, Murroogh, O’Briensbridge, Cappanavarnoge, Cratloe, Carron, Newmarket On Fergus, Purt

For the main travel overview: County Clare.