Ever wondered about Ireland’s most extreme points? Let’s take a look at 12 of Ireland’s biggest, most, longest, oldest, and more.
Ireland is an amazing island which not only boasts beautiful views but also has the potential for some fantastic adventures.
We have put together one adventure that everyone should experience – the 12 most extreme points in Ireland.
Whether you’re visiting or local to one or more of these entries, they are fascinating areas of Ireland to stick on the bucket list. Without further ado, let’s take a look at Ireland’s most extreme points.
12. Northernmost point in Ireland – Banba’s Crown, Co. Donegal
Banba’s Crown (the northernmost tip of Malin Head), Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal, is the most northern place you can get in Ireland. Above is a photo we took of the last rocks of the whole island of Ireland!
This magical point in Ireland gets its name from the mythical patron goddess of Ireland, Banba, and dates back to 1805.
11. Southernmost point in Ireland – Brow Head, County Cork
It has often been thought that nearby Mizen Head is the southernmost point in Ireland. However, it is actually in nearby Brow Head, County Cork.
A stone’s throw from the small village of Crookhaven, the scenery and backdrop of Brow Head is truly a sight to behold.
10. Westernmost point in Ireland – Dún Mór Head, Co. Kerry
This corner of Ireland also boasts the westernmost point of the whole island, which is at Dún Mór Head, or Dunmore Head, on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry.
A true haven of serenity, you can watch the waves crashing down below and have a fair chance of spotting some incredible wildlife.
9. Easternmost point – Burr Point, Co. Down
The easternmost settlement is located in Northern Ireland at Burr Point on the Ards Peninsula, County Down.
Located in the townland of Ballyhalbert, you can spot the small, rocky Burial Island in the nearby distance.
8. Highest point In Ireland – Carrauntoohil, Co. Kerry
Carrauntoohil, County Kerry, is the tallest peak on the whole island of Ireland. At 3,415 ft (1,041 m), it is worth the hike!
Carrauntoohil is located close to the middle of Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. For the hiking lovers among us, this is a must.
Address: Coomcallee, Co. Kerry, Ireland
7. Lowest point in Ireland – North Slob, Co. Wexford
The “lowest point in Ireland” certainly doesn’t lack any beauty! North Slob in County Wexford sits at – 9. 8 ft (- 3 m).
It’s an interesting area of mudflats at the estuary of the River Slaney at the harbour. This is one of Ireland’s most extreme points that you cannot miss.
6. Wettest place in Ireland – Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
The wettest place in Ireland is Valentia, County Kerry, where an annual average rainfall of 1,557 mm. This is more than twice the driest place in Ireland ever recorded, which was Dublin Airport.
Valentia Island is certainly one of Ireland’s hidden gems and an absolute must if you’re exploring the Ring of Kerry, which is adjacent.
5. Have a drink in Ireland’s highest pub – The Ponderosa, Co. Derry
It wouldn’t be an Irish list without mentioning a pint in a pub! The Ponderosa, Co. Derry. At 946 ft (288 m) above sea level, Karl McErlean’s revamped bar on the Glenshane Pass towers above all others.
This is the perfect spot to stop in for a pint on your way back from the Glenshane Pass. Trust us; you’ll have worked up the appetite for one!
Address: 974 Glenshane Rd, Londonderry BT47 4SD
4. Have a drink in Ireland’s oldest pub – Sean’s Bar, Co. Westmeath
According to the pub’s owners and the Guinness Book of Records, Sean’s Bar in Athlone is the Oldest Pub in Ireland.
Come for the 1200-year-old legacy, and stay for the live music, colourful clientele and cannonball decorations.
Address: 13 Main St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 DW76, Ireland
3. Visit Ireland’s oldest building – Newgrange, Co. Meath
Newgrange, Co. Meath is a prehistoric monument and the oldest building in Ireland, 5,100 years ago. It is even older than the Egyptian Pyramids, believe it or not!
This is one of Ireland’s most fascinating neolithic sites that is described as the “jewel in the crown of Ireland’s ancient east”.
Address: Newgrange, Donore, Co. Meath, Ireland
2. Go to the top floor of the tallest building in Ireland – Obel Tower, Belfast
The Obel Tower in Belfast is residential accommodation which was completed in 2011. It is currently Ireland’s tallest building, but the top is not open to the public.
Occasionally, charity climbing events go to the top. If you really want to go to the top and you have the gift of the gab, I’m sure you could convince one of the tenants to let you in!
Address: Belfast BT1 3NL
1. See Ireland’s longest river – The River Shannon
The Shannon is the longest river in Ireland and flows generally southward from the Shannon Pot in County Cavan before turning west and emptying into the Atlantic Ocean through the 102.1 km (63.4 mi) long Shannon Estuary.
Limerick city stands at the point where the river water meets the sea water of the estuary.
Other notable mentions
The oldest town in Ireland: Ballyshannon, a town laid out on the banks of the River Erne in County Donegal, is said to be the oldest town in Ireland.
The smallest pub in Ireland: You’ll find Ireland’s smallest pub, The Dawson Lounge, County Dublin, right in the centre of the city. Dating back to 1850, the bar seats just 26 people.
The oldest whiskey distillery: Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery in County Westmeath has the distinction of being the oldest whiskey distillery on the entire island of Ireland.
FAQs about Ireland’s most extreme points
What is the easternmost point of mainland Ireland?
The easternmost point of the Republic of Ireland is Wicklow Head in County Wicklow.
What is the largest island in Ireland?
Ireland has an abundance of beautiful islands off the coast, but the biggest of them all is Achill Island.
Is Ireland the most westerly point in Europe?
The most westerly point in Ireland is indeed in Ireland.
