International Marine, Lighthouse Tourism & Maritime Heritage Conference
Dublin Castle 7th & 8th October 2025
Winter wonders: Connacht & Leinster lighthouses
Enjoy a wintery lighthouse experience around Mayo, Wexford and Wicklow.
While many of the lighthouses are closed during the winter season, their captivating coastal environments are still well worth a visit.
Admire these four Leinster and Connacht sentinels on a visit to Counties Mayo, Wexford and Wicklow this winter.
Starlit Shores | Clare Island Lighthouse
The only lighthouse in Ireland that provides B&B accommodation and dinner, this Mayo outpost is a real marvel. Although closed for the winter season, you can still leave the car, and your cares, at Roonagh Pier and ferry over to stunning Clare Island.
Fans of legend and lore will relish the fact that the island was once home to famed Irish pirate queen, Grace O’Malley. The ruins of her family’s castle are still visible there today.
Clare Island
Embrace those Clew Bay views as you explore the island, the skies above which are known for their exceptional starlight. This part of Ireland enjoy very little light pollution, so once you’ve seen the sun set you can admire the stars above. About an hour’s drive from this area you’ll even find Ireland’s first international dark sky park, perfect for proper star-gazers.
Clare Island boasts something for everyone, from those who love walking and cycling to fishing fun, prepare to fall in love with this west coast idyll.
Blacksod
Bayside Beauty | Blacksod Lighthouse
This 150-year old lighthouse is the guardian of beautiful Blacksod Bay, Co. Mayo.
Although closed for walk-in tours during the winter season, private tours and group bookings are still available year-round.
And even without a tour you can still admire the unique architecture of this charming granite sentinel at the end of Blacksod Pier.
A marvel of engineering and a front-row seat to some of the county’s most incredible scenery, Blacksod was responsible for the delaying of D-day due to a crucial weather forecast from the lighthouse.
Hook
By Hook or by Crook | Hook Lighthouse
An 800-year-old lighthouse standing firm on Wexford’s stunning Hook Peninsula, a visit to Hook sees you trawl through the centuries. The world’s oldest operational lighthouse, it’s hard to miss with its fat black and white bands. Take a guided tour and meet the hologram monk St Dubhán, who’ll tell you all of the lighthouse’s fascinating stories and secrets. It’s no surprise that the lighthouse is brimming with tales, its walls are a hefty four-metres thick.
Looking for a really special experience? Push the boat out and indulge in a sunset or sunrise tour, culminating on the beautiful balcony. The seascape from the tower’s blustery height is a sight to behold.
After a trip up and down the tower’s 115 steps, enjoy some refreshment at the on-site cafe and bakery – all housed within what were once the lightkeepers’ houses.
Sweet dreams in Wicklow
109 steps above the Garden of Ireland | Wicklow Head Lighthouse
Wicklow Head Lighthouse in Leinster never fails to impress with its octagonal stone tower and stunning views of the Irish Sea on three sides.
It also offers a memorably athletic experience, thanks to the 109 steps from the entrance hall up to the kitchen – pretty breathtaking alright! Standing on this scenic coastline since 1781, this charming spot is the ideal couple's getaway.
Feeling inspired? Discover more Great Lighthouses all over the island of Ireland.
