Kilfenora

Nestled in the heart of the Burren and close to Lisdoonarna, Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher, Kilfenora is an excellent base for visitors. There are many cultural and historical things to do in the village such as explore the story behind the Burren's flora, fauna and geology at the Burren Centre.

Kilfenora's history dates back thousands of years and milestones in its past can be seen in sites such as the sixth century Abbey, which was founded by St Fachtna. There are a number of high crosses next to the ruins of the cathedral that date back to the ninth and tenth centuries.

The village also provided a backdrop for one of Ireland's best-loved comedies. Fr Ted, produced by Hat Trick Productions for Channel 4, followed the lives of three fictional priests living on Craggy Island with their housekeeper Mrs Doyle. The series ran for three years until 1998, when one of the main characters, Dermot Morgan (who played Fr Ted) died unexpectedly. Now every year Tedfest, held in Kilfenora and the Ennistymon area, commemorates the BAFTA-winning show. Every February, 250 people come to North Clare dressed as nuns, priests and other characters from the show for fun, games and drinking sessions. If you do not make it to TedFest, you can join one of the Ted Tours held locally and visit the various local sites - including the 'parochial house', where you can stop in for a cup of tea.

Kilfenora also hosts an annual music festival in April and has a strong tradition for ceilis and traditional music. The Kilfenora Ceili Band is regarded as one of the country's best ceili bands. The Kilfenora Ceili Band was founded in 1909 and has survived more than 100 years to become Ireland's oldest ceili band. You can buy their albums in any of the local shops or look for them online.