Killorglin: Puck Fair, Trails and Culture

Killorglin offers a variety of reasons to visit: the annual Puck Fair, walking trails with views of the River Laune, and a diverse cultural scene. A farmers’ market and a pottery studio are also among the town’s special discoveries. When choosing a holiday home in Killorglin, you might first consider whether you want to centre your trip on the festival, on trails and scenery, or on culture and local crafts.

Puck Fair and the Town’s Landmark

Puck Fair takes place every year from 10 to 12 August. There is free, family-friendly street entertainment every day. The festival has its roots in the Gaelic calendar, making it a special cultural occasion for visiting Killorglin on these set dates in August. A landmark in the townscape is the King Puck Statue on the bridge over the River Laune, at the entrance to Killorglin. The statue depicts a bronze billy goat and is a symbol of Puck Fair.

Walking Trails Between the River and the Town’s History

For a circular walk starting in the town centre, the Ballykissane Pier Trail is a good option: it is 4 km long and leads to the pier where the River Laune flows into Castlemaine Harbour. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Sliabh Mish mountains. The route combines a walk with views of the river estuary and the mountains. If you’re looking for an easier walk, consider the Railway Bridge Trail. It starts at Library Place and follows the old railway line to the Metal Bridge. Along the way, there are views of the River Laune and the County Bridge.

The Killorglin River Walks start at Mill Car Park on Annadale Road and include the River Laune Trail and the Astellas Trail. Another option is the mapped and signposted Killorglin Slí Route in the heart of the community, which is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The Killorglin Town History Trail offers a brief introduction to the town’s history. These trails have different features: riverside views, a route along the former railway line, or a short historical overview.

Art, Crafts and Local Produce

The Pauline Bewick – Kerry Collection comprises 250 works and includes the Seven Ages exhibition. It is on permanent display at Library Place in Killorglin. At the Grilse Gallery, you can see contemporary prints and drawings; the Basement Museum tells stories from times gone by. This gives you the option of including different ways to experience art and history during your stay, rather than focusing your trip solely on walks.

If you’d like to get creative yourself, Bluebird Pottery Studio in Killorglin offers pottery and ceramics classes for adults, teenagers and children. Group sessions and individual tuition are available; the studio also offers birthday parties, hen parties and team-building activities. You can also factor in the weekly farmers’ market, where visitors can buy fresh local produce. Art, crafts and the market give your stay its own distinctive themes alongside the trails and the festival.

Other places: Sneem, Gunsborough, Ballynaskreena, Ardfert, Fenit, Farranfore, Tahilla, Parknasilla.

For the wider travel overview: County Kerry.