Kilbaha Gallery - Contemporary Irish Art on Loop Head

What to Expect

Kilbaha Gallery sits at Kilbaha on the road out to Loop Head Lighthouse, at the far south-western tip of County Clare on the Wild Atlantic Way. It is a purpose-built commercial gallery rather than a public one, representing roughly 50 professional contemporary artists from across Ireland, and it stays open year-round rather than closing out of season. Entry is free and the work is for sale.

The range is wider than most rural galleries manage: bronze sculpture, oil painting, mixed media, ceramics and textile art, hung and placed together rather than segregated by medium. There is a bronze foundry on the site, which is unusual for a gallery of this size and means casting work is part of what happens in the building rather than something sent away. A rotating featured artist programme changes what is given prominence through the year, so the gallery looks different on repeat visits, and the team take commissions. It pairs naturally with a run out to Loop Head Lighthouse, the cliffs at Kilbaha and the Bridges of Ross, which are all within a few minutes’ drive.

Good to Know

• Opening hours: Monday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Tuesday, Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
• Note the Tuesday closure. The gallery asks visitors to phone ahead before travelling a long distance, as hours can change.
• Venue: Kilbaha, Loop Head, County Clare, V15 KN56.
• Price: free to visit. No booking required.
• Phone 065 905 8843 or email kilbahagallery@gmail.com.
• Around 50 represented Irish artists, an on-site bronze foundry, a rotating featured artist, and commissions taken.

Getting There

Kilbaha is on the R487, the single road down the Loop Head peninsula, roughly 75 km west of Ennis and about 30 km beyond Kilrush. Drive the N68 from Ennis to Kilrush, then follow the R487 through Carrigaholt and Cross to Kilbaha; the lighthouse is a further five minutes on. Coming from Kerry, the Killimer to Tarbert car ferry lands you at Killimer, about 45 minutes from the gallery. There is parking at the gallery. The peninsula has no regular public transport, so a car or bike is effectively required, and the road narrows past Carrigaholt.