Overview
Inchcleraun (Irish: Inis Clothrann), popularly called Quaker Island, lies almost in the centre of Lough Ree on the River Shannon. At 57.7 ha (143 acres) it is one of the largest of the lake’s 52 islands. The island stretches roughly 1.6 km north‑south and reaches about 600 m at its widest point. Its shoreline is dotted with a handful of landing places, the most convenient being on the east side where modern cruisers can avoid the shoals that still trouble the western shore.
The island is uninhabited today, but herds of cattle and goats roam the fields alongside a variety of water‑fowl and other wildlife. All the visible structures are protected as National Monuments, making Inchcleraun a rare blend of natural serenity and early‑Christian heritage.
History
The name Inchcleraun derives from the Irish Inis Clothrann, referring to Clothru, sister of the legendary Queen Medb of Connacht. According to myth, Medb retired to the island after her husband Ailill was slain, and the spot where she bathed is still known as Grianan Meva – “Medb’s sunny place”.
The island’s recorded history begins in the mid‑6th century when St Diarmaid the Just founded a small monastic settlement (c. 560 AD). Over the next eight centuries the site endured repeated Viking raids, Munster plundering, and internal Irish conflict, which left the churches in ruin but also cemented their place in Irish annals. Notable entries include the death of St Sionnach in 719, the plundering of 1010 and 1087, and the burial of Bishop Hugh O’Flynn in 1136.
In the early 1800s the island was leased to Edward Fairbrother, a Quaker from Ballymurray, Co Roscommon. He built a stone cottage using stones from the Clogás Oratory, a move that, according to local legend, angered St Diarmaid’s spirit and caused the island’s livestock to run wild until Fairbrother vowed never to disturb the sacred stones again. The Quaker association gave the island its modern nickname, “Quaker Island”.
What to See & Do
The Monastic Ruins
Six churches survive within a cashel of stone and earth walls. They are all listed as National Monuments and were stabilised in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Highlights include:
| Church | Approx. Size | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Teampall Diarmaid (St Diarmaid’s Oratory) | 8 ft × 7 ft (interior) | Smallest surviving church, founded by the saint himself |
| Teampall Mór (Great Church) | 47 ft 7 in × 21 ft 5 in | Largest on the island; L‑shaped nave, two lancet windows, upper chamber |
| Teampall Clogas (Square‑tower Oratory) | 34 ft 8 in × 16 ft 8 in | Unique square bell‑tower attached to the nave, visible from the shore |
| Teampall Murry (Chancel Church) | – | Folklore warns that any woman who enters will die within a year |
| Teampall na Marbh (Church of the Dead) | – | Historically used for wake‑keeping before burial |
| Teampall na mBan (Women’s Church) | – | Situated outside the main monastic enclosure, likely for female worshippers |
The Clogás Oratory on the island’s highest point once served as a lookout post, its square tower offering panoramic views over Lough Ree. The Irish Yew standing beside Teampall Mór’s east wall is a living relic that has overseen centuries of change.
Legends and Landscape
Beyond the stonework, the island is steeped in story. Walk the promontory known as Muckinish (“Island of the Pigs”) on the north end, imagine Queen Medb’s fortified garden at Grianan Meva, and listen for the echo of ancient chants that once filled the cloister.
Wildlife enthusiasts will spot herds of cattle and goats that still graze the fields, as well as a variety of water birds that nest along the shoreline.
Practical Information
Getting There
The only way to reach Inchcleraun is by boat. Private motorboats, chartered tours, or self‑drive launches from Barley Harbour (Newtowncashel) on the Longford shore or from Portrunny on the Roscommon side are the usual options. The island lies about a mile from each landing point. Modern visitors are advised to approach the east side of the island to avoid the shallow shoals that still fringe the western shore.
Visiting the Ruins
There is no admission fee – the site is free to explore. As a National Monument, the ruins are open year‑round, but there are no formal opening hours; access is unrestricted as long as you respect the protected structures. The island has no visitor facilities, toilets, or cafés, so bring any supplies you may need.
The terrain is uneven, with stone walls, low‑lying vegetation and occasional steep steps to the higher church sites. Wheelchair access is therefore limited, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Safety and Conservation
Because the island is uninhabited, there is no on‑site staff. Visitors should stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile masonry and to avoid disturbing the grazing livestock. Dogs should be kept on a leash, and any litter must be taken back to the mainland.
For further details on boat hire and local guides, see the Portrun heritage page: Inchcleraun on Portrun.ie.
Further Reading
Inchcleraun offers a rare glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian past, set against the tranquil backdrop of Lough Ree. Whether you are a history buff, a folklore enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet spot on the water, the island’s silent stones and sweeping lake views promise an unforgettable experience.