Overview
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of the Old Head of Kinsale, the Lusitania Museum and Old Head Signal Tower offers a unique blend of maritime history, military heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. Housed in a fully restored Napoleonic‑era signal tower, the attraction forms the first Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way, making it a key stop for anyone travelling the south‑west coast of Ireland.
History
The stone tower was erected in 1804 as number 25 in a chain of 81 signal towers that stretched from Dublin to Donegal during the Napoleonic Wars. The towers used a flag‑and‑ball system to relay warnings of a possible French invasion, each tower being visible to the next. After the threat subsided the tower fell into disuse.
A community‑led restoration project, driven by Courceys Rural Development and the voluntary group Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower Heritage CLG, returned the tower to its former glory. It reopened to the public in 2015, marking the centenary of the RMS Lusitania disaster that sank 19 km off the Old Head.
In 2018 the former owner of the wreck, Gregg Bemis, signed over a collection of artefacts recovered from the Lusitania wreck to the museum, enriching the exhibition with authentic pieces from the sea floor.
Significance & Unique Features
- Ireland’s only fully restored Napoleonic signal tower – the sole tower of its era in the country to have been returned to its original height and interior layout.
- Most southerly Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering the iconic photo‑op for the route’s start/end.
- Closest point of land to the Lusitania wreck – the luxury liner lies just 19 km offshore, a fact highlighted throughout the exhibition.
- 20‑metre “Wave” sculpture in the Memorial Garden lists the names of every passenger and crew member who perished on 7 May 1915, providing a powerful visual reminder of the tragedy.
- Panoramic rooftop walkway with binocular hire, giving views of the Atlantic, the Old Head lighthouse, seabird colonies and the adjacent Old Head Golf Links.
The Wave Sculpture – A Living Memorial
The 20‑metre bronze wave was conceived by Cork sculptors Liam Lavery and Eithne Ring. Over two years of work produced a sleek, undulating form that bears the names of all 1,962 people who were aboard the Lusitania on its final voyage. The piece serves both as an artistic focal point and a permanent roll‑call for the victims, many of whom are represented by descendants who travel to the site for commemorations.
Awards & Recognition
The attraction was named Wild Atlantic Way Tourism Business of the Year 2024 by the Southern Star’s West Cork Business & Tourism Awards, recognising its innovative visitor experience and strong community involvement.
What to See & Do
| Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ground Floor | Interactive displays on the network of Irish signal towers, the 1804 rebellion, and the ancient history of the Old Head of Kinsale. |
| First Floor | Lusitania exhibition – ship models, recovered fittings, survivor letters, and a timeline of the ship’s final voyage. |
| Memorial Garden | The 20‑metre “Wave” sculpture that lists the names of every passenger and crew member aboard the Lusitania. |
| Rooftop Walkway | Panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline, protected bird colonies (puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, peregrines, choughs) and occasional marine wildlife. Binoculars are available for hire. |
| Café & Gift Shop | On‑site café serving coffee, cakes and light lunches; a shop offering books, postcards and Lusitania‑themed souvenirs. |
The tower’s roof platform offers sweeping vistas of the wild Atlantic, the rugged cliffs of the Old Head, and the blue‑flag beaches that dot the surrounding shoreline. Bird‑watchers will also appreciate the proximity to thriving seabird colonies that nest on the western cliffs.
Educational & Community Projects
- Student Artwork Exhibition (2025) – 42 pieces created by pupils from seven local primary schools are displayed in the museum’s gallery, with all proceeds supporting ongoing maintenance.
- Napoleonic Re‑enactment (2025) – Volunteers stage a short live demonstration of 19th‑century signalling techniques, giving visitors a hands‑on sense of the tower’s original purpose.
- Future Expansion – A planning application for a purpose‑built Lusitania Museum building is under review, promising larger exhibition space and a permanent education centre.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
- 2024 Award Ceremony – In November 2024 the museum received the Wild Atlantic Way Tourism Business of the Year award.
- Lighthouse Open Weekend (August 2024) – A two‑day open‑day programme allowed visitors to explore the historic Old Head lighthouse, usually off‑limits.
- 110th Lusitania Anniversary (7 May 2025) – A special ceremony in the Memorial Garden featured local officials, descendants of survivors and speakers from the 1965 recovery of a lifeboat davit.
- 2025 Calendar of Events – Includes the Napoleonic re‑enactment, the student‑artwork exhibition and the launch of a commemorative publication. All proceeds support the museum’s development.
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Open daily from 10:00 am (closing time varies seasonally – check the website).
- Admission: Free for children under 5; adult tickets are modestly priced – check the desk or website for the current rate.
- Recommended visit length: 1–1.5 hours.
- Parking: A small car park is situated next to the café; spaces are limited during peak season.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair‑accessible throughout the museum and tower via a lift; free Wi‑Fi available on site.
- Contact: +353 21 419 1285 • info@oldheadofkinsale.com
Getting There
The site lies just outside Kinsale, approximately 36 km from Cork City centre and 33 km from Cork Airport. The most straightforward route is via the N27 and R600, following signs for the Old Head.
- By car – A well‑signposted turn‑off from the R600 leads to a dedicated lay‑by and a small car park beside the café.
- Public transport – During the summer months a limited‑service bus (route 215) runs from Kinsale town centre to the Old Head, stopping close to the tower entrance. Check the local timetable for exact times.
- Cycling – The R600 forms part of a scenic coastal cycle route; secure bike racks are available near the café.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring the museum, continue along the Wild Atlantic Way to enjoy coastal walks, visit the nearby blue‑flag beaches, or head to the charming village of Ardfield for a seaside lunch. The Old Head Golf Links sit just beside the site and offer spectacular views of the cliffs. Kinsale’s renowned seafood restaurants are also within easy reach.