Labasheeda overlooks the wide expanse of the Shannon Estuary. The connection with the water is especially clear at Labasheeda Quay: the quay is a designated viewpoint on the Shannon Estuary Way, with views of the estuary and the Kilkerrin Peninsula. The village also has a pottery studio with a café, a memorial and cultural events. This gives you different ways to shape your stay around your interests: landscape and history, creative activities, or music and dance.
Views and history at Labasheeda Quay
The quay was once a trading post and a crossing point to Tarbert in North Kerry, before the permanent quay was built. A memorial there commemorates the victims of the Irish Potato Famine of 1845 to 1850. Historical remembrance and views of the Shannon Estuary and the Kilkerrin Peninsula stand side by side at the same place.
There is a picnic area at the quay where you can take a break. An information board for visitors provides details about the local flora and fauna, adding a connection to nature to the views of the landscape. The designated viewpoint is also linked to the Shannon Estuary Way. Visitors interested in the surrounding area will find both a specific viewpoint and a place where history and information about local nature are present.
Pottery, a café and dancing
Charm Bee is a pottery-painting studio and café in Labasheeda. At the studio, visitors can have their fingerprints transferred on site onto pottery pieces, clay tiles, or handmade silver pendants and charms. Pottery painting is also available. You can drop in without an appointment or book in advance; advance reservations are recommended. The studio offers a creative way to make a keepsake from pottery or silver.
The café serves a range of treats. Its outdoor area offers views of the Shannon Estuary. Charm Bee therefore combines creative activities in the studio with a break and another view of the estuary.
Music and dance are also part of cultural life in Labasheeda. Each August, a celebration of traditional Irish music and dance is held in memory of Dan Furey. The Dan Furey Set Dancing Weekend includes a céilí and workshops in set dancing and step dancing. If you would like to plan your trip around an event, check the specific dates in advance.
Water activities and places to visit nearby
People swim and sail at Labasheeda Quay, which is also considered a popular spot for fishing trips. These activities offer different ways to enjoy the water, complementing the viewpoint with opportunities to experience the Shannon Estuary actively.
Nearby is Kilkerrin Battery Fort, a few kilometres from Labasheeda. It is considered the best-preserved of the early 19th-century British battery forts on the Shannon Estuary. St. Senan’s Holy Well is also nearby. Mountshannon Wood lies on the Kilkerrin Peninsula: a mature woodland on the banks of the estuary. The surrounding area therefore offers historic sites and woodland as different themes alongside experiences at the quay.
Plan your journey and stay
Labasheeda is near the Killimer–Tarbert car ferry, which connects County Clare with North Kerry and West Limerick. Checking the timetable before you travel can help you include the ferry crossing in your plans.
Discover more destinations: Broadford, Cappanavarnoge, Lisdoonvarna, Kilshanny, Shannon, Kilkee, Clonlara, Liscannor
For the main travel overview: County Clare.
