Loop Head Lighthouse numbers increase

Wednesday, 04 October 2017

Loop Head Lighthouse has recorded an increase in visitor numbers for a sixth successive year with latest figures for 2017 showing that 14,227 visiting the County Clare attraction between March and September.

The popular tourist attraction is located at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary on the Loop Head Peninsula, which is one of two “Signature Discovery Points” in County Clare along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way. It also is a landmark location on the Loop Head Heritage Trail and is one of 12 Great Lighthouses of Ireland.

Figures released by Clare County Council, which manages the lighthouse in conjunction with the Commissioner of Irish Lights (CIL), reveal that visitor numbers grew by 1.5% compared to the same period in 2016 when 14,007 people visited the 19^th century lighthouse.

Loop Head Lighthouse is steeped in history and is rich in maritime heritage with its origins dating back to the 1670s. The existing tower style lighthouse was constructed in 1854 and was operated and maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. In January 1991, the lighthouse was converted to automatic operation, and today is monitored by the CIL.

The attraction will remain open daily (10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.) until 5 November. Admission to the lighthouse, which includes the exhibition and guided tour of the site, is Adults (€5), Children (€2) and Family Passes for up to 2 adults + 3 children (€12). Visit www.loophead.ie or www.clare.ie for more information on Loop Head Lighthouse and the Loop Head Peninsula.

Mark Dunphy

Communications Officer
Corporate Services Department

Finance and Support Services Directorate

Clare County Council

Áras Contae an Chláir,

New Road,

Ennis

Clare

IRELAND

065-6846203
[email protected]
www.clarecoco.ie

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