View MapView Map
Dunloe Ogham Stones
Beaufort, Co. Kerry
Dog friendly
Family friendly
Free to visit
The Dunloe Ogham Stones are located a short distance from Beaufort Village in County Kerry. Ogham was the first form of Irish writing. Discover some examples of this ancient language, on these eight large standing stones.

A short journey from Killarney, the road to the renowned Gap of Dunloe will provide you with an easy route to discover these ancient, scripted Ogham Stones.

Ogham writing dates from the 3rd century AD, and letters from the Roman alphabet were represented by a series of horizontal and sloped lines, usually along the edge of standing stones.

Seven of these standing stones were carved in the 5th and 6th century, providing an ancient link to that past. These stones were discovered during the construction of a hotel, and they are believed to have come from an underground passage that collapsed during the last century. They were moved to their current location in 1945.

The eighth stone, in the centre of the line up, was relocated from the nearby ruins of Kilbonane Church, where it was used as a burial marker, with the writing telling us about the person who had been laid to rest.

This site affords you a wonderful opportunity to see some fully intact ogham stones.

Why we like it
  • Keeping important heritage artefacts accessible and viewable for all.
  • Allowing us a glimpse of the ancient olden ways of script writing to help keep interest in old traditions alive.
Tips from locals

If you have the time, explore the nearby O'Sullivan's Cascade and trails in Tomies Woods, enjoying some great views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney along the way.

Contact details
52°03'37.4"N 9°38'05.3"W, 87 Boherbee, Dunloe Lower, Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland
More to discover
Family funSiamsa Tíre, The National Folk Theatre

Immerse yourself in the traditional folk culture of Ireland at Siamsa Tíre, The National Folk Theatre. Siamsa Tíre is The National Folk Theatre of Ireland and one of its most vibrant arts centres. Situated on the Wild Atlantic Way in the bustling market town of Tralee, County Kerry, it is home to Ireland’s only theatre company, dedicated to sustaining and sharing Ireland’s living heritage of music, song, and dance.

On the waterWild Water Adventures

Wild Water Adventures is an award winning and family owned adventure activity provider based in the coastal village of Fenit, County Kerry. Try a sunset sea kayaking tour around Fenit Lighthouse with the backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. Take an adrenaline filled, action packed coasteering tour along the rugged red cliff coastline of Kerry Head. Go wild swimming off grid in beautiful secret lakes. Enjoy family fun on a giant SUP in the sheltered waters of Tralee Bay.

Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.