Castletownshend, St Barrahane ~ The Church of Somerville and Ross

Find us on the Worth a Visit – Tourist Map

St. Barrahane’s Church [“the beautiful little Church on the hill” as the Most Rev. G.O. Simms called it]  is well worth a visit. It is well known for its beautiful stain-glass windows, three of them by the famous Harry Clarke and  three by Powell of London.

There are 52 steps up to the Church, one for every Sunday of the year.

In the porch is an oar from the S.S. Lusitania circa 1915.

The famed authors, Dr. Edith Somerville and Violet Martin  [Martin Ross] are buried on the bank at the east end of the Church.

The ancient altar and the reredos are said to have come from the original Church at Castlehaven.

The floor mosaic in the Chancel was designed by Edith Somerville.

The Church is open at all times.

There is limited parking on the hill below the steps.

There is no admission charge but there is a wall safe in the porch for anyone who wishes to make a donation.

There is no souvenir shop; post cards and Church guides are available in the porch.

Disabled access is available by arrangement with the Churchwarden.

There are no toilet facilities.

Other Places to Visit