The incredible Neolithic site at Céide Fields atop the spectacular sea cliffs nestled between Belderrig and Ballycastle County Mayo, Ireland, contains the oldest known stone-walled fields in the world – dating back an incredible 6,000 years. The site is one of the most historically significant on the planet. It is a must visit destination along the Wild Atlantic Way route.
Ancient pine tree – 4,500 years old
The Céide Fields offers a new state-of-the-art visitor experience. The enhanced experience at the centre includes improved interpretation that tells the archaeological story of the site and its discovery. A new state-of-the-art audio-visual exhibition encourages tourists to the site to learn more about the rich heritage of the region, and to explore north Mayo and its surrounds.
The site overlooks the awe-inspiring wild Atlantic Ocean which pounds against the base of the cliffs. The landscape itself, made of rock and bog has been forged and weathered by the climate, the sea and the elements, and charts the movement and changing of the earth’s very surface over millions and millions of years. You can imagine how the land looked when the first farmers were living off the land here.
History
The award winning Visitor Centre tells the story of this ancient settlement, which extends for many miles underneath the blanket bog of the North Mayo coast. It tries to solve the mysteries of the people who lived and farmed there many millennia ago. You can see the simple techniques used to map out the settlement and learn about the landscape itself which is so unique to the region.
The award-winning visitor centre is set against some of the most dramatic rock formations in Ireland. A viewing platform on the edge of the 110-metre-high cliff will help you make the most of the breathtaking scenery. Come prepared with protective clothing and sturdy footwear, though. The terrain – and the weather – can be challenging.
If you would like a more in-depth exploration of the landscape, check out the nearby Belderrig Valley Experience. This experience is run by Professor Séamus Caulfield and his son Declan. Professor Caulfield discovered the settlement and originally drove the Céide Fields project.
In 2018, the Céide Fields won the prestigious International Carlo Scarpa Award for Gardens – read more here.
Opening hours & admission:
Opening Hours (17th March – 5th November) 10:00am – 6:00pm (Last admission 45 minutes before closure)
The Céide Ladle tearoom will close at 4pm (we advise you call the visitor centre ahead to verify)
Admission: Adult: €5.00 | Group/Senior: €4.00 | Student: €3.00 | Family: €13.00
Please note, Assistance dogs only are allowed on site and in the visitor centre
Please note, opening times and admission fees are subject to change. Please visit the Céide Fields Visitor Centre website for details.
Contact the Céide Fields Visitor Centre:
Visit: heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/ceide-fields | Email: [email protected] Call: +353 (0) 96 43325
