Killary Sheep Farm
Authentic Connemara Mountain Experience 🐑⛰️
Overlooking the breathtaking Killary Fjord on the Wild Atlantic Way, Killary Sheep Farm is a traditional working mountain farm that has been in the same family for generations. Run by expert farmer Tom Nee, the farm is home to approximately 200 Blackhead Horned sheep that roam freely across the rugged terrain.
Visitors are invited to step into the boots of a Connemara farmer, witnessing the incredible intelligence of working sheepdogs, the ancient art of turf cutting, and the traditional methods of hand-shearing. With the dramatic backdrop of Ireland’s only fjord, it offers one of the most picturesque and genuine insights into rural Irish life available today.
Tour Activities & Seasonal Highlights
Tours are highly interactive and vary slightly depending on the time of year to reflect the natural farming cycle:
| Activity | Availability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sheepdog Demos | All Year | Watch Sweep, Lassie, and Fly herd sheep with incredible precision. |
| Turf Cutting | All Year | Try your hand at using a “slean” to harvest peat from the bog. |
| Lamb Feeding | Mar 17 – Aug 15 | A favorite for families—help bottle-feed the orphaned lambs. |
| Hand Shearing | Jun 1 – Aug 15 | See sheep shorn using traditional hand shears instead of machines. |
Daily Tour Times: 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm (Booking is essential).
Pricing: Individuals: €12.00 | Families (2+2): €40.00 | Groups: Contact for rates.
Note: Don’t worry about the weather! Tom provides waterproof raincoats, wellington boots, and walking sticks for all guests on arrival to ensure you stay dry while exploring the hills.
Contact & Location
Phone: +353 (0)87 298 8051
Email: [email protected]
Location: Bunowen, Leenane, Co. Galway, H91 EPEO
Important Access Note: The farm is located down a narrow road. **Strictly no full-size coaches** (buses are limited to a maximum length of 9 meters).
FAQs about Killary Sheep Farm
Is the farm open during the winter?
Yes, the farm is generally open all year round, weather permitting. However, the most interactive experiences like lamb feeding and shearing are strictly seasonal (Spring/Summer). Always call ahead during the off-season to confirm.
How long does the tour last?
A standard tour lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. If you wish to take photos of the stunning fjord views or spend more time with the animals, it is best to allow about 2 hours for your total visit.
Is it suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the sheepdog demonstration can be viewed from a relatively flat area near the yard, the turf cutting and mountain walks involve traversing uneven, boggy, and sometimes steep terrain. Please mention any mobility concerns when booking.
Sheep Farm Experience with amazing views 🐑 ⛰
Experience the life on a traditional Connemara mountain sheep farm with Tom Nee, who provides impressive displays of sheep herding with holly, his wonder sheep dog along with demonstrations of sheep shearing, bog cutting and lamb feeding. Tom who is a 4th generation farmer gives a hugely informative demonstration which provides a wonderful insight into Connemara life.
Tom’s farm, located on the southern shores of Killary Harbour, 6km from Leenaun consists mainly of blackhead horned sheep which are best suited to withstand the harsh winters in the mountains of Connemara. This is a traditional working mountain farm with approximately 200 ewes and lambs roaming around the mountain with the scenic backdrop of beautiful Killary Fjord. All outdoor footwear and rain wear supplied by Tom.
The views alone are worth the price of a ticket.
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