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Top Clare Locations You Can Reach Directly by Bus from Ennis

Bus Around Clare

Below are some top places around Clare you can reach from Ennis using direct Local Bus services. It’s a great value and a wonderful way to experience Clare!

Explore Kilrush by Bus

A Perfect Day Trip from Ennis

Take the TFI Local Link bus or Bus Eireann from Ennis and embark on a delightful day trip to Kilrush, a heritage town at the mouth of the River Shannon on the Wild Atlantic Way.  Kilrush, celebrated for its rich maritime tradition, offers a variety of activities and charming spots for visitors. The TFI Local Link bus (Route 337) conveniently stops at both Kilrush Town Centre and Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre, making it easy to explore the main attractions on foot.

Start your adventure at Kilrush Marina, a great spot to enjoy the town’s maritime heritage and beautiful coastal views. From here, you can take seasonal boat trips to the early Christian settlement on Scattery Island or enjoy exciting dolphin watching trips with Discover Dolphins Kilrush to see Europe’s largest group of resident Bottlenose Dolphins. For more thrill, West Clare Rib Adventures offers exhilarating sea excursions along the rugged coast.

Next, take a leisurely stroll to the beautifully renovated Vandeleur Walled Garden, located within Kilrush Woods, just 1.5 kilometres from Kilrush Town Centre. This Victorian-era garden, known for its unique plants that flourish in the local microclimate, also features a horizontal maze and a giant outdoor chess set. The surrounding Kilrush Woods provides a perfect setting for peaceful walks and nature trails, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment.

While in Kilrush, take some time to explore the town’s quaint cafes and shops. For a bit of shopping, visit the local boutiques and craft shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade goods.

Ennis to Kilrush via Kildysart Bus Details with TFI Local Link

  • Bus Service Provider: TFI Local Link
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Friar’s Walk Bus Stop Clare Museum and Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 335. Operates Monday to Friday. Daily Service.
    • Route 337. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. This service includes a stop at Vandeleur Walled Garden.

For route details and times visit www.locallinklc.ie/clare-routes/ and use the ‘Clare Route Finder’. Select ‘Ennis’ and ‘Kilrush’

Ennis to Kilrush Bus Details with Bus Éireann

  • Bus Service Provider: Bus Éireann
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 336. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. 

For route details and times visit www.buseireann.ie and search route  ‘336’. Use the day of week filter.

Hop on a Bus from Ennis to Mountshannon

Make for the Lake!

Mountshannon, East Clare

Take the TFI Local Link bus from Ennis for a memorable and convenient day trip to the picturesque village of Mountshannon, nestled at the foot of the Slieve Aughty Mountains on the shores of Lough Derg. Mountshannon offers a wealth of serene activities perfect for a relaxing day out. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk around Mountshannon Harbour, a tranquil spot with stunning views of Lough Derg. From here, you can admire Inis Cealtra (Holy Island) from a distance, a site steeped in historical and ecclesiastical significance.

For a gentle stroll, explore the Woodpark Forest and Fairy Trail, ideal for families and those looking to enjoy the natural beauty at a relaxed pace. After your walk, enjoy a coffee and some light refreshments while soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this lakeside village. Aistear Park, with its labyrinth, children’s playground, and picnic area, provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a packed lunch.

Ennis to Mountshannon Bus Details

  • Bus Service Provider: TFI Local Link
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Friar’s Walk Bus Stop Clare Museum and Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:

    • Route 344. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. The route continues on to Whitegate.

For route details and times visit www.locallinklc.ie/clare-routes/ and use the ‘Clare Route Finder’. Select ‘Ennis’ and ‘Mountshannon’

Take the Bus from Ennis to Kilkee

A Perfect Seaside Day Trip

Kilkee, West Clare

Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, the seaside town of Kilkee is a gem on County Clare’s Atlantic coastline. With its charming 19th-century Victorian atmosphere and modern amenities, Kilkee offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for visitors arriving by bus. Start your day at the 1.5km-long Blue Flag beach, renowned as one of Ireland’s safest bathing spots. For breathtaking views and invigorating walks, head to the magnificent Kilkee Cliffs. These cliffs, though not as tall as the Cliffs of Moher, are equally impressive and free to enjoy year-round. Various walking routes along the cliffs range from short 30-minute strolls to longer hikes, all beginning at the Diamond Rocks Car Park on the West side of the town..

The natural horseshoe-shaped bay of Kilkee is another highlight, featuring the famous Pollock Holes—beautiful natural swimming pools formed by a reef. On the opposite side, Georges Head offers spectacular vantage points over Bishop’s Island and the Loop Head Peninsula. After exploring, unwind at one of Kilkee’s quaint cafés, or enjoy a relaxing bite after a dip in the Pollock Holes.

Kilkee is a vibrant town that comes to life, especially during the summer months, with events, local restaurants, and live music. The Kilkee Cliff Walk is a must, offering stunning coastal views and a choice between shorter or longer routes, both leading back to town with panoramic views over the bay. Whether you’re here for the stunning landscapes, a refreshing swim, or just a taste of authentic Irish charm, Kilkee is the perfect day trip destination.

Ennis to Kilkee Bus Details with TFI Local Link

  • Bus Service Provider: TFI Local Link
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Friar’s Walk Bus Stop Clare Museum and Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 335. Operates Monday to Friday. Daily Service.

For route details and times visit www.locallinklc.ie/clare-routes/ and use the ‘Clare Route Finder’. Select ‘Ennis’ and ‘Kilkee’

Ennis to Kilkee Bus Details with Bus Éireann

  • Bus Service Provider: Bus Éireann
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:

    • Route 333. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. 
    • Route 336. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. 

For route details and times visit www.buseireann.ie and search route ‘333’ or ‘336’. Use the day of week filter.

Take the TFI Local Link Bus From Ennis to Ballyvaughan

Combine a Day Trip with a Scenic Burren Walk

Ballyvaughan, North Clare

Ballyvaughan, a Discovery Point along the Wild Atlantic Way, is a picturesque village with charming restaurants, gastro pubs, and craft shops.

Begin your visit with a stroll along Ballyvaughan’s waterfront and pier, where you can enjoy serene views of Galway Bay. The pier is a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of the water and watch the boats as they come and go, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. If you’re visiting between April and September, don’t miss the weekly Saturday Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local produce.

For those who enjoy walking, Ballyvaughan provides an 8km loop walk through minor roadways, green lanes, and woodland. This scenic route offers splendid views of the Burren’s folded limestone layers and passes close to Aillwee Cave at Aillwee Experience, one of the area’s most famous attractions. The walk requires a medium level of fitness and takes between 2 to 2.5 hours. After your walk, relax at one of the village’s cosy cafes or enjoy a meal at a local pub.

Ennis to Ballyvaughan Bus Details

  • Bus Service Provider: TFI Local Link
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Friar’s Walk Bus Stop Clare Museum and Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 331. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services.

For route details and times visit www.locallinklc.ie/clare-routes/ and use the ‘Clare Route Finder’. Select ‘Ennis’ and ‘Ballyvaughan’

Take the Bus from Ennis to Bunratty

A Day Trip to Historic Ireland

Bunratty, East Clare

Take the bus from Ennis to Bunratty for a day trip to one of Ireland’s most iconic tourist destinations, conveniently accessible via Bus Éireann Expressway or The Big Green Bus (Dublin Coach). Bunratty is renowned for its well-preserved Bunratty medieval castle, where you can explore grand chambers filled with medieval furniture and learn about the storied past of this historic site. The adjacent Bunratty Folk Park offers a charming glimpse into 19th-century village life, complete with traditional cottages, shops, and even Pa’s Pet Farm, which is home to rare native Irish animals.

After exploring the park, stroll through the village to browse Irish crafts at Blarney Woollen Mills or Meadows and Byrne. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a meal or coffee at one of the local restaurants, and don’t miss a visit to Durty Nelly’s, a legendary pub nestled in the shadow of the castle. This day trip from Ennis to Bunratty is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich history and culture, all within a short 30-minute bus ride.

Ennis to Bunratty Bus Details with Expressway

  • Bus Service Provider: Expressway
  • Ennis Bus Stop: Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 51. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services.

For route details and times visit www.buseireann.ie and go to timetable. Search under route for route 51.

Ennis to Bunratty Bus Details with ‘The Big Green Bus’

  • Bus Service Provider: The Big Green Coach (operated by Dublin Coach)
  • Ennis Bus Stop: Friar’s Walk Bus Stop Clare Museum
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:
    • Route 300. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services.

For route details and times visit www.dublincoach.ie and go to timetable. Key in ‘Ennis’ and ‘Bunratty’ and select  your travel time.

Escape to Lahinch from Ennis with TFI Bus Éireann

Enjoy a Fabulous Seaside Day Trip

Travel from Ennis to the seaside town of Lahinch with TFI Bus Éireann for the perfect day trip filled with outdoor adventure and coastal relaxation. Lahinch, famous for its world-class surfing, boasts a stunning two-kilometre Blue Flag beach along Liscannor Bay, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and catching some waves. All the equipment you need for surfing can be rented or book a ‘learn to’ class!

Enjoy a scenic walk along the promenade, where the beach is flanked by rolling dunes and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. After soaking in the seaside atmosphere, explore the lively main street of Lahinch, lined with charming shops, pubs, and cafes. Whether you’re in the mood for a coffee, a leisurely lunch, or browsing for local crafts, Lahinch has everything you need to make your seaside day trip truly memorable.

Ennis to Lahinch Bus Details with Bus Éireann

  • Bus Service Provider: Bus Éireann
  • Ennis Bus Stops: Ennis Bus & Train Station
  • Bus Frequency and Route Number:

    • Route 333. Operates Monday to Sunday. Multiple Daily Services. 

For route details and times visit www.buseireann.ie and search route ‘333’. Use the day of week filter.