Walk the Magical Irish Island That Hosted an Oscar-Nominated Film
On a captivating island off the coast of Ireland, visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery of white-sand beaches, expansive lakes, and rugged coastlines, all while tracing the footsteps of characters from a critically acclaimed film.
The Cinematic Connection to Achill Island
Martin McDonagh's 2023 film The Banshees of Inisherin garnered eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won numerous other accolades. Its stunning visual appeal has inspired many to seek out the real-world locations where it was shot. For those eager to experience this spectacular scenery firsthand, there is exciting news: the majority of the film was captured on a single, accessible island.
Accessing Achill Island's Dramatic Landscapes
Achill Island, situated off the County Mayo coast, is conveniently reachable by car. It is linked to the mainland via the Michael Davitt Bridge and can be easily accessed using the N59 route from Westport to Mulranny, followed by the R319, as detailed by Achill Tourism. This connectivity makes it an ideal destination for travellers looking to explore its cinematic and natural wonders.
Key Filming Locations to Explore
On the island's south-eastern side, Cloughmore served as the backdrop for JJ Devine's pub, known as Jonjo's in the film. Although the structure was purpose-built for production and later dismantled, meaning it is no longer visible today, the area remains a popular spot for birdwatching and offers sweeping coastal panoramas that are well worth a visit.
Heading westward from Cloughmore along the shoreline, visitors will find the location used for the fork in the road scene, distinguished by a statue of the Virgin Mary in the film. In reality, no fork exists at this spot; the production team placed the Mary statue there specifically for filming. This site was also used for the sequence where Colm, played by Brendan Gleeson, escorts Pádraic, portrayed by Colin Farrell, home after a beating in the village.
Iconic Scenes and Their Real-World Settings
The film's memorable opening sequence, featuring a cheerful Pádraic wandering into frame against a vividly coloured, rainbow-tinged landscape, was filmed at Purteen harbour, located between Keel and Pollagh. The production team transformed this site into a harbourside street scene, complete with the island's post office. The shop, O'Riordan's, was constructed specifically for the film, while the row of fishermen's cottages was merely a facade.
Keem Bay is a breathtaking beach renowned for its white sands and gorgeous turquoise waters, making it one of Ireland's most beloved coastal destinations. It also serves as the location for Colm and Pádraic's closing scene. The structure featured there is privately owned and was not purpose-built for the film; it remains standing, though the actual scene was filmed on a studio set.
Corrymore Lake provides the poignant backdrop for Dominic's, played by Barry Keoghan, and Siobhán's, portrayed by Kerry Condon, heartbreaking exchange and his demise. Additionally, St Thomas's Church in Dugort, a 19th-century Church of Ireland structure, functioned as the setting for the Catholic Mass sequences in the film. It remains an active church and is not accessible to visitors outside of service times.
Why Achill Island Captivates Visitors
Beyond its cinematic fame, Achill Island offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From its dramatic coastlines and serene lakes to its historical sites, the island provides a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. Whether you are a film enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Achill Island promises an unforgettable experience that echoes the magic of The Banshees of Inisherin.
