Few television comedies have left as lasting an impact on Irish and British pop culture as Father Ted. The surreal and irreverent sitcom, which aired from 1995 to 1998, followed the misadventures of three hapless priests—Father Ted Crilly, Father Dougal McGuire, and Father Jack Hackett—on the fictional Craggy Island. While the setting was fictional, many of the show’s iconic locations were filmed in real places across Ireland. For devoted fans, visiting these spots is like stepping into the world of Father Ted.
1. The Parochial House – Glenquin House, County Clare
The most famous location from Father Ted is undoubtedly the Parochial House, where the three priests and their housekeeper Mrs. Doyle reside. The house is actually Glenquin House, a private residence in Kilnaboy, County Clare. Fans can view it from the road, but since it is a private home, visitors are asked to be respectful. Occasionally, the owners host Father Ted themed events, providing fans a chance to get a closer look.
2. The Mainland – Ennistymon, County Clare
Many of the scenes set on the “mainland”—where the priests escape from the isolation of Craggy Island—were filmed in the town of Ennistymon. Notably, the famous “Lovely Horse” music video scene was filmed here, as well as various street scenes that appear throughout the series.
3. The Aillwee Caves – County Clare
The Aillwee Caves served as the setting for the episode “The Mainland,” where Father Ted and Father Dougal get lost inside the cave system. Located in the Burren, this tourist attraction offers cave tours, a birds of prey center, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. The Craggy Island Fair – Kilfenora, County Clare
Kilfenora, a picturesque village in County Clare, was used for various exterior shots throughout the series. The village square appears in several episodes, and Kilfenora Cathedral was used in the episode “Tentacles of Doom.” Today, Kilfenora embraces its Father Ted connections, and fans visiting the area will find a few nods to the show, including themed events.
5. The Beach – Fanore, County Clare
Fanore Beach is the site of one of the most memorable Father Ted moments: the “Funland” scene in “Good Luck, Father Ted.” This remote beach was transformed into the chaotic funfair, featuring thrilling attractions like “The Spinning Cat” and “The Crane of Death.” It remains a scenic spot along the Wild Atlantic Way.
6. The Pub – Vaughan’s Pub, Kilfenora
Vaughan’s Pub in Kilfenora served as a backdrop for some of the series’ pub scenes, where Father Ted and company would frequently get into trouble. Today, the pub welcomes fans who want to enjoy a pint in a location that played a role in the beloved show.
7. The Most Boring Priest Competition – Limerick
The episode “Entertaining Father Stone” featured the notorious “Most Boring Priest” competition. While the exact filming location isn’t well documented, it is known that several scenes were shot around Limerick, adding to the region’s Father Ted legacy.
Visiting Craggy Island: A Fan Experience
Although Craggy Island itself isn’t real, the show’s filming locations provide a fantastic opportunity for a Father Tedpilgrimage. Every year, fans gather for TedFest, an annual festival held on Inis Mór, one of the Aran Islands, which unofficially stands in as the real-life Craggy Island. The event features Father Ted trivia, lookalike contests, and plenty of tea-making competitions.
For fans of Father Ted, visiting these iconic locations is a journey filled with nostalgia, laughter, and a touch of surrealism—just like the show itself. So, grab your best black suit, practice your “Go on, go on, go on,” and embark on a trip through the world of Father Ted.
Author: jonathan
Jonathan is the publisher of Irishtopia.net, Anglotopia.net, and Londontopia.net. He's passionate about travel and learning about other cultures. He's been to Ireland several times, and uses his travel expertise for Irishtopia!
