Toberaniddaun, Saint Senan's Holy Well, Feagarroge
Townland: Feagarroge, Vandeleur Estate, Kilrush
Description of Holy Well and Landscape Setting
The name Toberanniddaun may originate from the word ‘nead’ or nid, meaning a nest in Irish. It is generally agreed locally that this well is dedicated to Saint Senan. The well consists of a shelter in the little river on the Vandeleur Estate, beside Kilrush town. The structure slows the stream flow sufficiently to allow pilgrims to reach into the well. The Vandeleur Demesne is now managed by a local community group.
Saint and Feast Day Associated with Holy Well
The well is believed to be dedicated to Saint Senan, who lived during the 6th century and was founder of the monastic settlement on nearby Scattery Island (Inis Cathaigh). 8th March is the traditional feast day of Saint Senan.
Natural Heritage around the Holy Well
The stream flows through a wooded area of mostly indigenous trees – ash, sycamore, a few oak trees and some alder.
Heritage Attractions Nearby
Vandeleur Estate offers walks and a fine walled garden. Kilrush Town which is beside the estate has all amenities. Dolphin sighting trips and visits to Scattery Island are available from the Marina seasonally.
Additional information
There are many holy wells dedicated to Saint Senan in County Clare. These include Carrowmanagh South, Inishcealtra Doonass wells 1 & 2, Tullaher, Shyan, Kilkee Termon East, Erribul, Feagarroge, Kilcloher (Kilballyowen) Leadmore East, Drim, Teernagloghane, Scattery Island, Killanena (Clonlea), Rinemackaderrig, Molougha.
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Record of Monuments and Places Number
RMP-CL067-01103
Comments about this page
Just saw a recent photograph of this well, on Facebook. The roof of the well is gone and the surrounding walls have lost some of the blocks. It looks sorely neglected, what has happened?
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