Who owned the Aran Islands?


Who owned the Aran Islands? The Guinness and St Lawrence families had inherited the Aran Islands from the Digbys through the Barfoots. The Guinness family retained Ashford Castle and the surrounding woods until 1939 when the property was sold to the Irish Government.


Do they speak English on the Aran Islands?

The population of 1,347 (as of 2022) primarily speak Irish, the language of local placenames, making the islands a part of the Gaeltacht. Most islanders are also fluent or proficient in English.


Can you swim in Aran Islands?

Inis Mor is noted for it's sandy sheltered beaches and interesting shorelines. On Inis Mór there is a blue flag beach at Cill Mhuirbhigh which is safe for swimming. During summer this beach is popular and as such has on duty life guards so ensure the safety of swimmers.


What are some fun facts about the Aran Islands?

The Aran Islands are made up of horizontal sheets of Carboniferous limestone and do not have naturally occurring topsoil. The inhabitants raise crops of oats and potatoes on soil that they have made using seaweed, sand, and manure. Some cattle are raised, and subsistence fishing is carried on.


What is the main village on the Aran Islands?

This is the main village of Inis Mor and is one of them most picturesque spots in Ireland. Once for the sole purpose as a fishing port for the Aran fisherman, today it is the main port for the ferry companies, main area for festivals.


Can you live on the Aran Islands?

Houses are available to rent on the Aran Islands at between €300 and €500 per month. The cost of living is very low.


Why are the Aran Islands famous?

Famed for their wild landscapes, distinctive knitted jumpers and pretty cottages, the Irish-speaking Aran Islands never fail to wow. These three islands have maintained the culture and heritage of traditional Irish life, and fascinate the thousands of visitors who make the journey every year.


What animals live on the Aran Islands?

When it comes to fauna there's a wealth of wildlife living on the Aran Islands as well! Seabirds abound in numbers too – including skylarks, Oystercatchers and Northern Gannets – while otters can be spotted at sea searching for their prey along with dolphins who occasionally show up near shorelines.