Kenmare (Irish: An Neidín) is a small town (ca. 1200 inhabitants by 2004) in the south of County Kerry, Ireland. It lies on 2 of the more famous irish tourist attractions, namely the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, approximately 22 miles (38 km) from Killarney. Kenmare has a population of 1844 (CSO 2002).

The modern town was laid out in about 1670 by the English nobleman Sir William Petty, 1st Marquis of Lansdowne. The three main streets that form a triangle in the centre of the town are called Main Street (originally William Street, after the Marquis), Henry Street (after the son of William) and Shelbourne Street, which was named after the Earl of Shelbourne .

However, the area has more ancient roots. There is one of the biggest stone circles in Ireland very close to the town, showing occupation by Celtic peoples long before English occupation.

Vikings are said to have raided the area and named it the 'Head of the Sea'. This translates into the Irish 'Ceann Mara' and was corrupted by the English into the modern day name of Kenmare. The Irish name for the town 'An Neidín' translates into the English 'The Little Nest'.

It is rather famous for the lace work of a nunnery situated in town.

Trivia

According to J. K. Rowling, Kenmare is the Home of a Quidditch Team, the 'Kenmare Kestrels'.

See also

List of towns in the Republic of Ireland