Ballyheane – Béal Átha hÉin

Located in the middle of a drumlin belt, this area presents a fascinating landscape of hills and hollows, a testament to an ice age long past.  It remains enviably unspoiled by modern intrusion.  Ballyheane has become a haven for walking enthusiasts.

‘Ballyheane’ translates as ‘the Mouth of the Ford of the Bird’, referring perhaps to the shape of the river itself.  The old graveyard in the centre of the village features an interesting old ruin called ‘Teampall na gCailleachadh Dubha’, ‘The Temple or church of the Nuns’ and also the ruins of an 11th century church.  The Peyton vault commemorates the local landlord family.  Nearby Kinturk Castle dates from the 13th century and has close links with local Norman families. 

A few miles from Ballyheane the village of Errew, meaning ‘Arable Land’, is noted for archaeological features such as forts and souterraines and a Franciscan monastery.  The memory of the 1798 Rebellion is still poignantly kept alive at the French Hill Monument.

Natural Features
Ballyheane River
Extensive Bogland
Buncom Cooley Lake
Killadeer Lake

Heritage Sites
St. Patrick’s Well
Killeen at Buncom Cooley Lake
Old Nunnery
Old Catholic Listed Graveyard
Old village in Drumrud
Crannógs