Islands of Ireland: Irons in the fire at Mannin Beg

The island of Mannin Beg had a long and illustrious history before Jeremy Irons' arrival

Kilcoe Castle now the home of actor Jeremy Irons is caught in late afternoon sunlight at Roaringwater Bay in West Cork. Picture: David Creedon

The island of Mannin Beg in West Cork has one of the shortest causeways in the country, but the principle of construction is the same — to provide a link to the mainland and thus obviate the need for a boat. 

However, the causeway dates from only 1978 and construction appears not to have been considered in the previous centuries. The island’s very visible castle, a vibrant peach, was built on the north of the island (not too far from the south). It has a couple of islets nearby for company: Illaunphadrig and Illaunbrone.