Medieval records say that Nendrum Monastery was founded in the 5^th century by Saint Machaoi however there appears to be uncertainty about the exact history of this site. The monastery consists of three round dry stone wall enclosures, one within the other, the central enclosure consists of the ruins of a church, the remains of a round tower, a sundial and a graveyard. The second enclosure contains what is called a “monastic School” or workshop and another burial grounds.

This site is considered to be the best example of a pre-Norman monastery in Northern Ireland. Records have also revealed that a tide mill on the island dates back to 619, making this the oldest excavated tide mill anywhere in the world.

The site is open all year around and is free to view, between July and September there is a visitors centre which opens Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 10am – 5pm which houses interactive and graphic displays, models, artefacts and videos.

Experience Northern Ireland

Finding Treasure in NI

Nendrum Monastic Site – Mahee Island

Nendrum Monastic Site – Mahee Island

Login