Knock Shrine



A typical Irish village, Knock was thrust into the spotlight in 1879 when a divine apparition turned it into one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world.

The Knock Shrine, made up of five churches and a museum, now dominates the area, attracting pilgrims from far and wide who are desperate to relive a story that began on the evening of 21 August 1879.

The tale started with two rain-soaked local women startled by a vision against the southern gable of the parish church. Frozen in a dazzling white light, it reportedly showed Mary, Joseph, St. John the Evangelist and a sacrificial lamb upon an altar. The two women were quickly joined by another 13 villagers and, together, they stood gazing at the vision for two hours as darkness fell.

The church launched an immediate investigation into the claims and eventually declared the story to be true, leading to many other Vatican-approved “miracles” as sick and disabled pilgrims claimed to be cured after visiting the shrine.

The original parish church has long since disappeared, replaced by a modern chapel featuring a scene of the apparition carved from white marble. It also houses a piece of stone, rubbed smooth by the number of hands and lips that have touched it, from the original church.

The striking Basilica of Our Lady, Queen of Ireland, capable of accommodating 10,000 worshippers, stands nearby and, across a vast plaza, Knock Museum charts the entire story of the miraculous apparition of 1879.

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Knock House Hotel

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Things to do near Knock Shrine

In Knock Shrine, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as spa treatments and running. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, making it perfect for those seeking an activity break or adventure trips. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the region while exploring its scenic trails and indulging in relaxation.

Shopping

In Knock Shrine, visit the Foxford Woollen Mills and the Angling Advice Centre, both located 24.1km away, for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Tuam Shopping Centre, situated 30.6km away, offers a bustling atmosphere with various shops and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

At Claremorris Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, just 11.3km from Knock Shrine. Balla Golf Club, located 14.5km away, offers a charming outdoor experience. For sports enthusiasts, McHale Park, 25.7km away, provides a vibrant atmosphere for various athletic activities.

Adventure

Embark on the Great Western Greenway, a scenic 22.5km hiking trail that offers adventure and breathtaking outdoor views. Alternatively, explore the Lake Lannagh Hiking Trails, located 25.7km away, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the thrill at Tir na nOg Fun Park, just 8.0km from Knock Shrine, with its arcade adventures. For a cultural evening, visit TF Royal Theatre, 25.7km away, or Mall Theatre, 30.6km away, both offering a blend of romance and entertainment for all the family.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Knock Shrine

Knock Shrine and its surroundings offer a captivating blend of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the serene shrine, historic church, and impressive monuments, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of County Mayo. Whether you seek spiritual reflection or a touch of adventure, the area caters to all interests, ensuring a memorable visit for every traveller.

  • Marian Shrine: Just a short walk from Knock Shrine, the Marian Shrine offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. The rich cultural vibes make it a perfect spot for visitors to connect with their spirituality and witness the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  • Knock Folk Museum: Located nearby, the Knock Folk Museum showcases the local heritage through engaging exhibits. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and history of the area, making it a delightful experience for those interested in learning about Irish traditions.
  • St Patrick's Church: Situated 11.3km away, St Patrick's Church is a stunning example of ecclesiastical architecture. The church is steeped in history and offers a tranquil setting for worship, while its cultural significance adds to the charm of any visit.

Best time to go to Knock Shrine

The best time to visit Knock Shrine can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Knock Shrine falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Knock Shrine falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.1°F (4.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
August56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
September54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
October49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
December41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Knock Shrine

To save money on your trip to Knock Shrine, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance typically yields the best rates, especially on Wednesdays, the cheapest day to stay. For spontaneous travellers, check Expedia’s last-minute deals for potential savings. Use the price filter on Expedia to find affordable hotels and consider package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities for better rates. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, for the best deals on hotels around Knock Shrine.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Knock Shrine are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Knock Shrine about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Knock Shrine is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Knock Shrine is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at Knock Shrine with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia