Brownshill Dolmen

About this place

Brownshill Dolmen (Irish: Dolmain Chnoc an Bhrúnaigh) is a very large megalithic portal tomb situated 3 km east of Carlow, in County Carlow, Ireland. Its capstone weighs an estimated 150 metric tons, and is reputed to be the heaviest in Europe. This dolmen has three large uprights and two recumbent stones at the other end. The tomb is listed as a National Monument. Known as the Kernanstown Cromlech, sometimes spelled as Browneshill Dolmen, it is sited on the former estate house of the Browne family from which it takes its name. It lies just off the R726 road regional road and is clearly visible from the road. The tomb was built between 4000 and 3000 BC. It is distinguished for the flanking of its burial chamber with two large upright stones (orthostats) supporting the granite capstone (roof) of the chamber. The capstone is thought to have been covered by an earthen mound and a gate stone blocked the entrance. At Brownshill both portal stones and the gate-stone are still in situ; the capstone lies on top of the portals and gate-stone and slopes to the ground away from the entrance. The dolmen has not been excavated. A nearby fourth upright stone stands close by and might be the remains of a forecourt.

Visitor Information

Heritage status

Protected Heritage Site

Getting There & Parking

Brownshill Dolmen is located in County Carlow, roughly 90 km (1h 20m drive) from Dublin. The nearest public car park is 274 m away. Nearby highlights within a short drive include VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art (3.1 km away).