In the late 14th century the tower castle was erected in a stone fort which dates back to a thousand years earlier. In the summer of 1931 Orson Welles, the great American actor/director, then 16 years old, stayed on Inis Oirr for some weeks, while he toured the west coast on a horse and cart.
A folk museum has been built on the island which consists of a thatched cottage, a craft shop, a gallery with old photographs, books and tearooms. Once again walking is the best method of seeing the island. One interesting walk is from the East Village down to the lighthouse at Fardurris Point. The Aer Arann airfield is situated on the northern side of the island. Tigh Ned and Tigh Ruairi are 2 good atmospheric pubs and the Fisherman’s Cottage Restaurant is to be recommended, especially for fresh seafood.