About

Kinneigh Union of Parishes is situated in a broad tract of picturesque land either side of the fertile Bandon valley. The River Bandon has its source in hills further west. To the south the scene is pastoral with gentle hills and farmland, while the northern side also has moorland and rocky outcrops.

In the centre of the Union, lie the twin villages of Ballineen and Enniskean situated on the R586 main arterial road serving much of West Cork.

The community is largely involved in agriculture with its supportive services. The farms are generally rearing beef and dairy cattle, and work together co-operatively. Within the parish is one of northern Europe’s largest cheese factory producing much of Ireland’s popular brand names. Many other businesses thrive and notably Hosford’s Geranium and Garden Centre which has had a new restaurant added to its already expanding business.

The River Bandon is famous for its sea trout and salmon fly fishing; there are many places to stay locally for holidays. The Irish Natural Forestry Foundation at Manch, just between Ballineen and Dunmanway, demonstrates and promotes natural Irish forestry that is socially and environmentally beneficial as well as economically viable. The Hollies near Kinneigh Church is a fascinating demonstration of sustainable living.

Four fine church buildings serve the Church of Ireland parish; whilst they are mainly rebuilds from the 1800’s, three are standing on extremely ancient religious sites. There are two redundant church buildings and a few other remains of old ecclesiastical buildings.

There are two excellent National Schools (at Desertserges and Ballymoney) supported by the United Dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, giving a fine all-round education for local children.

Church organisations

Mothers’ Union meeting every third Tuesday from September to March.
Youth Club meeting every second Friday of the month and joining in with diocesan events.
Children’s Church meets as part of the services at Kinneigh and Farranthomas during school term times.

An ecumenical choir, Cór Inis Chéin, based at The Church of the Immaculate Conception, sings for various occasions.

The Joy Club run jointly with the Methodist Church is a junior youth club for children of National School Age.

A Mothers and Toddlers Group which meets in St Paul’s Church Centre on Monday mornings during school term time.

The Table Tennis club meets at Castletown-Kinneigh.