Miltown Malbay County Clare, Ireland Located in Scenic West Clare Miltown Malbay, County Clare Miltown Malbay, "Sraid Na Cathrach" or "Street of the Fort" is located in West Clare, only a short distance from the Atlantic Ocean.  Its English name derives from the corn mills located in the area in the 1800's, while Malbay probably comes from the Irish "Meall-Bhaigh", meaning treacherous bay.  Miltown Malbay most certainly would be considered the capital of West Clare traditional music.  As home of the annual Willie Clancy Summer School, it is frequented by many noteworthy musicians, and music and dance take place regularly throughout the summer months and on into the rest of the year.  Session at Tom Malone's Pub This original painting was done by Leo Hogan, originally from Co. Clare. It now hangs in the home of Fintan Malone. Willie Clancy (1918-1973) was one of the world's best-known uillean pipers.  Born in Miltown Malbay, he lived in London for many years and upon his return to Ireland, he helped to set up Na Piobairy Uilleann.  Along with Martin Talty, he helped Tom Malone in the early years of the Clonbony Pipe Band.  He lived for a time in Tom's house where he had an influence on the musical style of a young Fintan Malone.  Miltown Malbay is convenient to Shannon Airport, Galway, the Burren, the Killimer-Tarbert ferry and just a short drive from Ennis.  Miltown is only minutes from lovely beaches such as the White Strand and Spanish Point.  It is also within a short drive of world class golf courses.  Fishing, both fresh water and ocean, can be enjoyed by the angler.  The world famous Cliffs of Moher are just minutes from Miltown, as is Doolin, another renown spot for traditional Irish music.  From Doolin there is ferry service to the Aran Islands.  For more information on vacationing in Miltown,  go to "Faha House" page. Loop Head Peninsula in South Clare Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare Spanish Point outside Miltown Malbay Poulnabrone Dolmen in North Clare