Evidence of ancient settlement in the area includes a number of ringfort, stone circle, bullaun, souterrain and hut sites in the surrounding townlands of Milleens and Deelis.

[3][4] Historically associated with Saint Fiachna, there are a number of ecclesiastical sites around Bonane,[5] including a Mass rock at Inse an tSagairt in Innisfoyle townland.

After capturing the priest during Mass, beheading him inside a house at Killowen near Kenmare, and bringing his severed head to Cork city, the six conspirators learned that Catholic Emancipation had just been signed into law and that no reward would be given.

[7] The nearby parish church at Sheana-Shéipéil, described as having "tottering walls" and a "confined unsafe cabin" in 1839, was replaced with a new structure at Milleens in the mid-19th century.

[8] Tourist sites in the area include Bonane Heritage Park, a chocolate factory and traditional farm and visitors centre.