Guided Tours Archives - Visit Longford https://visitlongford.ie/activity-category/guided-tours/ Explore scenic lakes, heritage sites, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable Irish escapes. Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:48:32 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://visitlongford.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/cropped-Favicon-Nvy-Wht@3x-32x32.webp Guided Tours Archives - Visit Longford https://visitlongford.ie/activity-category/guided-tours/ 32 32 Ballybrannigan Canal Stores https://visitlongford.ie/activity/ballybrannigan-canal-stores/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:36:27 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=16899 Ballybrannigan Canal Stores Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Ireland’s only operational canal storehouse, revitalised as a unique canal‑side hub at Ballybrannigan Harbour Ireland’s only operational canal storehouse, revitalised […]

The post Ballybrannigan Canal Stores appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
A green sign reads "Cuain an Baile Uí Bhranagáin" and "Ballybrannigan Harbour" with "Greenway" and a wave icon, placed in a grassy rural area under blue sky.
A calm canal runs between grassy banks with a small road and boat on the left. Flowerbeds and green shrubs line the water, and a few houses and trees are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
A grassy path runs beside a narrow canal with clear water. Stone buildings and trees are visible in the background to the left and right under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
A canal boat moves past an old stone building heavily covered in green ivy, with cloudy skies above and a few cars parked along the narrow road beside the water.

Ballybrannigan Canal Stores

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Ireland’s only operational canal storehouse, revitalised as a unique canal‑side hub at Ballybrannigan Harbour

Ireland’s only operational canal storehouse, revitalised as a unique canal‑side hub at Ballybrannigan Harbour, providing secure storage and operational support for outdoor recreation and tourism providers while supporting heritage, sustainable enterprise, and new visitor experiences.

What You Can Do

  • Explore a key location on the National Famine Way
  • Experience Ireland’s canal heritage
  • Enjoy the tranquillity of the Royal Canal Greenway

Good To Know

  • Canal storehouse dating from c.1815, originally built to support trade along the Royal Canal.
  • The location of this building, which is sited at the closest point at which the Royal Canal passes the town of Ballymahon and Center Parks

 

Contact Details

Facebook
More Info

Step off the beaten track and discover one of the Royal Canal’s hidden gems. Ballybrannigan Harbour combines stunning canal scenery, rich history, and outdoor recreation in a peaceful rural setting at the heart of County Longford. Visitors can: Explore a key location on the National Famine Way, following the journey of those who travelled the canal in search of a better future. Experience Ireland’s canal heritage through the historic Ballybrannigan Canal Stores, dating from c.1815. Enjoy the tranquillity of the Royal Canal Greenway, ideal for walking, cycling, boating, angling, and nature watching. Visit nearby attractions including Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, Abbeyshrule, its historic aqueduct, and Center Parcs Longford Forest. Discover a unique rural landscape largely unchanged over generations, offering an authentic and unspoilt Irish experience. Ballybrannigan Harbour is where history, nature, and adventure meet—an ideal place to pause, explore, and connect with the story of Ireland’s waterways.

Frequently asked questions

 1. What is Ballybrannigan Harbour?

Ballybrannigan Harbour is a historic harbour on the Royal Canal and an important location along the National Famine Way. It is home to the Ballybrannigan Canal Stores, a former canal warehouse dating from c.1815, and offers visitors a unique combination of heritage, nature, and outdoor recreation.

2. What outdoor activities can I enjoy at Ballybrannigan Harbour?

Ballybrannigan Harbour is an ideal base for walking, cycling, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, angling, wildlife watching, and photography. The harbour sits directly on the Royal Canal Greenway, providing easy access to one of Ireland’s most scenic recreational corridors.

3. Why is Ballybrannigan Harbour historically significant?

The harbour played an important role in the operation of the Royal Canal. The nearby Ticket House was where passengers purchased canal passage, while the Canal Stores were used to store grain and supplies transported by water. The harbour is also a key location on the National Famine Way, representing an important chapter in Ireland’s history.

4. What attractions are located near Ballybrannigan Harbour?

The harbour is conveniently located close to several major attractions, including the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, Abbeyshrule and its historic aqueduct, Center Parcs Longford Forest, and the National Famine Way. This makes it an excellent stop for visitors exploring the wider region.

5. Why should I visit Ballybrannigan Harbour?

Ballybrannigan Harbour offers a peaceful canal-side setting where visitors can experience Ireland’s rich waterways heritage, explore the Royal Canal Greenway, enjoy outdoor activities, and discover an authentic rural landscape largely unchanged for generations.

6. What makes Ballybrannigan Harbour unique?

Ballybrannigan Harbour sits on one of the most beautiful and unspoilt stretches of the Royal Canal, offering a unique destination for boaters, walkers, and cyclists. Home to Ireland’s only operational canal storehouse, it combines rich heritage, outdoor recreation, and authentic canal‑side experiences in a truly distinctive setting.

Accessibility
  • Fully accessible / universally accessible for a wide range of visitors, including people with mobility, sensory, cognitive and hidden disabilities.
  • Step-free access to main entrance and key visitor areas, Accessible parking spaces, Wheelchair-accessible routes throughout the premises, Seating/rest areas available, Assistance dogs welcome, Hearing assistance systems (e.g. induction loop)

The post Ballybrannigan Canal Stores appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Ethical Tours https://visitlongford.ie/activity/ethical-tours-bicycle/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:30:16 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=15835 Ethical Tours Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Discover Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands with Ethical Tours Cycle the scenic Royal Canal Greenway, explore the ancient Corlea Trackway, and immerse yourself […]

The post Ethical Tours appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
Two people wearing helmets and casual clothing ride bicycles on a modern bridge, with a historic building and blue sky in the background. Both are smiling and enjoying the day.
Four children are at a railway platform on a sunny day. Two older boys stand beside bikes, while two younger children, a boy and a girl, sit in a bike trailer. There’s a stone wall and brick building in the background.
Two people wearing helmets ride electric bikes on a gravel path through a forested area. The person in front is smiling and wearing a pink jacket; the person behind is in a blue jacket. Trees and grass are in the background.
Two children wearing helmets ride bikes on a sunny, paved path with green trees and grass. One child wears red shorts and stretches their legs out; a stone bridge arches over the road in the background.

Ethical Tours

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Discover Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands with Ethical Tours

Cycle the scenic Royal Canal Greenway, explore the ancient Corlea Trackway, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Shannon Trails & Newcastle Forest.

Why Visitors Love It

  • Local Expertise: Proudly rooted in the place, we offer insider knowledge and authentic stories seldom found in mainstream tourism.
  • Sustainability Leadership: Our use of electric fleets, solar energy, and strict environmental policies make us pioneers of green tourism in Ireland.
  • Inclusivity: We welcome travellers of all abilities with tailored accessibility, friendly staff, and a commitment to dignity and respect.
  • Community Impact: Our collaborations support the economy of Longford and neighbouring counties, ensuring visitor spending benefits local people.

Good To Know

  • Electric & Manual Bike Hire: Ride high-quality, robust bikes suited to all fitness levels and terrains, riding through woodlands, along canals, or historic pathways.
  • Walking & Hiking Experiences: Explore scenic trails steeped in nature and local history, ideal for families and solo trekkers.

Contact Details

Instagram Tiktok Linkedin Youtube Facebook

The post Ethical Tours appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Setanta Chauffeur Tours https://visitlongford.ie/activity/setanta-chauffer-tours/ Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:37:51 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=15325 Setanta Chauffeur Tours Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Discover Ireland with Exclusive Chauffeur Tours, Luxury Private Transport Tailored to You Travel through Ireland in style and comfort with […]

The post Setanta Chauffeur Tours appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
A black van is parked in front of The Westbury hotel entrance, with green hedges, potted plants, and large windows above the doorway. The Balfe’s restaurant sign is visible near the entrance.
Two women in winter clothes stand on a city street looking at a mobile phone together, with a colourful mural featuring a large figure and fruit painted on the building wall behind them.
A man in a jacket stands next to a black vehicle on a street, smiling, with a historic stone castle on a hill in the background under a cloudy sky.
A smiling man in a dark jacket stands on a cliffside path, pointing towards the Cliffs of Moher and a sea stack rising from the ocean below under a cloudy sky.
A black Mercedes-Benz van parked on a paved road, surrounded by green grass, trees, and bushes under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
A tall, round stone tower stands in the centre of a historic cemetery with gravestones, surrounded by lush trees and rolling hills under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

Setanta Chauffeur Tours

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Discover Ireland with Exclusive Chauffeur Tours, Luxury Private Transport Tailored to You

Travel through Ireland in style and comfort with Setanta Chauffeur Tours, offering a bespoke, luxury transport-only service. Whether you’re planning a multi-day adventure or a private day trip, enjoy the freedom to explore Ireland at your own pace. With an experienced chauffeur and business owner, Paul Smith, you gain access to hidden gems, local insights, and a seamless, stress-free experience.

Why Visit

  • Discover Ireland in Comfort and Style
    Travel through Longford and beyond in a luxury chauffeur-driven vehicle, enjoying a relaxed and personalised touring experience.
  • Tailor-Made Private Tours
    Every itinerary can be customised to suit your interests, whether you’re exploring heritage sites, scenic landscapes, golf courses or hidden local gems.
  • Benefit from Expert Local Knowledge
    Owner and chauffeur Paul Smith brings over 25 years of tourism experience, sharing fascinating insights and recommendations throughout your journey.

Good To Know

  • Private Tours for Individuals, Couples and Small Groups
    Setanta Chauffeur Tours specialises in bespoke experiences designed around your schedule and preferences.
  • Multi-Day Tours and Day Trips Available
    Choose from single-day excursions or extended tours, with flexible itineraries that allow you to explore Ireland at your own pace.

Contact Details

Facebook Instagram Tripadvisor
More Info

The post Setanta Chauffeur Tours appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Brí Leith Walk https://visitlongford.ie/activity/bri-leith-walk/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:52:08 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=14326 Walking trail Brí Leith Walk Trail Class 3 Trail Grade Moderate Brí Leith Walk is a hill walk on a resurfaced old walkway with spectacular views over the surrounding area.Brí […]

The post Brí Leith Walk appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
Walking trail

Brí Leith Walk

Trail Class 3

Trail Grade Moderate

Brí Leith Walk is a hill walk on a resurfaced old walkway with spectacular views over the surrounding area.Brí Leith Walk is a hill walk on a resurfaced old walkway with spectacular views over the surrounding area.

  • Distance: 4.3km with a 200m elevation
  • Parking is available
Map illustration of the Brí Leith Walk in Ardagh Village, showing a trail through forest and countryside, wildlife icons (hare, pine marten, gorse, sparrowhawk, bilberry, fieldmouse, Leisler’s bat), roads, and nearby towns.
Walking Trail

The legend of Midir and Étáin

In the legend of Midir and Étáin, Brí Leith is where the Síd Mound of Midir is located, with the Corlea Trackway resulting from a forfeit he had to perform for the High King Eochaid after losing a game of Fidchell to him. Brí Leith was named by Midir in memory of his daughter Brí and her lover Leith. It is also called Sliabh Calraighe or Ardagh Mountain, which has sent many a person astray in the relatively flat lands of County Longford.

walking trial

Nearby Places to Eat

Whether you're looking for a hearty lunch, a freshly brewed coffee or a traditional Irish meal, the area offers plenty of options to suit every taste. The perfect way to round off a walk, these local eateries provide warm hospitality and a chance to experience the flavours of rural Longford.

Glenview Lounge

Corner house in Drumlish

The post Brí Leith Walk appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre https://visitlongford.ie/activity/corlea-trackway-visitor-centre/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:45:30 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=13756 Corlea Trackway Centre Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Walk the Road of Ancient Kings Hidden away in the boglands of Longford, not far from Kenagh village, is an […]

The post Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
Aerial view of a modern white building with a glass dome roof, surrounded by trees and open fields with patches of water under a bright sky. A long path leads away from the building through the landscape.
A circular museum exhibition room with display cases, information panels, and a compass rose on the floor. The domed ceiling is decorated with a mural of figures and landscape scenes. Natural light enters through glass doors at the far end.
Large ancient wooden boat remains are displayed in a long, well-lit museum room with railings along both sides and a curved blue ceiling.
A close-up view of several weathered wooden planks laid side by side outdoors, forming a flat surface. The wood appears rough, aged, and uneven, with visible knots, cracks, and natural texture.
A modern beige building with a domed glass roof stands in a field with tall grass and vibrant yellow flowering shrubs under a partly cloudy sky.

Corlea Trackway Centre

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Walk the Road of Ancient Kings

Hidden away in the boglands of Longford, not far from Kenagh village, is an inspiring relic of prehistory: a togher – an Iron Age road – built in 148 BC. Known locally as the Danes’ Road, it is the largest of its kind to have been uncovered in Europe. Historians agree that it was part of a routeway of great importance. 

Overview

It may have been a section of a ceremonial highway connecting the Hill of Uisneach, the ritual centre of Ireland, and the royal site of Rathcroghan. The trackway was built from heavy planks of oak, which sank into the peat after a short time. This made it unusable, of course, but also ensured it remained perfectly preserved in the bog for the next two millennia. Inside the interpretive centre, an 18-metre stretch of the ancient wooden structure is on permanent display in a hall specially designed to preserve it. Don’t miss this amazing remnant of our ancient past.

Why Visit

  • Step onto a 2,000-year-old Iron Age roadway at Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, home to the largest known prehistoric bog road in Europe. The remarkably preserved oak trackway offers a rare glimpse into how people travelled and engineered routes through Ireland’s ancient wetlands.
  • Experience Ireland’s hidden history through immersive exhibits that bring the story of the bog, its construction, and the lives of Iron Age communities to life with interactive displays, archaeological discoveries, and engaging interpretation.
  • Enjoy a unique stop in the heart of Ireland’s countryside, where visitors can combine fascinating heritage with peaceful bogland scenery, making it an ideal attraction for history lovers, families, and anyone looking to discover something beyond the usual tourist trail.

Contact Details

Facebook
Opening Times

14 March – 04 November 2026

Daily 10:00 – 18:00

Last admission and final tour is at 17:00

Getting Here

3km from Kenagh village and accessed on the Longford-Kenagh road, R357. 15km from Longford or from the Mullingar-Lanesboro road R392

Facilities

Audio Visual Show

Bicycle Parking

Picnic Area

Toilets

Wheelchair Accessible Toilet

Restrictions

Access by Guided Tour Only

Dogs on lead

The post Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> National Famine Way https://visitlongford.ie/activity/national-famine-way/ Wed, 20 May 2026 10:15:18 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=8232 National Famine Way Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Historic trail tracing the footsteps of famine emigrants. The National Famine Way is a powerful 165km heritage trail passing through […]

The post National Famine Way appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
A pair of old, worn-out black shoes with frayed laces are wrapped together with a tattered white cloth, sitting on a dark surface.
A group of people walk along a gravel path beside a calm canal, surrounded by green grass, trees, and bushes under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
People walk along a canal towpath under a clear blue sky, passing a stone bridge. Some are accompanied by a dog, with grass and trees lining the water on both sides.
A stone memorial with plaques and small shoes sits in front of a stone bridge, with colourful flower baskets on railings and houses in the background. The sky is cloudy.
A black cycling shoe sculpture is mounted on a stone plinth in the foreground, with two cyclists riding on a path and a stone bridge visible in the blurred background.

National Famine Way

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Historic trail tracing the footsteps of famine emigrants.

The National Famine Way is a powerful 165km heritage trail passing through County Longford as The Royal Canal Greenway, and following one of the most significant journeys in Irish history.

It is a moving journey through Ireland’s past, connecting landscapes, stories, and communities along one of the country’s most important heritage routes.

Overview

The National Famine Way is a waymarked walking and cycling trail following the last known journey on Irish soil of 1,490 men, women and children who  were forced to leave Strokestown, Co Roscommon in 1847.

Follow their route to Dublin, collect passport stamps and discover stories, landscapes and local heritage along the way.

These 1,490 people became known as the “Missing 1490”, a lasting symbol of famine-era emigration and hardship.

Why Visit

  • Experience a powerful true story of emigration, resilience and survival.
  • Follow Daniel Tighe’s journey through audio stories at Bronze Shoes locations.
  • Receive a ship ticket linking you to one of the families who left Strokestown in 1847, walk in their footsteps along the National Famine Way and discover their fate when you reach Dublin.

Good To Know

  • Suitable for walkers, cyclists and families, with options for both short and long route sections.
  • Passport Packs and trail information are available online.
  • Download the free National Famine Way app for maps, navigation and audio stories.

 

Contact Details

Facebook Instagram Youtube
Frequently Asked Questions
  1. How long is the National Famine Way? The full route is 165km, stretching from Strokestown Park in County Roscommon to Dublin City. The trail is bookended by two award-winning museums: the National Famine Museum and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. County Longford is home to approximately 33.7km of the route, including Cloondara, Mosstown Harbour, Ballybrannigan Harbour, and Abbeyshrule.
  2. Do I have to complete the entire route? No. The National Famine Way can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Visitors can complete the full 165km route or choose shorter walking or cycling sections that suit their time, interests and ability.
  3. Can I plan my visit online before I arrive? Yes. The National Famine Way website Nationalfamineway.ie provides route maps, trail information, accommodation listings, Passport Pack details, FAQs, suggested itineraries and links to download the free National Famine Way app. It is the best place to start planning your journey.
  4. What is included in an Official Passport Pack? Each Passport Pack includes an official National Famine Way passport, a ship ticket linking you to one of the families who left Strokestown during the Famine in 1847, a commemorative Bronze Shoes lapel pin and trail information to help guide your journey.
  5. What happens when I reach Dublin? Present your National Famine Way Passport and ship ticket at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, where you will receive your final passport stamp, discover the fate of the family linked to your ship ticket, receive your completion certificate and enjoy a reduced admission rate to the museum.
  6. Can I take part in the Annual Remembrance Walk? Each May, the National Famine Way hosts its Annual Remembrance Walk, retracing the journey made by 1,490 men, women and children from Strokestown to Dublin in 1847. Participants can join for a day, a weekend or the full route. Follow our social media channels for registration details and event updates.
Immersive Experience
The National Famine Way tells a unique and poignant story dating back nearly two centuries. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, it follows in the footsteps of 1,490 famine-stricken tenant farmers and their families who left Strokestown in 1847 as part of an assisted emigration scheme organised by their landlord. Their journey took them on foot to Dublin before they boarded ships bound for Canada via Liverpool. From the Glass Memorial Wall at the National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park, the trail winds through the towns, villages and landscapes of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands and Ireland's Ancient East. It ends, appropriately, at the Famine Statues in Dublin’s Docklands near the Jeanie Johnson Famine Ship and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, meaning the trail is topped and tailed by two iconic award winning museums. The National Famine Museum and the National Famine Way are currently cared for and managed by the Irish Heritage Trust. Today, visitors can follow this historic route through six counties, including Longford, using the free National Famine Way app. At each Bronze Shoes sculpture along the trail, audio stories bring the journey to life through the voice of Daniel Tighe, a twelve-year-old boy who made the journey with his family. Through Daniel's perspective, visitors experience the hopes, fears and realities faced by those leaving Ireland during the Famine.

 

More info

Further Information

You can visit NationalFamineWay.ie or follow the National Famine Way on Facebook to see their latest news.

The National Famine Way is an inter-county collaboration between Waterways Ireland and County Councils along the route: Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Fingal and Dublin.

It has been developed by Strokestown Park House, the National Famine Museum, and the Irish Heritage Trust in partnership with Waterways Ireland, the ADAPT Centre for Digital Content.

The National Famine Way is a unique 165km waymarked walking and cycling trail with a poignant story dating back nearly two centuries. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, it follows in the footsteps of 1,490 famine-stricken tenant farmers and their families who left Strokestown in 1847 as part of an assisted emigration scheme organised by their landlord. Their journey took them on foot to Dublin before they boarded ships bound for Canada via Liverpool. From the Glass Memorial Wall at the National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park, the trail winds through the towns, villages and landscapes of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands and Ireland's Ancient East. It ends, appropriately, at the Famine Statues in Dublin’s Docklands near the Jeanie Johnson Famine Ship and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, meaning the trail is topped and tailed by two iconic award winning museums. The National Famine Museum and the National Famine Way are currently cared for and managed by the Irish Heritage Trust. Today, visitors can follow this historic route through six counties, including Longford, using the free National Famine Way app. At each Bronze Shoes sculpture along the trail, audio stories bring the journey to life through the voice of Daniel Tighe, a twelve-year-old boy who made the journey with his family. Through Daniel's perspective, visitors experience the hopes, fears and realities faced by those leaving Ireland during the Famine.

Technology, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

The post National Famine Way appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Ardagh Village Landscapes Garden Tour https://visitlongford.ie/activity/ardagh-village-landscapes-garden-tour/ Wed, 20 May 2026 10:09:40 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=8233 Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Beautiful garden tours in the heritage village of Ardagh. Ardagh Village Landscapes Garden Tour Ardagh Village Landscapes is a unique eco-garden experience in […]

The post Ardagh Village Landscapes Garden Tour appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
A landscaped garden with a stone wall, various green plants, shrubs, and small flowering plants in bloom. Tall trees and part of a building are visible in the background.
  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Beautiful garden tours in the heritage village of Ardagh.

Ardagh Village Landscapes Garden Tour

Ardagh Village Landscapes is a unique eco-garden experience in the heritage village of Ardagh, offering guided tours through beautifully designed biodiversity gardens.

Why Visit

  • Learn about native Irish plants and ecosystems
  • Discover eco-friendly and wildlife-friendly gardening practices
  • Peaceful, hands-on nature experience in a heritage setting

Good To Know

  • Located in Ardagh heritage village, County Longford
  • Group tours available by arrangement

A peaceful and inspiring garden experience where nature, education, and biodiversity come together in the heart of Longford.

Contact Details

Facebook
What to Expect
  • Guided tours with gardener and host Brendan Farrell
  • Two-acre eco-garden with woodland, orchard & vegetable areas
  • Diverse planting of native trees, shrubs & herbaceous species
  • Meandering garden paths through natural landscapes
  • Focus on biodiversity and sustainable gardening

The post Ardagh Village Landscapes Garden Tour appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre, Granard https://visitlongford.ie/activity/knights-conquests-heritage-centre/ Wed, 20 May 2026 10:05:47 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=8213 Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Interactive journey through Norman history and heritage centre. Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre is a step back into […]

The post Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre, Granard appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
Three people, two young women and a man, are looking at and interacting with a large illuminated map or touchscreen display indoors. They appear focused and engaged with the information on the screen.
A smiling child wearing a chainmail hood and light blue shirt stands in the foreground, with another child in a metal helmet and others blurred in the background.
Three people dressed in medieval costumes pose outside a building labelled "Knights & Conquests Exhibition." One person is in stocks whilst two others stand on either side, holding swords and smiling.
A mediaeval metal helmet with gold-coloured decorative elements and studs, hanging on a wooden wall. The helmet features ornate designs along the rim and leather straps attached on both sides.
Two people dressed in historical costumes, holding swords and round shields, pretend to duel at an outdoor event with a marquee and people in the background.
A smiling child wearing a metal crown and chainmail, posing playfully with raised fists, standing indoors with warm light in the background.
Four people stand side by side holding large, round or rectangular shields with different designs, dressed in medieval-style clothing, inside a dimly lit historical exhibition or museum.
A rustic chair covered in animal hide sits in a dimly lit room beside a large informational display titled "5 Defending the Colony." Tree trunks frame the view, creating a forest-like atmosphere.
A rustic wooden cabin interior with fur rugs, a bed covered in furs, a hanging pot over a firepit, a chest, and shelves with plants and wooden items, evoking a cosy, historical atmosphere.
A group of people, including adults and children, stand in a dimly lit room watching a large screen on the wall. The room has wooden fencing and dark walls, creating a cosy and attentive atmosphere.
A group of students in hoodies and uniforms interact with a large touchscreen display in a museum, whilst others observe wooden exhibits in the background.
Two people in hoodies, one wearing a hijab, assemble an arch using large foam blocks in front of a display with stone walls and a printed information panel.
Close-up view of a medieval helmet made of dark metal with visible rivets, chin straps, and chainmail detail, photographed from a low angle against a blurred background.
A man wearing a helmet kneels and holds a sword towards a smiling girl sitting on a wooden throne in a museum exhibit with historical displays in the background.
A smiling girl wearing a bronze medieval helmet stands indoors, surrounded by other people. She has long brown hair and is dressed in a light blue hoodie. The background is slightly blurred, showing an interactive exhibition setting.

Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Interactive journey through Norman history and heritage centre.

Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre is a step back into Norman Ireland at this interactive heritage attraction in Granard, County County Longford.

Why Visit

  • Engaging way to explore medieval Irish history
  • Ideal for families, school groups, and history lovers
  • Combines education with interactive fun

Good To Know

  • Located in Granard, County Longford
  • Flexible self-guided format after introduction tour

A fun, immersive journey into Ireland’s Norman past where history comes to life through storytelling, costumes, and interactive discovery.

 

Contact Details

Facebook Instagram X-twitter
What to Expect
  • Guided introduction from expert heritage guides
  • Self-guided journey through Norman Ireland
  • Interactive exhibits and storytelling displays
  • Friendly staff available throughout your visit
Family Highlights
  • Kids can dress in Norman-style costumes
  • Receive a “Norman identity” and role for the visit
  • Fun interactive quizzes and learning activities
  • Hands-on history experience designed for families
More Info

Along your journey, you will come face-to-face with famous characters from the time including Henry II, King Rory O’Connor and Pope Adrian IV. These help to bring history to life! For instance, hear what Rory O’Connor did to poor Diarmuid’s son! It is not pretty. You’ll also be able to visit a recreated Norman home and learn how they lived. Meet our Norman Knight to find out all about the weapons the Normans used. Find out if you have a Norman name or dig for artefacts in our Norman CSI room.

Your journey ends with a 500-year leap in history to Kitty Kiernan’s drawing room dedicated to one of Granard's most famous residents. Here, we learn of Granard's turbulent history as a rebel front - during the 1798 Rebellion and with Kitty’s role in the War of Independence through her relationship with her fiance Michael Collins. Your visit will end with a beautiful and poignant audio-visual illustration from Kitty herself of life in Granard in the 1920s, the Civil War and her love for Michael.

Granard MotteDuring your visit, you can see Ireland’s tallest Norman Motte, Granard Motte, standing an impressive 534 feet above sea level. When built in 1199, it was one of the largest Motte and Baily settlements in Ireland. It was built by Risteárd de Tiúit (anglicised as Richard Tuite), an Anglo-Irish nobleman who was the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. Standing on the top of the motte is a statue of St Patrick, which was erected in 1932 to mark the coming of the Saint to Ireland in 432AD.

Before or after your visit, eat at The Bailey Café, with teas, coffees and baked treats to enjoy!

Opening hours

Tuesday: 10 am–4 pm
Wednesday: 10:30 am–1 pm
Thursday – Saturday: 10 am–4 pm
Closed Sunday & Monday

The post Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre, Granard appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Maria Edgeworth Centre https://visitlongford.ie/activity/maria-edgeworth-centre/ Wed, 20 May 2026 09:47:22 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=8136 Maria Edgeworth Centre Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Discover the inspiring literary history of Edgeworthstown. Step into the world of one of Ireland’s most influential writers at the […]

The post Maria Edgeworth Centre appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
A bronze statue of a woman in historical clothing stands beside an arched doorway, surrounded by lush green foliage and a cobbled path.
An historic room with antique furniture, bookshelves filled with books, framed portraits on the walls, a mannequin in a period dress, and various artefacts displayed throughout.
A vintage classroom with wooden desks, a globe, and bookshelves. Large maps hang on the walls, and books and papers are arranged neatly. The room has warm lighting and an old-fashioned atmosphere.
A museum room with framed portraits and historical images on the walls, antique chairs, a vintage desk with old items, a mannequin in period costume, and a window letting in natural light.
Two people stand and smile whilst viewing framed pictures and documents on a wall inside a cosy, well-lit room decorated with art, a red patterned rug, a bench, and historical photographs.
A historical classroom display with wooden desks, benches, old books, maps, and a digital screen showing educational content, evoking an early 20th-century school atmosphere.
A man in a red jacket listens to an audio guide in a museum room, whilst two other visitors explore exhibits in the background. Paintings and framed pictures hang on the walls.
Two children in vintage clothing sit at wooden desks in an old-fashioned classroom, smiling and writing. A map, bookcase, and old books are visible in the background, evoking a historical school setting.

Maria Edgeworth Centre

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Discover the inspiring literary history of Edgeworthstown.

Step into the world of one of Ireland’s most influential writers at the Maria Edgeworth Centre.

Located in a historic old schoolhouse in Edgeworthstown, the centre explores the life, work, and legacy of pioneering novelist Maria Edgeworth (1767–1849).

Why to visit

• Learn how Maria Edgeworth influenced literature, education and social reform.

• Discover the story of Edgeworthstown and its remarkable historical connections.

• Experience a unique attraction celebrating Longford’s rich cultural heritage.

Good To Know

  • Family-friendly cultural and educational attraction
  • Features artefacts dating back to the 18th century
  • Housed in one of Ireland’s oldest surviving schoolhouses. 
  • Learn about Maria Edgeworth, a pioneering Irish novelist and educator.

The Maria Edgeworth Centre offers a fascinating journey through Irish literary, educational, and social history — bringing the world of Maria Edgeworth and 19th-century Ireland vividly to life.

Having trouble with this video?

Some of our older videos do not currently have captions or audio descriptions. These videos provide valuable content for our visitors, and due to the significant cost of producing them, we have chosen to retain them while working toward accessibility improvements. If you would like an alternative version or summary of any video, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.

Contact Details

Facebook Instagram Youtube
What to Explore
  • Exhibitions on the life and writings of Maria Edgeworth
  • Insight into 18th and 19th-century Irish rural life
  • Recreation of a traditional 19th-century schoolroom
  • Historic artefacts including desks, books, maps, and writing copies
  • Stories of the influential Edgeworth family
More Info

You can listen to wonderful stories of Edgeworthstown’s past and its connections with historical figures such as Oliver Goldsmith, Sir Walter Scott, William Wordsworth, and Oscar Wilde. The self-guided tour is available in English, Irish, Spanish, German, Italian, French, and Chinese.

Visit MariaEdgeworth.com for more information, including how to book your tour, and information on the Maria Edgeworth Literary Festival which takes place in May every year!

Ahead of your visit, you can also listen to the Longford Tourism podcast episode all about the Maria Edgeworth Centre!

A historical guided walking tour of Edgeworthstown is also available, exploring local heritage and landmarks. Downstairs rooms are wheelchair accessible. On-street parking is available in front of the Visitor Centre and across the road in the park.

Opening hours

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Thursday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday - 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday - 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Frequently asked questions

Q: How long should I allow for a visit?

A: Most visitors spend approximately one hour exploring the exhibitions and self-guided tour.

Q: Do I need to book in advance?

A: Advance booking is not essential for individual visitors, but group visits and specialised guided tours should be arranged in advance.

Q: Is the tour guided or self-guided?

A: Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour with an audio guide available in seven languages. Guided tours can also be arranged.

Q: Is the centre suitable for families?

A: Yes, the centre is family-friendly and offers engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages.

Q: Where is the Maria Edgeworth Visitor Centre located?

A: The centre is located in Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford, approximately 90 minutes from Dublin, with road, rail and bus connections.

Q: When is the Visitor Centre open?

A: The Visitor Centre is open all year, Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am-5pm.

The centre is Partially accessible, with some accessible features and facilities available.
Accessibility features available include Step-free access to main entrance and key visitor areas, Accessible toilet facilities, Seating/rest areas available ,Assistance dogs welcome, Accessible website and/or online booking facilities.

The post Maria Edgeworth Centre appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]> Inventure Water Sports https://visitlongford.ie/activity/inventure-water-sports/ Wed, 20 May 2026 09:39:45 +0000 https://visitlongford.ie/?post_type=activity&p=8092 Inventure Water Sports Family friendly Free to visit Rainy days Guided kayaking tours across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Inventure Water Sports is an outdoor adventure provider in County Longford, offering guided […]

The post Inventure Water Sports appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>
Several people wearing lifejackets and helmets paddle colourful kayaks on a calm lake under a clear blue sky, with green trees and distant buildings visible along the shore.
Several people wearing helmets and life jackets paddle colourful kayaks on a calm lake, with trees and grassy hills visible in the background under a clear blue sky.
A group of people wearing helmets and life jackets paddle colourful kayaks on a calm river near a leafy, tree-lined bank.
A group of children and an adult, all wearing helmets and life jackets, pose together in shallow water near a stone wall, some standing and some sitting on paddleboards, smiling and making peace signs.

Inventure Water Sports

  • Family friendly
  • Free to visit
  • Rainy days

Guided kayaking tours across Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.

Inventure Water Sports is an outdoor adventure provider in County Longford, offering guided kayaking and water-based experiences across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

 

Why Visit

  • Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers
  • Scenic routes including Lough Ree and River Inny
  • Fun group activities and team-building experiences

Good To Know

  • Based in Longford, exploring surrounding waterways
  • Activities run seasonally and depend on conditions

Inventure Water Sports offers a fun, active way to experience Longford’s lakes and rivers — combining adventure, teamwork, and the natural beauty of the Hidden Heartlands.

Contact Details

Facebook
What You Can Do
  • Guided kayaking tours on lakes and rivers
  • Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) experiences
  • Sit-on-top kayak adventures
  • River Inny guided trips (gentle waters & small rapids)
  • Team raft-building activities

The post Inventure Water Sports appeared first on Visit Longford.

]]>