Longford

Longford, one of the smallest of our inland counties, is one of Irelands loveliest with much to attract and entertain the visitor. One of the great lakes on the Shannon, Lough Ree borders this peaceful county to the south, while Lough Gowna adorns its northern boundary. Renowned as Goldsmith Country - you can trace the place names of his musings through the picturesque countryside

Explore

Abbeyshrule
Abbeyshrule is situated east of Ballymahon in a picturesque valley of the river Inny. A Cistercian abbey was founded here in 1150 which was one of the earliest in the country. This was eventually closed by Queen Elizabeth 1 during the Tudor suppression of the monasteries. The Royal Canal passes through Abbeyshrule on its way from the River Shannon to Dublin. Note the Whitworth aquaduct built in 1817 to carry the Royal canal over the River Inny. Abbeyshrule is also associated with Goldsmith Country.

Ardagh
The village of Ardagh lies to the south east of Longford town and has given its name to the diocese in which the greater part of the county is situated. It is said that St. Patrick founded a church here in the 5th century and installed St. Mel as bishop. The ancient ruins of Saint Mel's Cathedral are near the present Church of Ireland and St. Mel himself is said to be buried within the walls. Ardagh is a very attractive Estate Village and its distinctive architecture as a planned estate has led to its designation as a Heritage Village. It has featured regularly in the forefront of the National Tidy Towns Awards.

Ballinamuck
Ballinamuck is one of the most historic towns in north Longford because of the great battle that was fought there in 1798 between the combined Irish and French forces under General Humbert and General Blake and the English under Lord Cornwallis. The little town and its battle became famous in recent years because of the success of Thomas Flanagan's historic novel "The Year of the French" and subsequent film.

Ballymahon
Ballymahon is picturesquely situated on the River Inny. The town has a fine wide street, and many associations with Oliver Goldsmith. The area is said to have seminal influence on Goldsmith and formed the inspiration for his future works.

Drumlish
The village of Drumlish is west of a ridge of low hills running north-eastwards from Newtownforbes to Arva in County Cavan. A famous episode of the Land War took place in Drumlish which is documented in the book "The Land War in Drumlish" by Fr. P. Conefrey. The village is the starting point for the climb of Cairn Hill. It is a pleasant climb and there are fine views from the summit, which is crowned by a cairn.

Edgeworthstown
Edgeworthstown is a successful centre located on the N4. The town has a long association with the celebrated family of Edgeworth, who first settled here in 1583. The Edgeworth family vault , in which Richard Lovell Edgeworth and his daughter Maria, the well known poet are interred, is in the churchyard of Saint John's.

Granard
Granard is a thriving market town located on a busy north/south route (N55). One of its distinguishing features is the Motte of Granard with its Church which is visible from a distance. The town dates its origins back to pre-historic times when it was associated with sun-worship. The town hall is one of the finest buildings in the town which houses the library.

Lanesboro
Lanesboro is in a pivoted position located on the River Shannon at the northern entrance to Lough Ree. The town is called after the family name Lane who owned large tracts of land in the vicinity. The River Shannon divides Lanesboro from Ballyleague which is located on the Roscommon side. Lanesboro today has blossomed into a thriving little town with many facilities for visitors and locals alike.

Longford
The county town on the south bank of the River Camlin and on the main Dublin-Sligo road, is a progressive town and the County Administrative centre. The town is spaciously laid out with wide streets, pleasant buildings and recent impressive urban development. The dome of the 19th century St. Mels Cathedral, a renaissance style building of grey limestone with lofty tower may be seen from quite a long way outside the town.

Attractions

Ballinamuck Visitors Centre, Ballinamuck
Located in the historical former RIS Barracks is a lively exhibition giving details of the battle of Ballinamuck and 1798.

Bogwood Sculpture, Newtowncashel
Bogwood is found in Irish Bogs where it has been preserved for 5,000 years. From this, beautiful sculptures are created by artists Michael and Kevin Casey. At their workshop and studio the story of bogwood is told through video, photographs, charts and finally the finished pieces of sculpture.

Carrigglas Manor, Longford
Carrigglas Manor is the seat of the Lefroy family who are still in residence there. Visit includes a guided tour of the splendid interiors, stable yard, woodland/water garden, costume and lace museum and gallery.

Corlea Trackway Visitors Centre, Kenagh, Longford
Here the centre tells the story of the local Iron Age bog road which was built in the year 148BC across the boglands close to the River Shannon. The oak road is the largest of its kind to have been discovered in Europe and inside the building an 18 meter stretch of preserved road is on permanent display.

Newtowncashel Heritage Centre, Newtowncashel
Traditional Irish Farmhouse with a parlor, kitchen and bedroom featuring furniture, tools, implements and utensils from the early 1930's. There is also a display of machinery from the turn of the century.

Ardagh Heritage Centre
Ardagh Heritage Centre is located in an old schoolhouse built in 1898. The story of Ardagh is one of history, literature and storytelling and the exhibition in the centre draws on the rich fabric of Ardagh life down through the ages, including its association with Oliver Goldsmith, Sir Walter Scott and Maria Edgeworth.

Activities

Angling
The extensive waterways in this county such as the River Shannon, Lough Ree, River Inny, Gowna Lakes and the Royal Canal etc. provide outstanding coarse and game fishing,

Cruising
Longford County and its extensive waterways prove a delight for anyone interested in a cruising holiday.

Cycling
This area has a particular attraction for the cyclist especially with the recent opening of the dedicated cycling route from Killala in Co. Mayo to Ballinamuck in Longford.

Greyhound Racing
A popular spectator sport where the thrill of the race ensures a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Walking
With its scenic beauty, Co. Longford is a delight for all walkers for all enthusiasts.

Flying
Learning to fly is not a problem in this county, where flying lessons are available from qualified instructors.