Clonalis House
Clonalis House near Castlerea in County Roscommon dates back to 1878 and is regarded by many as the last remnant of the Kingdom of Connacht. The expansive parkland which surrounds the house has been in the possession of the O'Conor family for over 1,500 years. Take a walk through 2,000 years of history and stories that weave back to the last High Kings of Ireland. Discover the history of each room where guides will illuminate the details and weave together the extraordinary lives of the O’Conor clan. Pour over the wonderful collection of art and manuscripts in their museum, drawing room, dining room, library and chapel. Clonalis House is a late Victorian Italianate residence and is widely regarded as one of the most historic of Ireland's great houses. The O'Conor family, as kings of Ireland and then members of parliament for Roscommon, have played a pivotal role in Ireland's history. The family enjoy custodianship of a vast array of heirlooms, artefacts and documents, including the coronation stone of the kings of Connacht and the harp of O'Carolan, the well known Irish bard.
Roscommon County Museum
Roscommon County Museum, in Roscommon town, displays a range of unique items relating to the history of Roscommon. These include: a 9th-century inscribed slab from St. Coman's Foundation; a replica of the Cross of Cong with an inscription that states it was 'made in Roscommon', and a superb example of a 'Sheel na Gig' figure (a figurative carving of a naked woman displaying an exaggerated vulva) from Rahara. The museum is housed in what was formerly a Presbyterian church built in the 1860s. A collection of horse-drawn farm machinery is also displayed in a yard behind the museum. It is run by County Roscommon Historical and Archaeological Society and their journal can be bought there.
Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum
Experience life in rural 19th century Ireland when you visit the award winning Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum, where you can explore their collection of 8,000 objects. A visit will take you back in time, through village shops, the school room and kitchen as you learn the stories and traditions of long ago. Examine the butter churns and other artefacts in the dairy, see old tractor ploughs and other farm machinery. Discover the traditional self sufficient culture of rural Ireland in days gone by. Enjoy the collection of sporting memorabilia, including historic items from Croke Park. Bring back memories from your childhood or introduce the next generation to the way people used to live at Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum. They are open May to September. The premises is wheelchair accessible. Bus tours are welcome.
Margaret’s Kitchen
Margaret, of Margaret’s Kitchen, is passionate about protecting and preserving the art of home baking and cooking. She draws upon the many traditional skills that have their roots steeped in Irish culture. She focuses very much on sustainability and ingredients are sourced locally and used seasonally. She is supported by her husband, Kevin, a keen gardener who grows their own fruit and vegetables. Always a keen baker, Margaret had the honour of winning the National Brown Bread Baking Competition in association with Aldi and The National Ploughing Championships a few years ago. She began to run children’s cooking and baking classes and very soon the mums were also keen to try their hand at her famous bakes. And so, the dream of building her own kitchen classroom was born.
Strokestown Golf Club
Strokestown Golf Club is a scenic 9-hole golf course with stunning views where the higher tee boxes give a perfect vantage of Sliabh Bawn (White Mountain), while the lower tee's highlight the flowing terrain. The course is beautifully maintained to sit perfectly in the surrounding parkland and fields. It provides a stern challenge for golfers of all levels whilst being an enjoyable experience for all. Strokestown is not a long golf course, the par-3 holes are long and protected by bunkers, so accuracy is key. This parkland course is located just outside Strokestown, County Roscommon. Facilities include buggy hire and a practice green. There is also tuition available.
Roscommon Abbey
More than 750 years ago, Felim O'Conor, King of Connacht, established the Abbey of Roscommon, found on the outskirts of the old town of the same name. This County Roscommon ruin has many highlights, including an effigy of a king dressed in a long robe and mantle. It is thought to be O'Conor, who was buried on the grounds, or possibly one of his successors. Though the structure is usually referred to as an abbey, it’s more accurately described as a friary, as it was created for the Dominicans. It has faced many difficult times in its long history, including a fire in 1270 and lightning strike in 1308.
Roscommon Arts Centre
Roscommon Arts Centre is the only dedicated arts venue in Roscommon. It was founded to provide arts facilities for the people of County Roscommon to accommodate the breadth of creative activity in the region, and to actively encourage its development. This busy venue not only boasts a 194 seat theatre, but also has a visual art space and a workshop space. The year round programme features established elements, including theatre, comedy, music, dance, and visual art. There is also a cinema, workshops, and classes, as well as facilitating amateur and professional, regional, and national elements to provide for the wide audience base that the centre continues to develop. Many events take place at the Roscommon Arts Centre during the year. See the website for more detailed information.
Castlerea Golf Club
Castlerea Golf Club was founded in September 1905. The course in Castlerea, County Roscommon, was originally located at Harristown before it moved to its present location at Clonalis in 1907. The land was initially leased from the O’Conor Don family. In 1985, the members purchased the freehold interest in the lands. Today, the club continues to develop the course and grounds, with additional lands purchased in 2007. This development is in close proximity to the famous Clonalis House, the historic seat of the O’Conor Don family. The O’Conor Don family are direct descendants of the last High Kings of Ireland who were also the traditional kings of Connacht. It is said that their demesne at Clonalis is the last remnant of the ancient Kingdom of Connacht. It is a 9 hole parkland course with some beautiful water features to keep an eye out for and a couple of challenging par 3's. One of the most special holes is a short par 4 with a tough water hazard and a green well protected by bunkers.
Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Club
The views from the Carrick-On-Shannon Golf Club course's highest point rival any golf course in the world. The Boyle River and Drumharlow Lake appear to be seamlessly woven into the landscape as both pockets of water touch the land. The original 9-holes are set in mature parkland whilst the new holes wind their way through wetland and over hillocks that give immediate definition and charm to the layout. The course will provide the avid golfer with a variety of challenges while rewarding you with panoramic views. Word of mouth and pictures only tell part of the story. You have to actually go and play the course to get the full experience.
Castlerea Railway Museum
One of the major attractions at the Castlerea Railway Museum, Castlerea, County Roscommon, is locomotive A55, a Metropolitan Vickers of Manchester diesel electric dating from 1955. It was purchased from Iarnród Éireann minus its machinery and moved to the premises. A railway museum has been built around the locomotive. It is one of the largest and most varied repository of railway heritage memorabilia in the country, with the exception of the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. Visits to the museum are by appointment only.
J.C.Doorly's - The Corner House
JC Doorly’s Pub is situated just off the main square in Roscommon Town. A long-established pub, it is full of traditional character and has a very friendly atmosphere. The pub is also a leading traditional music venue with sessions on Friday nights. Everyone, young and old, is welcome at Doorly’s.
Lough Key Boat Tours & Boat Hire
Lough Key Boat Tours & Boat Hire is a family run experience, where visitors can relax on a 1 hour cruise and hear stories of local history, the islands and folklore from knowledgeable guides. Speedboat tours bring guests closer to Castle Island and Trinity Abbey for a more immersive experience. The calm waters and surrounding woodland create a peaceful and memorable atmosphere. With over 40 years’ experience, Lough Key Boat Tours & Boat Hire provides an authentic and enjoyable day out for all ages.
The Courtyard Market Boyle
The Bridgestone award winning Courtyard Market in Boyle, County Roscommon, takes place in the grounds of King House. Providing the finest array of local artisan food, craft, and organic produce, it is the place to go to find a wide range of items, from fresh locally grown veg and delicious homemade baked goods to beautiful local crafts.
Shannonbridge Fortifications
The Shannonbridge Fortifications sit on the banks of the River Shannon and is described as one of the most iconic buildings along the river. These Napoleonic fortifications were built by the British military and date from 1810. The structure protected the bridge against a French invasion from the west. In military terms, the fortifications at Shannonbridge are known as a Tete de Pont, which means bridgehead defence. They have been described as one of the best examples of Napoleonic fortifications in the British Isles. The main building of The Fort was restored by Fergal and Linda Moran and it is the perfect place to stop and visit when in the area. Visit the free exhibition in the main building of the Fortifications. This gives you an insight into why these Napoleonic fortifications were built along the River Shannon. You can also follow the self guided walk around the fort. There is a café and gift shop located within the Fortifications. The River Café is open daily from Easter to October with a great selection of light bites, big bites, sweet treats, pizzas and daily specials. It is a perfect stop for small and large groups with seating outside overlooking the River Shannon. The gift shop stocks a selection of Irish crafts, books and jewellery.
Ballaghaderreen Golf Course
This parkland course is located 3 miles outside Ballaghaderreen. Par for the 18 holes is 70 and the course length is 5,339m. Visitors are welcome at all times, save for Captain's and President's Days, details of which are listed on the website. Large parties are advised to contact the club by telephone. The golf club was founded in 1936 and arrived at its present location in the early 1950s. Playing accuracy here is essential, not because of bunkers, but because of strategically placed trees. Trees play a major part on every hole – or if you're an advanced player, perhaps they’ll play no part at all.
O'Carolan Heritage Park
Keadue is a village in County Roscommon, close to the Leitrim and Sligo borders. The O'Carolan Heritage Park, in the centre of Keadue village, was opened in 1993. Coming from the Irish 'ceideah', meaning 'low-lying hill', Keadue is situated at the foot of the Arigna Mountains, surrounded by lakes and mountains. The village prides itself on being a beautiful, scenic area that showcases all that the west of Ireland has to offer. Keadue has the distinction of being the overall winner of the Irish Tidy Towns competitions two times and has also won numerous other tidy towns-style awards within the county. The annual O'Carolan Harp Festival and Summer School is held in Keadue every August Bank Holiday weekend to commemorate the life of harpist Turlough O'Carolan, who is buried in the village. The composer grew up in the area and has over 200 songs to his name. O'Carolan Heritage Park, meanwhile, features a bronze harp monument by sculptor Fred Conlon modelled on Turlough O'Carolan's harp, fountains, and walking trails, all under the backdrop of the Arigna Mountains. The park also features a reconstructed sweat house, the ruins of which were found on the original site when work commenced on the park. These houses were the forerunners of the modern sauna.
The Irish Whiskey Trail
Each year, Irish whiskey writers and bloggers publish the IrishWhiskey.com shortlist, a list of what they consider to be the very best Irish whiskey tourism venues on the island of Ireland. Their nominations include Irish whiskey distilleries, museums and visitor centres, Irish whiskey pubs, bars and shops, as well as Irish whiskey-focused restaurants and hotels. Great emphasis is placed on the enthusiasm of the owners and staff of venues being shortlisted for awards. The Irish Whiskey Trail Awards are announced each year on International Irish Whiskey Day on 3 March, and it is these award-winners who get listed on the Irish Whiskey Trail, a smartphone-friendly online guide to the very best whiskey tourism venues in Ireland. The Irish Whiskey Trail is very user-friendly: just browse to http://WhiskeyTrail.ie on your smartphone or tablet, search for Irish whiskey bars, whiskey tasting events, or even Irish whiskey-focused hotels and restaurants around Ireland. Browse the venue profiles and use the 'Get Directions' feature to allow your smartphone to guide you right to the door. The Irish Whiskey Trail also allows users to leave ratings, comments, and reviews for each venue. This valuable visitor feedback is used by the Irish Whiskey Trail staff when considering award-winners each year.
Athlone Golf Club
Athlone Golf Club, County Roscommon, was founded in 1892. It has four water features and its feature holes are the 6th, 12th, and 16th. This 18-hole course is par 71 for men, par 75 for ladies. Visitors are assured of a warm welcome and clubs, trolleys, and buggies are available for hire. Apart from the golf club's own catering facilities, which are available all day, there is also a hotel and numerous b&bs adjacent to the club, as well as more accommodation options and restaurants in nearby Athlone.
Jackson's Restaurant
The food at Jackson's Restaurant in Roscommon Town is modern Irish cuisine, with strong European influences. The seasonal pasta dishes from the evening menu prove very popular, which the lunch menu's pasta with beefstrips in chilli cream is a much loved dish of Jackson's. All of our meat and fish is from within Ireland. The evening menu is changed on a seasonal basis, incorporating fresh locally obtained ingredients as they come into season, whereby, you can choose from a variety of game, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Seafood lovers are sure to be pleased with the choices on offer.
Les Petites Tartres
Les Petites Tartres' menu is Irish and European, offering a wide variety of healthy salads, warm butternut squash with quinoa and feta, Burren smoked salmon salad as well as shredded duck and plum to name a few. The café, in County Roscommon, also hosts a wide range of homemade desserts. As well as the standard full Irish breakfast, the café offers a broad selection of healthier options. The coffee is fair trade and organic. Children are catered for and encouraged to enjoy half portions of adult dishes. There is also a colouring area accommodated at an old school desk. The café is known for its ambience, decorated with floral tablecloths, relaxing sofas, pictures and paintings and old fashioned items of décor. The ambience is enhanced by the buzz of chat from locals and visitors alike while others relax on a couch, reading the newspaper.
Zipit Lough Key
Zipit Forest Adventures is fantastic for a fun-filled, environmentally friendly, family day. Bring your mini adventure lovers and experience the excitement of challenging, adrenaline-fueled activities in the treetops. Trained instructors provide assistance and encouragement and help you overcome all the challenges. Climb high up into the trees, ride a BMX bike across a suspended bridge, swing into cargo nets, balance on a rope and if you're feeling brave, try the base jump. After your action-packed day, relax with a well earned treat and delicious coffee at the café and relive all the exciting activities with your friends and family. Pre-booking is advised to ensure availability.
Roscommon Farmer's Market
The Roscommon Farmer's Market takes place every Friday from 10am-2pm in Market Square, Roscommon town. This popular market is community-run and provides an excellent range of fresh food and craft. Enjoy the local and wholesome produce available, including fish, organic eggs, fruit and veg, artisan breads, organic meat, and home baking.
Arigna Mining Experience
Journey through 400 years of mining heritage, where you experience first hand the working conditions and cramped spaces miners worked in for hours at a time. The constant dripping of water and the intensity of total darkness immerses visitors in personal stories of working in Ireland’s coal mining industry. Browse a curated display of historical documents, an extensive photographic exhibition and view original footage of miners at work before the closure of the mines in 1990. This immersive experience leaves a powerful and lasting impression. Visit the onsite café and gift shop, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The underground tour and visitor centre are fully wheelchair and buggy accessible. There are no stairs, lifts or cages.
Pilates and Wellness Irelands Heartlands Retreats
Nestled close to the shores of Lough Ree, just north of Athlone in Lecarrow, County Roscommon, is where you will find Pilates and Wellness Irelands Heartlands Retreats. They offer a holistic approach, with the focus being very much on your self care, and they aim to help you achieve this through balancing your physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual well being. At Pilates and Wellness Irelands Heartlands Retreats, they truly believe that you are the expert in your own body and they aim to empower you to take back that control of your health, for you to feel nurtured and to flourish, and to strengthen your mind, body and spirit. They offer a variety of wellness packages, including wellness for the corporate industry, wellness hen packages or a package to help you create a work/home life balance.