County Longford Travel Guide

Discover the stunning County Longford in Ireland with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to County Longford

County Longford is a hidden gem located in the heart of Ireland, in the East Coast and Midlands region. Despite its small size, this county boasts breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Surrounded by natural wonders, including vast lakes and rolling hills, County Longford is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in County Longford

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, County Longford offers something for everyone. Here are our top picks for must-visit places in County Longford:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Mel’s Cathedral: A masterpiece of neo-classical architecture, this stunning cathedral was rebuilt after a tragic fire in 2009 that destroyed much of the building.
  • Ardagh Heritage Village: This picturesque village is home to one of Ireland’s most famous monastic sites - the 6th-century St. Mel’s Church.
  • Granard Motte and Bailey: This ancient fortress dates back to the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre: This museum showcases an Iron Age bog road, which was built over 2,000 years ago.
  • Longford County Museum: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of County Longford.

Natural Attractions of County Longford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lough Ree: This stunning lake is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and boating.
  • Royal Canal Greenway: This 130km trail stretches from Dublin to County Longford and offers a beautiful countryside experience.
  • Nally’s Forest Walk: This 2km self-guided trail leads you through a tranquil forest and several beautiful waterfalls.
  • The Three Cairns Walk: This scenic walk takes you through the countryside to three historic cairns with breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Longford

For adventure seekers, County Longford offers a range of hiking and biking routes. From challenging mountain trails to scenic woodland walks, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in County Longford:

  • Mid Shannon Wilderness Park: This 6km loop trail takes you through stunning countryside and offers breathtaking views of the Shannon River.
  • Ballinamuck Bog Trail: This 5km trail leads you through a tranquil bog and provides an opportunity to see some of the local wildlife.
  • Slieve Bawn: This challenging mountain trail offers panoramic views of County Longford and the surrounding countryside.
  • Lough Gowna Loop: This 20km trail takes you through beautiful farming landscapes and the picturesque Lough Gowna.

Best Things to Do in County Longford: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and biking, County Longford offers a range of outdoor activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in County Longford:

  • Horse Riding: Take a horse ride through the stunning countryside and explore County Longford’s rolling hills.
  • Fishing: County Longford is home to some of the best fishing in Ireland. Lough Ree and the River Shannon offer excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Heritage Tours: Take a guided tour of County Longford’s historic attractions, such as the Granard Motte and Bailey.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy a range of water sports, including kayaking, boating, and sailing, on the stunning Lough Ree.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Longford

If you have a week to spare, here’s our recommended itinerary for exploring County Longford:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Longford Town and visit Longford County Museum
Day 2 Hike the Mid Shannon Wilderness Park Trail
Day 3 Take a horse ride through the countryside
Day 4 Tour Ardagh Heritage Village and St. Mel’s Cathedral
Day 5 Visit the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre
Day 6 Enjoy water sports on Lough Ree
Day 7 Hike the Three Cairns Walk or bike the Ballinamuck Bog Trail

Food and Drink Scene of County Longford

County Longford is home to a range of traditional Irish dishes and local produce. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bacon and Cabbage: A hearty Irish dish made with bacon, potatoes, cabbage, and carrots.
  • Irish Stew: A classic Irish dish made with lamb, potatoes, and onions.
  • Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake, typically served for breakfast.
  • Coddle: A Dublin dish made with sausage, bacon, potatoes, and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Whiskey: County Longford is home to a few distilleries, where you can sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskey.
  • Guinness: No trip to Ireland would be complete without trying a pint of the famous stout.

Where to Stay in County Longford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

County Longford offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Viewmount House: This luxurious hotel is set in a stunning Georgian mansion and offers excellent food and service.
  • Longford Arms Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Longford Town.
  • Annelong House: A charming guest house located in the picturesque village of Ardagh.

What to Buy in County Longford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From traditional crafts to local produce, County Longford offers a range of unique souvenirs and products to bring home. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Bog Oak Carvings: Handcrafted from ancient bog oak, these unique carvings are a perfect souvenir of County Longford.
  • Knitwear: County Longford is home to several knitwear shops, where you can buy traditional Irish sweaters and blankets.
  • Local Produce: From artisan cheeses to homemade jams, County Longford offers a range of delicious local produce to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of County Longford

County Longford is a deeply cultural county, with a rich history and vibrant traditions. Here are some local customs and cultural tips to keep in mind:

  • Language: English is the main language spoken in County Longford.
  • Music: Traditional Irish music is a central part of County Longford’s culture, with sessions taking place in local pubs.
  • Hospitality: The people of County Longford are known for their warm hospitality, so be prepared to be welcomed with open arms.

Best Time to Visit County Longford

The best time to visit County Longford is between May and September when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or October.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Longford

To make the most of your time in County Longford, here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Explore the countryside: County Longford’s natural attractions are its biggest draw, so make sure you take the time to explore them.
  • Try the local cuisine: County Longford offers a range of traditional Irish dishes and local produce, so make sure you sample some of the local food.
  • Meet the locals: The people of County Longford are known for their warm hospitality, so be sure to meet some of the locals and learn about their culture.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the weather: Irish weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all seasons.
  • Be disrespectful: The people of County Longford are proud of their history and culture, so be respectful when visiting historic sites.
  • Drink and drive: Ireland has strict drink-driving laws, so be sure to never drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Longford

County Longford is a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Avoid walking alone at night and be sure to keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Take precautions when hiking and biking: Be sure to check the weather and tell someone your route before setting off.
  • Follow local guidelines: Local guidelines and regulations are in place to keep you safe, so be sure to follow them.

Health in County Longford

County Longford has modern healthcare facilities, and visitors can access medical care if needed. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance and a basic first-aid kit on hand.

Getting to County Longford: Transportation Options and Logistics

County Longford is located in the heart of Ireland and can be easily accessed by plane, train, or bus. Here are your transportation options:

Airports Near County Longford

  • Ireland West Airport Knock: Located 90 minutes from County Longford, this airport has flights from several European destinations.
  • Dublin Airport: Located 1 hour and 30 minutes from County Longford, this airport has flights from several international destinations.

Bus Stations Near County Longford

  • Longford Bus Station: This bus station offers daily services to Dublin and other major destinations in Ireland.

Other Options

  • Train: There are daily train services to Longford Town from Dublin and other major cities in Ireland.
  • Car Rental: To explore County Longford at your own pace, consider renting a car.

How to Get Around in County Longford

To get around County Longford, you can use public transportation, hire a car, or take a taxi. Here are some options:

  • Bus: Local bus services connect Longford Town with other major destinations in County Longford.
  • Car: To explore County Longford at your own pace, consider renting a car.
  • Taxi: Taxis are easily available in County Longford and can be hired for short trips or longer excursions.

Where to Go Next from County Longford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

County Longford is perfectly situated for exploring other parts of Ireland. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit:

  • Athlone: A vibrant town on the River Shannon, known for its historical attractions and lively nightlife.
  • Sligo: A coastal town known for its stunning scenery, rich heritage, and famous poets.
  • Dublin: The capital of Ireland is just a short drive or train ride from County Longford and offers endless cultural and historical attractions.

Conclusion

County Longford may be off the beaten path, but it’s a destination well worth exploring. From its ancient history to its stunning natural beauty, County Longford offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and join us on an adventure to the heart of Ireland.

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