Great central location. The views from the castle of the city is nice. The price is a few euros and worthy of the material on display. For children it is good as there is alot to see. Well worth a look

With the staff being well informed about both Irish and Scottish history, proved the information centre to be really informative. As a traveler, it’s always good to find recommendations of local places that Google may not tell you about. This tourism centre was easy to find and it’s part of the Adamson Castle. You are greeted warmly by friendly staff and they’ll ask you a little bit about why you’re visiting, they can give you the right information as long as you ask. If you didn’t know, they also have self-guided tours inside the Athlone Tourist Information Centre, if you’re trying to waste a little extra time for your flight, also assuming you’re interested in seeing the remains of the Adamson Castle that was built in the 12th century.

This was nothing like we expected. The castle looked cool from the outside but it was essentially made into a modern “museum”, it was not a castle tour. Of our 10 days in Ireland so far, this is the first thing we did that we felt was a waste of time and money.

Very interesting place, small museum, I set 4 stars, just because of several rooms and attentions have been closed, and also in was not for free as others do in during pandemic, overall I really recommend to visit, it can be also not better then Bunratty castle, but anyway good enough

Went today, very beautiful, definitely recommend this and it’s history. Very great view as well

It looked good from the outside then it was dearer than Kilkenny castle so I didn't go in I don't know how you can price something in Athlone higher than Kilkenny

Nice castle and tourist information. You will have to pay to get in.

There are 2 parts of this museum. One is Famine museum and the other is the McMahon house. We did guided tour of the house, which was super interesting and fun. Our guide was excellent with humour and full of information. The museum consists of what McMahon contributed to farmers’ emigration to Canada during the famine. It is horrible to learn what they did to these poor people, walked all the way from Stroketown to Dublin then put on the ship that was used for livestock transport. Not only losing their life but lived in the worst condition ever, and eventually dead from disease or hunger… not achieved better life that they hoped for… Then, when the sole heir of McMahon sold the mansion to the local businessman, he realised how important this estate and the records that they kept is to Irish history, and turned into the museum. The mansion was well kept and shows the wealth that they lived, although it declined eventually. Learning these whole contradictory lives.. was just fascinating. Definitely worth to visit.

The National Famine Museum near Longford is a powerful place to visit. It’s not a flashy, high-tech attraction; it’s a serious, thoughtful deep-dive into the darkest chapter of Irish history. The museum sits on the Strokestown Park estate, where original famine-era documents were discovered, and that gives the experience a real sense of authenticity. Walking through the rooms, you move between personal stories of tenants, eviction accounts, letters, and records that show exactly how the famine unfolded for ordinary families. It’s heavy, emotional material, but presented in a way that’s respectful rather than sensational. Most of the museum is text-based, so you’ll be reading a lot. That can feel slow compared to modern interactive museums, but the content is strong enough to carry it. Some parts are dimly lit, which a few visitors find frustrating, but the atmosphere suits the subject. The audio guide helps bring everything together and adds context you’d miss otherwise. The best part is how it connects national history with individual human lives. You don’t just learn facts; you feel the impact. If you’re visiting Longford or nearby, it’s well worth the trip. You’ll leave quieter, more reflective, and with a deeper understanding of Ireland’s past.

The Famine Museum offers a good insight into history and is worth a visit. However, I found that the walled garden was not well maintained, which was disappointing. Entry is €14 per adult, which feels a bit steep given the experience, but okay overall.

Very enjoyable. Excellent food at restaurant Dog Friendly Walled Garden is excellent, has potential ( could benefit from an investment and some more full time gardeners), better than Kylomore Abbey. Guided tour of the house is good for those interested in Georgian architecture.

We took the guided tour at the National Famine Museum, and it was very well presented. The exhibits are informative and moving, offering a real insight into this important part of history. A deeply impactful and memorable visit — highly recommended.

I love bringing my clients to the National Famine museum in Strokestown. Great exhibits on the History of the Potatoe Famine in Ireland and stories about the people effected at this cruel time in our History. My clients enjoyed the visit but is a sad time in our history so you won't come out feeling full of cheer.

A great museum that makes primary sources the focus while keeping the room drawing interest. The gardens are a beautiful walk and the house tour is well worth it to better understand the history from a more personal point of view.

I was at a dance recital that my granddaughter was in It's a beautiful theatre with tiered seating. Very comfortable and there are refreshments available before and during the interval of shows

Really lovely venue for shows. The staff are always really friendly and welcoming for any of the shows I've been to.

A little gem in the heart of Ireland. This building has history for you to explore. The staff are lovely and the volunteers too. Go see a show!!

Fabulous theatre space and very friendly staff!

Great night at the Fury's. A very intimate place. Great atmosphere. Great hosts. Look forward to going again.

Great venue with a good selection of gigs.

I saw Onoir who were just brilliant! The venue is great and I have been to several plays, concerts, shows there. Its small intimate and deeply embedded in the community. It runs a full programme of events throughout the year and is easily accessible. Programme/Tickets online and ticket scanning on arrival make the process simple and easy.

A "must see" if you're in Birr. Over 120 acres of buildings, walks, lakes and woods to explore. Entry fee is €12 pp and well worth it if you have a few hours to spare. Science Hall is a highlight as it features historical instruments on display. A really great attraction. Parking nearby.

Love Birr Castle, part of our heritage. It's beautiful gardens and walkways offer peace and serenity along with amazing colours. Fabulous places to sit and meditate and enjoy life and it's surroundings ar it's Best.

Stopped off in Birr today and was not disappointed. A beautiful and historic place. A gardens are wonderful and the telescope, playground and castle itself are impressive. Hard to believe that from 1845-1914 this remained the largest telescope in the world! We didn’t get to sample the cafe but it looked good and the staff on reception were lovely - oh and for August children go free!!

Loved this castle experiences. My dad and I did the castle tour. Highly recommend it! It is awesome and the family still lives in the castle. They were amazing and super friendly!

Its amazing, loads to see and do. Just did a tour of the house, wow. The science centre is a must see and the gardens and history are amazing. The Patterson family have done such an amazing job keeping the place open for visitors. The cafe has beautiful buns and food and all the staff are gorgeous

Incredible landscape beauty, a lovely park, and the grandeur of the castle. You can walk for hours and even have a picnic surrounded by nature.

Very beautiful and big park for relaxation and walking. This is one of those places you should visit in Ireland. Also, this castle and areas are good for photo sessions.

This is a beautiful place to visit. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, with plenty of historic ruins to explore. The museum was also really interesting, giving great context to the site’s history. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.

This place is gorgeous! The history movie before you enter was a wonderful picture of what’s going on. the grounds are small and should only take you 30minutes. On a sunny day the Greene as gorgeous

Clonmacnoise was founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán who chose this site for its strategic location where the River Shannon meets ancient east–west land routes. From these humble beginnings, it flourished into a major center of religion, learning, craftsmanship, and trade, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and kings from across Ireland and beyond. At its height between the 7th and 12th centuries, Clonmacnoise was home to a thriving monastic community. Here, monks produced illuminated manuscripts, crafted exquisite metalwork, and carved some of Ireland’s finest high crosses. The Cross of the Scriptures, a masterpiece of early medieval stone carving, stands as a testament to the skill and faith of its creators. The site also features two round towers, several churches spanning centuries, and over 700 carved grave slabs—each telling part of Clonmacnoise’s story.

Passionate and lovely people! We arrived a little after the tour started, but the tour guy immediately welcomed us and made a little résumé of what we missed!!! He was very passionate and nice, answered some questions along the way too! We did arrive in the morning, so there weren't a lot of people around, which was perfect to explore the grounds in peace.

Well-preserved structure of a monastic city The story of the place is fascinating and very interesting You can start with a film (It lasts about 25 minutes) with an explanation of the structure and the ruins (from the beginning to the modern time) Then you can visit the exhibition: the original high crosses are in here Now you're ready to see the monastic site. Nun's church is about 500 meters from the modern graveyard. There are not indication to reach it. So you can find the whispering arch at the entrance

This was a stop on our Ireland tour. I am so glad it was! Aiden was an entertaining, energetic, knowledgeable tour guide. He truly brought the place to life. The grounds and surrounding area are stunning and the story is wonderful as it is old. I 100% recommend you go and try to get onto Aiden's tour!

Loved visiting this hidden gem. Great informative guided tour provided (20 min), then youre free to wander the historic site, and take a look at their museum which includes a short film.

Top class. Hospitality & hosts couldn't have been better. Wish you continued success and hope the penny farthing investment pays off

Absolute hidden gem. It's unbelievable the amount of things to see and delight in. A trip to the past, but one that doesn't need a Delorean. Cannot recommend this enough for fans of Irish history and Folk history. They don't take card to buy tickets, so bring cash or book online (can do it when you get there)

This is one of Ireland best kept secret if you like looking into history this is the place for you also if you collect we turn up and charlie was amazing he had been making this collection for 50 years his knowledge was excellent the things he told us .when we was there the local school children turn up as there teacher was retiring there were so friendly and welcoming made us feel so good this is one of my favourite stop off if your ever in Ireland go

I would highly recommend a visit to this very special museum. The amount of exhibits and the memories they brought back were worth three times the entry fee. Charlie was our very informed and very interesting host with lots of stories to tell about the items on display. Myself and my friends thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Derryglad

This is a real gem of a place and an absolute delight. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I was part of a group who 'oohed' and 'awed' and reminisced and loved their nostalgic trip down memory lane. Highly recommend for those who remember first hand the delights on view to those who are too young but will love the their families reactions to a trip into yesteryear.

We called Charlie and Bridie if we could come and see their museum. They opened the doors for us even though we came along when it was not officially open. The two of them are so lovely and explain to you everything you wanna know about the wonderful objects which have been collected over the years. I felt like I was on a journey back in time. I like nostalgia so I love places where you can dream away in phantasies about how evereything must have been in former times. We liked the fact that it was such a rural area and a lot of stuff which has been typical for rural areas. I really recommend to see that place and meet that lovely couple. Plan at least on hour for your stay. There is so much to see and you can sense how much love they have given into the collecting and the arrangements of the objects....

Lovely museum. You can immediately tell that a lot of love and attention has gone into setting up and maintaining the museum. Beautifully kept and well worth a visit.

Very interesting tour with an excellent guide. He told us so many stories of ancient Ireland and made it so interesting. It would be great to see the site developed a bit more, show off the importance of the site in relation to the Táin Bó Cúailnge, Queen Medb etc.

This tour was an unexpected gem and the highlight of our holiday. Mike was a world of knowledge and wisdom, he delivered the information so well. Ancient Irish stories and mythology can be difficult to put together for the uninitiated but he did an amazing job guiding the group through the life of Queen Medb and that period in Irish history. Highly recommend

Friendly staff. Tour guide Mike was very knowledgeable and accommodating. We travelled a long way to go on the tour and it was well worth it.

Fantastic tour, highly recommend it. Our tour guide Mike blended Irish mythology, folklore, history and archaeology into an exciting experience. Loved every minute of the tour and the exhibition afterwards back in the centre

Two of us had a great tour of the Rathcroghan area, one of the most important centres in ancient and early medieval Ireland. Elaine, our guide, explained the landscape and history, striking just the right balance of archaeology and mythology. Highly recommended. The cafe ais also a great place to take a break before or after the tour.

I booked the guided tour. Mike, our guide, was friendly and full of information. After driving around to the sights we spent some time in the center watching the video and reading the displays. Finally a nice lunch in the café. Dress appropriately for the weather.

We had a great experience at Rathcroghan. The staff were lovely, from the cafe to the tour. We came for the Samhain tour & my little girl loved it. Our tour guide was full of stories and very patient with my little one, genuinely appreciated it. Would definitley recommend and we will be back.

The tour was really interesting an it's absolutely worth going here. A really exciting story about the passt that one should know about Ireland. Our guide Mark was a great storyteller and told us many exciting but also tragic stories of the people who worked in this workhouse. The place and the tour are highly recommended. Thank you Mark.

This is a place for learning of the past to better the future. Top man In charge of the tour. His exhaustive knowledge and an obvious deep understanding of the workhouse and its place in world history made me feel compassion for the former workers who lived, died and were interned right here. Very powerful stuff! Then as a beautiful bonus to your visit a rural museum with lots of interesting items and documents from the local area. 5 star gem of history that should continue to be preserved and most importantly respected as it is now by locals and visitors alike.

A little out of the way but very interesting to see. You can see why so many Irish emigrated when the options were either starvation or living in a poor house.

We decided last minute to book a tour at the Irish Workhouse Centre. It was great insight into the workings of the workhouses including the many sad & difficult stories of those people in the workhouses, all part of our Irish history. Fiona gave us a great guided tour. Would highly recommend the tour.

A fantastic day out – – particularly for those of us who have an interest in Irish heritage and history. The restoration work and effort put in by the people behind this destination is unbelievably good. And our tour guide- Padraic- made the day extra special. Take a bow 🙏 I can’t understand why this special place isn’t given more national publicity.

We wanted to take in everything Portumna had to offer the day we were there, and you would be missing out if you passed this stop by. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, the site is well preserved, given the age of the place and how their funding is created. I hope in future it comes under the national trust umbrella so the restoration and tours can be more realized. Very much worth the stop!

Among the castles and natural beauty of Ireland, this is truly an alternative hidden gem that is worth going out of your way to check out. Our visit to the Irish Workhouse Centre made a deep impression on us that lasted well beyond the end of our vacation to Ireland. It offers a unique and authentic side of Irish history that a conventional museum cannot convey. I highly recommend making this a stop if you are in the midlands or are traveling between Dublin and the west coast. Be sure to check the website for tour times, as a guided tour is obligatory.

So much love, time and work is put on this place. Is very saf to se signatures of some idiots on the walls inside. But is worth this. I encourage you to buy a heritage card for all monuments that are under the care of the OPW

Interesting place, with a varied fascinating history. So much hard work has gone into bringing it back to its current condition. The gardens were beautiful and also the Abbey ruins on site too. Lovely cafe on site too. Loved the cheeky ducks who clearly know this is the place for some free food from the visitors and drinking from the dogs bowl tickled us!

The grounds and garden are beautiful. I look forward to see how the site evolves as the restorations and archeological investigations continue. I loved the addition of the tea room and art exhibit. And the gardens were absolutely fabulous. Could have spent another hour in them easily.

Such beautiful gardens and amazing history behind it. What a great place. The restaurant was stunning, and the food looked amazing. Would suggest the Chai Latte. Was perfect. The walking and riding routes are well maintained, and the staff are fantastic. Thank you so much for the hospitality.

It is a beautiful and quiet place where you can see horses and other hoofed animals. Good for walks and wedding photography. This place is definitely worth adding to the list of places to visit in Ireland. Not far from the castle, you can see a lake or another interesting areas.

Nice place to relax with the family. We had a great time. At the same time, it may need some maintenance specifically the kitchen garden and inside the castle.

Really helpful OPW staff will explain the history of this beautifully situated castle. Cafe on site serves great, cakes. salads, lunches and its own lemonade.

Brilliant, hands down a class act! 3 playgrounds including a huge indoor inflatable city. Animals are kept in cages but are still easy to feed!

They really nice playground area, the bounce slides is the best for kids i really recommend this place for kids and parents, The price what you pay have 3hr off freedom

The best petting farm we’ve been to! Huge space. Our two young kids could happily spend hours there, with so much to entertain them. They loved being able to feed the animals, the sand pit was a big hit, our toddler even loved wandering about the football pitch. The highlight was the inflatable city area though. As parents, we found the organization of the play areas really good and the staff did an excellent job. One small comment would be that some older children were in the toddler area and were a bit rough for the smaller kids. But that’s just one of those things that happens in every play centre. Keep up the good work!

Excellent place to bring kids. Massive indoor bouncy castle. We went on a good day. (Not raining) had a time limit on the indoor area (wristbands on the kids) but could easily spend time outside, no limit there. Spent a good four hours here. Definitely go back.

Super nice with children any age and no matter If it s quick stop or you are planning for a longer stay. We ll definetly be back!

Fantastic first visit to Turroe on a cold showery day in Nov! 5 children aged 1-5 in our group and they all had a ball, adults included! Well organised clean set up, friendly staff, only indoor areas limited to 3hrs which is LOADS for them and then back out to say goodbye to the animals and another run around the playground. Food choice somewhat limited, nice coffee and they kindly let you bring snacks etc and eat in the spacious indoor seating area. Clean indoor play areas, staff on duty, age appropriate spaces and spacious clean toilets. Great value for money. Can’t recommend more for a day out - whatever the weather. Planning our next visit already.

We recently visited Turoe Pet Farm in Loughrea and had an amazing time! This is a perfect spot for families with young kids—there’s so much to see and do. The petting zoo was a big hit, with friendly goats, sheep, rabbits, and even alpacas. Our little ones loved feeding the animals and getting up close with them. The playground area is fantastic, with plenty of space for kids to run around, and the indoor play barn is great if the weather isn’t cooperating. The staff were lovely—really welcoming and helpful. The facilities were clean, and there’s a nice café with good coffee and snacks . Overall, Turoe Pet Farm is a wonderful place for a family day out. Highly recommend for anyone with young children—we’ll definitely be back!

Wow, such a beautiful cruise ride it was. We enjoyed it a lot. The ride was for one hour. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance. They do the ride only twice a day, so be sure to check the timings. The cruise also has a bar inside. There is enough seats inside and top of the cruise.

Great trip out. The cruise starts at q and 2.30 and takes about an hour to head out. Price is reasonable. They give you some history on the way out which is nice and the staff are very friendly. They even let the kids have a go on driving the boat which is nice. There is an indoor area also if westehr turns, you can also buy drinks in there.

My son and I had a good time! We sat up on top and saw the River Shannon, the town of Killaloe and Ballina from the river. It was a gentle boat ride with lots of scenic views and historical explanations. The rode started in a dock in Ballina, took us upriver to the Lough Derg where we turned around and came back. We were one of the only boats on the river so had it to ourselves. The tour lasted one hour. You can purchase alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages on board.

Lovely way to spend an hour in Killaloe, James and the staff were great! Spectacular views along the river. Very clean and great atmosphere. There’s a bar on board with everything you’d need. There’s also a bathroom too. Would highly recommend if you’re in the area!

Such an enjoyable way to spend a hour I preferred the comfort of the enclosed lower deck comfortable seating and well stocked bar, the views from the upper deck are even more incredible and the staff are so good very welcoming friendly and efficient can’t wait for our next trip to Killaloe to venture out on this boat again

Nice cruise on the Shannon river out to lake. One of the best Irish Coffees I had. Great views.

Very nice cruise. Very calm weather for October. They were extremely accommodating in letting us take our dog on board and even brought him a bowl of water about 20 minutes in. Very friendly and helpful. The boat was immaculate and toilets were spotless.

Cannot recommend enough!!! Everyone was so kind, the scones were delicious, and Fintan was very knowledgeable about all things sheep-related so it was wonderful to hear from him. If you’re in Co. Galway you should absolutely check out Rathbaun. You can book by filling out the form on their website and they’ll reach out to you quickly.

Absolutely one of the highlights of our trip to Galway! Evelyn and the rest of the staff are so lovely, they make you feel right at home. The homemade scones are a highlight in itself, they’re wonderful. Overall I would say it’s a unique experience that I would recommend anyone coming to Galway to try.

We had a very fun visit in early Aug 2025. Enjoyed the history, the beautiful thatched roof cottage, Bailey the sheep dog, seeing different breeds of sheep and making/eating scones. A lovely time - highly recommend!

A great way to experience farm life in Ireland! We started off by meeting Mary and Evelyn who welcomed us with open arms and a nice fire to sit by. It felt like we were greeted by family! We then made scones with Mary - everything was so organized, fun, and the directions were easy to follow. While we were waiting for the scones to bake, we visited the farm area where we learned about different types of sheep and watched a herding demonstration with Bailey the dog. We even got to bottle feed a few lambs - they were so sweet! Then we went back into the cottage to enjoy our delicious scones with jam, coffee, and tea. We had the best time!

Great old countryside farmhouse with a friendly staff that serves up tea and scones and then you meet the sheep and watch the sheep dog round them up from the field. You might even get to feed some lambs while listening to information about the changing times for the Irish farmers.

My family and I visited Rathbaun Farm a little over a month ago and had a wonderful experience. We arrived a little earlier than expected, and were greeted with warmth and kindness. We even got to tour earlier than our allotted time, so we ended up having a “private” tour. And of course, the scones were absolutely delicious!

We had such a lovely time! The staff were so friendly and welcoming and we learned so much about sheep farming. This is a must do when traveling to Ireland!

Wonderful experience for kids and adults alike. Guides are super friendly. "for Americans: this is like Colonial Williamsburg" but better because the guides know history and details and are a lot more engaging. There's a castle, ring forts, fairy village, a scavenger hunt, monolith, and boat! Plus there are live boar!!!

It had been 30 years or so since my last visit but it is a rare spot that is even better than my memory of it. A beautiful castle, with ladies inside with wool and examples of the naturally dyed fibres and stories to tell. A great view from above the top of the tower also! The crannog is beautiful, and there are chickens wandering about. Other forms of agriculture from the period are also seen, with a very particular breed of sheep, some donkeys and miniature ponies, and also wild boar roaming (penned into a very large area though). There is historical information about all of these dotted around, but we were regaled with information by the blacksmith who was hugely entertaining while also imparting a huge amount of historical information to us about archery, weapons, fibers, and the implements used in these. We could have stayed all day to listen if we didn't have other engagements. And of course Tim Severins Brendan boat. A marvel created to show that the story of St Brendan, wild as it was, was entirely possible even with the primitive tools they had then. The looped walk is beautiful and there are lots of fairy houses around for children to visit, and art and recreations hiding among the trees with plenty of information panels and the fairy trail to entertain all, along with the chance to meet a roaming chicken at any moment. High recommendation for this, and I will return much sooner again.

Such a beautiful place. From the landscape to the castle to the crannogs. We got lucky and had a lovely talk with Andrew on foraging for mushrooms. We will be back for the vikings

A very interesting open air museum that explains and illustrate a lot of things about ancient celts life! Interesting if adults and kids. Highly recommended fir all history lovers !

What a fabulous day out , so relaxed and informative...I hadn't been since school days and it has transformed so much..there was pig on the spit,a cooking demo from the way things were done in the old old days ...toilets were spotless and a nice cup of tea at the end served by a lovely lady who chat away to you as she worked..tea was served in lovely tea cups and saucer , a nice extra touch ...spent about 3 hours there..oh I forgot the story telling,the children were loving it...so something for everyone

This is a little gem of an attraction. We brought 3 kids 6,6 and 7 and it was perfect for them. The Faerie Trail (their spelling) was exactly right for that age. The castle, crannóg, fulacht fiadh and ringfort were magnificent. It was awe inspiring to see the actual Brendan, ofTim Severn fame. The souterrain is just brilliant and was a real highlight for the kids (and adults). Best of all were the staff, with hands-on practical weaving, clothes dyeing, book binding and other talks. I'd never been before, mostly because Bunratty was always a bit more accessible and in many ways that was a mistake. This beautiful attraction is well worth a visit and should be advertised better possibly as a day trip along with a visit to the gorgeous Abbey remains in Quin.

We loved visiting the site and speaking to the on-site reinactors. Quite engaging! Fun for all ages.

This is so worth the visit and it is for all ages. Having not only the castle but the village houses with the thatched roofs and fires burning in the fireplaces burning peat gave you the authentic feeling. Staff were so friendly and happy to chat to you about the history. Plenty of space to park and for kids to run around.

Great experience, we weren't entirely sure what this was when we decided to go, we were just looking for something to do on our last full day in Ireland that was on our way back to Dublin and we stopped here. It was amazing! Whole little old time village with houses and stores and a blacksmith that was actually blacksmithing and teaching about what a blacksmith does and then there was the castle which was also very cool. As you enter there was a man playing Irish folk tunes on his fiddle, it was all very charming. We didn't have any kids with us, but there were child specific activities and a few animals to see as well as a train that can drive you around the town. Overall great experience, would definitely recommend stopping by!

We spent a truly memorable afternoon at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park — a place where history, fun and a touch of magic come together. The grand medieval castle rises impressively above the grounds: restored to its former glory, it offers access to four towers and richly furnished living spaces that bring the 15th and 16th centuries to life.  In front of the castle lies the folk park—a living, breathing slice of 19th-century Ireland with charming thatched cottages, old trades, a village street with shops, and costumed interpreters walking around.  We wandered through the various buildings, peeked into traditional homes, learned about old-time crafts and daily life, and really felt immersed in the past. Since we visited during the Halloween week, the place became even more special: the entire grounds were transformed into a “haunted village” with spooky touches, ghostly characters, an enchanted train ride and plenty of fun for all ages.  Kids and grown-ups alike enjoyed the mix of history and seasonal excitement. The fauna on site added another layer of appeal: from proud Irish wolfhounds strolling the grounds to farm-animals like pigs, hens, and ponies, you’ll find plenty of life around you.  The large playground and outdoor spaces meant our little one had plenty of room to roam, which was a huge plus. There is a lovely café too, offering warm snacks, cakes and scones — which makes a perfect stop as you pause from exploring. All in all, we spent about 2-3 hours here and could easily have stayed longer (especially if you combine the castle towers, folk park walk and café break). If you’re travelling in Ireland and want a destination that appeals to history buffs, families, and those looking for something fun with a bit of character — Bunratty is a wonderful choice.

This is pure tourist traps at it's finest. That said, it's great for families and if you see and do everything you could easily spend 3+ hours here. We did the dinner experience at the castle too (food was about 1 star). Not a must see for me. But if you want a very curated experience of medieval Ireland it checks the boxes. Be warned, this is a major tour bus stop and the crowds can be massive at peak travel times. Ireland in October is superb if you want to avoid this but still have gorgeous weather IMO.

The castle itself was a bit of a downer, as well most are, as they illustrate how people lived fought and died there. the place was cool though. The park it's located in is absolutely fabulous! Gardens, old houses, shops, animals, photo opportunities? endless. I would set aside about 4 hours to let it all sink in.

Such a fun day. Lots to see and do for the family and a lot of farm animals to pet and see. Actors are informative and friendly and you can go most places in the castle if you are brave enough to walk all the stairs in the towers.

This was one of my favorite castles that we visited while in Ireland. Having the rooms filled with furniture really gives you a good idea of what things could have been like. Then in addition to have a whole village set up in the 1800’s was really cool too. Would have loved to stay for the banquet at night but it didn’t work out. Highly recommend this one. The tea and desserts were good. The property is large and there is quite a bit of walking but not strenuous. The map they provide makes it easy

This is so worth the visit and it is for all ages. Having not only the castle but the village houses with the thatched roofs and fires burning in the fireplaces burning peat gave you the authentic feeling. Staff were so friendly and happy to chat to you about the history. Plenty of space to park and for kids to run around.

Great experience, we weren't entirely sure what this was when we decided to go, we were just looking for something to do on our last full day in Ireland that was on our way back to Dublin and we stopped here. It was amazing! Whole little old time village with houses and stores and a blacksmith that was actually blacksmithing and teaching about what a blacksmith does and then there was the castle which was also very cool. As you enter there was a man playing Irish folk tunes on his fiddle, it was all very charming. We didn't have any kids with us, but there were child specific activities and a few animals to see as well as a train that can drive you around the town. Overall great experience, would definitely recommend stopping by!

We spent a truly memorable afternoon at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park — a place where history, fun and a touch of magic come together. The grand medieval castle rises impressively above the grounds: restored to its former glory, it offers access to four towers and richly furnished living spaces that bring the 15th and 16th centuries to life.  In front of the castle lies the folk park—a living, breathing slice of 19th-century Ireland with charming thatched cottages, old trades, a village street with shops, and costumed interpreters walking around.  We wandered through the various buildings, peeked into traditional homes, learned about old-time crafts and daily life, and really felt immersed in the past. Since we visited during the Halloween week, the place became even more special: the entire grounds were transformed into a “haunted village” with spooky touches, ghostly characters, an enchanted train ride and plenty of fun for all ages.  Kids and grown-ups alike enjoyed the mix of history and seasonal excitement. The fauna on site added another layer of appeal: from proud Irish wolfhounds strolling the grounds to farm-animals like pigs, hens, and ponies, you’ll find plenty of life around you.  The large playground and outdoor spaces meant our little one had plenty of room to roam, which was a huge plus. There is a lovely café too, offering warm snacks, cakes and scones — which makes a perfect stop as you pause from exploring. All in all, we spent about 2-3 hours here and could easily have stayed longer (especially if you combine the castle towers, folk park walk and café break). If you’re travelling in Ireland and want a destination that appeals to history buffs, families, and those looking for something fun with a bit of character — Bunratty is a wonderful choice.

This is pure tourist traps at it's finest. That said, it's great for families and if you see and do everything you could easily spend 3+ hours here. We did the dinner experience at the castle too (food was about 1 star). Not a must see for me. But if you want a very curated experience of medieval Ireland it checks the boxes. Be warned, this is a major tour bus stop and the crowds can be massive at peak travel times. Ireland in October is superb if you want to avoid this but still have gorgeous weather IMO.

The castle itself was a bit of a downer, as well most are, as they illustrate how people lived fought and died there. the place was cool though. The park it's located in is absolutely fabulous! Gardens, old houses, shops, animals, photo opportunities? endless. I would set aside about 4 hours to let it all sink in.

Such a fun day. Lots to see and do for the family and a lot of farm animals to pet and see. Actors are informative and friendly and you can go most places in the castle if you are brave enough to walk all the stairs in the towers.

This was one of my favorite castles that we visited while in Ireland. Having the rooms filled with furniture really gives you a good idea of what things could have been like. Then in addition to have a whole village set up in the 1800’s was really cool too. Would have loved to stay for the banquet at night but it didn’t work out. Highly recommend this one. The tea and desserts were good. The property is large and there is quite a bit of walking but not strenuous. The map they provide makes it easy

The spiritual centre of Galway. Market has selection of stalls but would like to see food choices upgraded to make it compete better with vast selection nearby. Would love to see a permanent theatre like many urban parks.

The Galway Christmas Market is one of Ireland’s most magical holiday experiences, bringing Eyre Square to life with lights, music, and festive charm. From the moment you enter the market, you’re surrounded by the warm glow of stalls, the smell of cinnamon and roasted nuts, and the cheerful buzz of crowds enjoying the season.

Lovely place to visit with great bars. On every occasion we visited there was some music being played. Lovely vibe

Nice and lively square in the heart of Galway. Perfect for a break… but beware of the local “mafia”: pigeons and seagulls are always ready to steal your food. Great spot – just guard your sandwich!

Great place for shopping, food and spirits. Easily walkable and a little something for everyone particularly around Christmas time.

A beautiful space in the heart of the city, good to relax but surrounded by history and culture. Public toilets are in need of some attention but that aside, it's a lovely square.

Great location. In the middle of downtown Galway. Close to shopes,places to eat and pubs. Meeting place for walking tours. The park has a fantastic chirstmas market. Train and bus station also right next to the park.

Very alive, lots to do from eating to shopping or just strolling by and catching a street performer. A little crowded. Lots of photo opportunities.

1. Name and Location: Galway's central pedestrian street is Shop Street (along with the adjacent High Street and Quay Street), which stretches from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch and is the heart of the historic city center. 2. History and Atmosphere: The street has existed since medieval times (mentioned as early as the 14th century), retaining its ancient facades. In the 19th century, it was a major shopping thoroughfare. Today, it is a lively pedestrian area with buskers, pubs, and traditional Irish shops. 3. Cultural Role: Shop Street is the center of Galway's street festivals, including the Galway International Arts Festival (July) and the Galway Oyster Festival (September), where artists perform, and pubs like The Quays and Tig Cóilí offer live traditional music almost every evening.

🌍 Explore, Taste, and Travel with Us! Follow our adventures and food journeys on Insta: vibrant_wanderer_rhythm Loaded with restaurants, pubs, bars, shops to shop at. Lively street . Live music in the evenings. Sure to include in your itinerary for touristy kick.

Visited on a Sunday during the arts festival. Street was very busy and lively with multiple buskers and street acts. A very vibrant place to visit with plenty to do.

Cool old style architecture. A few good shopping options offering local products. Very busy with tourists, and angry fire juggling street performers berating tourists: "I don't get paid to do this, anything less than a 5 euro donation is an insult after I entertained you for 45 minutes!!"

Very lively, loads of locals and tourists in the pubs, shops & restaurants. Music on the street from trad to anything goes, and spontaneous dancing.

vibrant, lots of street performers, doesn’t feel like a tourist trap but more like people of Galway authentically living their lives 🇮🇪

A wonderful cathedral to visit, right in the heart of Galway, there is a colourful beautiful dome in the ceiling with many windows to let in the light with a purple glow. Many splendid columns support the wonderful arched wooden ceilings. The organ pipes are in a wonderful display surrounding a beautiful stained glass window. There are many beautiful stained glass windows to see. Many rows of great wooden pews that run the length of the cathedral and seem to go on forever. Entrance is by donation.

Majestic , Serene & Beautiful! Wonderful place of worship and reverence! The organ, stained glass , alter, etc is just plain amazing. Wonderful history behind all of this as well. A definitely must see in Galway! Pictures don’t do it justice. You have to be here in person to experience and view its grandeur!

The most beautiful cathedral I’ve ever visited Galway Cathedral truly took my breath away. The architecture, the atmosphere, the light streaming through the stained glass — everything felt majestic and peaceful at the same time. Out of all the cathedrals I’ve seen, this one left the strongest impression on me. A must-visit when in Galway!

Very modern, but at the same time with a nod to the past with the building materials used. Very beautiful, peaceful and serene inside. A good place to stop, think, pray and contemplate.

Must visit. Don't miss it. We just had a couple of hours to spend in Galway and it was cloudy and rainy. On a grey, cloudy and rainy Sunday in Galway, the cathedral feels just right. Its solid stone exterior blends into the muted sky, sitting proudly by the river. Inside, it’s a different world—stained-glass windows glow softly, even without much light, and the faint smell of incense mixes with the quiet hum of Sunday service. It’s calm, peaceful, and a perfect escape from the damp day outside. A great spot to pause and reflect.

Stunning Cathedral in Galway. There must be 80 beautiful stained glass windows inside. The walls are a spectacular dark and light gray sandstone.

BEAUTIFUL!! The artistry and detail are incredible. Stations of the cross sculptures are excellent. There aren't enough words to describe how magnanimous the cathedral is. You have to see it in person.

I still can't believe how i got this wonderful room for such an awesome price 😍 completely lived it. The rooms were super clean, their service was good. They constantly contacted from their end to make sure everything is grand for us. The best thing about this Student was that it could accommodate 6 people. Would really love to stay here again.

Decided last minute to have a 2 night stay, they went over and beyond for us as we booked late in the evening to arrive late that night. The apartment is in the heart of Salthill with everything at your doorstep. The accommodation was very clean, a comfortable. We will certainly be booking again in the future.

We had a brilliant few days in Galway The apartment was spot on and staff v friendly . Great location . Will def book here again . Thank you

Great location, plenty to do with the kids ,,lovely beaches near by,nice restaurants and pubs on your doorstep, would defo come back

Spacious apartments and centrally located

very clean

(Translated by Google) Mega accommodating! We couldn't check our emails, so someone came and helped us!! Great! Apartment is also great, quiet and yet everything is "around the corner", delicious food, pubs with live music and the Atlantic 😍 (Original) Mega zuvorkommend! Wir konnten unsere E-Mails nicht checken, da kam extra jemand und hat uns geholfen!! Toll! Appartement ist auch Klasse, ruhig und dennoch alles"um die Ecke", lecker Essen, Pubs mit Live Musik und der Atlantik 😍

If you enjoy walking along a coastal pedestrian friendly path that overlooks the water, this is perfect. Lots of benches to rest at along the way, we saw several swimmers and divers in the water, there is a cool solar powered bench to charge your phone (with USB or direct contact charge!), and lots of restaurants and pubs nearby if you want to grab a quick pint or snack!

I brought my bathing suit on this trip in hope of swimming, but my entourage was not interested. And yet, we had sunny days every day and locals were bravely enjoying themselves.

Great rocky beaches, too cold for swimming however there were some people in the water. Parking wasn't incredibly difficult if you are patient.

Beautiful walk along the shore , a busy spot with plenty of parking

A very nice view of the sea. It t was raining that day.. those are the best that I could take.

I very much enjoyed my walk ;)

Stunning views of the beach and disability friendly 🌟

The scenery was stunningly beautiful and uniquely Irish. We took a 4 mile hike on the red trail but didn’t finish the complete trail. We turned back after 2 miles due to the rough, rocky terrain when it went up the mountain. The multiple trails were well-marked.

Great hiking experience. Lots of terrain that is unique to Clare County. I took a 3.5 hour hike that had me on a gravel road, then forest, then rock formations, through a cattle farm, past a house that offers tea to hikers, past a lake, and looped back to my vehicle. Absolutely beautiful

Stunning in it's own right. Truly unforgiving landscape. Worth a climb to the peak if wearing good shoes. Go slow and enjoy the view.

Honestly one of my favourite spots in all of the 'Emerald Isle', despite it being one of the least green! It's stark, barren, almost otherworldly, and breathtakingly spectacular. Don't miss it if you have a chance, and take time to linger here, explore the coast, the hills, the strange layers and textures, really experience it. Get out of your car and walk around!

Amazing place. Great trails for walks. I hope to get back here some day. My Irish favourite.

We did the blue trail hike. Pro tip is that you can park down the road about 0.6 miles if you want to shorten the hike a bit. The only thing you’re skipping is the walk down that road. In total that will shorten the hike 1.2 miles (Approx 2 KM). The views are unlike anything else in Ireland. You’ll walk along a lake, through a field filled with goats, and up the side of the rocky burren mountain/hill. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but there are 3-4 little areas where you’ll scramble up around a 10 foot steep incline/decline. I’d recommend proper hiking shoes as some of the rocks you’ll step on are rather pointed and could hurt your feet if you’re wearing joggers/skate shoes. If you have the time, it’s a nice little hike and not too far from cliffs of Moher if you need to get away from the rampant swarms of tourists there.

Interesting geological phenomenon with rocks in the shape of skeletons in rows separated by grassy fields. We took the white path throttle rock formations and reedy forests. Worth a visit but beware the narrow roads

The scenery was stunningly beautiful and uniquely Irish. We took a 4 mile hike on the red trail but didn’t finish the complete trail. We turned back after 2 miles due to the rough, rocky terrain when it went up the mountain. The multiple trails were well-marked.

Great hiking experience. Lots of terrain that is unique to Clare County. I took a 3.5 hour hike that had me on a gravel road, then forest, then rock formations, through a cattle farm, past a house that offers tea to hikers, past a lake, and looped back to my vehicle. Absolutely beautiful

Stunning in it's own right. Truly unforgiving landscape. Worth a climb to the peak if wearing good shoes. Go slow and enjoy the view.

Honestly one of my favourite spots in all of the 'Emerald Isle', despite it being one of the least green! It's stark, barren, almost otherworldly, and breathtakingly spectacular. Don't miss it if you have a chance, and take time to linger here, explore the coast, the hills, the strange layers and textures, really experience it. Get out of your car and walk around!

Amazing place. Great trails for walks. I hope to get back here some day. My Irish favourite.

We did the blue trail hike. Pro tip is that you can park down the road about 0.6 miles if you want to shorten the hike a bit. The only thing you’re skipping is the walk down that road. In total that will shorten the hike 1.2 miles (Approx 2 KM). The views are unlike anything else in Ireland. You’ll walk along a lake, through a field filled with goats, and up the side of the rocky burren mountain/hill. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but there are 3-4 little areas where you’ll scramble up around a 10 foot steep incline/decline. I’d recommend proper hiking shoes as some of the rocks you’ll step on are rather pointed and could hurt your feet if you’re wearing joggers/skate shoes. If you have the time, it’s a nice little hike and not too far from cliffs of Moher if you need to get away from the rampant swarms of tourists there.

Interesting geological phenomenon with rocks in the shape of skeletons in rows separated by grassy fields. We took the white path throttle rock formations and reedy forests. Worth a visit but beware the narrow roads

Tony! As a tour guide, what do I say about the Dublin lad living the dream in the heart of the Burren ... he is my favourite guide in the land. His humanity, expertise, storytelling is exceptional. I'll stop now 'cos like a good Irish lad he can't take compliments either ... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book him for sure, be quick he sells out fast.

April 2, 2024 We are an Australian couple with links to Ireland. My family came to Geelong in 1852 from Kilfenora County Clare and we have always been interested in our Irish connections. We did a tour of the Burrren with Mary O’Dea and I would recommend her tour. Mary is a font of knowledge and her informed and interesting commentary about everything from Irish life, geology, plants and ancient history kept us transfixed throughout the tour. The tour was wonderful and a ‘must do’ when visiting County Clare.

Best experience in Ireland If you want to penetrate the mystery and magic of the Burren-- go on Tony Kirby's walk. Geology, botany, agriculture, poetry, religion--Tony's tour weaves together many threads to bring the Burren into focus. Don't miss it!

Tony unlocked Ireland for me. In between spurts of actual walking, we talked about glaciation, immigration, the Irish diaspora, Oscar Wilde, the EU, neolithic pastoral practices, geopolitics, deforestation, and whisky. If you ever have the opportunity, I recommend a walk on the Burren with Tony.

Though the day was not a sunny one, the experience was tremendous! I'd highly suggest taking a break from the regular tourist traps around Ireland, walk with Tony for a guided, authentic view of the Burren, its nature, and history.

This short hike was packed with sights, facts, and fascination! So many encounters with a landscape are horizontal affairs, and the appreciation and engagement goes left to right, forward and backward. Tony's awareness and insights, delivered with humor and a sense of custody, make one sense an appreciation of the vertical. I grew conscious of the Burren as a deep history below my feet that informed the flora and fauna on its surface and conducted a relationship to the open sky above. Highly recommended!

It is clear that Tony is knowledgable about The Burren. He provided us with information about the geology, fauna, and history of this amazing place. He knew the area and the people. But perhaps more importantly, it was evident that he was passionate and dedicated to the park. He was excited to be there and show it to us. Tony's insight about the park was unique and will probably be one of the things I remember most about my first trip to Ireland. If you are interested in learning I would really suggest this tour. I would certainly take one again!

I can’t say enough about this hotel. It is absolute perfection. The staff was magnificent, the accommodations were second to none, the experiences and memories that we created are unforgettable. We walked with the dogs, we had dinner in the Dungeon, we flew hawks, we explored every inch of the hotel and grounds. It was everything that I expected plus so much more. The breakfast was so delicious and everyone was so kind. I am very happy to have been able to experience this one of a kind hotel and hope very much to be able to come back one day!!!

Ashford Castle is a truly exceptional experience from start to finish. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted with warmth and professionalism that perfectly matches the grandeur of the setting. The castle itself is stunning — beautifully restored, rich in history, and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Rooms are elegant and comfortable, blending classic style with modern touches. Every detail, from the décor to the amenities, reflects impeccable taste. The dining options are outstanding, offering creative dishes made with the finest local ingredients. Service is flawless throughout — attentive without ever feeling intrusive. There’s so much to enjoy here: the spa is world-class, the grounds are spectacular, and the range of activities — from falconry and boating to cycling and walks through the estate — ensures there’s something for everyone. Ashford Castle isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. An easy five stars.

Wow! Had an amazing time at Ashford. My wife and I spent two nights here, and loved every minute of it. The staff was very friendly and attentive, really demonstrated what great service is. Also, attended our first afternoon tea, which was very fun and worth doing if you haven't. This particular afternoon tea has is one of the oldest, starting back in the 1800s. Definitely worth signing up for some of the tours/activities. We did the archery event, which was super fun. David, our guide, was friendly and had a good sense of humor, which made the outing more fun. Hands down the best event, was the falconry walk, aka "Hawk Walk". Our guide, Courtney was AMAZING!!! She took us around the facility where they house the birds, falcons, hawks and owls and told us all about how they care for the birds and work with each animal to help ensure they're happy and healthy. A former zookeeper, she knew tons of information about not only birds, but all kinds of animals, having worked with giraffes and rhinos previously. An amazing person and an amazing experience. HIGHLY recommend! Ireland rocks!!!

Our wedding at Ashford Castle was nothing short of a dream, and it’s honestly hard to put into words just how incredible our experience was. From the moment we stepped onto the property, we were greeted by bagpipes and the entire staff, and treated to a truly five-star experience. The beauty, the history, and the attention to detail are absolutely unparalleled. It’s no wonder Ashford Castle has received the awards and recognition it has. The staff are genuinely the most amazing people in the world. A special thank you to Jenny in the events department. You are a true gem and will remain someone very special to my husband and me for the rest of our lives. You made our weekend so incredibly special and seamless, and we are forever grateful for your care, warmth, and attention to every detail. To the rest of the amazing team we met, especially Gregory, Tyler, and Robert, the amazing food and wine manager who served our reception dinner, Keenan and Kevin, THANK YOU for making every moment unforgettable. From the exquisite food and drinks to the impeccable service, every single element of our wedding weekend exceeded our highest expectations. And the spa... if you can go, you must. It was truly amazing and so relaxing. They make you feel like you are the only person there, and the relaxation pool is an absolute dream. The Ashford Castle is a magical place, made even more extraordinary by the people who bring it to life. We couldn’t recommend it more highly, and we will cherish the memories of our wedding there forever.

This was a vary nice castle... over priced but nice. Room was way to small for what i paid roughly 1700 a night.... yah over priced. The ground and falconry was epic hands down. Service was to some 5 star but honestly having someone knock on my door 5 times a day was insane, they check on us in our room more than sitting down for dinner. I understand service is making sure your needs are met by me and the wife felt it was a bit much just enough to lose a star there and the room size cost a star. 4 stars for sure. Nice but not sure we'll ever go back with the price of what you get... over glorified due to who ownes the castle "Guinness family". Stop in check it out stay a night if you have money to blow if not head to dromoland castle 😉 they did everything ashford did just cheaper and slightly better, rooms at dromoland were 3x better as well.

(5 star hotel) not a tourist attraction or a castle you can easily visit. The main gate will only allow you entry if you’re a guest staying at the hotel. If you do want to take a peak you have to park in the town of Cong near the Cong Abbey Ruins, there’s a free car park across the street. Head over the old bridge and down the road to Ashford Castle. You’ll get some cool views of the hotel castle but again no entry unless you’re a guest. The town of Cong is a nice little village with historic vibes, shops and pups. Worth a quick stop!

Once in a lifetime experience. If you can do it...do it!! And try all the activities that interest you (loved Falconry and the Irish wolfhoumd walk). Don't miss the pool which has a nice steam and sauna, and even better, local residents who can give great recommendations! Amazing!

Pleasant stroll around woods of beech and redwood trees, well kept grounds surrounding historic ruins. Lovely riverside vistas. Unfortunately no picnic tables. Dog friendly.

I liked the area around the ruins more than the ruins themselves. I have seen many similar ones all over Ireland, but the village of Congo is unique. An amazing place. I did not want to leave, I felt very comfortable. I will definitely come back here again, I didn't have enough time to explore everything properly. Wonderful day!

Cong Abbey is well worth a visit. Situated in the beautiful village of Cong in Co Mayo. The Quiet Man was Filmed in and around this village and I would advise anyone exploring the Abbey to walk down through the Abbey to the beautiful Cong River. Stunning views in every direction and a peaceful and Tranquil place to explore.

Absolutely worth a visit!! Could spend hours wandering around Photographer’s paradise!!!

A surprisingly beautiful place, even though it’s a cemetery beauty and peace in every corner.

Such a lovely village, scenic and plenty to do. A pint of black beer in Cohan’s is a must

This is such a must visit structure. When I saw the ruins of the abbey it made me think that I have seen something from history. The ruins shows thick stone walls, a lot of old tombstones, there was even one that showed 1549. The abbey has sprawling lawn in the back with a bridge that would take you across the river. On the river is a stone structure where the monks used to fish. You have to visit this abbey and make it part of your itinerary. This is a free self tour. No tickets needed.

Excellent value and a great way to spend 30-60 minutes on your way through the area. One adult and one student cost less than €10. It was not crowded on a Friday afternoon. Bathrooms on site. There's a self guided tour via informational signs.

Absolutely worth to visit the not too big castle! But be very careful with arrival! Cassa is closing at 5:15 PM, if you don't want to miss the entry, it's imprtant to keep in mind. The parking place is 5 minutes walk from the castle, all along a romantic, dark water creek.

A very beautiful tower house alongside the road from Galway to Clifden. They did a tremendous job in restoring this piece of Irish culture. I will for sure come back, when it is not soaking wet.

Superb castle with amazing staff full of historical knowledge and wonderful stories of the area. I visited on Halloween and it was free and they had set up a children's treasure hunt. A really good visit. I go here alot with my foreign visitors and always find if fabulous

We saw a sign for Aughnanure Castle by chance as we drove out from Galway on the way to Connemara. We put a pin on our Google map, so we could find it on our return to Galway at the end of the day. It turned out to be a great find. Right now, Aughnanure has not been commercialized. Walking from the parking lot down a wooded lane with horse pastures on one side and Drimneen river on the other, one could imagine what it was like to approach an imposing castle in the 1500's. To me, it was a truly unspoiled castle experience. Check it out before it loses its charm. You won't be disappointed.

The self guided option was lovely. We took our time and read all the info on the history of Connacht and its rulers. You can take as much time as you'd like and no one rushes you. Go early in the day for less crowds.

Fantastic place to visit and worth the price of admission. We were greeted with a happy and friendly staff member who told us a bit of history about the architecture and extra things. It is absolutely worth the visit. Highly recommend! There is a parking lot available.

We had a fantastic visit today. Our tour guide was outstanding – extremely knowledgeable with a great sense of humor. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the mines and the lives of the people who worked there. I would 100% recommend this experience.

I've been to many places in Ireland, and this place is definitely on my must-see list! Mining at Glengowla began in 1851, when a local farmer discovered galoo (lead ore) on the surface of the soil. The first shaft, named after Captain Paul, reached a depth of 40 meters and a width of 60 meters. The mines operated until 1865, producing lead and silver, as well as other minerals such as quartz, fluorite, dolomite, and marble. This was the time of the Great Famine in Ireland (1845–1847), and the mines were likely created to provide employment for local residents. In 1999, the mines were saved from flooding by the Geoghan family, who restored them and opened them to the public. • Underground Mine Tour: Approximately 45 minutes long, guided. You'll descend into marble caverns, see remains of equipment (ladders, pipes, mine carts), and rare fluorite and quartz crystals. Tours run every 20 minutes, with an emphasis on atmosphere: dripping water, "miners' breath," and even a moment of complete darkness. The surface museum features mineral exhibits and artifacts. • Dog Herding Demonstration: Watch Irish sheepdogs (like Bob) herd sheep under the direction of farmer Keith Gioghan. This is a picturesque show about farm life in Connemara. • Turf Cutting Demonstration: The traditional Irish process of collecting fuel from bogs is an authentic experience. • Farm Walk: A 1-kilometer trail with the opportunity to pet Connemara ponies and lambs and learn about local flowers and animals. • Gold panning: Try your luck in the on-site river. • Seismology: The mines are equipped with a seismograph that records earthquakes in real time—part of a national monitoring network. • Additional attractions: Blacksmith's workshop, powder house, mineral and gift shop. Movies have also been filmed here, and there's a photo gallery.

An enchanting place full of interesting things to discover: a visit to the mines and the chance to pan for gold for fun, the fascinating history of turf cutting, discovering the unique plants of the marsh, and all there is to know about sheep herding, lambs and the skilful sheepdogs. The owners will warmly guide you through the activities. With shop and coffee we didn't want to leave!

Absolutely a must see! Keith, the owner, gave an amazing sheep herding demonstration with his dog Pip. And a wonderful surprise at the end - he brought a baby lamb, Buttercup. Everyone got a chance to take pictures with Buttercup - a priceless souvenir to remember the experience.

Great experience and super friendly people! They had a great tour of a mine and fun demonstration with the sheep. It was our favorite thing we did that day!

100% recommend! What an amazing experience! Such a lovely family thing to while in Ireland. The demonstration of hearding the sheep and the history was incredible. We love Pip! She is definitely the star of the show! The bestest girl in the land.

Booked online for the mine tour and the sheep dog demonstration. A warm welcome greeted us, and we were soon panning for gold to start our experience. Our tour for the mine was great, and our guide was very knowledgeable on the process of mining dating back to the early 1800s. After our tour of the underground mine we were introduced to Keith, whose family have owned the farm and mine for generations for a talk on sheep farming plus a demonstration with Pip, one of the farms working dogs showing us how a dog is an invaluable part of the farm doing the work no one man could, rounding up his sheep. A lovely end to the experience was the chance to cuddle with a 19 day old lamb. Thanks for a lovely tour.

Best horse riding experience we’ve ever had on holiday. Peter is funny and makes the experience special; his staff is friendly, the horses were well-cared for and beautiful, the location was stunning! Thank you so much, Peter! Conan and I had a blast. We will never forget this amazing experience. Would definitely recommend and hope we’re lucky enough to return one day.

Where do I start...Thank you, Peter, for such an amazing trek with our group of four through your family’s homestead! It was one of the highlights of our holiday. The horses were wonderful and the views even more so. I highly recommend your tour, and I promise we will be back again!

Core memory was made here! I love horses and have a lot of experience. My wife has almost none but Peter was able to make the Mountain Trek worth both our whiles. I can’t say enough what it was like to gallop through the country side of Ireland with those views! The horses were great, trail was amazing and the guide was top notch! Absolutely would recommend this place to anyone. It’s also right near the cliffs of Moher so we saw those right after too! 12/10 would absolutely recommend.

Highly recommend adding this on the list of things to do while in the area!! We had a blast riding and seeing the views. We booked the trail ride the night before and Mary was so sweet and accommodating getting us booked on the 2hr tour. Peter was a great guide telling you the history of everything you see. He also gave my husband and I some great laughs! The Irish sense of humor is the best! We will definitely be doing this again when we come back! (Also if you ride Benji, make sure to get a twig or something for a gently love tap. He likes to snack along the way and gets a little “squirrelly” like myself 😂)

Peter and his entire staff were absolutely amazing. From the amazingly warm reception to the whole riding experience. We had the pleasure of doing the Burren trek. Both tour guides were absolutely fantastic with stopping to take pictures. This is a true way to see the country side especially parts of the ruins from the potato famine. The horses are so well cared for and behave amazingly. They do let you trot and cantor. I cannot recommend them enough.

Absolutely 💯 horses are happy, well.cared for, my 2 hrs trek was fabulous, Peter adapts the ride and the pony one will ride to one s riding level and clearly cares deeply for the ponies.

Like everyone else on the internet reviewing Peter and his horse-trek experience on the family’s land in The Burren, we were impressed. The three-hour trail includes opportunities to see expansive vistas, his family’s properties, neighbors’ playing children, local investment in renewing forests for timber and also cattle. Peter confirms that guests are enjoying themselves repeatedly- and if his banter is scripted, it’s also customized to the group and impressively peppered accurately with the participants’ names. Peter speaks knowledgeably about the area as well as all-things-horse. His coaching is non-judgemental and focused on safety, which seemed to help riders of all abilities. The cantor/gallop intervals offer excitement and a chance yo measure one’s improvement as the ride goes along, a feature hard to assess while it’s happening, but very obvious in retrospect. The group of nine was supported by another guide, as well, so there was plentiful oversight for the riders and horses (which were expertly paired to guests by his quick assessment of their abilities). Overall a dramatically rewarding adventure filled with heart and humor (even fresh-picked - like ON-THE-ROADSIDE - blackberries) which brings life in The Burren up close in a truly breathtaking way.

One of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Refreshing and well facilitated. The toilets are clean and maintained. Has a lot of parking but is crowded.

Beautiful, clean beach filled with surfers. Great place to go and relax

Beautiful clean beach. They are strict with dog enforcement rules (dog warden is always out), and parking can also be a stickler here (traffic wardens are always out).

Beautiful beach, clean water, big waves, safe to swim as lifeguards near. Lovely atmosphere.

Beautiful beach with ample parking.. lovely path running along the beach.

Love this beach. Great for swimming and surfing. Close to restaurants and pubs. Love this place

A beautiful clean beach with great waves for surfing. The morning there’s a high tide so the waves crash against large rocks but during the rest of the day the beach becomes beautifully sandy with waves for surfing. During the summer there’s a lifeguard but towards September onwards you need to be careful since this is the low season and no lifeguards are present. Next to the beach there’s a very nice hipster style cafe with healthy foods and drinks. There’s also a leisure centre, wall climbing, surfing lessons and kayaking. Beautiful area!