County Roscommon

This county in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is a well-kept secret amongst its neighbours. It’s a tranquil oasis that may not be a household name like the other big county stars, but it should be, because there’s more than meets the eye in County Roscommon.

For example, it's the birthplace of Ireland's first president, Douglas Hyde, and actor, Chris O’Dowd. O’Dowd is proud of his Roscommon roots if his twitter handle @BigBoyler is any indication. He's referring to his childhood stomping ground of Boyle, a busy market town located in the north of the county.

County Roscommon is full history, heritage and adventure. You’d be mad to miss it on your journey around the island of Ireland!

County Roscommon’s unique history has led to some interesting sites, museums, and landmarks around the county.

After a lifelong fascination with local history, husband and wife, Charlie and Bridie Finneran, opened up the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum on the border of County Roscommon and Westmeath in 1998. At the museum, you’ll find yourself transported back in time through the everyday objects of rural life in Ireland, such as farm machinery, trades, and tools, and memorabilia.

Learn all about the local men who sustained their communities from the 1700s through to the late 1900s on a tour around the Arigna Mining Experience. Along the way, try to imagine how the men worked in these cramped conditions, and how, at its peak, they provided up to 55,000 tonnes of coal from the mines to the local power station before it closed in 1990.

If you’re interested in this aspect of Roscommon’s history, then why not explore the Miner’s Way & Historical Trail, which connects the mine to neighbouring counties, Leitrim and Sligo. Some of these paths would have been used by the miners themselves on their way to and from work.

The route itself is 65.7km long and takes up to five days to complete, but you can pick and choose where you want to check out. While on the trail, be mindful that you will be on working farmland and follow the Leave No Trace principles.

You have to thank the local ruling family at the time, the McDermotts, for the impressive 12th century Boyle Abbey. It was built by Cistercian monks under their patronage, and was one of the leading Cistercian foundations in Connacht.

Today, you can learn all about its history at the interpretative centre here, including when it was seized by Cromwellian forces in the 17th century.

Before Roscommon Castle even had its final brick in place in 1290, it was attacked and burned multiple times. The castle constantly changed owners, coming into the hands of the O’Connors until the 16th century. Ultimately, it was seized again, and was burned down in 1690, before gradually falling into disrepair.

The castle is free to enter, and can be explored along with a visit to the adjacent Loughnaneane Park, a gorgeous 14-acre site, which is home to a bountiful display of flora and fauna as well as a wildlife conservation area.