Roscommon County

Itineraries

To discover County Roscommon is to find an enchanting mix of historical discovery, outstanding natural beauty, and a wealth of cultural experiences, be it for a few nights or several nights. Follow these itineraries and, in terms of sightseeing, you will not go far wrong in making the most of your time in Roscommon.

One-Day Itinerary: Discover Roscommon’s Heritage

  • Morning: Start your day at the Rathcroghan Complex, where a cluster of ancient burial mounds surrounds, setting an almost regal tenor to this centrally important site in Early Gaelic Ireland. The Visitor Centre conducts guided tours speaking about all the Mythology and History of the area.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Irish lunch at a local pub located within the neighboring town of Tulsk, where all the dishes are prepared with produce sourced from the area.
  • Afternoon: Visit Roscommon Castle in the county town to see the remains of this 13th-century Norman stronghold and wander around the surrounding park.
  • Evening: Dine in Roscommon town, sampling some of the local fare at a restaurant that showcases the best produce of the region.

Weekend Break: Nature and Culture in Roscommon

  • Day 1: Follow the One-Day Itinerary above.
  • Day 2:
    • Morning: Head to Lough Key Forest and Activity Park. Spend your morning engaging in activities such as the Boda Borg challenge, tree-top walking, or taking a boat tour on Lough Key.
    • Lunch: Have a picnic by the lake or at the Lakeside Café.
    • Afternoon: Visit Boyle Abbey, attractive in its ruins, with many architectural features still remaining; typical of Cistercian abbeys. If time allows, visit King House in Boyle, a gorgeously restored Georgian mansion with exhibitions on the history of the region and its people.
    • Evening: Return to Roscommon town or Boyle for dinner, perhaps enjoying live music at a local pub.

Five-Day Exploration of Roscommon

  • Days 1-2: Complete the Weekend Getaway itinerary.
  • Day 3:
    • Morning: Visit Strokestown Park House, a Georgian Mansion with options for a guided house tour or a visit to the National Famine Museum.
    • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the café in Strokestown Park.
    • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the estate’s walled gardens and woodlands.
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby counties to explore attractions like Sean’s Bar in Athlone, the oldest pub in Ireland, or the Clonmacnoise monastic site by the River Shannon.
  • Day 5:
    • Morning: Discover Roscommon’s hidden gems, such as the Elphin Windmill or the Dr. Douglas Hyde Interpretive Centre.
    • Afternoon: Spend your final afternoon enjoying a peaceful boat ride along the River Shannon or fishing in one of Roscommon’s many lakes.
    • Evening: End your visit with a special farewell dinner at one of Roscommon’s premier dining establishments, reflecting on the rich experiences of your trip.

These itineraries bring into combination the best of County Roscommon with historical tours, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences to create a memorable Irish journey.